Do I need special permits to visit Canaima National Park?

Yes, visitors must enter with authorized tour operators who arrange necessary permits. Independent travel is not permitted in most park areas.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Bolívar?

No, drink only bottled, boiled, or purified water throughout the state, including in hotels.

What currency should I bring?

US dollars in cash (small bills) are widely accepted alongside Venezuelan bolívars. Exchange money at authorized locations only.

Can I visit indigenous communities?

Yes, but only through organized tours with proper community permissions. Respect local customs and consider bringing small gifts like school supplies.

What's the best way to see Angel Falls?

Join a multi-day tour from Ciudad Bolívar or Canaima camp, involving flights, river trips, and hiking. The falls are most impressive during rainy season but more accessible in dry season.

Many nationalities (US, UK, EU, Canada) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Check with the Colombian consulate.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Yes, but solo travelers should stay in well-trafficked areas, avoid walking alone at night, and use official taxis.

What currency is used?

Colombian Peso (COP). US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas but at poor rates.

Can I drink tap water?

No, tap water is not safe. Drink bottled or filtered water.

What language is spoken?

Spanish. English is spoken in tourist areas but learning basic phrases helps.

What is the best way to get from the airport to Cartagena?

Taxis cost around $10-15 USD; Uber is also available. Official airport taxis are safe.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Cartagena. Cash is needed for small vendors and rural areas.

Lightweight clothing, rain jacket (if visiting May-Nov), insect repellent, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat.

Is it safe to eat street food?

Generally yes, but choose busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruit.

Do I need any vaccinations?

Yellow fever vaccine is recommended for travel to rural areas. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines are advised.

What is the tipping etiquette?

10% in restaurants if not included. Tip tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff a few dollars.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, buy a local SIM (Claro, Movistar) for data. Roaming can be expensive.

Bolívar

StateVenezuela, South America

Bolívar is a STATE in Venezuela, South America.

Bolívar State is Venezuela's largest and most geographically diverse region, offering travelers an extraordinary blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. The crown jewel is Canaima National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site encompassing the breathtaking Angel Falls—the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall—and the mystical table-top mountains known as tepuis. Adventurers can explore the Gran Sabana's vast savannahs, dotted with indigenous Pemón communities and stunning natural pools like Quebrada de Jaspe. The state capital, Ciudad Bolívar, is a beautifully preserved colonial city on the Orinoco River, where travelers can walk along the historic Paseo Orinoco and visit the Casa del Congreso de Angostura. For nature enthusiasts, the Imataca Forest Reserve offers incredible biodiversity, while the Orinoco Mining Arc reveals a different facet of Venezuela's economy. Bolívar provides unique opportunities for ecotourism, river expeditions, and cultural exchanges with indigenous groups, though travelers should plan carefully due to infrastructure challenges in remote areas.

Best time to visit Bolívar

December to April (dry season) is ideal for visiting Angel Falls and Gran Sabana when water levels are manageable and weather is clearer. June to August offers slightly cooler temperatures but more rainfall. Avoid September to November (peak rainy season) when some areas become inaccessible. The Ciudad Bolívar festivals in February (Carnival) and December (Christmas celebrations along the Orinoco) offer cultural experiences.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 28-33°C, rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Wettest month

Know before you go

Getting there

CTG

Rafael Núñez International Airport

International

10 km away

BAQ

Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport

International

120 km away

MTR

Los Garzones Airport

Domestic

200 km away

SMR

Simón Bolívar International Airport

International

250 km away

Getting around

"Domestic flights connect Ciudad Bolívar with Caracas and other major cities. For Canaima and Gran Sabana, small charter planes are essential—book through reputable tour operators. In Ciudad Bolívar, taxis and local buses are available but often crowded. For exploring remote areas, 4x4 vehicles with experienced drivers are necessary as roads are often unpaved and poorly maintained. River transport via curiaras (dugout canoes) is common in southern regions. Ride-sharing apps are unreliable; arrange transportation through hotels or established companies. Always confirm fuel availability before long trips."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cities and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+58

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Petty crime is common in tourist areas; avoid flashing valuables.

Night safety

6/10

Petty crime is common in tourist areas; avoid flashing valuables.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Exercise extreme caution throughout Bolívar State. Avoid travel to remote mining areas where illegal activities and violence are prevalent. Stick to established tourist routes in Canaima and Gran Sabana with reputable tour operators. Petty theft is common in Ciudad Bolívar—keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items. Road travel can be hazardous due to poor road conditions and occasional security incidents. Use only official taxis or transportation arranged through hotels. Be aware that political demonstrations can occur unexpectedly. Due to Venezuela's economic situation, carry sufficient cash in small denominations as credit cards may not be accepted."

Police

171

Ambulance

171

Fire

171

Tourist Police

0800-TURISMO (8874766)

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Ciudad Bolívar (Hospital Ruiz y Páez) are the most developed in the state, but remote areas have limited services. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for visits to jungle and savannah regions, particularly south of the Orinoco River. Yellow fever vaccination is required and should be administered at least 10 days before travel. Dengue, Zika, and chikungunya are present—use insect repellent and mosquito nets. Bring comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Pack a well-stocked medical kit including prescription medications, as pharmacies may have shortages. Drink only bottled or purified water."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect indigenous communities by seeking permission before taking photographs and purchasing crafts directly from artisans. Dress modestly when visiting towns and indigenous areas. Greetings are important—a handshake or cheek kiss among acquaintances is common. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Be patient with bureaucratic processes and slower service pace. When visiting natural sites, follow 'leave no trace' principles—the Pemón people consider the tepuis sacred. Avoid discussing politics or the economic situation unless your local guide initiates the conversation."

SpanishIndigenous languages (Pemón, Ye'kuana, others)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Venezuelan Bolívar (VES) · Bs.

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs around $5-10

Hotels

$40-120 | budget hotels range $40-80/night, mid-range $80-120

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1, taxi within city ~$5

Cost notes

Cartagena is more expensive than other parts of the department.

Timezone

America/Caracas -04:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

2,100,000

Area

238,000 km²

Government

State government with elected governor and legislative council

ISO code

VE-06

Type

State

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: BO, Боливар, Estado Bolívar, 볼리바르주, รัฐโบลีวาร์, Болівар, VE-F, ボリバル州, ولاية بوليفار, Bolívar, Bolivar State, Bolivar, Upata

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