Venezuelan tourist visa for USA Citizens
June 20, 2023
Born in Caracas, oh yes!
I was born and raised in Caracas in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods, like 23 de Enero once was. My neighborhood became famous for gangs dedicated to drug trafficking, which brought a lot of violence, shootings, deaths, and everything that somehow marked all of us who were part of the environment and made us stronger in the end.
Everything is said about Caracas, mainly everything bad. I won’t invest my time in that because there is already a lot of material on the internet, and that’s why I had the idea of writing an article about the good, interesting, and new things that can be done in my city for weeks. Many of my clients want to avoid Caracas, and when they dare to come, they are fascinated by the green color of the Waraira Repano National Park, its streets, buildings, restaurants, parks, the friendliness of the people, being so eclectic and diverse, and by the hundreds of Yellow and Blue Macaws flying throughout the city.
Enjoy this article that still doesn’t have the 101 things to do in Caracas; I will gradually add, improve, and update this post.
Thank you for reading me!
Ben Rodriguez
Director & Founder Osprey Expeditions
Must visit places in Caracas
In no particular order, here is our list of Must visit places in Caracas! I will be updating almost everyday.
Esfera Caracas
Esfera Caracas (Caracas Sphere) is a kinetic art sculpture by Venezuelan artist Jesús Soto, inaugurated in December 1996 as part of the “Un Cariño para mi Ciudad” program. This sculpture is located on the south slope of the Santa Cecilia distributor of the Francisco Fajardo highway and has become one of the cultural icons of the Venezuelan capital.
This work represents Soto’s conception of kinetic art integrated into the urban environment, through lighting and color. The sphere is composed of 1,800 hollow aluminum rods of ¾ inch, joined by 2.5 millimeter thick stainless steel cables. They are suspended on a 12-meter high metal portal structure, on a reinforced concrete base.
The combination of orange-colored rods creates the visual effect of a floating sphere in the air, and the contrasting light gives it a sense of movement. The sculpture offers a constantly changing view for passers-by who circulate on the highway. The Caracas Sphere is Jesús Soto’s most outstanding work and an important symbol of contemporary Venezuelan art.
Good place for sunset
Great spot if you like sunsets! Enjoy!
Parque Los Caobos
Parque Los Caobos is a beautiful urban park in Caracas, Venezuela. It’s filled with trees, flowers, fountains, art pieces and it’s the perfect place to go for a walk.
The park was created in 1932 to be the largest and most important green area in the city of Caracas, with an area of about 21.8 hectares (0,218 squared kms) . The park was named after a species of tree (Caobilla) native to Venezuela known in English as Venezuelan Mahogany. It’s also home to several museums and art galleries, which are great for families who want to do something educational but don’t want to feel like they’re in a museum.
The best part about Parque Los Caobos is its proximity to other attractions in Caracas—the National Art Gallery is just down the street from it. We can also find the National Museum of Natural History and Ethnography (Museo Nacional de Historia Natural y Etnografía) and National Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico Nacional de Venezuela). There is an open air free gym and a jogging track all around the park.
Los Caobos offers a nice food court open on weekends where you can enjoy Burgers, Hot Dogs, Pizza, Sushi, Chinese Food, Soups, BBQ, Cakes, Coffee, Chocolate, Sodas, etc.
Free Entrance. It is closed on Mondays.
Don't miss the Guacamayas!
Spot Yellow & Blue Macaws in the palm trees near the big fountain "Fuente Venezuela". Go there 5-6pm and you will be amazed! 😉
Parque del Este
Parque Generalísimo Francisco de Miranda, also known as Parque del Este, is a large park located in the eastern part of Caracas, Venezuela. It is one of the largest parks in the city and covers an area of approximately 700 hectares. The park was named after Simon Bolivar’s mentor, Generalisimo Francisco de Miranda, who is considered one of the key figures in the fight for Venezuela independence. Today, the park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of recreational opportunities and scenic landscapes.
Some popular activities and attractions in Parque Del Este include:
Walking and hiking trails: The park features several walking and hiking trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy nature walks and bird watching.
Picnicking: There are several picnic areas in the park, making it a great place for families to spend a day out in the sun.
Lake activities: The park features a lake good for boating.
Zoo: The park is home to a large zoo, which houses a variety of animals, including capuchin monkeys, birds, crocodiles, caimans, giant river otters, and a jaguar.
