Nueva Esparta
Nueva Esparta is a STATE in Venezuela, South America.
Nueva Esparta is Venezuela's only insular state, a Caribbean paradise comprised of three main islands: Margarita, Coche, and Cubagua. Known as the 'Pearl of the Caribbean,' Margarita Island is the crown jewel, offering over 50 stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters perfect for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and relaxation. Beyond its shores, explore the historic Castillo San Carlos de Borromeo in Pampatar, the vibrant colonial architecture of La Asunción (the capital), and the bustling craft markets of El Valle del Espíritu Santo, home to the revered Virgen del Valle basilica. The state boasts a unique cultural blend of indigenous, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, celebrated through lively festivals, traditional gaita music, and delicious seafood cuisine. Nature lovers can hike through the arid landscapes of Cerro El Copey National Park or witness the spectacular salt flats of Laguna de la Restinga. With duty-free shopping, vibrant nightlife in Porlamar, and authentic fishing villages like Juangriego offering breathtaking sunsets, Nueva Esparta delivers an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and tropical relaxation.
Best time to visit Nueva Esparta
December to April (dry season) for ideal beach weather with less rain. July and August are also popular but can be hotter and more crowded with Venezuelan vacationers. Avoid the rainy season (May to November, peak in October-November) for higher humidity and occasional heavy showers. The Festival of the Virgen del Valle in early September is a major cultural event.
October
NowTypical for October
- Weather
- Hot 28-34°C, rain
Travel notes
- Crowds
- Low
- Prices
- Low
Wettest month
Know before you go
Getting there
Santiago Mariño Caribbean International Airport
International
0 km away
Getting around
Stay connected
WiFi speed
15 Mbps
Mobile data
Good
WiFi
Available in hotels and cafes in tourist areas
Local SIM
Local SIM available at airport from $5
Calling code
+58
Stay safe
Overall
6/10Safer than mainland but still exercise caution. Petty crime is common in crowded areas.
Night safety
5/10Safer than mainland but still exercise caution. Petty crime is common in crowded areas.
Transport
7/10Scam risk
4/10Entry and health
Health information
Culture
Local customs
Costs and practicals
Currency
Cost level
Meals
Hotels
Local transport
Cost notes
Timezone
More facts
Population
600,000
Area
1,150 km²
Government
State Government with an elected Governor and Legislative Council
ISO code
VE-17
Type
State
Frequently Asked Questions
Also known as: Nueva Esparta, NE, Nueva Esparta State, VE-O, Estado Nueva Esparta, ヌエバ・エスパルタ州, La Asuncion, La Asunción, La-Asuns'on, La-Asunsion, la asunasi'ona, la asunasiyana, la asunsi'ona, la aswnsywn, la ʿesunisiyoni, ra・asunshion, Ла-Асунсион, Ла-Асунсьон, لا آسونسیون, لا أسونسيون, لا اسونسيون, لا اسونسیون, ला असुन्सिओन, লা আসুনসিয়ন, ਲਾ ਅਸੁਨਸਿਓਨ, ላ አሱንሲዮን, ラ・アスンシオン


