About
Caracas is the capital and largest city of Venezuela, and the country's political and economic centre. It sits in a mountain valley in the Capital District of northern Venezuela, in South America. The city's full historical name, Santiago de León de Caracas, is still sometimes used, and it reflects its long past as a colonial settlement.
What a visit is like
Caracas is a city for visitors who want to see a working capital rather than a resort. Much of the city's life runs through its government offices, businesses and neighbourhoods, so a trip here is best approached with curiosity about how the country is run and how people live and work in its largest urban centre.
The mountain setting shapes the city. Its valley location means the urban area stretches across the slopes and floor of the valley, and the surrounding hills frame many of the views a visitor will have.
Planning your trip
- Caracas is the place to start for anyone exploring Venezuela, as the capital and its main hub for politics and commerce.
- The city works well as a base for visitors interested in the wider Capital District and the country's urban life.
- Check current travel conditions and local guidance before you go, as circumstances in Venezuela can change.
For a visitor, Caracas offers a direct look at the heart of Venezuela: its capital, its economy and the daily rhythm of a large South American city set among mountains.