Botanical Garden: The park also features a botanical garden, which is home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers.
Breakfast in Parque del Este?
Restaurant Las Corocoras is a nice choice for breakfast. They open mostly on weekends. Click here and see their instagram 🙂
Parque Los Chorros
Parque Los Chorros is a natural park located in the city of Caracas. This park has several trails and paths to walk and enjoy nature at its finest. Visitors can enjoy walking the trails, taking photographs, observing its trees and birds, and taking a dip in a natural pool where the Los Chorros waterfall, which is 15 meters high, one of the most special in Caracas, falls. There is also a picnic area and food kiosks where visitors can enjoy a countryside lunch surrounded by nature. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Waterfall Bathing in Caracas? You've got to be kidding!
Oh Yes! Caracas offers almost everything + enjoying a pristine waterfall as a shower in the middle of nature!
Jardín Botánico de Caracas
Jardín Botánico de Caracas, also known as the Caracas Botanical Garden, is a beautiful botanical garden located in the heart of Caracas, Venezuela. It was founded in 1960 and covers an area of approximately 44 hectares. The garden is home to a diverse collection of plants, including exotic and native species, and is also a popular destination for bird-watching.
Some of the notable attractions within the garden include:
Orchid Garden: The orchid garden is a highlight of the Jardín Botánico de Caracas and features a collection of more than 2,000 species of orchids.
Cactus Garden: The cactus garden is home to a variety of cactus species, including some of the largest cacti in Venezuela.
Palm Grove: The palm grove is a large collection of palm trees, including several species that are native to Venezuela.
Lake: The garden features a lake, which is home to a variety of aquatic plants and animals, including fish and waterfowl.
Greenhouses: The garden is also home to several greenhouses, which are used to propagate and care for delicatexotic plant species.
The Jardin Botanico de Caracas is a great place to spend a day exploring the beauty of nature and learning about the diverse flora of Venezuela. It’s worth noting that crime and safety concerns are a challenge in Caracas, and it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings when visiting any public space, including the botanical garden.
Universidad Central de Venezuela
La Universidad Central de Venezuela boasts an impressive architecture that earned it the title of World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001. Designed by the renowned architect Carlos Raúl Villanueva, often referred to as the Father of Modern Architecture of the 20th century, this masterpiece blends art, architecture, and urbanism perfectly. The bold geometric shapes of the buildings on campus are breathtaking, and the colorful murals in the Aula Magna reflect the rich history and cultural heritage of Venezuela. If you want to appreciate magnificent architecture, then the UCV is a destination you can’t afford to miss.
Parque El Calvario
El Parque El Calvario, also known as Parque Ezequiel Zamora, is the city’s first park and botanical garden, built in the center of Caracas in 1884. With 140 years of history, this place features an iconic archway from 1895 at the entrance with strong French influences. Visitors can climb up eighty-five stairs that run alongside the El Silencio Metro station to reach the park, where they will be greeted by lush green gardens, fountains, and a chapel called Nuestra Señora de Lourdes. The park is also home to sculptures and a beautiful square called El Parnaso, which offers stunning views of the city center. This is a must-visit spot!
Teleferico de Caracas
El Teleférico de Caracas was inaugurated in 1955 during the government of Marcos Pérez Jiménez, and was considered by international experts as “the most modern of its kind” for those years. It was in operation until the end of the 1970s when it had to be closed due to the deterioration of its facilities. After several failed attempts to reopen it, it was finally leased in 2000 by the national government along with the Hotel Humboldt, and the facilities were named Parque Ávila Mágica.
This transportation system has more than 70 cabins that travel 3.5 km in about 15 minutes, depending on the weather. During the ride, you can enjoy the natural landscape of the Warairarepano National Park, while delighting in a panoramic view of the city from east to west.
Once at the top, you can enjoy a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, and small kiosks where you can eat, as well as crafts and flower sales from Galipán. You can also hike along the park’s trails, where you can observe the fauna and flora of the area.
at the time of riding the Teleferico Waraira repano
Great views from the wagons of the Teleferico
Bosque del Waraira Repano desde el Teleferico
Venezuelan Flag on the top station of Caracas Teleferico
Caracas view from the Teleferico de Caracas wagon
You can get snacks and food on the top station of Waraira Repano
Parque Nacional Waraira Repano o Cerro El Avila
This is the great green lung of Caracas and is part of the chain of the Littoral of the Coast Range. It extends along the Capital District, the north of Miranda state and the south of Vargas state. This makes it a wonderful place and a popular tourist destination for locals and visitors.
