Discover Venezuela

Angel Falls in Canaima National Park, with a drop of nearly 1,000 metres, is the world's highest waterfall, plunging from a distinctive tabletop mountain known as a tepui. Boat tours through the jungle and flights over the primeval-looking landscape rank among South America's most impressive natural experiences.

The capital sits nestled among the mountains of the Cordillera de la Costa and is home to historic colonial buildings in the centre as well as Waraira Repano National Park right at the city's edge. The cable car to Mount Ávila offers a spectacular panoramic view over the sprawling metropolis and the Caribbean coast.

This archipelago of over 300 coral islands in the Caribbean is considered one of South America's most beautiful and pristine island paradises, with powder-white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise water. Boat tours between the individual cayos and excellent snorkelling make Los Roques a dream destination for nature lovers.

The mountain city of Mérida in the Venezuelan Andes sits above 1,600 metres and serves as a base for hiking as well as the famous cable car, once the highest and longest in the world. The surrounding snow-capped peaks and traditional Andean villages offer a landscape entirely different from the country's tropical regions.

There are no direct flights from Switzerland; travel usually involves one or two stopovers via Madrid or Panama City to Caracas Airport. Due to the political situation, travellers should check the current travel advisories before booking.

The official language is Spanish. English is barely spoken outside a few tourist centres like Los Roques, so basic Spanish skills are very helpful for the trip.

The bolívar is the official currency, but due to high inflation it is often supplemented by US dollars in daily life. Travellers should research the current exchange rate and payment situation carefully in advance.

Due to the economic situation, the cost of living can be low for travellers with foreign currency such as US dollars, though this varies greatly and requires careful trip planning and up-to-date local information.