A lot has changed in a year. Venezuela for the past few years has been pretty much impossible to visit for US citizens. This has largely been due to a ridiculous visa process and endless bureaucracy that would have people waiting for months if not longer on end at various embassies around Central America and the Caribbean. Some people handed in their passports and waited for more than 6 months only to be told that they had been rejected.
So, what has changed? Well unless you completely live off grid or in some kind of internetless cave you may have seen the US enacting their brash form of foreign policy by sweeping in and capturing Nicolas Maduro the now former president of Venezuela. This has led to a significant change in Venezuela’s own foreign policy towards the USA and consequently has resulted in both the reopening of the US embassy in Caracas, and also the resumption of direct flights from the USA (Miami) to Caracas. There has also been a major shift in how Venezuela processes visa for those unlucky enough to require one to this stunning South American destination. Namely this is relevant for both US and Canadian citizens. Canadians previously were able to get visas much easier than US citizens through embassies, but now they have introduced an e-visa system which is infinitely faster for both.
In what seems like an attempt to bridge the gap between the two countries US citizens are now being issued visas online and are being welcomed into the country as tourists once again.
How long do visas take to process for US citizens?
The current processing times for the Venezuelan e-visas is currently around 10-15 days. This is for all who use the online system and not just US citizens. At the current time, it appears to make no difference if you have a US passport or not and it definitely isn’t a hindrance. Read our full guide on how to get a Venezuelan e-visa right here .
Is it safe for US citizens to visit Venezuela?
Yes, it absolutely is. Venezuela while having a reputation for being one of the most dangerous places in Latin America is definitely not what the media shows you. Any travel in Latin America requires caution and knowing how to act, however it is now no more dangerous than travelling to places such as Bogotá or Mexico City. In fact, many say that both Bogota and Mexico City are now more dangerous than Caracas. For US citizens specifically there are no extra dangers than other travellers. As long as you use common sense you will be fine. Read our
blog here
about safety in Venezuela.
Do US citizens need to be on a guided tour in Venezuela?
In short no, however, to get the most out of your trip, stay safe and to have the smoothest journey possible, then going on a Saiga group tour or with a guide is definitely the best way to have the best time in the country. Check out our Saiga Venezuela tour dates here on our website .
What is the best way to get from the US to Venezuela?
There are now direct flights on American Airlines from Miami International Airport, however like most direct flights they are a little pricey. At least for now until some other carriers enter the market. The other most popular routes into Caracas are via Bogotá, Colombia and Panama City, Panama. Bogotá is by far the cheapest with one-way flights from the Colombian capital running for about $150.
Some other routes that are good options from the US are transferring in the Dominican Republic and Mexico City. We expect as the country opens up more and the tourist demand increases more flight routes will become available across the region at cheaper prices.
How do I join a Saiga Tours Venezuela group tour?
To join us in South America send us an email to [email protected] . Best to get in early for these tours as places are running out fast!
