The question, “Can I Travel To Venezuela?” requires a serious and carefully considered response. As of September 24, 2024, the U.S. Department of State strongly advises against travel to Venezuela due to significant risks, including wrongful detentions, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and a struggling healthcare infrastructure.
The U.S. Government’s Limited Capacity to Assist
In March 2019, the U.S. Department of State withdrew all diplomatic personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, suspending all consular services until further notice. This means the U.S. government has very limited, if any, ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens within Venezuela. If you are a U.S. citizen currently in Venezuela and require consular assistance, the advice is to leave the country as soon as it is safely possible and contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in another country.
Wrongful Detention: A High Risk for U.S. Citizens
The Department of State has determined a high risk of wrongful detention specifically targeting U.S. nationals in Venezuela. There have been instances where security forces have detained U.S. citizens for extended periods, even up to five years. Critically, the U.S. government is often not notified of these detentions or granted access to these prisoners. This lack of access severely hinders any ability to provide assistance or ensure fair treatment.
Pervasive Crime and Civil Unrest
Venezuela experiences high rates of violent crime. Homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking are common occurrences. Political rallies and demonstrations are frequent, often with little warning, and can escalate quickly. Security forces have been known to use harsh tactics, including tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets, against protestors. These situations can devolve into looting and vandalism, further increasing the danger for travelers.
Terrorist Activity in Border Regions
The presence of Colombian terrorist groups operating in Venezuela’s border areas with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana poses an additional security threat. These groups contribute to the overall instability and increase the risk of violence in these regions.
Shortages of Basic Necessities
Widespread shortages of essential resources such as gasoline, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies continue to plague much of Venezuela. These shortages can significantly impact the safety and well-being of travelers, making it difficult to access basic necessities and medical care.
If You Decide to Travel Despite the Risks
Despite the strong warnings, if you decide to travel to Venezuela, take the following precautions:
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Avoid all travel via land border crossings. Nighttime travel between cities or between Simón Bolívar International Airport and Caracas is particularly unsafe.
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Do not attempt to enter Venezuela without a valid Venezuelan visa. Visas are not available upon arrival, and attempting to enter without one can lead to indefinite detention without consular access.
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Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
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Develop a communication plan with family and/or an employer or host organization. Include a “proof of life” protocol.
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Do not rely on U.S. government assistance for your contingency plans.
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Be aware that the U.S. government cannot assist with replacing lost or expired travel documents.
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Exercise extreme caution when using unregulated taxis from the Maiquetia “Simón Bolívar” International Airport and ATMs in the area.
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Consider hiring a professional security organization.
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Recognize that over-the-counter and prescription medicines are unlikely to be available.
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Purchase medical evacuation insurance, as the U.S. government will not be able to assist should a medical emergency or evacuation arise.
Staying Informed and Prepared
- Visit the Travel to High-Risk Areas page.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X.
- Review the Country Security Report for Venezuela.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Conclusion: Is Travel to Venezuela Worth the Risk?
The question of “can I travel to Venezuela?” ultimately depends on your individual risk tolerance and the necessity of your travel. However, given the U.S. Department of State’s strong warnings, the high risk of wrongful detention, pervasive crime, political instability, and lack of access to basic necessities and consular assistance, travel to Venezuela is strongly discouraged. Carefully weigh the risks and consider alternative destinations if possible. Your safety and well-being should be the top priority.
