Is Venezuela a safe place to visit?
August 17, 2026
Welcome to Venezuela!
It’s great to receive messages and emails daily from travelers eager to discover my country! Building and growing a nature tours company in Venezuela has been a challenge, especially after enduring such a deep and prolonged crisis. With over 30 years in Venezuela’s tourism industry—starting as a tour guide and later transitioning into business—I’m excited to share with you what I consider to be the best experiences available here today.
While Venezuela boasts countless breathtaking destinations, not all are currently viable, whether due to limited visitor numbers or challenging conditions that still need improvement.
With this article, I want to share the information with you as if we were chatting in a café about your plans in Venezuela. Over the years leading Osprey Expeditions and overcoming countless challenges, while turning chaos into harmony, I’ve discovered what works best, what people love the most, and what can provide you with the ultimate vacation experience.
Before you start reading, it’s important to know:
1) My writing blends a personal and professional tone.
2) Hover over the pictures and read my comments about each one. The photos help to better understand each experience.
3) In almost every mention of the destinations, you’ll find a link that allows you to access more information.
4) I’ll be updating this article as often as possible. There’s so much I can share about each destination!
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for choosing Venezuela as your next vacation destination. I’m confident it will be an experience you’ll never forget!
Ben Rodriguez
Director & Founder Osprey Expeditions
Best Tours of Venezuela 2026
Los Roques
This is one of the best beach options in the Caribbean, perfect for an unforgettable getaway.
We recommend staying for a minimum of 3 days and a maximum of 4 days, as there are daily flights that make it easy to combine with other destinations.
Prices
– Accommodations: There is a wide variety of inns with prices starting at US$80 per night per person. Keep in mind that most of them charge a 30% supplement for single rooms.
– Flights: Round-trip flight prices range between US$250 and US$380 per person, depending on the season.
Recommendations for Your Stay
– We suggest opting for a basic program that includes two meals a day and arranging lunch and island excursions directly with the locals.
– Gran Roque has the largest selection of inns, while some smaller islands offer accommodations that are generally more expensive and not always the best choice.
Why Choose This Destination
100% of our clients have been satisfied with their experience, making it one of the top beach destinations in Venezuela. Don’t hesitate to include it in your itinerary!
I know that Los Roques has some of the best beaches in the world, but it’s not my favorite. Personally, I need to see palm trees, have shade, and the freedom to do more than just lie down all day staring at the turquoise color. When I was 23-24, I worked there and found it difficult to deal with the sun. This is just my personal opinion, but I know you'll still love it.
Angel Falls
Salto Ángel: An Unforgettable Adventure in Venezuela
Visiting Salto Ángel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the must-see destinations in Venezuela. This incredible place not only allows you to marvel at the world’s tallest waterfall, standing at an astonishing 979 meters, but also invites you to explore the majestic Canaima National Park, internationally recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are various ways to enjoy this natural wonder, with 4- and 5-day expeditions being the most recommended options.
Departure Days
Currently, departures are available only on Thursdays and Sundays via commercial flights.
To ensure a smooth experience, careful planning is essential: arrive in Caracas the day before your tour and plan your return for the day after, as the single airline serving this route may experience unexpected delays.
In some cases, we can arrange a 3-day expedition, but these are typically part of a larger itinerary that includes other destinations. Our travel proposal focuses on adventure and a deep connection with nature, though more exclusive and “boutique” options are also available for those seeking a different kind of experience.
Beyond the Waterfall
While Salto Ángel is breathtaking, the experience goes far beyond just the waterfall. The surroundings of the magnificent Auyán Tepuy are home to equally stunning landscapes and natural wonders. Our tour is designed to keep you engaged and to make the most of every moment.
Combine Your Adventure with Other Destinations
To make your trip even more special, pair your visit to Salto Ángel with a few days of relaxation at idyllic beaches like Choroní, Margarita, or Los Roques. These combinations provide the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
If you love nature and feel that 4 or 5 days aren’t enough, we have combination options that you’ll love:
– Salto Ángel and Orinoco: This is our “best seller” and one of the most complete itineraries, spanning 7-8 days. It combines the magic of Canaima National Park with the impressive Orinoco Delta, where you can marvel at its wildlife and connect with the Warao indigenous people in an authentic setting.
– Salto Ángel and Roraima: Known as “The Lost World,” this is an incredibly popular experience. This tour spans 12-13 days filled with adventure and unique experiences in breathtaking landscapes.
