The U.S. State Department has once again highlighted Venezuela as a location too risky for American visitors, issuing a stern “do not travel” advisory. This caution comes in the wake of ongoing political turmoil and deteriorating safety conditions under President Nicolás Maduro’s regime, which has been marred by accusations of corruption and illegitimacy.
The Deterioration of a Once-Popular Destination
Venezuela, once celebrated for its stunning gothic cathedrals, pristine island beaches, and Angel Falls—the world’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall—has seen its appeal as a holiday destination severely undermined by a protracted economic and political crisis. Despite these challenges, the nation saw a surprising uptick in tourism numbers from 429,000 international visitors in 2017 to 1.25 million in 2023, underscoring its enduring appeal among global travelers.
State Department’s Stance on Travel to Venezuela
The renewed advisory stems from a “routine process review” by the State Department, concluding that the political climate and general safety in Venezuela have not improved. The advisory, in place for the past five years, categorically states that Venezuela remains akin to a war zone or a region under authoritarian rule, making it unsuitable for American visitors.
“In March 2019, the U.S. Department of State withdrew all diplomatic personnel from U.S. Embassy Caracas and suspended operations,” the State Department reported. This move has left the U.S. government unable to assist American citizens in emergencies, including consular services, which are suspended until further notice.
High Risks and Recommendations for Travelers
Amidst reports of wrongful detentions and violent crimes such as homicides, armed robberies, kidnappings, and carjackings, the State Department has expressed a particular concern about the risk of U.S. nationals being detained without notification to U.S. authorities. “Security forces have detained U.S. citizens for up to five years,” noted the department, highlighting the severe limitations on governmental intervention and support for detained American nationals.
To mitigate some of the risks, the State Department advises those who still choose to travel to Venezuela to establish a comprehensive communication plan with family or their employer. This includes setting up a “proof of life” protocol, which ensures that, in the event of a kidnapping, specific pre-arranged questions can verify the well-being and presence of the hostage.
Advice for U.S. Nationals Considering Travel to Venezuela
For U.S. citizens contemplating travel to Venezuela despite the warnings, the advice is clear: prepare diligently. Establish a “proof of life” contingency plan and ensure that there is a robust communication strategy with people who can act on your behalf. This preparation is crucial for ensuring some measure of safety in a country where the U.S. has no direct means to provide help.
Concluding Thoughts
As the situation in Venezuela continues to unfold, the U.S. government remains vigilant and discouraging of any travel to the region. The reissued travel advisory serves as a sobering reminder of the significant challenges and dangers that persist, urging potential travelers to reconsider their need to visit the country amidst such volatile conditions..
