Venezuela

• Express kidnappings target both locals and foreigners, where victims are abducted briefly and forced to withdraw money from ATMs or provide access to bank accounts, credit cards, and valuables before release. These crimes occur frequently in urban areas, particularly Caracas, and can happen at any time of day. Perpetrators often work in groups, may be armed, and target people leaving airports, hotels, restaurants, or ATMs. The economic crisis has increased desperation, making these crimes more frequent and potentially more violent. Victims should comply with demands to avoid escalation and seek immediate assistance from trusted contacts afterward.
• Armed robbery at ATMs represents one of the most common and dangerous crimes facing visitors, with criminals monitoring banking locations and targeting people withdrawing cash. Robberies often involve weapons and can occur in broad daylight, even at supposedly secure locations with guards present. Criminals may follow victims from ATMs to rob them elsewhere or force them to withdraw additional funds. The prevalence of these crimes has made many ATMs unsafe to use, particularly for foreigners. When cash withdrawal is absolutely necessary, use ATMs inside major hotels or shopping centers during busy periods with trusted local assistance.
• Police corruption and extortion of bribes from travelers has become widespread as officers' salaries have been devastated by hyperinflation, creating desperation within law enforcement ranks. Officers may stop vehicles or pedestrians on pretexts like document checks, traffic violations, or security inspections, then demand payment to avoid arrest or problems. This corruption affects all levels from street police to airport immigration officials. Legitimate and illegitimate police can be difficult to distinguish, and refusing demands may escalate situations dangerously. Travelers report being asked for bribes even when fully complying with laws and having proper documentation.

• Medical facilities throughout Venezuela have deteriorated catastrophically due to the economic crisis, with hospitals lacking basic supplies, medications, equipment, and qualified staff who have emigrated. Power outages affect medical equipment, water shortages impact sanitation, and surgical supplies are often unavailable. Private clinics may offer better care but require immediate cash payment in US dollars and still face supply shortages. Medical evacuations to neighboring countries have become necessary for serious conditions. The healthcare system cannot reliably handle emergencies, chronic conditions, or routine medical needs that travelers might require.
• Travelers must bring complete supplies of all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, first aid supplies, and any medical equipment needed during their stay, as pharmacies throughout the country face severe shortages with empty shelves being common. Medications that are available may be counterfeit, expired, or improperly stored due to power outages affecting refrigeration. Insulin, heart medications, and other critical drugs are particularly scarce. Pack medications in original containers with prescriptions, bring extra supplies for delays, and consider carrying a letter from your doctor explaining medical needs. Don't rely on finding any medical supplies locally.
• Water safety requires strict adherence to bottled water consumption, as municipal water systems have deteriorated significantly with frequent contamination, supply interruptions, and inadequate treatment facilities. Tap water should never be consumed, and bottled water supplies can be unreliable or expensive. Use bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, washing fruits and vegetables, and making ice. Water-borne illnesses including cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A pose serious risks. Boiling water may not be reliable due to frequent power outages affecting electric appliances and gas shortages impacting stoves.

• Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are strongly recommended for all travelers to Venezuela due to increased risk from deteriorated sanitation systems, contaminated food and water supplies, and overwhelmed sewage treatment facilities. The economic crisis has worsened public health conditions significantly, making these diseases more prevalent. Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food and water, while typhoid transmits through poor sanitation and contaminated food handling. Both vaccines should be administered at least two weeks before travel for optimal protection, with hepatitis A requiring a booster for long-term immunity and typhoid needing renewal every 2-3 years.
• Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travelers visiting certain regions of Venezuela, particularly areas south of 15°N latitude including Angel Falls and other popular ecotourism destinations in the Amazon basin and Orinoco region. The vaccine must be administered at authorized yellow fever vaccination centers at least 10 days before travel to be effective. An International Certificate of Vaccination is required as proof and may be checked at borders or internal checkpoints. The vaccine provides lifelong protection but has some contraindications for pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and people over 60, requiring medical consultation before administration.
• Malaria prophylaxis is essential for travelers visiting rural areas, jungle regions, and mining areas where malaria transmission occurs year-round, particularly in states like Bolívar, Amazonas, and parts of Sucre and Monagas. The economic crisis has severely impacted malaria control programs, leading to increased transmission rates and drug-resistant strains. Consult a travel medicine specialist 4-6 weeks before departure to determine appropriate prophylaxis medication based on your itinerary, health status, and current resistance patterns. Combine medication with strict mosquito avoidance measures including bed nets, repellent, and protective clothing, especially during evening and nighttime hours.