The hammocks!
Every day, people ask me:
“Can I sleep in beds instead of hammocks?”
I understand that many prefer greater comfort, but the type of expedition we offer involves sleeping in places that are not fully developed for tourism (fortunately!). This is part of the charm of the experience, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in nature.
Here’s something interesting: if hammocks were as uncomfortable as many of our clients initially think, why don’t we have any complaints about them on our Google page? Click here and see for yourself—no one complains!
Additionally, it’s worth noting that 95% of our clients are European, which shows that even those accustomed to higher standards of comfort thoroughly enjoy the experience.
Exploring the Carrao River by canoe is truly a remarkable experience. The journey is filled with one incredible landscape after another, creating a continuous showcase of natural beauty.
72 kms to Angel Falls by canoe
One of our groups on the view point of Angel Falls.
Churun River
Enjoying a natural pool just 5 mins away from Salto Angel
Wey Tepui as seen from Piedra Caiman
Underneath Salto Hacha. Many people finds this as the best experience of the Angel Falls Expedition.
Canaima Lagoon
Ahonda Canyon
Salto Sapo
The Devil's canyon is quite a photogenic place.
My favorite one: Wey Tepui aka The Sacred Mountain of the Sun and the Moon.
The last view of Angel Falls on the way out.
You will be here!
The last curve 1 minute before you reach Angel Falls
Roraima Trek
Roraima is one of the most amazing and lesser-known treks in the world. There is nothing comparable to the unique experience of reaching the summit of a Tepui.
The shortest trek lasts 6 days, covering nearly 70 kilometers of hiking, camping at various points along the mountain, and exploring its most breathtaking spots. We also offer a 7-day option that takes you to Punto Triple, the point where Guyana, Brazil, and Venezuela meet, as well as other parts of Roraima that cannot be reached in 6 days. There are also 8- and 9-day treks, but they are not very popular. However, in addition to those X days of trekking, you must consider the long journey to get there.
If you’re traveling from Caracas, you will need to add 2 to 3 extra days for the trip to Roraima, and another 2 or 3 days for the return, as there are no direct flights.
It’s important to note that this trek cannot be completed in less time, even if you’re a fast walker. The pace of the expedition depends on the group, as not all participants have the same fitness level. Also, trekking independently is not allowed because the Pemón community of San Francisco de Yuruani and Parai Tepui relies on the income generated by organized groups. Therefore, you must join a group, or if you prefer a private tour, keep in mind that it will be more expensive.
If you enjoy hiking and discovering remote places, Roraima is undoubtedly one of the best options. Additionally, it’s possible to combine it with Salto Ángel in a minimum 12-day expedition, which we call The Lost World. And if you’re an adventure lover, you can add the Orinoco Delta and join our more extensive and complex experience, known as From Orinoco to The Lost World.
Accessing Mount Roraima from Boa Vista, Brazil, is even easier, as it’s closer and the access is more direct.
I find it fascinating that my clients often agree that Roraima has been the most incredible experience of their lives. They don’t say the same about other destinations, even though they leave those equally satisfied. Roraima is next level.
My good friend Gino Pop gave me this picture! Wow!
Clouds below the top of Roraima is the classic picture we all need!
Walking on the foothill of Roraima on Day 2.
Great shot by Malte Clavin from Germany.
The Foss! Unique place
Camping in one of the Roraima cavities.
Don't do this! Nice shot though!
The Labyrinth is part of the 7 days trek
Without our team of locals the Roraima treks are impossible. They are great people!
Relaxing in the Roraima jacuzzi!
Choroni
Choroní is, without a doubt, my favorite beach destination in Venezuela—a country blessed with some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. While its beaches are spectacular, the real charm of this small fishing village lies in the sense of freedom, tranquility, and relaxation that envelops you as soon as you arrive. It feels as if all your worries vanish the moment you set foot there.
Choroní is an affordable destination, particularly on weekdays when there are fewer visitors. It’s incredibly photogenic, with breathtaking sunsets, delicious food, and locals who are always friendly and welcoming.
Although you can enjoy Choroní on a 2-day getaway, I recommend staying at least 3 days to fully take in everything this magical place has to offer.
Located just 150 kilometers from Caracas, the journey to Choroní takes nearly 4 hours. The route crosses (55 kms) the Henri Pittier National Park along a narrow, winding road with steep inclines, making it impossible to drive faster than 30 km/h. There are no direct flights or faster ways to get there, but the journey itself is part of the experience.
