Travel Summary

• We advise against all travel to within 80km (50 miles) of the Colombian border in the states of Zulia, Tachira and Apure. We advise against all but essential travel to the remainder of Tachira state. Drug traffickers and illegal armed groups are active in these states and there is a risk of kidnapping.  In addition, travellers should take particular care if attempting to cross in to Colombia from any state since border crossings can attract criminal activity. Travellers should only use official crossing points.
   
  
• Venezuela has suffered exceptionally heavy rains which have affected wide areas of the country. Travel has been affected in many areas, and road conditions remain poor.
  
  
• Demonstrations are frequent and can turn violent, including the use of guns. You should exercise caution and avoid large public gatherings. Elections are due to take place on 7 October and informal campaigning is underway. See Safety and Security – Political Situation.
  
  
• The incidence of street crime in Venezuela is high. Armed muggings and ‘express kidnappings’ are a regular occurrence. Resistance to robbery has resulted in victims being shot dead. You should exercise caution at all times, especially when arriving in, and travelling around, Venezuela. See Safety and Security - Crime.
  
  
• Around 9,500 British nationals visit Venezuela every year. 25 British nationals required consular assistance in Venezuela in the period 01 April 2009 – 31 March 2010. See General - Consular Assistance Statistics.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General - Insurance.