10 Things To Know Before Visiting Margarita Island

Don’t Go To Margarita Island Without Reading This Guide

 

Thinking about visiting Margarita Island? Here’s what every Caribbean traveller needs to know before booking their trip to Venezuela’s stunning island paradise. For decades, Margarita Island has been one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets, especially for travellers from Trinidad and Tobago. Despite Venezuela’s recent challenges, this island gem continues to deliver with its unbeatable mix of vibrant culture, affordable luxury, warm hospitality, and incredible shopping. After my Labour Day Weekend visit, I can confirm it exceeded every expectation – and here’s everything you need to know to make your trip perfect

Margarita Island blew me away! I not only met an island full of charm, wonder and character but also a people who were some of the most hospitable and warm I’ve ever encountered anywhere. Though nothing like its heyday (at least for now!), Margarita still packs a mean punch and rivals many of the island favourites in the LATAM (Latin American) region.

This destination surprised me in ways that I thought were unimaginable. Great weather, amazing shopping, bomb food, affordable pricing, incredible tours and excursions, and so much more. Since being back, I’m already plotting to see when I can incorporate another weekend escape to ‘La Perla del Caribe’ (The Pearl of the Caribbean), as it’s fondly called by the locals.

If you’re travelling from Trinidad and Tobago and/or the Caribbean anytime soon, listen up as I break down the TOP 10 TIPS you need to know before visiting Margarita Island.

 

1. A Yellow Fever Vaccine is Mandatory

If you’re travelling from the Caribbean, you must present proof of a yellow fever vaccine to enter the island. If you’re not vaccinated and don’t have the international certificate in hand to prove it, you probably won’t even be allowed on the flight! 

If you’re from Trinidad and Tobago, chances are you’ve had the vaccine since childhood, so the only thing you need to prioritise is ensuring it’s updated and signed off on in your international vaccine card. 

For more details on acquiring the card, check out the Ministry of Health’s site: https://health.gov.tt/vaccination-cards-general-information

 

2. Flights are Usually Charter-Based from T&T

There are currently no daily commercial flights from Trinidad and Tobago to Margarita. Most trips happen via chartered flights, often tied to travel agencies or seasonal trips. So plan and book early to ensure you’re ready. The airline usually flies on Thursdays and Sundays. 

If you want to know what to expect on this flight and how to prepare for it, I highly suggest you watch my detailed TikTok video here: Rutaca Airlines Guide

 

Unbelievable ATV Riding Experience in Isla de Coche

 

3. The Island Uses the Venezuelan Bolívar – But USD is King

You guessed it! The official currency is the Bolívar, but USD is widely accepted, especially at resorts and tourist hubs throughout the island. To be honest, while bolivares will be accepted if you have them, most locals prefer to receive USD because of its higher purchasing power and stability compared to the bolivar. 

Bonus Tips: Bring small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) and confirm exchange rates before changing cash. Also, ensure that your notes aren’t torn or tattered, as they won’t be accepted. On your end, also ensure that you get the same in return and confirm that a store or vendor has USD to offer as change before you venture to purchase anything.

 

4. You May Need a Visa

For Trinidad and Tobago nationals, a visa is NOT required at this time. However, other Caribbean nationals and visitors may need to double-check visa requirements just in case. For some countries, a visa is necessary to enter Venezuela. As a globetrotter, I’d highly recommend that you don’t leave this to chance. Call or email the Venezuelan consulate in your country to confirm the entry requirements before booking anything.

 

5. The Shopping is Elite

As I alluded to before, Margarita Island is known for its vibrant shopping scene for ages! From modern malls like La Vela and Sambil to bustling local markets, you’re sure to find great deals on clothing, electronics, beauty products, and souvenirs. I had quite the mini shopping spree at La Vela (Big up LC Waikiki), and I’ve heard that Sambil is even more spectacular. 

If you’re looking for the real bargains, though, all roads lead to the Porlamar Flea Market, known for its unbeatable prices and wholesale offers on consumer goods. 

Bonus Tip: Be savvy with pricing and stick to reputable vendors.

I’ve written a dedicated article on the shopping in Margarita as well, so check that out here: Ultimate Margarita Shopping Guide

 

6. Spanish is the Primary Language

Venezuela is a Spanish-speaking nation, so clearly you’re going to hear it all over (as you should!). English is not widely spoken by many of the locals, so learn a few basic Spanish phrases and words to help you navigate, especially in markets or with local transportation. On the resorts and amongst tour operators, you’ll be accommodated with a greater fluency in English, but getting into your Spanish bag is always a wonderful touch and makes for great relationship building.

 

Sunsol Ecoland – Fave All-Inclusive Resort on the Island!

 

7. Resort Life is Poppin’

All-inclusive and Margarita Island go hand in hand! All-inclusive resorts are super popular here and offer great value for money. Think meals, drinks, beach access, and entertainment – all covered under your chosen travel package. 

When it comes to selecting a resort that works for you and your travel companions, I’d highly suggest always reading the reviews and booking with reputable travel agents.

Need some inspo?

This is where I stayed: Sunsol Ecoland Resort Review

And this is how I booked my package: How I Booked My Package To Margarita

 

8. There’s So Much More Than Just the Beach

Yes, the beaches are amazing, but don’t skip out on exploring El Valle del Espíritu Santo, La Asunción, and Parque Nacional Laguna de la Restinga. I also highly recommend visiting either Isla de Coche (I had an amazing time here) or Isla de Cubagua for an amazing full-day experience on one of the smaller islands that also form part of the Nueva Esparta state. There’s loads to do and usually so little time, so definitely venture out and don’t spend all your time at the resort.

 

Horseback Riding Available on Isla de Coche

 

9. Safety Concerns

I had no issues safety-wise when I visited Margarita and never once felt as though my life could be in danger. It was honestly such a chill and serene atmosphere. With that being said, most of my explorations were with the tour operators and not my usual free range. If you’re venturing out, I’ll recommend you stick to tourist-friendly zones, travel with groups when possible, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use your intuition and don’t venture too far off the beaten path without local guidance. Tourism is the lifeblood of the island’s economy, so most locals won’t even dare to disturb that ecosystem. Exercise common sense as a traveller in a foreign land, and you’ll be A-Okay!

 

10. It’s One of the Caribbean’s Most Underrated Escapes

For CARICOM nationals, we often think about the Caribbean in terms of the anglophone (English-speaking) nations and other familiar territories. However, the Hispanic, French and Dutch Caribbean are very much ALIVE. Though Margarita is part of Venezuela’s rich cultural tapestry, it is uniquely and unequivocally CARIBBEAN. From the white sand beaches to vibrant local markets and warm, welcoming people, Margarita will feel quite similar to home. The food is super flavourful, and the locals have that Caribbean swagger that is undeniable.  

 

If you’re going to be venturing out and exploring this gem, plan smart, travel prepared, and soak up every bit of it. Margarita Island is honestly a place that you could hit up every so often and have a blast each time. It receives a top rating as an affordable island getaway packed with culture and vibes from me.

 

Also, get an e-SIM ASAP. Used my trusted Airalo in Margarita and had no issues throughout my 4-day trip. Looking for a discount on your first e-SIM, sayless!
Get USD $3.00 off your first eSIM package from Airalo. Use code OKERA2660 when you sign up or check out. Airalo e-SIM Discount