Venezuela Travel Safety

Precautions

Do not walk on city streets at night, and avoid walking alone in less busy or isolated areas during the day. If you are threatened, stay calm and do not resist, many criminals carry firearms, and victims are often injured or killed for failing to cooperate. Do not visit "barrios" (heavily populated slums), especially in eastern and western areas of Caracas but also in any part of the country, as barrios are extremely unsafe. Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía (Caracas) is dangerous, incidents of violent crime occur frequently, both inside the facilities and in the surrounding areas. Kidnappers and armed robbers have targeted foreigners, who are assumed to be holding large amounts of foreign currency given the difficulty in obtaining Venezuelan bolívars outside of Venezuela. Arrange your travel so that you arrive and depart the airport during daylight hours and have a friend, family member or a trusted transportation service waiting to pick you up upon arrival.

Road safety

Drivers often do not stop at red lights or stop signs, and some do not turn on their vehicle lights Road conditions, safety and road signage are poor throughout the country. Drunk drivers and reckless motorcyclists pose hazards. Traffic laws are rarely observed due to the lack of police enforcement. Driving is risky at night. Crime increases at nightfall because of unmarked road damage or construction. Be especially vigilant after heavy rains, as sewer grates may have been displaced and potholes may be hidden in puddles. Street lighting is often inadequate. Outside of cities, gas stations and restaurants can be few and far between, and gas pumps may be empty due to poor distribution.

Public transportation

There is a high risk of theft on both inner city and intercity buses, especially at night. There is a risk of theft in the subway, and some subway stations are unsafe. Only take the subway during daylight hours, and avoid peak hours. Seek advice from local friends before using this means of transportation.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Venezuela, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of precaution during travel.

Scams

Criminals posing as authorities have harassed and extorted money from travellers. Criminals often approach tourists at the airport and offer to exchange money. There have been incidents of motorists being robbed after stopping to assess the damage to their vehicle from improvised spikes on the road or stone throwing from highway overpasses and bridges near poorer neighbourhoods. Criminals may also pose as taxi drivers, book only from the company counter. Armed bandits set up illegal roadblocks and rob vehicles, including intercity buses.

Crime

Venezuela has one of the world's highest homicide rates. Murder and other violent crimes, including armed robbery, home invasion, carjacking and kidnapping for ransom, are pervasive throughout the country. Armed robbery may occur anywhere at any time throughout the country and particularly in the capital city of Caracas. Incidents frequently occur on public transportation. Do not take a taxi from this airport. Incidents of crime along intercity roads are common, including on the road linking Simón Bolívar International Airport to Caracas. Keep your valuables out of plain sight. Remain vigilant when driving, especially when stopped, and always drive with the doors locked and windows closed. Exercise extreme caution when driving after dark, when the risk of becoming a victim of serious crime increases. Street crime is common, particularly in major cities, and often results in violence. Pickpockets are active in crowded bus and subway stations. Do not show signs of affluence or display valuables, particularly jewelry and electronics, including cell phones. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep foreign currency out of sight. Ensure that your personal belongings and travel documents are secure. Maintain a low profile and remain aware of your surroundings at all times, in all places. Do not use ATMs at the airport. Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, and be especially wary when offered rides or invitations. Avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of crime. Incidents of drugging followed by robbery and assault, including sexual assault, have been reported. There have been incidents of piracy against ships in coastal areas and marinas. Police response times are poor or non-existent in most parts of the country, and most reported crimes do not result in prosecution.

LGBT

Although the laws of Venezuela do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is less tolerated socially and public display of affection may attract unwanted and negative attention. LGBT travellers should be aware of local sensitivities, particularly when visiting rural areas.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, include immediate detention, incarceration and lengthy jail terms. All departing visitors are thoroughly screened for drugs by the Bolivarian National Guard. Pack your luggage yourself and keep it with you at all times. Do not carry anything through customs for anyone else.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended. There are many control points throughout the country. Stopping at Bolivarian National Guard of Venezuela and police checkpoints is mandatory. Follow all instructions and have vehicle and insurance papers and passports readily available. Vehicles may be searched. It is not uncommon for authorities to seek bribes. In the case of an accident, vehicles must not be moved until a traffic police officer fills out a report. Police response times are often slow. The laws are not always respected.