Climate and Weather of Venezuela

Climate of Venezuela

Due to its location just above the equator and the many elevation changes, Venezuela experiences a mix of different climate types, ranging from a tropical rainforest climate in the northeast to desert and maritime climates in the southwest. Mountainous areas are significantly cooler.

Temperature Variations

Temperatures in the lowlands and coastal areas of Venezuela range between 25°C and 34°C during the day and 16°C to 24°C at night. In the mountains and high plains, it can get cooler. For example, the popular city of Mérida has a fairly constant average daytime temperature ranging from 19°C to 24°C.

Rainfall and Wet Season

Venezuela has areas with relatively little precipitation, such as the extreme northeast. The wettest areas can be found in the northeast in the Orinoco Delta and south and southwest of the Highlands of Guyana. Most wet areas have a rainy season that runs from May or June through October or November. This period is called the rainy season, wet season, or winter. In Venezuela, the term "winter" refers to the amount of precipitation within a month rather than the position of the sun.

Climate on Venezuelan Islands

The islands off the coast of Venezuela do not have a distinct wet or dry season. For example, Isla Margarita experiences a fairly even pattern of precipitation throughout the year, with a slight increase in November, December, and January.

Dry Season and Common Weather Patterns

Although Venezuela has diverse weather patterns, one commonality is that the first months of the year tend to be drier than others. In some areas, the dry season starts as early as November, while in others, it begins in early January.

Travel Advisory and Safety Concerns

It is essential to note that Venezuela has been facing significant political and social unrest, leading to high levels of crime and violence. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Venezuela, warning U.S. citizens not to travel to the country due to crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens. Visitors to Venezuela should take extra precautions, avoid high-crime areas, remain vigilant, and stay informed about the latest security situation.

Best Time to Visit Venezuela

The best time to visit almost all of Venezuela is from January to mid-March. We encourage you to visit our monthly pages for a comprehensive overview of the weather for each month or select a city or region you would like to travel to on the page.

Select a Month of Interest

Check the conditions for any month of the year.