Venezuela hit with "Do Not Travel" warning from U.S. State Department

Venezuela is a popular travel destination in South America. Yet, it is the most recent addition in a growing list of countries in that area hit with a travel advisory from the U.S. State Department.

Issued on May 13, the government released the highest level advisory available against Venezuela, placing them at a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” order.

“Do not travel to Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Reconsider travel due to wrongful detentions, terrorism, and poor health infrastructure,” the advisory on the official website reads.

The statement also warns that the U.S. Government has no ability to contact or help Americans who are imprisoned while in that country. Traveling to that country without a visa, which is only available upon arrival, risks a “lengthy or indefinite detention,” according to the State Department.

Areas along the borders of Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana, have been dealing with increased violence from gangs and other groups. In 2019 the United States pulled out all personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas and suspended all operations in the country.

Other countries that are at a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory include Iran, Yemen, Russia, Somalia, Mali, Haiti, Belarus, Iraq, Ukraine, and several others. For updates on travel advisories, visit the U.S. State Department website for in-depth information that will help you stay informed when traveling around the world.