Venezuela offers a myriad of landscapes and experiences - tropical beaches, immense plains, enormous rivers, forests, jungle, waterfalls and great mountains. The clear, warm waters of its Caribbean coastline are ideal for snorkelling and diving, while numerous islands off the coast invite visitors to explore. The tropical lowlands hide a huge array of wildlife, lush vegetation and dramatic waterfalls, yet within the same country lie high Andean peaks, providing a challenge to trekkers and mountaineers.

The country is home to the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls (about 16 times higher than Niagara Falls), and the world’s longest and highest cable car, whisking tourists from the university town of Mérida to the 4,765m- (15,629ft-) high Pico Espejo. The capital, Caracas, boasts fine historical monuments, an excellent collection of museums and art galleries, and contrasting examples of old and new architecture.

Visitors to this country have the choice of a relaxing resort experience, a cultural city break or a wealth of adventurous activities. Whether they wish to experience one, or all of the above, Venezuela has more than enough to offer on all counts.

Originally inhabited by Carib and Arawak Indians, Venezuela was claimed as a Spanish territory by Christopher Columbus in 1498. Spanish rule was administered from a distance, leaving the various regions to develop separately from the capital, Caracas, which was founded by Diego de Losada in 1567. In the 18th century, an attempt to inject a measure of unification by the Spanish was met with widespread resistance and uprisings led by Simón Bolívar (after whom the currency is named). In 1830, Venezuela became a sovereign state, led by José Paéz.

Today’s politics are dominated by President Hugo Chávez, the leader of a coup attempt in 1992, who formed his own party and, drawing on the support of millions of disaffected poor people, won the 1998 presidential election. Despite attempts by the opposition to remove him, Chávez’s position remains secure for now. In the 2005 parliamentary elections, his party won a majority of seats in the National Assembly.

916,445 sq km (353,841 sq miles).

26.6 million (UN estimate 2005).

29.02 per sq km.

Caracas. Population: 3.6 million (metropolitan area, 2004).

Republic. Gained independence from Spain in 1830.

Spanish is the official language. English, French, German and Portuguese are also spoken by some sections of the community.

86% Roman Catholic.

GMT - 4.

Shaking hands or using the local abrazo, a cross between a hug and a handshake, are the normal forms of greeting. In Caracas, conservative casual wear is the norm. Men are expected to wear suits for business, and jackets and ties are usual for dining out and social functions. Dress on the coast is less formal but beachwear and shorts should not be worn away from the beach or pool. Smoking follows European habits and in most cases it is obvious where not to smoke. Some public buildings are also non-smoking areas.

110 volts AC, 60Hz. US-style two-pin plugs are the most commonly used fittings.

President Hugo Chávez since 1998.