Places / South America / Venezuela
Caracas
Visited in March 2016
The UK Foreign Office currently advises against travel to all or parts of Venezuela. This guide is for a safer time. Check the latest travel advice.
At a glance
- Country
- Venezuela
- Region
- Libertador Municipality
- Population
- 2.2 million
- Best time to go
- December to April
- Main airport
- Simón Bolívar International (CCS)
- Coordinates
- 10.51°N, 66.91°W
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Overview
Caracas lies in a long green valley at around 900 metres, walled off from the Caribbean by the forested ridge of El Ávila. The altitude gives it a mild, spring-like climate for most of the year.
It is the birthplace of Simón Bolívar, and its historic centre, university campus and modern art reflect a proud history. Travel here is not advised at present; this guide is for a time when it becomes possible to visit again.
Things to see
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Photo: Omerta-ve, CC BY-SA 4.0 Plaza Bolívar
The shady historic square, ringed by the cathedral and colonial buildings, with an equestrian statue of the Liberator.
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Photo: Mark Morgan from Port of Spain, Trinidad, CC BY 2.0 Birthplace of Simón Bolívar
The colonial house where the Liberator was born, a few blocks from the main square.
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Photo: Wilfredor, CC BY-SA 4.0 National Pantheon
A former church that now holds the tomb of Bolívar and other national figures.
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Photo: Wilfredor, CC0 Ciudad Universitaria
The UNESCO-listed university campus, a showpiece of modernist architecture and integrated art.
Things to do
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Photo: Periodismodepaz, CC BY-SA 4.0 El Ávila National Park
Hiking trails climb through cloud forest to viewpoints over the city and the sea.
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Photo: Wilfredor, CC BY-SA 3.0 Ride the Teleférico
The cable car rises up the mountain from the city for sweeping views across the valley.
Find tours -
Photo: Steven Depolo from Grand Rapids, MI, USA, CC BY 2.0 Eat arepas
Venezuela's corn breads, split and stuffed with fillings such as reina pepiada, are a daily staple.
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Photo: Pascual De Ruvo ( Pderuvo at en.wikipedia), CC BY-SA 3.0 Day trip to Colonia Tovar
A mountain village founded by German settlers, known for its timbered houses and strawberries.
Where to stay
Altamira
A residential area in the east of the city, around a large plaza with metro links.
Hotels in AltamiraLas Mercedes
Known for restaurants, bars and business hotels.
Hotels in Las MercedesChacao
Central eastern district with shops and a range of hotels.
Hotels in Chacao
Getting around
The city has a metro and plentiful taxis; when visiting becomes possible, take local advice on arranging trusted transport.
The airport is at Maiquetía on the coast, separated from the city by the mountains and around 40 minutes by road.
When to go
The dry season from December to April brings clear skies and good hiking on El Ávila. May to November is wetter, though temperatures stay mild year-round thanks to the altitude.
Plan your trip to Caracas
- HotelsBooking.com
- Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
- FlightsKiwi.com
- Attraction ticketsTiqets
- Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
- Car hireAuto Europe
- Adventure travel insuranceWorld NomadsWe receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
- Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
- GuidebooksAmazon
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Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.