This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to Summary
and Political Situation (be aware of demonstrations in the run up to referendum
on constitutional reform) sections. The overall level of the advice has not
changed.
SUMMARY
- In March 2008 Tensions between Venezuela and Colombia have led to
troop movements to regions surrounding the Colombian border. We advise
against all travel to within 80 kms (50 miles) of the Colombian border
in the states of Zulia, Tachira and Apure. Terrorist and illegal armed
groups are active in these states and there is a risk of kidnapping.
- The incidence of street crime in Venezuela is high, armed muggings and
“express kidnappings” are on the increase. You should exercise caution when
arriving in, and travelling around, Venezuela. People carrying large amounts of
money, wearing valuable watches or jewellery or using mobile phones in the
street are especially vulnerable. See the Crime section of this advice for more
details.
- Demonstrations are taking place throughout Venezuela, particularly in
Caracas and other major towns and in and around universities, in the run up
to and immediately following the national referendum
on constitutional reform on 2 December 2007. Demonstrations are likely to
become frequent and highly charged. You are strongly advised to avoid all large
public gatherings, and to exercise extreme caution when out and about,
particularly near to polling stations on 2 December. See Political Situation
section of this advice for more details.
- The road to and from the airport to Caracas is dangerous and there have
been muggings and kidnappings by bogus taxi operators at Caracas International
Airport (Maiquetia). Where possible you should avoid travelling on this route
during hours of darkness, and particularly between 2300 and 0400hrs. Journey
times can be unpredictable and you should allow extra time for any journey to
and from the airport.
- British nationals have mainly required consular assistance in Venezuela
for drug- trafficking, muggings and other theft. Do not handle illicit drugs:
penalties are among the most severe in the Americas, and the prisons among the
most dangerous. See Local Laws and Customs section of this advice for more
details.
- There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be
indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign
travellers.
- Dengue Fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur
throughout the year. In 2007 there has been an increase in the number of
reported cases of dengue across the region. See Health section of this advice
for more details.
- We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.
