Travel To Venezuela: Is It Safe For Americans?

Venezuela is a country in political and economic turmoil, with a high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Venezuela, and the U.S. Embassy in Caracas has suspended all operations, leaving U.S. citizens without access to emergency consular services. Americans considering travel to Venezuela face significant challenges and dangers and are strongly advised against it.

Visa requirements for Americans travelling to Venezuela

The US Department of State has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Venezuela, warning of the high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure. The US government has no ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Venezuela. All consular services remain suspended until further notice.

Despite the warnings, if you are a US citizen and decide to travel to Venezuela, you will need a visa. This must be obtained from a local embassy, consulate or visa centre before travelling, as visas are not available on arrival. The Venezuelan embassy and consulates in the US are not open, so for information about visa services, contact the Venezuelan Embassy in Mexico.

The Venezuela Visa Portal allows travellers to apply for a visa online. The application usually takes a few minutes to complete and requires some personal information, such as passport number and email address. COVID-19 results and certain health requirements must also be provided.

The Venezuela Tourist Visa is required if you intend to visit for tourism, recreation, health, or non-profit activities for a period shorter than 90 days. This visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries.

Safety and security concerns for Americans in Venezuela

Venezuela is a country located in South America with a shoreline along the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. It is home to gorgeous sights and activities, like the Angel Falls in the Guiana Highlands, which is the world's highest waterfall. It also has the longest coastline on the Caribbean Sea.

However, Venezuela is not safe for Americans to travel to, due to the high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure. The U.S. Department of State has withdrawn all diplomatic personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas and suspended operations, leaving the U.S. government unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela.

Crime

Venezuela has one of the highest murder rates in the world. Armed robbery, mugging, carjacking, and burglary are common and often accompanied by extreme violence. Criminals openly carry out their activities with little repercussion, and the police forces are corrupt. Violent crimes such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking are common, and political rallies and demonstrations occur with little notice, sometimes devolving into looting and vandalism.

Travel

Nighttime travel between cities or between Simón Bolívar International Airport and Caracas is unsafe. There is a high risk of indefinite detention without consular access for U.S. citizens who enter Venezuela without a valid visa. Visas are not available upon entry, and U.S. citizens are at risk of indefinite detention without consular access.

Scams

Be wary of the so-called "virtual kidnappings", where locals ask you to fill out questionnaires or surveys to collect information on you and your family members. Also, don't fall for the airport tax scam: be careful not to get overcharged when paying airport tax for both international and domestic flights.

Health

Basic public services, including healthcare, have deteriorated in the last decade. There are shortages of medicine and medical supplies.

Border Crossings

The U.S. Department of State has categorized Venezuela as Level 4: Do Not Travel due to the risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia. The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked in many locations, and U.S. citizens in Colombia should avoid going near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally and being detained for illegal entry.

LGBTQ+ Concerns

Same-sex relationships are not illegal in Venezuela. However, showing affection in public will likely be frowned upon by locals and may receive negative attention from the police and other security forces. Venezuelan law does not recognize same-sex partnerships, so same-sex partners have no rights as next of kin.

Travel warnings and advisories for Americans in Venezuela

The US Department of State has issued a Level 4 'Do Not Travel' advisory for Venezuela, emphasising the danger to US citizens living in or travelling to the country. The US Embassy in Caracas has suspended operations and cannot provide consular services to US citizens in Venezuela. The US government has no ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Venezuela.

US citizens in Venezuela are advised to leave the country as soon as it is safe to do so and contact a US embassy or consulate in another country.

Warnings and Advisories

• There is a high risk of wrongful detention of US nationals in Venezuela. Security forces have detained US citizens for up to five years without notifying the US government or granting access to US citizen prisoners.
• Violent crimes such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking are common in Venezuela.
• Political rallies and demonstrations occur with little notice and are often met with a brutal crackdown from police and security forces, including the use of tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets.
• Colombian terrorist groups operate in Venezuela's border areas with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana.
• There are shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies throughout much of Venezuela.
• Entering or attempting to enter Venezuela without a valid visa can lead to indefinite detention without consular access. Visas are not available upon entry.
• US citizens in Venezuela face a high risk of indefinite detention without consular access.
• Over-the-counter and prescription medicines are unlikely to be available to US citizens in Venezuela.
• The US government will not be able to assist in the event of a medical emergency or evacuation.
• There is an increased risk of kidnapping, particularly along airport routes and in border regions. Only use official taxis organised through your hotel.
• Venezuela has one of the world's highest homicide rates.
• Criminal gangs are rampant and many criminals carry firearms. Victims are often injured or killed for failing to cooperate.
• Express kidnappings are frequent and can occur anywhere in the country.
• Credit card and ATM fraud may occur.
• There are shortages of medicine and medical supplies, leading to difficulties in the healthcare sector.
• Basic food and personal care products are available but very costly.
• Power outages and rationing of electricity are common in many parts of the country, including Caracas.
• Fuel may be scarce outside of cities, particularly in border areas.
• Telecommunication infrastructure is in a state of disrepair, and it is very difficult to make international calls.
• Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country.
• There is a high risk of theft on both inner-city and intercity buses, especially at night.
• Public transportation has declined in number and quality due to shortages of parts and reduced capacity for maintenance and repair of vehicles.
• Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía (Caracas) is dangerous, with incidents of violent crime occurring frequently, both inside the facilities and in the surrounding areas.
• There is a risk of piracy in Venezuela's coastal areas.