• Angel Falls, known locally as Salto Ángel or Kerepakupai Merú in the indigenous Pemón language, stands as the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall at 979 meters (3,212 feet), creating one of Earth's most extraordinary natural spectacles as it plunges from the ancient Auyán-Tepui table mountain in Canaima National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site represents Venezuela's crown jewel, accessible only by small aircraft and river boat combinations that require several days of adventure travel through pristine wilderness. The falls were named after Jimmy Angel, an American aviator who crash-landed nearby in 1937, though indigenous peoples have revered this sacred site for millennia. If security conditions permit safe travel, witnessing Angel Falls remains a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Venezuelan arepas represent one of South America's most beloved and legendary culinary creations, with these versatile corn-based pockets serving as the nation's unofficial national dish and appearing at virtually every meal. Made from pre-cooked white or yellow corn flour mixed with water and salt, then grilled or baked until crispy outside and fluffy inside, arepas are split open and stuffed with countless filling combinations including shredded beef (pabellón), black beans, cheese, chicken, avocado, or seafood. Each region has signature variations, and mastering arepa preparation is considered an essential Venezuelan life skill. The arepa's cultural significance extends far beyond food, representing comfort, home, and national identity for Venezuelans worldwide.
• Venezuelans demonstrate remarkable warmth, hospitality, and resilience despite enduring unprecedented economic hardship and political challenges that have tested the nation's spirit for over a decade. Known for their friendliness, humor, and determination to maintain dignity during difficult circumstances, Venezuelans often welcome visitors with genuine curiosity and generosity even when facing personal struggles. This resilience manifests in creative problem-solving, strong family bonds, community support networks, and an ability to find joy and celebration amid adversity. Their warmth toward foreigners remains genuine, though visitors should be sensitive to the hardships people face and avoid displays of wealth that might highlight economic disparities.

• Never display valuable items including jewelry, expensive watches, designer clothing, electronic devices, or large amounts of cash anywhere in public, as even modest valuables can attract dangerous attention from criminals who view foreign visitors as wealthy targets regardless of actual economic status. Venezuela's extreme crime rates mean that displaying anything of perceived value significantly increases robbery, mugging, and kidnapping risks. Keep smartphones hidden when not essential, wear simple clothing without brand logos, leave expensive jewelry at home, and carry only small amounts of cash needed for immediate expenses. Even items considered normal elsewhere, like decent sneakers or sunglasses, can make you a target in the current desperate economic climate.
• Absolutely avoid walking anywhere after dark, as nighttime dramatically increases risks of violent crime, robbery, kidnapping, and assault throughout all areas of Venezuela, including supposedly safer neighborhoods and tourist zones. The breakdown of street lighting due to power outages, reduced police presence, and increased criminal activity after dark make evening walks extremely dangerous for locals and foreigners alike. Plan all activities to conclude before sunset, arrange secure transportation for any necessary evening movement, stay in accommodations with proper security, and never venture out on foot after dark regardless of distance or familiarity with the area.
• Refrain from discussing politics with strangers or in public settings, as Venezuela's highly polarized political environment creates unpredictable reactions and potential safety risks when political topics arise in conversation. Political opinions are deeply divided between government supporters and opposition, with emotions running high due to years of crisis and conflict. Expressing political views, even seemingly neutral observations, can be misinterpreted and lead to confrontations, unwanted attention from authorities, or association with particular political factions. Focus conversations on culture, food, nature, and positive aspects of Venezuelan heritage while avoiding commentary on government, economy, or political leaders to maintain safety and positive interactions.

Tipping in US dollars is strongly preferred and holds significantly more value than local currency due to hyperinflation that has rendered the Venezuelan bolívar nearly worthless for most practical purposes. Restaurant servers, taxi drivers, hotel staff, tour guides, and service workers greatly appreciate USD tips, even small amounts like $1-2 USD, which can represent substantial purchasing power locally. In restaurants, 10-15% is appropriate if service is good, while hotel housekeeping appreciates $1-2 per day, and taxi drivers expect small tips for helpful service. Tour guides working in challenging conditions may receive $5-10 per day. Always tip discreetly and directly to individuals rather than adding to bills, as cash tips in hard currency provide immediate value that workers can use for essential purchases.

Dress conservatively and avoid anything that draws attention or suggests wealth, as standing out can increase safety risks significantly in Venezuela's current security environment. Casual, modest clothing works best for most situations - simple pants or long skirts with basic shirts or blouses in neutral colors without designer labels or expensive-looking materials. For religious sites like churches and cathedrals, cover shoulders and knees with respectful attire, avoiding shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing. Business meetings require professional dress but avoid expensive suits or accessories that highlight economic disparities. Beach areas allow normal swimwear, but cover up when traveling to and from beaches. Remove or avoid jewelry, watches, and accessories that might attract criminal attention anywhere in public.

Venezuela is predominantly Roman Catholic with approximately 70% of the population identifying as Catholic, though Protestant evangelical denominations have grown significantly alongside smaller Jewish, Muslim, and indigenous spiritual communities. Major Catholic celebrations include Christmas, Easter Holy Week (Semana Santa), and various saint feast days that may affect business hours and transportation schedules. Churches throughout the country welcome respectful visitors regardless of faith, but dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Sunday masses are well-attended, and many Venezuelans maintain strong religious traditions despite economic hardships. Be respectful during religious services or processions, and understand that faith often provides comfort and community support during difficult times. Islamic and Jewish dietary restrictions are difficult to accommodate due to limited food availability.