Venezuela

Located at the most northern tip of South America lies the tropical country of Venezuela. Visitors will have a chance to experience glorious beaches, the Andes mountains, friendly people and a vibrant nightlife. Known for its beauty and diversity, this coastal country offers a unique destination for those looking for a little bit of everything.

Language: Spanish
Currency: Bolivar Fuerte
Government: Socialist state

Did you know?

• Hugo Chavez has been the president of Venezuela since 1999.
• Venezuela contains the world’s largest uninterrupted waterfall, Angel Falls.
• The highest peak in Venezuela is Pico Bolivar at 16,411 feet.
• Caracas, the country’s capital, is known as the witch capital of the world.
• The name Venezuela comes from the term ‘Little Venice,’ as it reminded the explorers who first discovered it of Venice, Italy.
• Venezuela is know to have the largest oil reserves in the western hemisphere.

Climate

The climate of Venezuela is as diverse as its terrain, despite being located very close to the equator. With its various elevation points, average temperatures can range between 28°C and 8°C, depending on location and time of year. Extreme weather is rare, however, and overall the country is fairly mild all year.

• Wet season: June–September
• Dry season: October–April

History

Famed explorer Christopher Columbus first landed in Venezuela in 1498, shortly after discovering America. The region was then colonized by the Spanish in 1535 under the rule of Spanish King Charles I. During the 1700s, Venezuela was combined with neighbouring territories into a large colony called Viceroyalty of New Granada. The independence of Venezuela from Spain was declared in July, 1811, which Spain recognized 10 years later. Torn by civil war and dictatorships, Venezuela finally adopted a constitution in 1999 and currently operates as a socialist democracy.