Caracas, Venezuela

Caracas, Venezuela Overview

While Venezuela is a country of natural wonders such as Angel Falls and the Amazon Rain Forest its capital, Caracas, is a modernized metropolis that engulfs the long, narrow valley underneath Mt. Avila. In a city where almost everything is named after the national hero, Simon Bolívar, inscribed on a wall in the Plaza el Venelozano is one his most famous quotes "Si se opone la naturaleza lucharemos contra ella y la haremos que nos obedezca (If nature is opposed, we'll struggle against her and make her obey us)." This sentiment is mirrored in the city skyline, from the gigantic skyscrapers to the sprawling suburbs that climb up the valley walls.

Caracas is the center of culture and commerce in Venezuela, and the lucrative oil boom of the 1960s through 1980s created an explosion of growth and population in the city. While the cosmopolitan capital has not lost all of its colonial charm, with some districts still reflecting their sugar cane or coffee hacienda history, much of the city has modern architecture and intricate art institutions, with museums, galleries, and theaters within a central downtown location. The biggest attraction in the city, however, is the people, as Caraqueños are warm, friendly and lively!.

Reasons to visit Caracas, Venezuela

Venezuela is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, from the lush Amazon rain forest to the exotic Caribbean islands like Isla Margarita. And while the natural wonders are easily accessible from Caracas, the city itself is a sight to behold. The cultural and commercial hub of the country, Caracas maintains a reputation for sophistication and hospitality, and the architecture varies from ultra-modern to historical.