Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Why travellers are eyeing nation plagued by ‘extreme violence’

Venezuela’s Angel Falls is the world’s tallest waterfall
Venezuela’s Angel Falls is the world’s tallest waterfall (Getty/iStock)
  • Despite Foreign Office warnings, UK travellers are showing renewed interest in Venezuela, with one in 12 Wanderlust magazine readers expressing readiness to visit.
  • Demand is expected to rise following Sir Michael Palin's upcoming TV series on the country, where he highlights its “spectacular” scenery but acknowledges the challenging travel conditions.
  • The Foreign Office warns of high murder rates, armed robbery, mugging, and “extreme violence”, while the US State Department advises American citizens to “prepare a will” before visiting.
  • Lupine Travel's Venezuela tours have sold out, but the operator cautions about increasing tensions and high detention risks for individuals with US links.
  • Sir Michael and travel experts say some of the draws of Venezuela are its “magnificent” mountains, beautiful beaches, exotic wildlife, and the world’s tallest waterfall.
In full

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in