In many ways, the Venezuelan capital successfully stepped up to the challenge of rapidly transforming into one of the world's oil capitals - despite a slump in the oil production in the last 20 years. While other parts of the country remain typically South American through the tradition and style, Caracas is a truly modern and international city. Unfortunately through this transformation, much of the city’s history has been buried beneath the shiny façade of modern architecture and a stylish, arty social scene. The progression however, has been well documented in the remaining cathedrals and museums around Plaza Bolivar in the centre of town.
Contained in a sunny and mild valley the city itself has a summery feel and there’s plenty to see and do for a couple of days particularly if you have a keen interest in the arts, both international and specific to South America. The galleries, museums and theatres are well worth a visit although they do tend to be a little further out of the way, nearer the Parque Los Caobos to the east of the centre.
If you feel the need to break away from the rush of this rather fast paced city though, there are some excellent day trips, and El Avila National Park is right on the city’s door step with well marked paths and great trekking opportunities. For the less energetic, there’s also a cable car or teléferico which runs to Pico El Avila allowing views over the city to the south and down to the Caribbean coast to the north.
Av Las Acacias con Av Casanova
Metro Stop: Sabana Grande
Tel: 0212 793 1345
Av Jose Felix Sosa
Altamira Sur
Metro Stop: Altamira
If you need a hand organising onward travel or want to take tours from Caracas into the surrounding area, further afield or to the Los Roques islands, try tour agencies in Caracas - but get some quotes from each before committing to anything!
Edificio Claret
Av Sanz con Calle La Laguna
El Marquez
Tel: 0212 234 2323
