What country lies west of Venezuela?

A single nation defines Venezuela's entire western edge, sharing an extensive land border that stretches from the Caribbean Sea to the Amazon basin. This boundary runs for more than 2,200 kilometers (about 1,378 miles), traversing diverse landscapes from the arid Guajira Peninsula in the north to dense, remote jungles in the south. This significant geographical connection places Colombia as the direct western neighbor on the South American continent.

The relationship between these two countries is deeply rooted in a shared history. For centuries, both territories were part of the Spanish Empire. Following their independence movements, led by the iconic figure Simón Bolívar, they were united in the early 19th century as part of a single republic known as Gran Colombia, which also included modern-day Ecuador and Panama. This historical union is the reason their national flags bear the same three colors of yellow, blue, and red.

While they have since developed into distinct nations with unique cultures, this shared past continues to influence their modern relationship. The border remains a dynamic zone of cultural exchange, trade, and migration, reflecting the deep and complex ties that have linked the two neighbors (Review) for centuries.