Venezuela

• Capital of Venezuela: Caracas
• Total Area of Venezuela: 916,445 km² (353,841 mi²) (33rd)
• Population of Venezuela: 28,405,543 (53nd) - (2024 est.)
• Location: Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean
• Languages of Venezuela: Spanish (official), numerous indigenous languages (including Warao, Wayuu, Pemon, among others).
• Religions of Venezuela: Roman Catholic 88%, Protestant 5%, other 7% (2023 est.)
• Ethnic groups of Venezuela: Mestizo (mixed Spanish, Amerindian, and African) 51.6%, White (European) 43.6%, Black/African-Venezuelan 2.9%, Indigenous 1.9% (2011 est.).
• Currency: Bolívar Soberano (Bs.) (VES)
• Time zone: UTC-4. DST is not observed.
• Calling code: (+58)
• Organizations: United Nations, OPEC, ALBA, Mercosur (suspended)
• Border countries (3): Brazil 2,200 km (1,367 mi), Colombia 2,219 km (1,379 mi), Guyana 789 km (490 mi).
• Coastline: 2,800 km (1,740 mi)
• Maritime boundaries: Caribbean Sea, North Atlantic Ocean

Main Regions and Cities of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

1. Caracas

• Location: Capital District and Miranda State.
• Description: The capital and largest city of Venezuela, located in a valley between the mountains of the Venezuelan Coastal Range. It is the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. Caracas is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, museums, and historical center, despite facing modern challenges.

2. Maracaibo

• State: Zulia State.
• Description: The second-largest city in Venezuela and one of the most important due to its location near Lake Maracaibo, the site of vast oil reserves. It is known as the oil capital of Venezuela and boasts a distinct culture and hot climate. The city is famous for the General Rafael Urdaneta Bridge (the Maracaibo Bridge).

3. Valencia

• State: Carabobo State.
• Description: Often referred to as the industrial capital of Venezuela due to its significant manufacturing sector. It is located in one of the central valleys and is a major commercial and educational hub. It played a historical role in the country's independence.

4. Mérida

• State: Mérida State.
• Description: A major tourist city located in the Venezuelan Andes, famous for its high altitude, natural beauty, and being home to the longest and highest cable car in the world (Teleférico de Mérida). It is a university city with a lively and youthful atmosphere.

5. Puerto La Cruz

• State: Anzoátegui State.
• Description: A popular coastal city and a major tourist destination on the Caribbean coast. It is part of a large metropolitan area that includes Barcelona (the state capital). It is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, and is a gateway to the Mochima National Park islands.

6. Ciudad Bolívar

• State: Bolívar State.
• Description: Historically known as Angostura, it is an important city on the Orinoco River and a commercial gateway to the vast Guayana region of southern Venezuela. It has a well-preserved historic center and played a vital role during the independence wars.