Choroní offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets. We exclusively work with simple inns that provide great value for money. While there are some more luxurious options, they don’t always meet the level of efficiency we seek for international tourists.
Things to Do in Choroní
– Playa Grande: This 700-meter-long beach is just 1.4 kilometers from the village, and you can easily reach it on foot.
– Nearby Beaches: Explore other hidden gems like Cepe, Valle Seco, Chuao, or Tinikijima—perfect for those seeking variety and serenity.
– Food and Nightlife: While there are only a few restaurants, the food is exceptional. For drinks, you’ll find just two bars in the entire village, keeping the vibe intimate and laid-back.
How to Get There
If you prefer not to drive, you can take a bus from Caracas to Maracay and then transfer to another bus from the main terminal to Choroní. It’s a straightforward and budget-friendly option. We can also arrange accommodation and private transfers for you.
Why Choose Choroní
Choroní is more than just a destination—it’s an experience that combines stunning landscapes, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and a complete escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s perfect for anyone looking for an authentic, relaxing, and naturally beautiful getaway. Choroní is an ideal destination to combine with other experiences such as Angel Falls, Caracas, or trips to both Eastern and Western Venezuela, as it is centrally located within the country.
Playa Grande looks great! I love going there at 7am.
Murals in Choroni are stunning. Thanks to my friend Gino Pop for this "Catalog picture" .
Puerto Escondido in Cepe beach. I love this sandy hidden beach.
Valle Seco beach is a top beach of Choroni. The "dots" you see there are people.
Choroni is the perfect getaway. I love this picture, you will see it in this website a few times.
The 55 kms road to Choroni is curvy and narrow. I drive it in about 2,5 hours.
9 Red howler monkeys on the road to Choroni Never seen so many together, actually there were 16 all around. They were all really mad and I spent about 40 mins making pictures and videos of them. I was lucky!
Sunset from the Malecon + cocktail = one of Choroni's highlights!
Local buses are part of the identity of Choroni. The experience is as authentic as it can be.
Murals are fantastic. It is a must see! The village of full of them everywhere.
Chuao is a must do if you visit Choroni.
Orinoco Delta
Someday, the Orinoco Delta will become one of Venezuela’s top tourist destinations, thanks to two key elements that make it truly unique: its stunning wildlife and the indigenous Warao communities.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
The Orinoco Delta is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. With an astounding level of biodiversity and an environment that remains virtually untouched, this 40,000-square-kilometer region provides an ideal habitat for a wide variety of species, making wildlife sightings in their natural state a common highlight.
Warao Culture
Another major attraction is the opportunity to interact with the indigenous Warao communities, who maintain a high level of authenticity in their traditions and way of life. While some speak Spanish, most preserve their primitive customs, living off hunting and fishing. During the tour, we visit their communities to learn how they live, what they do, how they think, and how they view the world.
Duration: Tours to the Delta usually last 3 days, although shorter options are available when combined with other destinations.
Our best seller is an unforgettable experience that combines Angel Falls and the Orinoco Delta in a 6 to 7-day trip, including one night in Ciudad Bolívar.
While it is currently challenging to organize group tours to this region due to limited promotion compared to the Peruvian Amazon, Leticia in Colombia, or the Pantanal in Brazil, the Orinoco Delta holds the promise of becoming one of the top references for an authentic Amazonian experience in the future.
Many of my clients have mentioned that they saw more wildlife in the first 6 hours of the tour to the Orinoco Delta than in other 4-5 day programs in Leticia (Colombia) or the Peruvian Amazon. The experience always leaves our clients completely satisfied.
Our local guide Clemente showing a tree boa
Our boat in one of the Orinoco small branches
Winamorena village. Drone shots are the best .
Warao people paddling a canoe
Warao House in Orinoco Delta. Best time for pictures is probably 7am and yes, we will take you out early in the morning to enjoy these colors.
Yellow and Blue Macaws
Red billed Toucan. Very common though.
Isla de Margarita
My clients come to Venezuela in search of nature and almost automatically dismiss the idea of visiting Isla de Margarita, thinking it’s just another Cancún or Punta Cana. Wrong!
Yes, the island has many hotels with international standards, but 95% of Margarita retains a unique charm, possibly as the only island in the South American Caribbean. That’s right.