The Waraira Repano Park is a mountain national park that covers more than 85,000 hectares of land, and its highest point, Pico Naiguatá, is over 2,700 meters above sea level. It is an impressive and unique place, full of wildlife and a wide variety of flora and fauna.
One of the things that makes this park special is its incredible diversity. You can find a large number of different plant and animal species, such as monkeys, snakes, birds, butterflies, and much more. There are also many waterfalls, rivers, and streams throughout the park, making it even more exciting to explore.
Cerro El Avila is an ideal place for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. There are many hiking trails available here that vary in difficulty, from easier walks to more challenging routes. You can also find picnic areas and campsites throughout the park.
The park also offers impressive views of Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. From the Avila lookout, you can see the city from east to west with a unique perspective, which makes it worth the climb up there.
Museo De La Estampa y Diseno o Cruz Diez
El Museo de la Estampa y del Diseño Carlos Cruz Diez (MEDI) is the first institution in Venezuela dedicated to the training, exhibition, publication, collection, and preservation of print and integral design works. It opened its doors in 1997 in a building designed by architect Horacio Corse and is named in honor of one of the greatest representatives of national contemporary art. The museum’s permanent collection features over 200 works by artist Carlos Cruz-Diez, offering a graphic journey through his kinetic art. The museum also showcases works by both national and international artists in the areas of print and design.
Museo Sacro
El Museo Sacro de Caracas is located in a colonial-style building facing Bolivar Square and has a rich history. It was the cemetery of the 17th century Cathedral. Later, it served as a jail for ecclesiastics in the 17th and 18th centuries. In the 80s, it was restored by architect Ramón Paolini, as the National Protective and Conservatory Board of the Nation’s Artistic Heritage declared the building a National Historic Monument. The museum opened to the public in 1993 and displays valuable works of Venezuelan colonial religious art.
Galeria de Arte Nacional
La Galeria de Arte Nacional (GAN) in Caracas is a must-visit for anyone interested in the art of Venezuela. The gallery houses and preserves over 8,000 works of different genres and trends, ranging from pre-Hispanic times to contemporary pieces. Visitors can admire famous historical pieces such as “Miranda en La Carraca” by Arturo Michelena, drawings by Camille Pissarro, works by Armando Reverón, and the fascinating Reticulárea by Gego.
Zoologico El Pinar
El Zoologico El Pinar was created on the grounds that belonged to the hacienda “La Vaquera”, owned by Juan Vicente Gómez. Inaugurated in 1945, it is the first zoo in Caracas. The park has an “Environmental Brigade” program made up of young people dedicated to the care of the animals and their habitat. Some of the animals that can be found in the park are jaguars, pumas, capuchin monkeys, goats, tapirs, and a donkey that is part of an endangered species.
Boulevard de Sabana Grande
Walking the Sabana Grande Boulevard in Caracas is a different experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting the capital of Venezuela. This bustling Boulevard is filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues to suit a wide range of tastes and budgets. Visitors can find local handicrafts and souvenirs, enjoy a cup of coffee at a cozy cafeteria, or feast on traditional Venezuelan cuisine at one of the area’s many restaurants. As you walk down the boulevard, you will be surrounded by the different sounds of music in each store and chatter, getting a real feel for the energy and vitality of Caracas.
Plaza Altamira
Plaza Altamira is a square located in the Altamira neighborhood of Caracas, Venezuela. It is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. One of the most notable features of Plaza Altamira is its unique design, which includes several fountains and a large central statue.
The area is surrounded by a variety of dining options, including international restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors. Visitors can enjoy a range of local and international cuisine, from traditional Venezuelan dishes to international favorites.
Museo del Transporte
The Guillermo Jose Schael Museo del Transporte in Caracas is a space dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the history of transportation in Venezuela. Since its founding in 1983, the museum has acquired an impressive collection of vehicles representing different eras and technologies.
The tour of the museum begins with the exhibition of carriages and carts from the 19th century, used during the colonial period for the transportation of people and goods. Similarly, the first cars that circulated in Venezuela, including Ford and Chevrolet models from the 1920s, can be appreciated.