Transport and getting around safely in Venezuela

The US Department of State has classified Venezuela as a Level 4: Do Not Travel country, due to the high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure. All consular services remain suspended, and the US government is unable to provide emergency services to US citizens in Venezuela.

Despite the warnings, if you are still planning to travel to Venezuela, here are some tips for transport and getting around safely:

By Plane

Venezuela has a good network of commuter airlines that service the entire country and major tourist destinations. However, safety standards vary, and there have been several accidents in recent years on the main tourist routes. It is recommended to seek out established companies operating modern multi-engined aircraft. Local and international travel agents should be able to advise on airlines with good safety records.

By Car

Driving in Venezuela can be dangerous due to aggressive drivers who often ignore traffic laws and road safety regulations. Driving under the influence of alcohol is common, especially during the weekends. Many vehicles are in poor condition, and drivers routinely ignore red lights, especially at night. Outside major cities, night driving can be hazardous due to unmarked road damage, repairs, unlit vehicles, and livestock. It is recommended to avoid travelling within 80 kilometres of the Colombian border due to terrorist and criminal activity.

If renting a car, it is best to choose a major international agency and book in advance from your home country. Some reliable companies include Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, and Thrifty, with offices in Caracas and Simón Bolívar International Airport.

By Bus

While inexpensive bus services are available throughout the country, the high incidence of criminal activity on public transportation makes bus travel inadvisable.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available in major cities and are generally safe if they are regulated and have yellow license plates. Informal "taxis" are considered dangerous as they are private vehicles with no set guidelines. For airport travel, look for official taxis, which are usually black SUVs. Avoid using unregulated taxis from the Maiquetía “Simón Bolívar” International Airport, as travellers face an increased risk of robbery.

By Boat

Piracy off the coast of Venezuela is a concern, and foreigners are frequently targeted. Incidents of piracy have resulted in foreigners being killed, beaten, and robbed. Marinas, including those in Puerto la Cruz and Margarita Island (Porlamar), provide only minimal security.

By Train

There is no national rail system in Venezuela.

Additional Safety Considerations:

• Always carry identification, as it is required for people travelling around the country.
• Be cautious of police and National Guard checkpoints. Follow all instructions and be prepared to show vehicle and insurance papers, passports, and visas.
• Avoid travelling at night between cities or between Simón Bolívar International Airport and Caracas, as it is unsafe.
• Be aware of fake police checkpoints set up by criminal gangs.
• Avoid traffic jams, as they are frequently exploited by criminals, including armed motorcycle gangs.
• Be vigilant at all times and take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime.
• Travel in groups of five or more and provide your itinerary to family or friends before departing.
• Avoid political rallies and demonstrations, as they can turn violent with little notice.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, as they are often targeted by criminals for robberies and data hacking.
• Do not drink tap water, even in major cities, as it is not potable.

Health and safety risks for Americans in Venezuela

Venezuela is a Level 4: Do Not Travel country, according to the U.S. Department of State. This is due to the high risk of wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and poor health infrastructure. Americans in Venezuela face a high risk of indefinite detention without consular access. The U.S. government has no ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela, and the country has one of the highest homicide rates in the world.

Health Risks

Venezuela has a severe shortage of pharmaceutical drugs and basic medical supplies. Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses. There is a risk of insect-borne and waterborne diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever. HIV/AIDS is common, and other infectious diseases include typhoid, hepatitis, tuberculosis, Venezuelan hemorrhagic fever, measles, mumps, rubella, bilharzia, and rabies.

Safety Risks

There is a high level of violent crime in Venezuela, including murder, armed robbery, carjackings, sexual assault, and kidnapping. Criminals are often armed and may kill or injure their victims if they resist. Terrorist groups and criminal gangs are active along Venezuela's borders with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana.

The risk of kidnapping is higher along airport routes and in border regions. Criminals often target pedestrians and motorists, sometimes from motorcycles. Express kidnappings, where victims are forced to withdraw funds from ATMs, are also common.

The U.S. Embassy in Caracas has suspended operations, and all consular services remain suspended until further notice. Americans in Venezuela who require consular assistance should leave the country as soon as safely possible and contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.

Frequently asked questions