Venezuela

Caracas is the capital and largest city of Venezuela, set in a narrow valley of the Venezuelan Coastal Range at about 900 metres above sea level. The city climbs the valley floor beneath the green slopes of El Ávila National Park, a setting that gives Caracas its distinctive mix of dense urban districts and accessible mountain scenery.

Founded in 1567 as Santiago de León de Caracas, the city grew into the political and economic heart of the country. Its historic centre around Plaza Bolívar holds the Caracas Cathedral, the Casa Natal del Libertador, where Simón Bolívar was born, and the National Pantheon, while cultural landmarks such as the Teresa Carreño Cultural Complex and the Museum of Contemporary Art reflect the city's later artistic ambitions.

Neighbourhoods across the valley offer contrasting experiences. Sabana Grande is known for its long pedestrian boulevard, Las Mercedes and El Rosal concentrate restaurants, cafés and nightlife, Altamira combines business offices with a popular plaza, and the colonial-style town of El Hatillo provides a quieter escape on the southeastern edge of the city.

As Venezuela's financial and administrative centre, Caracas hosts corporate headquarters, government institutions and embassies, making it an important destination for business travel. The local food scene is built around arepas, pabellón criollo, cachapas and tequeños, with markets, bakeries and international restaurants spread across the city's commercial districts.

For visitors, Caracas works as a gateway to Venezuela and a base for exploring El Ávila National Park, museums and the nearby Caribbean coast at La Guaira. Business travellers and leisure visitors alike will find a city of strong contrasts, where careful planning and local awareness are part of the experience.