Safety & Before You Go
Los Roques — Safety & Before You Go
Dangers & warnings
- UV index 11+ year-round — severe sunburn within 30 minutes if unprotected. Reef-safe SPF 50+ mandatory
- Strong currents around outer cays — only snorkel where boat captain confirms it's safe
- Lionfish (invasive) — do not touch, painful sting
- Jellyfish blooms occasional, especially after storms
- Sea urchins on rocky bottoms — wear reef shoes for shore snorkeling
- Dehydration is the most common medical issue — drink 4+ liters daily, electrolytes recommended
- Limited medical care on Gran Roque — only a small clinic. Serious injuries require helicopter evacuation to Caracas (~$8,000+)
- Hurricanes are rare in Los Roques (south of typical track) but tropical storms September-November
- No ATMs reliable on the island — bring sufficient cash USD
- Park entrance fee: ~$30-50 USD payable on arrival
- Drone restrictions — confirm before flying, some areas protected
Before you go
- Book your posada directly via Instagram WhatsApp — significantly cheaper than tour platforms
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen (banned-by-Hawaii oxybenzone formulas not welcome here either)
- Wide-brim hat + UV-blocking long-sleeve sun shirt — your back and shoulders will thank you
- Bring USD cash in mixed denominations — no reliable ATMs, card acceptance limited
- Pack light — flight luggage limit is 10-15 kg per person on small aircraft
- Snorkel mask + fins recommended (rentals available but quality varies)
- Phone in a waterproof case — sand and salt destroy electronics here
- Lightweight quick-dry clothes — no formal wear needed anywhere on the island
- Bring a power adapter (110V US-style) and a portable battery
- Mosquito repellent for sunset hours on Gran Roque
- Drone permit — apply with park office in advance if you want to fly one legally
- Travel insurance with marine evacuation coverage strongly recommended