Do I need a Visa to visit Mount Roraima in Venezuela?

Visa to visit Mount Roraima: Essential Brazil and Venezuela entry Requirements

Mount Roraima, one of the world’s oldest geological formations, rises on the border of Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana. Known for its vertical cliffs, mysterious ecosystems, and breathtaking scenery, it attracts adventurers worldwide. But before packing, a key question arises: Do I need a visa to visit Mount Roraima?

Since 85% of the mountain lies in Venezuela, travelers always cross its border, even if starting in Brazil. That means both the Brazil visa and Venezuela visa rules may apply, depending on your nationality. Understanding this is crucial to avoiding unpleasant surprises at immigration.

At PlanetaEXO, we’ve guided travelers from across the globe, and we know how essential visa planning is. Many nearly gave up due to confusing rules, but with the right preparation, the journey becomes seamless. Let’s dive into who needs a visa and how to check official sources for your case.

Venezuela: countries that require a visa

Most travelers from Europe and Latin America can enter Venezuela without a visa, but there are important exceptions. It is also essential to note that, for countries exempt from visas, the agreement applies for a period of 90 days as a tourist only, never covering activities such as work or stays longer than the specified period.

If your country is not on the official exemption list, you must apply for a Tourist Visa (T) at a Venezuelan consulate before arrival.

Examples of countries that require a Venezuela visa:

• North America: United States, Canada
• Latin America: Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panamá, República Dominicana, Cuba, Haití, Guyana, Suriname
• Europe (non-EU and non-Schengen associates): Ukraine, Moldova, Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey
• Asia: China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Philippines, Nepal, Syria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia

Remember that official information can be checked with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela (MPPRE) or your nearest consulate. In addition, there are trustworthy sites for consultation, like Sherpa.

👉 Curious about logistics and costs of the trek itself? Check how much it costs to climb Mount Roraima

Venezuela: Countries that do not require a visa

According to the Consulate of Venezuela in France (last update: 16/06/2025), citizens from the European Union, much of Latin America, and some countries in North America are exempt from visas for up to 90 days when entering Venezuela for tourism.

Examples of visa-exempt countries for Venezuela:

• Europe: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands (including Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Saba, Sint Maarten), Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Poland, and other EU members.
• Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Uruguay, Paraguay, Ecuador, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua.
• Asia: Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, Sri Lanka
• Africa: South Africa is visa-exempt for up to 90 days

This means a traveler from France, the Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom, or Mexico can enter Venezuela for up to 90 days without a visa. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.

👉 To double-check your case, see the official Venezuelan Consular Services in France or use consultation sites like Sherpa. 

Brazil: Countries that require a visa

Most travelers from Europe and Latin America can also enter Brazil without a visa, but some nationalities must apply in advance.

Countries that need a Brazil visa (examples as of 2025):

• North America: United States, Canada
• Oceania: Australia
• Asia: India, China, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Philippines, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon
• Europe (outside EU/Schengen): Belarus, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, Kosovo, Moldova, Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Africa: Most African countries require a visa, including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, Senegal, Ghana, Tanzania, and others

👉 Check the official list via the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Brazil visa requirements (Itamaraty)

Brazil: Countries that do not require a visa

Citizens of the European Union, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Latin America can usually enter Brazil without a visa for short-term tourism (up to 90 days).

Examples of visa-exempt countries for Brazil:

• European Union: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Greece, Portugal, Poland, Denmark, etc.
• Schengen-associated states: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein
• English-speaking Europe: United Kingdom, Ireland
• Latin America: Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Colombia, Peru, Paraguay, Bolivia, Mexico, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Israel
• Africa: Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Mauritius are visa-exempt for short-term visits

👉 For step-by-step logistics on flights, transfers, and routes, check our article on How to get to Mount Roraima

Important reminder: You always cross into Venezuela

Even if you start in Brazil, the trek leads you to Santa Elena de Uairén and then to the Paraitepuy Indigenous Community, the official trailhead in Venezuela. That means you’ll cross the border and must comply with Venezuelan immigration rules.

So yes: travelers often enter Brazil visa-free, but will still need to check if Venezuela requires a visa for their passport. Missing this step could stop your journey before it begins.

👉 Want to know the real challenges of the trek itself? Read how hard it is to trek up Mount Roraima

Can U.S. Citizens Travel to Venezuela? Safety, Visa, and rules 

One of the most common questions is: Can U.S. citizens visit Mount Roraima? The situation is complex. Due to the absence of U.S.–Venezuelan diplomatic relations, Americans cannot simply enter Venezuela without prior arrangements. They must apply for a visa at a Venezuelan consulate, often outside the U.S. (for example, in Mexico or Colombia). Processing times may vary, and approval is not guaranteed.

Importantly, the U.S. Department of State strongly advises against all travel to Venezuela because of political tensions, security concerns, and the lack of consular support. Travelers are urged to carefully review the official U.S. travel advisory for Venezuela before making any plans.

If you are an American citizen and still want to attempt a visit to Mount Roraima, you must plan well in advance, seek updated information from U.S. and Venezuelan official sources, and be fully aware of the risks involved.

Traveling with PlanetaEXO

When you plan an expedition with PlanetaEXO, you don’t just get a trekking package: you gain a partner that supports you at every step. More importantly, our expeditions are designed with sustainability in mind.

In this way, your trip supports local communities, protects the environment, and brings you face-to-face with one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.

👉If you’re ready to embark on this extraordinary experience, send us a message and let’s start planning your journey!

Read More: 

• 10 facts about Mount Roraima 
• How hard is it to trek up Mount Roraima
• How much does it cost to climb Mount Roraima