It is critical that you have quality Venezuela insurance in place before travelling or operating in this beautiful yet crime-ridden country. Whatever the purpose of your visit, it is wise to be aware of the potential dangers and to ensure that your Venezuela insurance provides the level of protection.

Official risk ratings

Accident and Evacuation
Kidnapping and Ransom
Political Risk

Dangers you might encounter in Venezuela

Venezuela is a country whose natural wonders range from snow capped Andean mountains, to Amazonian jungle and the world’s longest stretch of Caribbean coast. It also boasts huge mineral wealth, which is attracting much in the way of foreign investment and international business. Anyone planning on visiting, working or living here should be aware of the potential hazards and take out appropriate Venezuela insurance.

Areas near the Colombian border are to be avoided due to the activity of drug traffickers and armed militias. If your business takes you to regions against FCO advise ensure that you take appropriate security arrangement and procure high-risk Venezuela insurance that will cover you in the event of armed attack, kidnapping or terrorism.

Violent street crime can be a problem across the country but even more so in the capital Caracas and on tourist beaches. Petty street crime, such as pick pocketing and bag snatching is common, though far more worrying is the high incidence of armed robbery. It’s wise not to carry much in the way of valuables and have a small bundle of decoy notes to hand over. Don’t try to resist an attacker as this has resulted in victims being shot.

The road to Caracas airport is often dangerous, particularly at night, and buses along it have been increasingly robbed at gunpoint. Advice is to use only trusted taxi firms or hotel limousine services and allow plenty of time for slow traffic and airport security checks. Be aware that there have been incidents of robbery by bogus airport officials luring travellers into quiet corners.

‘Express kidnapping’ – where people are grabbed off the street and forced to empty bank accounts – armed mugging and carjacking are a frequent occurrence. Resistance to robbery has resulted in victims being shot. There have been incidents when tourists’ drinks have been spiked, and pamphlets given out in the street have been impregnated with drugs that are absorbed through the skin.

Large-scale political demonstrations often take place across Venezuela and can lead to violent clashes. You are advised to avoid demonstrations if you can.

Do not have anything to do with illicit drugs. Venezuela’s penalties are severe and its prisons extremely dangerous.

Comprehensive international health insurance in Venezuela is essential. Sanitation can often be poor and waterborne diseases, including cholera, can easily occur. In remote areas where health facilities are sparse it is especially important that you have medical emergency evacuation cover.

Mariners should be vigilant as there have been numerous incidents of piracy in Venezuelan waters. Maritime security insurance can be arranged for crews and cargoes.