While other South American countries are romanticized for the tango, Machu Picchu or Carnaval, Venezuela’s international reputation swirls around oil, the brash political style of President Hugo Chávez and the occasional international beauty pageant winner.
Venezuela is close to the equator, so average temperatures vary little throughout the year. The tourist season in Venezuela runs year-round, but consider the climate and Venezuelan holidays before finalizing your travel plans.
Venezuela has one dry season (November/December to April/May) and one wet season (the rest of the year). The dry season is certainly more pleasant for traveling, particularly for hiking or other outdoor activities, though sightseeing in cities or towns won’t be greatly disturbed by rain. Some sights, such as waterfalls, are actually more impressive in the wet season. The Angel Falls (Salto Ángel), for example, is absolutely spectacular after heavy rains in the wet months.
Venezuelans are mad about traveling over the Christmas season (running up till mid-January), Carnaval (several days prior to Ash Wednesday) and Holy Week (the week before Easter Sunday). During these three peak times, air and bus transportation are busy and hotels fill up quickly, so you’ll have to book ahead. On the other hand, these periods are colorful and lively, with a host of festivities.