The U.S. Department of State has reissued its travel advisory for Venezuela, strongly urging U.S. citizens not to travel to Venezuela due to numerous critical safety concerns. This updated advisory, released on September 24, 2024, emphasizes the high risk of wrongful detention, alongside persistent threats of terrorism, kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest. The advisory also highlights the country’s poor health infrastructure, making Venezuela an exceptionally dangerous destination for travelers.
Since March 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Caracas has suspended all operations and withdrawn diplomatic personnel. This means the U.S. government has severely limited capacity to assist American citizens within Venezuela, including in emergencies. Consular services, both routine and emergency, are unavailable. U.S. citizens currently in Venezuela are advised to leave as soon as it is safely possible and to seek assistance from a U.S. embassy or consulate in a different country.
The Persistent Threat of Wrongful Detention in Venezuela
One of the most alarming aspects of the Venezuela Travel Advisory is the explicitly stated high risk of wrongful detention. The advisory points out that Venezuelan security forces have detained U.S. citizens for extended periods, sometimes up to five years. Adding to the severity, the U.S. government is often not informed of these detentions and is frequently denied access to detained U.S. citizens. This lack of transparency and access makes it extremely difficult for the U.S. government to provide support or ensure the fair treatment of its citizens.
High Levels of Crime and Civil Unrest
Violent crime is rampant throughout Venezuela. Travelers face significant risks from homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking. These are not isolated incidents but are common occurrences across the country. Furthermore, Venezuela experiences frequent political rallies and demonstrations, which can erupt with little to no warning. The response from Venezuelan police and security forces to these demonstrations has been harsh, often involving tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets, and sometimes escalating into looting and vandalism. This environment of instability and potential violence poses a serious threat to anyone in Venezuela.
Terrorism and Border Area Dangers
The Venezuela travel advisory also warns of the presence of Colombian terrorist groups operating within Venezuela’s border regions, specifically near Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana. These groups add another layer of security risk, particularly in less controlled areas of the country. Travel to these border regions is especially dangerous and should be avoided entirely.
Critical Shortages of Basic Necessities
Beyond the immediate threats of violence and detention, Venezuela is grappling with severe shortages of essential resources. Gasoline, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies are consistently scarce throughout much of the country. These shortages can impact every aspect of a traveler’s experience, from transportation and basic comfort to access to healthcare in case of emergency. The failing infrastructure further exacerbates the risks for travelers.
Recommendations for U.S. Citizens Considering Travel to Venezuela
Despite the strong warnings, if you are considering travel to Venezuela, the U.S. Department of State provides critical advice:
- Do not travel to Venezuela via land border crossings. These routes are particularly dangerous.
- Avoid nighttime travel, especially between cities or between Simón Bolívar International Airport and Caracas.
- Ensure you have a valid Venezuelan visa before arrival. Attempting to enter without one can lead to indefinite detention. Visas are not available upon arrival.
- Prepare for potential emergencies. Draft a will, designate insurance beneficiaries, and establish power of attorney.
- Develop a robust communication plan with family or employers, including a “proof of life” protocol in case of kidnapping.
- Do not rely on U.S. government assistance for contingency plans.
- The U.S. government cannot replace lost or expired travel documents within Venezuela.
- Exercise extreme caution with taxis from Simón Bolívar International Airport and ATMs in the area due to increased risk of crime.
- Consider hiring professional security.
- Be aware that necessary medications may not be available. Bring any prescription and over-the-counter medications you may need.
- Purchase medical evacuation insurance. The U.S. government cannot assist with medical emergencies or evacuations.
For further information, travelers are directed to the country information page for Venezuela on the U.S. Department of State website. It is also strongly recommended to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and to review resources such as the Country Security Report for Venezuela and the CDC’s Travel Health Information.
In conclusion, the Venezuela travel advisory is clear: travel to Venezuela is highly dangerous. The risks of wrongful detention, violent crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and lack of basic resources are significant and should not be underestimated. U.S. citizens are strongly advised to reconsider any travel plans to Venezuela at this time.
