Venezuela

Venezuela is a beautiful country located on the northern coast of South America. It’s renowned for its gorgeous landscapes from sun-drenched beaches to mist-covered mountains. Magnificent waterfalls tumble into the Amazon, while in each town adventure and history awaits, including excellent authentic cuisines.

Guaranteed, Venezuela has superb food and music. The sumptuous cuisine has influences from the Spanish, West African, and Native American cultures. Sample an Arepa. One of the most popular arepas is called Reina Pepiada, which has avocado and mayo-based stuffing. Delicious! There is a famous saying “there’s nothing more Venezuelan than an arepa”; however, there's much more to Venezuela than food.

Nature draws most visitors to Venezuela. From coastal towns, and island escapes, with long, soft, sandy white beaches. In contrast the Andes Mountains intrigue, lure and provide a stunning backdrop to some of the most colourful and lively cities, especially when there is a festival. Festival de Virgen de Coromoto, is held each January in honour of the patroness of Venezuela, the Virgin of Coromoto. In June is the colourful Carúpano Carnaval, an extravaganza of music, dance and food that attracts over 400,000 visitors – so book early.

The Orinoco Delta teems with wildlife and is a nature lover paradise with unique adventures. Caracas, the capital and the largest city in the country, has several cultural sites and many new restaurants and bars. Pull up a stool and watch the lights come on from one of the rooftop bars while sipping a cocktail or local beer. Every bar serves a national drink – from sweet to sour, bitter and fruity, and they have it all. Cocuy is the only native liquor in the country and declared as a cultural heritage of the state of Lara in 2005. Enjoy!

Best time to visit Venezuela

Venezuela is one lucky country with a climate that remains pleasant year-round along the seaboard and islands as the entire country sits just north of the equator. Instead of seasons, Venezuela has four distinct regions and each their climatic conditions. Including the highlands, lowlands, the central plain, and the Guyana region; which adjoins the Amazon rainforest.

Slight variations in weather come from its seasons and ranging altitudes and the higher up into the mountains, especially the Andes, temperatures can fall quickly. The elevated towns of Mucuchies and Apartaderos have cold (tundra) climates so plan and pack accordingly.