You’ll be amazed not only by its world-class beaches but also by its incredible natural beauty, its xerophytic landscapes (cacti, etc.) combined with green areas, the friendliness of its people, its climate, and so many other things that make it special.
For me, it’s the most complete and best-developed destination of all. Margarita keeps you entertained at all times, and as a sun-and-beach option, it’s the best in Venezuela.
I’m not just talking about beauty (I know many people prefer Los Roques or Morrocoy), but about the huge variety of activities you can do and the wide range of price options it offers.
I know the island well—I lived there years ago and continue to visit both for work and pleasure. Today, in 2025, I see Margarita as the best value-for-money destination in Venezuela. Its hotels maintain international standards, and you can find rooms starting at just $40, including breakfast.
As for beaches, the island boasts numerous world-class spots with crystal-clear waters and white coral sand. Additionally, you can rent a car for about $40 a day and discover incredible hidden gems with no marketing at all, yet absolutely worth visiting.
There are also excellent seaside restaurants where you can enjoy spectacular sunsets.
Looking for a complete destination with countless options? Isla de Margarita is the answer—no question about it.
Although my favorite beach destination is Choroni, I must admit that Isla de Margarita offers the best value for money when it comes to sun and beach experiences.
Playa El Agua
Flamings love the island too. There are many lagoons where they can be seen.
Sunset in Playa El Yaque.
Salinas de Pampatar
Cabo Negro is located on the north of Margarita Island. Top notch beach!
The most iconic bird of the island is the Yellow-shouldered amazon (Amazona barbadensis) also known as "Cotorra Margariteña"
Care Care is a hidden gem. Not even locals know where it is!
Care Care
Caracas
Known for many years as “the most dangerous city in the world,” Caracas is no longer as bad as it was once said to be. Nowadays, visiting this city can become one of the best experiences of your trip to my country.
That said, I’m not suggesting it’s completely safe or that everything will be perfect; in reality, your experience will depend on how you handle things. If you use common sense, visit popular places, and stick to normal activities, I’m confident you’ll enjoy your stay in my city.
I always suggest my clients spend one day, maybe two. It’s very convenient to book a centrally located hotel, either in La Candelaria or Altamira. These areas offer easy access to restaurants, shops, transportation, and are always bustling with people.
I recommend avoiding dressing like a tourist, always smiling, and not showing off how much cash you have on you. With these simple tips, you’ll blend in and can focus on enjoying the many interesting sites we have to offer.
Caracas tends to leave a good impression on those who visit. Located at almost 960 meters above sea level, we enjoy a very pleasant climate and sunshine year-round. The city is very green, with trees and shade everywhere, earning it the nickname “Capital City of the Macaws,” which you’ll see practically everywhere, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons.
Among its attractions, you’ll find historical sites, murals with political-socialist themes, and episodes of our history, including the figure of Simón Bolívar. A city tour will allow you to explore all of this, and I believe one day and one night are enough to get a good sense of Caracas.
In the end, like 99% of my clients, I’m sure Caracas will be one of the highlights of your trip to Venezuela.
Many clients leave with the impression that more days are needed to fully experience Caracas. They are captivated by its lush greenery, pleasant climate, and the friendly atmosphere of the city. On numerous occasions, I’ve heard people describe Caracas as the most beautiful capital in all of South America.
Yellow & Blue Macaws are part of our identity and pride! They are big, noisy and colorful birds They will get you in awe.
Caracas seen from Waraira Repano National Park by 7pm.
Murals are everywhere, mainly with historical episodes narrative.
Largest Venezuelan flag with 20 meters long.
Caracas seen from the Cable Car
Sunset in Los Proceres
Caracas dowtown seen from Hotel Alex terrace
Simon Bolivar at Los Proceres National Monument.
Parque Del Este is a must see place
Catatumbo
This is one of the tours that has grown the most in popularity in recent years. Social media has played a key role in promoting this still little-explored destination, positioning it as one of the most unique experiences in South America.
Personally, I love this tour, but the logistics of organizing groups are quite complex, which is why we don’t offer it very frequently.
Ideal Season
The Catatumbo Lightning phenomenon does not occur with the same intensity throughout the year. It is most frequent between July and November. During other months, the phenomenon is sporadic, and we prefer not to offer the tour to avoid disappointing our clients’ expectations.
