Costs. Like many gap year programs elsewhere, particularly volunteering schemes, guided travel in Venezuela comes with a cost. Since programs tend to be short-term rather than for the whole year, costs can be slightly cheaper, but can still run in the region of $2,500 or more. The cost of living in Venezuela is also unstable, with major shortages of food, water, and medicines driving many prices up. The most secure option for those looking for a gap year in Venezuela is to search for a program that includes daily necessities, and to stock up on any prescription and over-the-counter medications before travel. To help fundraise for your travels or for the organization you want to volunteer with, check out FundMyTravel.

Accommodations. For Venezuela gap years, accommodation in hostels is a good option for solo travelers, as sleeping in a dorm is a great way to meet and team up with other gappers. Once again, it is strongly recommended to undertake a gap year travel program with a reputable company, who should arrange accommodation for you and include it in the cost of the program.

Visas. Some nationalities (such as the UK, Canada, and some other European and North American countries) can travel to Venezuela without a visa (just with their passport) for up to 90 days, provided their purpose for travel is tourism. US citizens need to apply for a tourist visa (which costs $30 and is valid for a year) to be able to enter Venezuela for 90 days as a tourist. Those of any nationality who intend to work in Venezuela will require a work permit, which must be applied for after receiving a job offer. For more information on visas, check the GoAbroad embassy directory.

Safety. Crime rates in Venezuela are high, and foreign visitors can, unfortunately, be targeted. This is one of the reasons it’s a good idea to travel with an organized gap year program which will keep you safe while avoiding the more dangerous areas of the country. Whilst it’s important not to think badly of the general population (Venezuelan people are known to be friendly and helpful!) don’t take anything of value with you or carry large quantities of money, and avoid wearing expensive jewellery or showing off your phone as you go. It’s also a good idea to head back to your accommodation early in the night, and don’t travel between cities after dark.