How to Get to Cumana. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airport & Flights

Antonio José de Sucre Airport (CUM) serves Cumaná. It is a domestic airport handling flights within Venezuela. Domestic airlines include Conviasa, Rutaca, and occasionally Laser Airlines.

Routes & Connections

Main routes are to/from Caracas (Simón Bolívar International Airport - CCS).
No direct international flights to CUM; connect through Caracas (CCS).
Domestic flight availability is erratic; book in advance, but expect changes.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Antonio José de Sucre Airport (CUM) is a small domestic airport with basic facilities: limited check-in, small waiting areas, few snack bars, restrooms.

Getting to/from City

Taxis: Readily outside terminal. Agree on fare (often USD) beforehand.
Private Transfers: Pre-arrange with hotels or local tour operators.
Public Transport: Limited/non-existent direct bus services from airport.

Arrival to Cumaná

Fly into Caracas (CCS), then take a domestic connecting flight to Cumaná (CUM).

Flight Booking

Use resources like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for international flights to Caracas.

Price Fluctuations

Domestic flight prices fluctuate based on demand, holidays, and fuel costs.

Airport & Airline Resources

Airlines to Consider

Domestic: Conviasa, Rutaca, Laser Airlines.
Dollar Flight Club: Advisories for international flight deals.
Skyscanner: Comprehensive flight search.
AirHelp: Compensation for delayed/canceled flights.

Airport Experience CUM

Limited check-in counters.
Small waiting areas.
Few snack bars or kiosks.
Basic restroom facilities.

Tips for Smooth Air Travel

Book Domestic Flights in Advance

This is suggested due to erratic availability and potential last-minute changes.

Allow Extra Time

For domestic flights, 2-3 hours before departure. For international connections in Caracas, 3-4 hours.

Confirm Airport Transfers

Pre-arrange taxis through your accommodation for safety and just pricing.

Land Transportation

Bus Travel

Cumaná's "Terminal de Pasajeros" (bus terminal) connects to other major Venezuelan cities, including Caracas, Maracay, Valencia, and Puerto La Cruz.

Bus Companies & Notes

Companies: Rodovias de Venezuela, Expresos Occidente, and others.
Quality: Varies from basic to more comfortable "ejecutivo" (executive) services.
Night Buses: Generally not suggested due to security risks.

Border Crossings & Trains

Venezuela shares land borders with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana. Land entry from these borders to Cumaná is a very long journey and generally not suggested for tourists due to safety concerns.

Other Land Routes

Border Travel: Complex, unpredictable procedures, security risks.
Train Services: Limited network, mainly for cargo. No passenger rail services to Cumaná.
Focus: Stick to air or sea for safer arrival/departure.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving in Venezuela has unique challenges regarding safety and road conditions.

Driving Notes

Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driver's license.
Fuel: Gasoline shortages are severe; long waits at gas stations. Payment often in USD.
Vehicle Rental: Extremely limited for reputable companies in Cumaná.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions have deteriorated in several spots. Safety concerns are paramount.

Road Risks

Conditions: Potholes, lack of markings/lighting.
Safety: High risk of accidents, roadside robberies (especially on intercity routes).
Checkpoints: Common by various authorities; approach cautiously.

Security Advisory for Land Travel

Avoid driving at night due to criminal activity.
Intercity roads have a risk of robberies and carjackings.
Poorly maintained vehicles add to accident risks.

Road signs are often lacking or confusing.
Don't count on GPS for up-to-date road information.
Ensure compliance with checkpoint instructions.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Cumaná is a port city. Ferry services connect Cumaná (and nearby Puerto La Cruz) to Margarita Island (Punta de Piedras).

Ferry Details

Companies: Naviarca and Gran Cacique operate these routes.
Service: Mainly domestic services.
Cruise Ports: Cumaná is not a major international cruise port.

River Transport & Connections

River transportation is not a main mode upon arrival or departure for tourists in Cumaná. The Manzanares River flows through the city but is not for significant passenger transport.

Port Procedures & Transfers

Immigration: Domestic travel procedures for Margarita Island.
Terrestrial Links: Taxis and "por puestos" available at Puerto Sucre (ferry terminal).
Fare: Agree on the fare before starting your journey from the port.

Ferry Access

Direct ferry services from Margarita Island to Cumaná's Puerto Sucre.

Domestic Travel

Ferry trips are for the most part domestic, with less stringent checks than international arrivals.

Port Accessibility

Taxis and "por puestos" are readily available for onward travel from the ferry terminal.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

A departure tax may be included in international air tickets. If not, payment may occur at the airport in US dollars or VES equivalent.

Departure Guidelines

Confirm departure tax with your airline or at the airport.
Domestic Flights (CUM): Arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
International Flights (CCS): Allow 3-4 hours due to security and possible delays.

Airport/Station Facilities

Cumaná Airport (CUM) provides basic facilities for departing travelers. Coach terminals offer basic amenities, waiting areas, and little stores or eateries.

What to Expect

No extensive services or comfortable lounges at either location.
Limited duty-free shopping options.
Expect basic amenities only.

Departure Checklist

Check Flight Status

Verify domestic and international flight times due to potential delays.

Have USD for Payments

Ensure enough USD cash for departure taxes or last-minute expenses.

Confirm Transport

Set up transportationation to the airport or bus terminal in advance.

How to Get to Cumana