Duration and Locations
The tour can be done in 2 days, but the experience is much more enriching when extended to 3 days. To make the most of the tour, we recommend including two locations that offer unique perspectives:
Chamita: Located just 20 minutes from the dock, this is an excellent spot to observe the lightning and enjoy the rich local wildlife, which includes caimans, snakes, monkeys, parrots, hawks, and ospreys. This stop is often highly appreciated by visitors.
Ologa: About 2.5 hours from the dock, this destination takes visitors to an isolated fishing village where residents live in extreme conditions. Here, the frequency of the lightning is even higher, creating the sensation of being closer to this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
In both locations, hammocks are the only available accommodation. There is no air conditioning, electricity is scarce, and temperatures rise early in the morning. While the Catatumbo experience may lack certain comforts, our guests consistently enjoy it and rarely express any concerns.
Exploring Catatumbo offers a truly unique journey, featuring breathtaking scenery, untouched landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to connect with communities seemingly untouched by time.
Observing the lightning by midnight
Hammocks and a very simple shelter is all we can offer for accommodation
People in Ologa are very friendly
Green Iguana basking on a tree
Just a normal day in the fishermen isolated village of Ologa
Sunset in Concha River
Night tour for Wildlife observation is one of the best parts of our programs
Dawn on Lake Maracaibo
Merida
Mérida is one of the most comprehensive destinations for nature lovers in Venezuela. Here, you can enjoy numerous outdoor activities such as canyoning, paragliding, hiking, high-altitude trekking, kayaking, rafting, birdwatching, and many more. However, the current decrease in the number of visitors makes it challenging to find tours with frequent departures.
Its location in the heart of the Andes Mountains gives it an interesting, diverse, and unique geography within Venezuela.
Mérida pairs perfectly with other destinations, such as Los Llanos or the Catatumbo Lightning phenomenon. It is recommended to dedicate at least four days to fully enjoy the experience. If you have five days, even better, as it allows you to explore more at a relaxed pace.
During a short visit to Mérida, you can discover not only the city and its famous cable car but also the spectacular Andean páramo and its charming villages, coffee plantations, and hiking trails suitable for all visitors in national parks such as Sierra Nevada and Sierra de la Culata.
Los Llanos offers the opportunity to explore a biodiverse region, such as the vast savannas of Apure, through wildlife observation tours and to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the *Llaneros* (Venezuelan cowboys).
On the other hand, Catatumbo will amaze you with its stunning lightning phenomena, Lake Maracaibo and its fishermen, along with the wildlife that inhabits the Concha River.
The fact that Mérida does not have regular departures for many of the incredible tours it offers limits the variety of activities available, especially for European travelers. For this reason, it is recommended to combine Mérida with Los Llanos or Catatumbo. Only in this way can it become one of the most complete and memorable experiences that Venezuela has to offer.
Llanos
Los Llanos are widely recognized as the ideal destination for wildlife observation in Venezuela. We recommend dedicating 2 to 3 days at most to fully enjoy this unique tour.
Currently, flights to Barinas, the nearest airport, are limited and only available on select days of the week. Additionally, accommodations are restricted to a single camp offering standard amenities, which includes wildlife safari tours and all meals for visitors.
The main attraction of Los Llanos is the anaconda, which can be surprisingly easy to spot on most tours. It’s also common to encounter anteaters, caimans, crocodiles, river dolphins, capybaras, and an incredible variety of bird species.
The abundance of wildlife makes sightings remarkably accessible, and with a bit of luck, you can observe many of these animals within just three hours. For this reason, stays longer than 2 or 3 days may feel repetitive to some travelers.
Although it is a highly recommended destination, the limited accessibility and logistical challenges can make the experience more demanding. The time required to reach and depart from the area, combined with flight costs, may render this tour a pricier option in terms of budget and planning.
Therefore, we suggest combining Los Llanos with the attractions of Mérida to create a 4- to 5-day itinerary that significantly enhances the overall experience and makes the journey well worth the effort.
Capybaras are one of the super stars of Llanos.
Caiman feeding show
I was so lucky to get this picture! They actually were 8 of them.
Giant anteater is so fascinating. Lucky me to get this killer shot.
You will love fishing Piranhas!
Anacondas are always the top attraction and they are not as harmful as portrayed in Hollywood.
Old picture from 2009! Still one of my favorites!
Jeep tour in the Llanos
Sunsets are amazing to say the least.