Things To Do
in Petare

Petare is one of the largest urban slums in Venezuela, located in the eastern part of Caracas. It is renowned for its vibrant culture, colorful murals, and lively street life, offering a unique glimpse into urban Venezuelan life. Despite its challenges, the community is rich in resilience and creativity, with a variety of local artists and craftsmen.

Visitors to Petare can experience the warmth of its people and the authenticity of its neighborhoods.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Petare
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying arepas filled with cheese and avocado. Then, visit the Plaza Sucre, the heart of Petare, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Take a guided walking tour through the colorful streets filled with murals and art installations. Visit the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Venezuelan dishes, followed by a visit to a neighborhood bar to enjoy live music and meet locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

After breakfast, head to Parque El Ávila for a morning hike, taking in the stunning views of Caracas and the surrounding mountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the Casa de la Cultura to learn about Petare's history and cultural significance, followed by lunch at a nearby food stall offering local snacks.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance or a community event in the square, experiencing the vibrant nightlife and art scene of Petare.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🚗Taxi ride (within the city)$1
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$20
Coffee$1
🍺Beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and vibrant street life.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Unique and colorful art scene.
  • Safety concerns in certain areas.
  • Limited access to high-end amenities.
  • Transportation can be challenging.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Petare

Visit one of these nice places.

Mural Arts

The colorful murals throughout Petare provide vibrant backdrops for photography, showcasing local artists' talent.

Plaza Sucre

The main square is perfect for capturing the essence of local life, with people, street vendors, and beautiful architecture.

Parque El Ávila

Offers stunning panoramic views of the Caracas skyline and the surrounding mountains.

Culinary Guide

Food in Petare

Petare offers a mouthwatering array of local Venezuelan cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage. From street food to sit-down restaurants, visitors can find a variety of delicious options.

Petare Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepas

Cornmeal patties filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or avocado, a staple dish in Venezuelan cuisine.

Must-Try!

Pabellón Criollo

A traditional dish made with shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried plantains.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Plaza Sucre Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, street food, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Petare has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November. The rainy season brings heavy showers, especially in the afternoons, while the dry season is ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly hug is common when meeting locals.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older adults is important in Venezuelan culture; a polite demeanor is appreciated.

Casual Dress

Dress is generally casual, but it's advisable to avoid overly revealing clothing in local neighborhoods.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Petare has areas that can be challenging in terms of safety, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Stick to well-trafficked areas, travel in groups when possible, and consult locals or guides about safe routes and neighborhoods.

Tipping in Petare

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, though it is often included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is king in Petare; credit cards are less commonly accepted, so always carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to April)

Expect warm temperatures and little rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Rainy Season (May to November)

Frequent heavy rains may impact travel plans, but the landscape is lush and beautiful during this time.

Nightlife Guide

Petare at Night

The nightlife in Petare is vibrant and dynamic, with various local bars and music venues offering a taste of Venezuelan culture. Live music, especially salsa and merengue, can often be found, drawing in crowds looking to dance and socialize. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to meet locals and experience the community's spirit.

Hiking in Petare

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro El Ávila

A popular hiking destination with trails of varying difficulty and stunning views of Caracas and the coastline.

Parque Nacional Waraira Repano

Offers numerous trails for hikers, showcasing the natural beauty of the region with diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Petare by plane.

Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS)

Located about 30 km from Petare, this is the main international airport serving Caracas, offering flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Petare is a densely populated area, and many neighborhoods are quite walkable; however, steep hills and narrow streets may pose challenges. Sidewalk conditions vary, and some areas may not have well-maintained paths. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and explore during the day for the best experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Working-Class Families

Many residents belong to working-class families, often engaged in informal jobs and small businesses.

Artists and Creatives

Petare has a vibrant community of artists and creatives who contribute to the local culture through music, dance, and visual arts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Venezuela, with many local teams and leagues that draw passionate crowds.

Soccer

Soccer is a favorite pastime, with many local matches and community events that foster camaraderie.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Petare can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis (carros por puesto), which are commonly used by locals. It is advisable to plan your travel times accordingly to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Petare.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is common, many places offer vegetarian variations of traditional dishes, especially arepas.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Petare can be limited, with fewer hospitals and clinics compared to more affluent areas. Basic medical services are available, but for serious conditions, residents often travel to Caracas. It is recommended for visitors to have travel insurance and know the location of nearby medical facilities.

Discover Venezuela

Read more in our Venezuela 2025 Travel Guide.

Venezuela Travel Guide