One of the most outstanding objects in the collection is the first plane made in Venezuela, the Bolkow Junior, designed and built by Guillermo Jose Schael himself in the 1950s. In addition, the museum has an impressive collection of airplanes, helicopters, and models that illustrate the evolution of aviation in the country.
The exhibition continues with a display of buses and trucks that reflect the progress of public and freight transportation in Venezuela, as well as a collection of motorcycles that includes classic and sports models. Furthermore, military and emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks can be admired.
The Guillermo Jose Schael Museum of Transportation in Caracas is fascinating for enthusiasts of history and technology. The collection is proof of the ingenuity and creativity of Venezuelans and provides an exclusive insight into the evolution of transportation in the country. In short, it is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn more about the rich history of Venezuela.
Museo de los Niños
In 1982, the Art and Culture Program for Children was created, which sought to develop children’s skills through participatory activities. It was necessary to have activities that would connect the child with art, science, and technology to awaken their creativity. Thus, La Fundacion Privada Museo de los Niños was born. The museum would be a large educational and recreational laboratory where visitors could interact with exhibits, becoming a new alternative and safe space to educate through recreation and discover the “why” behind things.
Simon Bolivar birthplace
The birthplace of Simon Bolivar in Caracas is an important historical site located in the capital city of Venezuela. It is the place where Simón Bolívar, the hero of the independence of several South American countries from Spanish rule, was born and spent his childhood. The house was built in the mid-18th century and is located at the corner of San Jacinto and Traposos streets in the center of Caracas. It was declared a National Historic Monument in 1920 and became a museum in 1921.
The museum features numerous personal belongings of Bolivar, as well as furniture and decorations from the colonial era. Visitors can also learn about the history of the independence of Venezuela and other Latin American countries, and see how people lived during the colonial period.
National Art Gallery in Caracas
The National Art Gallery (Galería de Arte Nacional) is a museum located in Caracas, Venezuela. It is one of the most important art museums in Latin America and is dedicated to exhibiting and promoting Venezuelan art and culture.
The museum was founded in 1976 and has a collection of over 5,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings, among others. The collection spans from colonial times to the present day and includes works by some of the most renowned Venezuelan artists, such as Armando Reverón, Francisco Narváez, and Carlos Cruz-Diez, among many others.
The National Art Gallery is located in a modernist building designed by the Venezuelan architect Carlos Raúl Villanueva, who is also responsible for designing the Ciudad Universitaria de Caracas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The museum has several exhibition spaces, including permanent and temporary galleries, as well as an auditorium and a library.
Panteon Nacional de Venezuela
The National Pantheon of Venezuela (Panteón Nacional) is a historic mausoleum located in the center of Caracas, Venezuela. It is the final resting place of many of the most important figures in Venezuelan history and is a symbol of the country ‘s cultural and political heritage. The building was originally constructed as a church in the 18th century and was converted into a national pantheon in the 19th century. It features a neoclassical design with a central dome and several smaller domes and towers.
The National Pantheon contains the tombs of many of Venezuela’s most prominent national heroes, including Simón Bolívar, the liberator of Venezuela and several other South American countries, and Antonio José de Sucre, a military and political leader who fought for independence from Spain. It also houses the remains of several presidents, artists, and other important figures in Venezuelan history.
Paseo Los Próceres
The Paseo Los Próceres (translatable into English as Walkway of the Heroes) is a monument located in the Venezuelan city of Caracas, near Fort Tiuna and the Military Academy of the Bolivarian Army.
This monument features various elements such as stairs, fountains, squares, roads, and walls, alongside statues of heroes from the War of Independence. In 1993, the Paseo Los Próceres, including its surrounding system, was officially recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
Restaurants & Nightlife in Caracas
Pizzeria El León
If you want to start the nightlife in Caracas, or want a more lively night, El León Pizzeria is your best option. It is an excellent place to socialize with friends and meet new people, as it has an outdoor terrace for you to enjoy the Caracas atmosphere. Although they offer a variety of appetizers and dishes on the menu, we suggest you don’t leave without trying their pizzas and mixed grill, the most classic dishes of the Pizzeria.
Top 5 Best pizzas of Caracas
Yes, El Leon is well known for great pizzas! The place is usually quite busy on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays nights.
