Venezuela 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Caracas and its Surroundings

  • Morning: Arrival at Simón Bolívar International Airport (AIQ). Obtain a Venezuelan Tourist Card upon arrival, which costs $10 USD and is valid for 90 days. You may need to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.

  • Lunch: Visit the Plaza Venezuela in the financial district and try local dishes such as arepas and cachapa.

  • Afternoon: Head to Museo de Arte Moderno (MAM) to appreciate contemporary Venezuelan art. Then, take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Avila for panoramic views of Caracas.

  • Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife in the Chacaíto neighborhood.

  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in downtown Caracas or Chacaíto.

Day 2: Angels Falls and Canaima National Park

  • Morning: Take an early flight to Canaima, the gateway to Canaima National Park. You can find flights from Caracas operated by Conviasa or Aserca. The flight duration is approximately 3 hours.

  • Afternoon: Upon arrival in Canaima, take a boat ride to Angel Falls (Salto Ángel), the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall with a height of 979 meters. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area and enjoy the natural beauty.

  • Evening: Return to Canaima for dinner and relax by the lake under the stars.

  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel or eco-lodge in Canaima.

Things to know:

  1. Venezuelan Bolívar (VEF) is the official currency, but US Dollars are widely accepted. It’s best to have both on hand.
  2. Spanish is the primary language in Venezuela; learning a few phrases will greatly enhance your experience.
  3. Be aware of local safety advisories and travel only during daylight hours.
  4. Stay hydrated, as the tropical climate can be hot and humid.
  5. Make copies of important documents like passports and visas to keep with you at all times.
  6. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Day 1: Exploring Caracas & Mérida

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Venezuelan breakfast at a local café. Try the popular ‘Arepa’ filled with cheese or meat.

Activities:

  1. Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC) to explore modern and contemporary Venezuelan art.
  2. Stroll around the historic district of La Candelaria in Caracas, admiring the colorful architecture and colonial buildings.

Afternoon:

  • Take a flight to Mérida (approximately 1 hour). Rent a car or book a taxi for your travels within the city.

Activities:

  1. Visit Santa Barbara Castle, a Spanish colonial fortress with panoramic views of the city and the Andes.
  2. Take a scenic drive to Laguna de Mucuchies. Enjoy the beautiful lake surrounded by mountains and have a picnic lunch.

Evening:

  • Return to Mérida and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try traditional dishes like ‘Pabellón’ or ‘H Hallacas’.

Things to Know:

  • Venezuelan currency is Bolivar Soberano, but for practical purposes, use USD as many places do not accept local currency.
  • Spanish is the official language in Venezuela, but some locals also speak Italian and Portuguese due to historical connections.

Day 2: Adventure in the Andes

Morning:

  • Embark on a guided tour to Avenue of the Liberators. This beautiful route takes you through the Andean peaks with breathtaking views.

Activities:

  1. Stop at Pico Espejo, one of Venezuela’s highest mountains, for an unforgettable photo opportunity.
  2. Explore the Awá Pari National Park, known for its unique flora and fauna. Don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Avila National Park. Enjoy a cable car ride to the top, where you can hike to the summit of Mount Avila or simply take in the stunning views.

Things to Know:

  • Always carry water and sunscreen as the altitude can make you dehydrated quickly.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting indigenous communities.

Evening:

  • Return to Caracas and enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and EU member states, do not require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. Check with your local embassy or consulate for the most accurate information regarding your nationality.

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights within Venezuela are operated by Conviasa, Aeropostal, and Latam Airlines. Car rental is also available in major cities. Always check travel advisories before setting out on a journey.

Day 1: Exploring Caracas and its Surroundings

Morning:

  • Breakfast at a local café. Try Arepa (cornmeal pancake) or Hallaca (traditional Venezuelan dish).
  • Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MAM) to appreciate the contemporary Venezuelan art scene.
  • Explore the Central Park and take a stroll around the National Pantheon, the resting place for many important figures in Venezuela’s history.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at a local restaurant offering traditional dishes like Cachapa or Pabellón.
  • Travel to Avila Mountain and take the cable car (Telefericó) up to enjoy the panoramic views of Caracas. Remember to dress warmly!
  • Visit the Hummingbird Sanctuary on your way down, where you can see various species of hummingbirds.

