Do I need a visa to visit Dependencias Federales?

Visa requirements follow Venezuelan regulations. Most visitors need a tourist card obtained upon arrival if arriving from certain countries, but requirements change frequently; check with Venezuelan consulates.

Is there accommodation on the islands?

Limited posadas (guesthouses) exist mainly on Gran Roque (Los Roques). Other islands typically require camping or staying on boats. Advance bookings are essential.

Can I drink tap water?

No. Freshwater is scarce and often collected rainwater. Bring bottled water or use purification methods.

Are credit cards accepted?

No. Bring sufficient Venezuelan bolívars in cash (USD may be accepted informally). There are no ATMs or banks.

What activities are available?

World-class diving, snorkeling, kiteboarding, sailing, fishing, birdwatching, and beach exploration. Guided tours are recommended for safety.

Varies by nationality; many require a tourist visa. Check with the Venezuelan consulate.

How do I get to the islands?

Fly from Caracas to Los Roques (30 min) or take a private boat. No ferry service.

Is there internet on the islands?

Limited; some hotels have WiFi, but connectivity is slow. Mobile data may work sporadically.

What currency is used?

Venezuelan bolívar (VES) is official, but US dollars are widely accepted. Bring cash.

Very few, mostly on Gran Roque. Bring enough cash.

Light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a first-aid kit.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Generally safe, but solo travelers should stick to popular islands and use reputable guides.

What is the best island to visit?

Los Roques is the most popular for its beaches and diving. La Orchila is more exclusive.

Do I need travel insurance?

Highly recommended, including medical evacuation coverage.

Are there any restricted areas?

Yes, some islands are military zones or protected parks; ask locally.

Dependencias Federales

StateVenezuela, South America

Dependencias Federales is a STATE in Venezuela, South America.

Dependencias Federales is Venezuela's most unique and remote administrative region, comprising over 600 islands, cays, and islets scattered across the Caribbean Sea. This maritime territory offers unparalleled opportunities for adventurous travelers seeking pristine natural environments far from crowded tourist destinations. The most famous islands include Los Roques Archipelago, a national park with breathtaking coral reefs, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling, diving, and kitesurfing. La Tortuga Island attracts sailors and nature enthusiasts with its untouched beaches and sea turtle nesting sites. Los Testigos Islands offer dramatic volcanic landscapes and exceptional birdwatching. These federal dependencies are largely uninhabited, with minimal infrastructure, creating an authentic escape where visitors can experience raw Caribbean beauty. Access requires careful planning via private boats or chartered flights from mainland Venezuela, but the reward is discovering some of the Caribbean's most spectacular and preserved marine ecosystems.

Best time to visit Dependencias Federales

December to April offers the driest weather with calm seas, ideal for sailing, diving, and beach activities. This period avoids the rainy season and hurricane risks. May and November are transitional months with occasional showers but fewer visitors. Avoid June through October due to higher rainfall, rough seas, and potential tropical storms.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Overcast
Temperature: 29°
Feels like: 31°
Humidity: 84%
Wind: 35 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 28-33°C, rainy

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Transition to dry

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

LRV

Los Roques Airport

Domestic

0 km away

CCS

Simón Bolívar International Airport

International

160 km away

Getting around

"Transportation between islands is exclusively by boat. In Los Roques, small boats (lanchas) can be hired for inter-island trips. Most visitors arrive via chartered flights from Caracas to Los Roques' Gran Roque island. Private yacht charters from mainland Venezuela (e.g., from Higuerote or Puerto La Cruz) provide the most flexibility. There are no car rentals, taxis, or public transit systems. Walking and small boats are the primary modes of transport. Navigation apps with offline maps are essential, but GPS and nautical charts are more reliable."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

5 Mbps

Mobile data

Poor

WiFi

Limited to some hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available in Caracas, not on islands

Calling code

+58

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Transport safety is a concern; weather and boat conditions vary.

Night safety

6/10

Transport safety is a concern; weather and boat conditions vary.

Transport

5/10

Scam risk

4/10

"These remote islands have minimal law enforcement presence. Travel in groups and inform someone of your itinerary. Most safety concerns relate to natural hazards: strong currents, sudden weather changes, and limited communication networks. There is virtually no crime due to sparse population, but valuables should be secured. Navigation requires experience as many areas are uncharted. Avoid traveling during hurricane season (June-November). Freshwater is scarce; bring sufficient supplies. Satellite phones are recommended as cellular coverage is unreliable or absent."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Tourist Police

0800-8473286

Coast Guard

146

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are extremely limited or non-existent on most islands. Travelers must bring comprehensive first-aid kits, prescription medications, and any specialized medical supplies. There are no hospitals in Dependencias Federales; serious medical emergencies require evacuation to mainland Venezuela (Caracas or other major cities). Recommended vaccinations include routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and Zika are present; use insect repellent and protective clothing. Sun protection is critical due to intense tropical sun. Travelers should have comprehensive travel health insurance covering emergency medical evacuation."

Culture

Local customs

"These islands have tiny fishing communities with informal, relaxed lifestyles. Respect private property and fishing areas. Dress is casual but modest in populated areas. Environmental conservation is crucial: take all trash back to mainland, avoid disturbing wildlife (especially nesting turtles and birds), and never damage coral reefs. Tipping isn't customary due to limited services, but small gifts or supplies for boat captains and guides are appreciated. Always ask permission before photographing residents."

Spanish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Venezuelan Bolívar (VES) · Bs.

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a typical meal at a local restaurant

Hotels

$80-150 | budget to mid-range accommodation per night

Local transport

$50-100 | round-trip flight from Caracas

Cost notes

Prices are higher due to remote location; bring cash.

Timezone

America/Caracas -04:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

2,155

Area

342 km²

Government

Federal dependencies administered directly by the Venezuelan national government

ISO code

VE-24

Type

State

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: הדפנדנסיות הפדרליות של ונצואלה, VE-W, Dependencias Federales, Bundesterritorien, Federal Dependencies, Federale gebieden

BeachDivingSnorkelingIsland HoppingNatureSecludedKitesurfingBirdwatching