Restaurant Tarzilandia
If you’re looking for an outdoor restaurant with a family atmosphere and live music, Bar Restaurant Tarzilandia should be your next stop. Its atmosphere, echoing its name, alludes to the visitor being in a jungle surrounded by flora and fauna worthy of the Venezuelan rainforests. You’ll be surrounded by parrots, macaws, and turtles! Incredible, isn’t it?
This Bar Restaurant has over 70 years of tradition, and you can taste national and international dishes, cocktails, and desserts. Some of the dishes you can enjoy are: “Hungarian Goulash,” “Mushroom Crepe,” “Seafood Grill,” “Criolla-style Grilled Meat,” “Almondine Trout,” and of course, a national dish like “Chicken Salad” couldn’t be missing from the menu; and to accompany a good dish, Bar Restaurant Tarzilandia offers a range of wines and beverages of your choice.
Great choice for Steak lovers!
Fantastic choice for Steak! Service is really good. Say hello to Fernando from us!
Restaurant El Barquero
Traditionally known for its Mediterranean-style cuisine with Spanish accents, Restaurant El Barquero specializes in seafood. At the restaurant, you can find two types of environments: one family-friendly, ideal for a night out with family or a romantic evening; and a more lively atmosphere: a tavern, ideal for a night of tapas, drinks, and snacking. The atmosphere is very pleasant, and you can enjoy live music every day starting at 1:30pm – you can even dance! A perfect combination to break from the routine. On the menu, you can find different dishes of Spanish origin such as “Spanish omelette,” “Andalusian gazpacho,” “Mediterranean salad,” “Valencian paella,” “Segovian suckling pig,” and of course, in a Spanish-origin restaurant, the well-known “Manchego cheese” cannot be missing from the menu.
Restaurant Alto
If you want an elegant restaurant with an international touch and Venezuelan flavor, we have an iconic restaurant recognized internationally for you, and we’re talking about the Alto Restaurant, which has been ranked on the List of the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America since 2013.
The restaurant has two spaces: a chic, sober, cozy, and minimalist decorated dining room and a terrace where you can sit under the shade of Caracas’ tallest rubber tree. In addition, its iconic chef, Carlos García, was awarded the Tenedor de Oro (Golden Fork) award by the Venezuelan Academy of Gastronomy in 2007, and his unique presentations will make you see and feel a feast of sensations for all your senses. The menu stands out for dishes and diners with Venezuelan origins and Mediterranean touches: from tequeños, empanadas, cachapas, and arepas with chicharrón and the famous “Pasta con Sardinas” to Curated Prawns with ricotta, lisa roe, and egg yolk, and undoubtedly, two of the must-try desserts: “Tierra del Cacao” and “Médanos de Coro”.
Barako Restaurant & Lounge
It is probably the number one grill restaurant in Caracas, so if you are a lover of grills or different meat dishes, this is the place for you! It offers its visitors different spaces ranging from the most intimate to the informal, with executive-style sites to a beautiful terrace to enjoy the fresh air.
Its specialty is meats served in different types of dishes, but it also offers a wide variety of appetizers, desserts, and wines to vary and delight your palate. Among some of the dishes offered by Barako Restaurant & Lounge, you can find “Bite Angus,” “Bite estilo Barako,” “Ceviche,” “Rack de costillas,” and the most outstanding dessert “Chips and cookies,” a paradise for the taste buds.
Hot Dogs in Caracas?
Are Caracas Hot Dogs the best of the world? You can't miss a Perro Caliente with Avocado!
Caraqueños things!
Eat a Cachito de Jamón!
Something that Venezuelans love are “cachitos”. They are bread rolls filled with chopped ham. They are a true delight for the palate, perfect for a quick breakfast or to enjoy in the afternoon accompanied by coffee or malt drink. In addition, they are affordable and can be found in any bakery in the country. “Cachitos” are part of our culinary culture and always remind us of home. If you are in Venezuela, you cannot leave without trying our delicious “cachitos”. I assure you, you won’t regret it!
Golfeados con Queso
If there is something you must enjoy, it is “golfeados” with cheese. These delicious sweet rolls are made with “papelón” (unrefined cane sugar), anise, and on the top they have white cheese, making them a true delight for the palate. They have a soft and sticky texture. The combination of sweet and salty makes them perfect to accompany any hot beverage, such as a good coffee or hot chocolate. “Golfeados” can be found everywhere, from the humblest street vendors to the most elegant bakery. Don’t miss out on these delicious snacks, I guarantee you that you are missing out on something really special!
