Area Code 264 – Zulia

Overview of Area Code +58 264

Area code 264 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) within the Venezuelan national numbering plan, assigned to the western region of Zulia state. It serves the central and northern parts of Zulia, including the state capital Maracaibo, as well as surrounding municipalities such as San Francisco, La Cañada de Urdaneta, and Mara. The code covers a densely populated area that is a major economic hub due to its oil industry and commercial activity.

Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction

The 264 code is allocated to the Maracaibo metropolitan area and its immediate surroundings. This includes the municipalities of Maracaibo, San Francisco, Jesús Enrique Lossada, and parts of La Cañada de Urdaneta. The region is governed by the Zulia State Government, with Maracaibo serving as the principal city. The code is distinct from other Zulia codes such as 275 (Costa Oriental del Lago) and 271 (Sur del Lago), which cover different parts of the state.

Dialing Formats

For local calls within the 264 area, callers must dial the 7-digit subscriber number preceded by the area code, even for calls within the same city. The full national format is: 0264 XXX XXXX (when dialed domestically). For international calls from abroad, the format is +58 264 XXX XXXX. For example, a Maracaibo landline number might be +58 264 123 4567.

When dialing from a mobile phone in Venezuela, the same national format applies. However, if you are calling from outside Venezuela, you must replace the leading '0' with the country code +58 and drop the trunk prefix. Always use the full international format to ensure proper routing.

Overlay and Numbering Considerations

As of the latest ITU-T recommendations, there is no overlay code for 264; the area code remains the sole geographic identifier for this region. However, number portability allows subscribers to retain their numbers when switching between fixed-line operators within the same geographic area. This means that a number with the 264 prefix may be served by different carriers, but the geographic location remains tied to the Zulia region.

Caller Instructions

For local callers within Zulia: dial 0264 followed by the 7-digit number. For callers from other Venezuelan states: dial 0264 + the 7-digit number. For international callers: dial your country's exit code (e.g., 011 from the US), then 58, then 264, and the 7-digit number. Remember that the leading '0' is only used domestically and must be omitted when calling from abroad.

This area code is essential for businesses and individuals needing to reach Maracaibo and its environs. Always verify the number length and format with your telecom provider to avoid misdialing.