Venezuela

Venezuela

Venezuela came into being after the collapse of Gran Colombia in 1830 that resulted in the emergence of three countries, viz, Venezuela, Ecuador and New Granada. For most of the first half of the 20th century, military rule was the dominant feature of the Venezuela politics. In 1959 democracy returned to the country and has persisted. Hugo Chavez, president since 1999, he is leading the country through a system what he calls "democratic socialism".
Though Venezuela has the largest proven oil deposits in the world and other mineral resources, most people live in poverty. A founder member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the country is toady experiencing sustained growth.

Travel overview
Meaning 'Little Venice' in Spanish, Venezuela is known for its striking natural beauty ranging from miles of world-class Caribbean beaches to open plains, snow-capped Andean peaks, lush Amazon rain forest and even a small desert. In the southeast in Bolivar State the Gran Sabana National Park is home to the spectacular Salto Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world. Sprawling in a long, thin valley flanked by the splendid Avila Mountain, the capital Caracas is known for its dramatic scenery.

For those adventurous travellers, tracts of Amazon rain forest in the country boast an amazing set of exotic animals such as the jaguar, armadillo, tapir, anteater and the fearful anaconda. Other places of interest in Venezuela include the scenic Morrocoy Coral Reef, and the Cueva del Guácharo and Isla de Plata (coral island).