"La sucursal del cielo | The branch of heaven"
About:
Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, was founded by Spanish explorer Diego de Losada in 1567. It experienced rapid growth during the colonial period. The city was the birthplace of Simón Bolívar, who led the fight for independence from Spain in the early 19th century. Throughout the 20th century, Caracas underwent major urbanization, becoming a leading economic center. It has faced numerous challenges in the 21st century, including political instability and economic crisis. Despite this, it remains a significant cultural and economic hub.
When to visit:
Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, experiences a tropical savanna climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The best time to visit Caracas is during the dry season, which typically occurs from December to April. This period offers sunny days, lower humidity levels, and ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions. Keep in mind that Caracas can get crowded during holidays, so it's advisable to plan your trip in advance to secure accommodations and activities.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Caracas on a holiday during the rainy season, which typically occurs from May to November, is not recommended. The city experiences heavy rainfall and increased risk of flooding and landslides during this time, leading to potential transportation disruptions and safety concerns for travelers. Additionally, the high humidity and heat during the rainy season can make outdoor activities uncomfortable. It is advisable to plan your trip to Caracas during the dry season from December to April to enjoy more favorable weather conditions.
Rainy Season (May-Nov)
Caracas, Venezuela experiences its wettest season from June to November, with October being the rainiest month. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C during this period. Rainfall can be quite heavy, with an average of 130mm in October. Sunlight is reduced due to increased cloud cover, with an average of 5-6 hours of sunshine per day. The city often experiences high humidity, making the air feel heavier. For a visitor, an average day would likely involve navigating the city amidst showers, with occasional breaks of sunshine.
"Hot Season (March–May)"
In Caracas, Venezuela, the warmest part of the year typically spans from May to October, with the peak temperatures usually observed in July. During this time, the average high temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F), while the average lows rarely drop below 20°C (68°F).
Rainfall is typically higher during these months, with June and July being the wettest months, averaging around 134mm and 115mm of rainfall respectively. This period is characterized by the occasional thunderstorm, often in the afternoon or evening.
Sunlight varies, but you can expect an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. Despite the rainfall, the city also sees plenty of sunny spells.
Humidity levels are relatively high, averaging around 70-80%, which can make the heat feel more intense. However, due to Caracas's elevation, the city is generally less humid than other tropical locations.
Cloudiness is common during the warmest part of the year. Skies are usually partly cloudy, but can quickly turn overcast, especially before and after rainfall.
For a visitor, a typical day in Caracas during this season would start off warm and sunny, gradually getting hotter towards the afternoon. The high humidity might make the heat feel quite intense, but the city's elevation provides some relief. Afternoon or evening might bring a thunderstorm or rain shower, offering a refreshing break from the heat. Despite the rain, there are still plenty of sunny spells to enjoy outdoor activities.
Language:
In Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, the most commonly spoken language is Spanish, as it is the official language of the country. However, there are also communities of Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Arabic, and English speakers due to immigration. Indigenous languages, such as Wayuu, Warao, and Pemon, are also spoken by some groups within the city.