Change description : 2025-01-10 16:24:00: Additional information about some British nationals having been held in detention facilities at Maiquetia airport in Caracas and at land border crossings for a period of hours or days whilst the authorities perform checks and addition of information on the land border closure with Colombia and suspension of flights between Venezuela and Colombia until 13 January 2025 (‘Safety and security’ page). [Guidance and regulation]
!Warning
FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Venezuela.
Warnings and insurance
Still current at:
1210 DecemberJanuary 20242025
Updated:
1210 DecemberJanuary 20242025
Latest update:
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Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Areas where FCDO advises against travel
Within 80km of the Venezuela-Colombia border
FCDO advises against all travel to within 80km (50 miles) of the border with Colombia. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Colombia and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping.
Zulia State
FCDO advises against all travel to Zulia State, which has prolonged power cuts, water shortages, violence and local conflict.
Within 40km of the Venezuela-Brazil border
FCDO advises against all travel to within 40km (25 miles) of the border with Brazil. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active along the border area with Brazil and there is a risk of criminal kidnapping.
All other areas of Venezuela
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of Venezuela, due to ongoing crime and instability.
Presidential inauguration period
The presidential inauguration will take place on 10 January 2025. The situation in Venezuela is currently tense.
There is currently an increased risk of demonstrations and protests. You should avoid political rallies, demonstrations and crowds, which may become violent and could be dispersed by the use of force. You should not cross security-force lines or barricades. Monitor developments closely and keep up to date with this travel advice.
Before you travel
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
About FCDO travel advice
FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