Evening:

  • Dinner at a rooftop restaurant in El Rosal or Altamira for a beautiful sunset view over Caracas.
  • Enjoy a night out in Chacao district’s trendy bars and clubs.

Day 2: Discover Angel Falls (Salto Ángel)

Morning:

  • Early start to fly to Canaima National Park (flights are usually from Puerto Ordaz/Santiago de León).
  • Arrive at Canaima and take a dugout canoe (canoa de matsi) to the base camp. Remember to wear waterproof clothing!

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at the base camp.
  • Prepare for the trek (approx. 3 hours each way) to the viewpoint of Angel Falls, one of the world’s highest waterfalls.
  • Spend the afternoon admiring the breathtaking views and taking photos.

Evening:

  • Dinner at the base camp.
  • Optional activities include a night jungle walk or stargazing (clear nights offer fantastic views).

Next Day:

  • Early breakfast.
  • Return to Canaima by canoe, and then fly back to Puerto Ordaz/Santiago de León.
  • Connect with your onward flight home or continue your Venezuelan adventure.

Things to know before you go:

  1. Visa requirements: Check if you need a visa for Venezuela. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European countries, can stay in Venezuela up to 90 days without a visa. However, check the latest updates on the Venezuelan embassy’s website or with your travel agent.
  2. Currency: The local currency is Bolivar Soberano (VES). However, due to hyperinflation, many businesses operate using US dollars or SDR (Special Drawing Rights). Bring cash in both currencies as there may be limited access to ATMs.
  3. Safety: Exercise caution, particularly in major cities like Caracas, and avoid displaying valuable items in public. Consult your embassy for the latest travel advisories and recommendations.
  4. Health considerations: Ensure you have all necessary vaccinations up-to-date, including yellow fever. Malaria prophylaxis may be required if visiting certain areas, so consult with a healthcare provider before traveling.
  5. Transportation: Taxis are readily available in cities, but negotiate prices before starting your journey. In Canaima National Park, transportation will be provided by the local communities.

Day 1: Exploring Caracas and El Ávila National Park

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Venezuelan breakfast at a local café. Try arepas, empanadas, or hallaca.
  • Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo) to get a feel for Venezuela’s vibrant culture and art scene.

Afternoon:

  • Head to El Ávila National Park, a stunning mountain range located within Caracas. Hike one of the many trails, such as the Pico Humboldt or La Negra trail, offering breathtaking views of the city.
  • Visit the nearby Humboldt’s Garden (El Jardín de Humboldt) to explore diverse flora and fauna.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a traditional Venezuelan dinner at a restaurant like La Marquésa or El Hatillo Cocina Nacional, followed by a stroll around the charming neighborhood of La Candelaria.

Things to Know:

  1. Venezuela is famous for its beaches, but Caracas can be quite busy and hectic, so plan your activities accordingly.
  2. The official language is Spanish, although English is spoken in some tourist areas.
  3. Tap water in Venezuela is not safe to drink; bottled water is widely available.
  4. Venezuela uses the Bolívar Soberano as its currency. It’s best to exchange money at official banks or exchange houses. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities but less so in rural areas.

Day 2: Angel Falls and Warao Culture

Morning:

  • Depart early for Canaima, the gateway to Angel Falls (Salto Ángel). You can either fly directly from Caracas or travel by land and boat. The journey takes approximately 4 hours by air or a full day by land and boat.

Afternoon:

  • Once in Canaima, take a boat tour to the base of Angel Falls, one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. Marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty.

Evening:

  • Learn about the indigenous Warao culture by visiting a traditional Warao village. You can also try local dishes and participate in their unique customs.

Things to Know:

  1. Angel Falls is best visited during the dry season (November to May) as the water flow is stronger, but keep in mind that it’s more difficult to reach during this time due to low water levels for boat transportation.
  2. Remember to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for hiking and swimming.
  3. For safety reasons, it’s recommended to book tours through reputable companies and not venture out alone.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens from many countries can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival in Venezuela. However, check the Venezuelan embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate information as requirements may vary.

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights are available through airlines such as Conviasa and Aeropostal.
  • For ground transportation, shared taxi services called colectivos are widely used and relatively affordable. For longer journeys, consider hiring a car with a driver or booking a bus ticket.