Venezuela / República Bolivariana de Venezuela – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Venezuela?
Venezuela is a country in South America, almost four times the size of the United Kingdom. Its terrain consists of mountains in the north and north east, highlands in the south east and plains elsewhere. It borders the Caribbean Sea and owns many islands there.
The highest point in the country is Pico Bolívar whose peak reaches 16,332 ft (4,978 m). In the highlands lies Angel Falls, the world’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall, with a height of 3,212 ft (979 m).
Venezuela has a population of around 30 million, of whom nearly nine million live in the capital, Caracas.

A bit about the history of Venezuela
Spanish colonisation
Venezuela has a long and complex history, shaped by indigenous cultures, colonialism, and political turmoil. Originally inhabited by various indigenous groups, it was colonized by Spain in the early 16th century and became part of the Viceroyalty of New Granada.
Struggle for independence
Venezuela declared its independence from Spain on July 5, 1811, although the struggle for independence continued for several years. Key figures in this fight included Simón Bolívar, who played a pivotal role in liberating much of South America, and who is regarded as Venezuela’s national hero. Venezuela officially gained independence in 1821, becoming part of Gran Colombia, a short-lived republic that also included Colombia, Ecuador and Panama. However, Venezuela separated from Gran Colombia in 1830, establishing itself as an independent republic.
War and oil
The 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by political instability, civil wars, and changing leaders. The country experienced a period of growth and prosperity with the discovery of vast oil reserves in the early 20th century, which transformed Venezuela into one of the world’s leading oil exporters.
Populism
In the late 20th century, Venezuela saw the rise of populist leaders, notably Hugo Chávez, who was elected president in 1998. Chávez’s government implemented socialist reforms, including extensive social programs, but also faced criticism for authoritarian practices, economic mismanagement, and corruption. His policies, particularly the nationalisation of key industries, led to both periods of economic growth and significant economic decline.
After Chávez’s death in 2013, his successor, Nicolás Maduro, continued his policies, but Venezuela’s economy entered a severe crisis, marked by hyperinflation, shortages of basic goods, and mass emigration. Political conflict and protests intensified, with Maduro facing opposition claims of electoral fraud and human rights abuses. The country has been mired in political and economic turmoil, and Venezuela continues to struggle with a deepening crisis that has affected its people and international relations.


Venezuela road trip
Our Venezuelan road trip is part of a much larger South American road trip.
Map of our road trip through Venezuela

Our current planned road trip takes us from Brazil towards the coast and on to the capital, Caracas.
No doubt we’ll explore the country much more than this continent-spanning short route shows, in particular checking out inland Venezuela.
Hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back
What’s it like to drive in Venezuela?
They drive on the right hand side of the road in Venezuela. Road conditions are poor in Venezuela, as are driving standards.
All vehicles must carry a spare tyre, wheel block, jack and reflector triangle.
Police check points
There are regular police and National Guard checkpoints throughout the country. Drive slowly through these and stop if asked. There have been reports of attempts by the police and National Guard to extract bribes for traffic offences. If this happens, ask for a written record giving details of the offence and the officer’s details.
Do you require an international driving permit in Venezuela?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Venezuela?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Venezuela?
A Carnet de Passages is required to overland in Venezuela. We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What currency do they use in Venezuela?
In Venezuela they use the Venezuelan bolívar. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is widely accepted in tourist areas. Travellers cheques are accepted in tourist areas. There are many ATMs in tourist areas, although not all accept foreign issued cards.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Venezuela?
They speak Spanish in Venezuela, although 26 regional languages are also officially recognised. English is also widely spoken in cities.
What time zone is Venezuela in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Venezuela?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Venezuela?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Venezuela, although make sure the land is not private.
What plug / socket type do they use in Venezuela?
In Venezuela they use plug / socket types A and B.


Health issues in Venezuela
Is it safe to drink water in Venezuela?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Venezuela. Bottled water is readily available throughout the country.
What vaccinations are required for Venezuela?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Venezuela.
Phones in Venezuela
What is the country calling code for Venezuela?
The country calling code for Venezuela is +58
What are the emergency phone numbers in Venezuela?
- The emergency number for police in Venezuela is: 911 / 171
- In Venezuela, the emergency number for ambulance is: 911 / 171
- The emergency number for fire in Venezuela is: 911 / 171
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!