Venezuela: Angel Falls and Oil Wealth

Venezuela, on South America's northern coast, has the world's largest oil reserves and spectacular natural wonders including Angel Falls, Earth's highest uninterrupted waterfall. Despite immense resource wealth, Venezuela has faced severe economic and political crises in recent decades.

Venezuela's diverse landscapes include Caribbean beaches, Andes mountains, Orinoco River plains, and Amazon rainforest. The tepuis (table-top mountains) of the Gran Sabana inspire awe with their prehistoric isolation. Venezuelan culture reflects indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, with lively music including joropo and gaita.

Once Latin America's wealthiest nation due to oil exports, Venezuela has suffered economic collapse, hyperinflation, and mass emigration. Despite current hardships, Venezuelans maintain cultural pride, warmth, and hope for recovery. Caracas, the capital, sits in a mountain valley with cosmopolitan heritage.