VENEZUELA
Currently preparing to provide guidance

Various things to consider when traveling to Venezuela.

Climate and best season

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

Average temperature and precipitation in Venezuela (Caracas)

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency website, 2017 data (http://www.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/cpd/monitor/)

Cash, cards and currency exchange

・Exchange currency by obtaining US dollars in Japan beforehand and exchanging them for local currency on-site. Japanese yen cannot be exchanged locally, so be sure to bring US dollars.
・Currency exchange to local currency is possible at the airport or hotel. However, since cash dollars can be used in most places such as hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, it is not always necessary to exchange. It is advisable to exchange small amounts as needed.
・Credit card payments are becoming more common and can be used in many places, but there are still places like small shops and taxis where only cash is accepted, so it is recommended to use both cash and cards.

Tips

・There is a custom of giving tips.
・Restaurants: Tipping is only necessary if a 10% service charge is not included in the bill. However, if you receive special service at a high-end restaurant, it is customary to give a small tip.
・Hotels: Tipping is necessary when you request room service or porter services.
・Taxis: Tipping is generally not required. However, if you receive special services such as help with luggage, it is appropriate to give a tip equivalent to the service.

Public Safety

・The security situation in Venezuela cannot be considered good.
・Particularly dangerous areas include Zulia, Táchira, Bolívar, Miranda, and Aragua states. These regions face political opposition conflicts, worsening economic conditions, deteriorating social infrastructure, severe fuel shortages, and a large number of refugees, indicating unfavorable political, economic, and social conditions.
・To avoid becoming a victim of crime, refrain from going out at night, carrying large amounts of money, or using your phone while walking, as these actions can make you an easy target.

Clothing

・Due to high humidity throughout the year, wearing breathable clothing is advisable. Although daily temperature variations are minimal, regional temperature differences can be significant, so having layered clothing is convenient when traveling around.
・If you are going to high-altitude areas, it is useful to have a sweater or outerwear. Also, since the sun is strong, having a hat is advisable.

Things you should bring with you

Stomach medicine, cold medicine, mobile battery, insect repellent items, sun protection items, etc.

Visa availability and arrangements

・Japanese nationals do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism purposes. However, a passport with at least six months of validity is required.

Required vaccinations

・There are no mandatory requirements for travel. However, vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, and typhoid are recommended.