Medical Information
While free medical care is available in Santa Elena, it is also important to have travel insurance.
Medical care
Free medical care is available in Venezuelan hospitals and across the border in Brazil too. There are also private doctors and dentists, who charge about 10 USD per visit. In case of more serious medical needs, there is a good hospital in Boa Vista, Brazil, 2 hours drive with ambulance service.
Pre-Departure
When traveling in Latin America there are certain considerations you should take regarding your health. You should visit a doctor prior to departure if you have any illness or ailments that may recur during your trip and inform your travel insurance provider of any relevant pre-existing conditions. It is also a good idea to have a dental check up before you depart.
We suggest you consult with your medical adviser about recommended vaccinations for this region! (highlands 1000 meter above sea level)
But reality got me soon, as working in the grounds means lots of sweat, lots of puri-puri. Reality has the PVF in her arms, as well- and I learnt, what it means to keep going a small beneficiary foundation, in such an un-influencable surrounding.
∼ Philipp Christian Marśanić / Munich, Germany
Area Diseases
The geography and climate, in certain areas can cause problems. In the Amazon and in coastal areas insect borne diseases are risks if you don’t take the proper precautions. Santa Elena is located on 1000 m above sea level and Malaria or Dengue Fever is very rare (mostly people infect themselves in the goldmines of the lowlands and than discover the sickness while visiting Santa Elena. The local climate and altitude does not allow Dengue or Malaria to propagate)
Travel/health insurance
Yes! It is important to check with your insurance company
Check with your insurance company before you leave to determine whether or not you are covered during international travel. If not, travel insurance should be purchased for the duration of your trip.
Contact your insurance agent, or Council Travel if you are a student. We highly recommend you taking out at least a basic insurance covering yourself and your property.
Smoking/ Alcohol/ Drugs
Smoking and drinking is acceptable in Venezuela and readily available, however, please respect other people.
Smoking is not permissible in volunteer Guesthouse or the host families’ homes. Smoking follows European habits and in most cases it will be obvious where you should not smoke. Bear in mind that public buildings are also non-smoking areas.
Drinking is only permissible in moderation and must not impact on your program. While we want you to have fun in your free time, antisocial behavior will not be tolerated.
Possession of Drugs is illegal in Venezuela.