Travelling to Venezuela? Need Vaccinations?
Caracas,set high above the sea amidst soaring mountains, is one of the most dramatic capitals in South America, and a perfect place to begin your tour of Venezuela. In this extremely fast paced city, old meets new, almost at every turn. Of note is the fact that Caracas is the birthplace of Simón Bolivar, called El Liberador, who freed many South American countries from Spanish rule, and there is an excellent museum dedicated to his memory, not far from city centre. When the buzz of the city gets too much, tranquillity awaits just north of Caracas, in El Avila National Park. A worthwhile side trip is a tour to Angel Falls, in the south east, the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, cascading a dramatic 979 metres. Before you finalise your trip to Venezuela, plan a visit to our Travel Health Clinic, to have the necessary Vaccinations you will require for travel to Venezuela.
What Vaccinations do I need for Travel to Venezuela?
The following vaccinations are necessary for travel to Venezuela:
Diphtheria Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Tetanus Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Polio Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Hepatitis A Vaccination
Depending upon the condition of your health, the demands of your planned itinerary, lifestyle and any adventures which may carry some risk, you might also need the following Vaccinations before travelling to Venezuela. Please discuss any special health concerns you might have, when you visit our Travel Vaccination Clinic.
Typhoid Vaccination
Hepatitis B Vaccination
Rabies Vaccination
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Book an appointment at our Travel Vaccination Clinic well in advance of your departure, for more information, and advice on the vaccinations and precautions we advise for travel to Venezuela.
Further Travel Health Advice for Venezuela
Drinking Water
Drinking local tap water, no matter where you travel, is never a good idea. Use only bottled water,and also use bottled water for brushing your teeth, no matter which area you visit. Avoid ice cubes, and fountain drinks.
Heat and Humidity
The Venezuelan climate is tropical, with high humidity. In mountain areas, temperatures are lower than the country’s mean average temperature which hovers around 24 C. Coastal and low lying areas have hotter temperatures, up to around 30. Wear light, comfortable clothing and use a sunblock even when the sky is overcast.
Food and Drink
Venezuelan food has varied influences, from Andean to Spanish, Italian and Caribbean, and experimentation is the key. One of the most popular breakfast treats is simply deep fried cornmeal, sometimes mixed with bananas, called Mandoca. Corn is featured in many dishes, including the national bread, Arepa. Seafood dishes have a definite Caribbean and Creole influence. Side dishes fruit such as baked plantain, rice and black beans. Some favourite and unique drinks are Chicha, a rice based drink, and Papelón con limon, is a delicious mixture of sugar cane and lemon. Do be careful with unwashed vegetables, and avoid street vendors.
Seeking Treatment Abroad
In Venezuela, it is best to seek care through Private clinics. Generally, health care services are good, but It is best to find out more before travelling to remote locales. Bring enough money with you to pay for any health care you might need, since most private health care providers expect payment in cash.
Travel and Health Insurance
Protect yourself, and your family, with comprehensive travel health insurance which will cover your intended itinerary and any unusual activities.
Personal Safety
As a general rule, Caracas can be a dangerous place, and care should be taken. Leave your valuables in a safe place before touring. Don’t wear jewellery, or anything that might attract a potential thief. On tours outside the capital, use an established tour guide, and if you are in Caracas at night it’s best to use taxis.