Merida in Andes – Venezuela

Merida in Andes is one of the most popular tourist destinations not just in Venezuela, but South America. The city is known for its cool weather and hospitable people, but there is much more to it than that.

Location and How to Get to This Specific Site

The city is situated at the base of the Andes. This places it 15 km from the country’s highest point. You can fly in by way of Alberto Carnivalli airport from Caracas. Another option is the El Vigia Juan Pablo Perez Alfonzo airport. A taxi is an alternative, but it will be a very long ride.

What to See There

Its most famous attraction is without doubt the Teleferico, the world’s highest and longest cable car. It will start at Pico Espejo (4765 m). The best time to go is early in the morning. This way you can avoid the tourist crowd. You can get down via SUV, mules or just
hiking.

Mountaineers may scale Pico Bolivar. The climb can be challenging, so it is best organized with tour agents. A trip to Merida in Andes also offers other outdoor activities. Among them are white-water rafting, paragliding and mountain biking.

History

The city was established on October 9, 1558 by Juan Rodríguez Suarez. The initial settlement was in Xamu, 30 km south of the present location. On June 24, the Juan de Maldonado moved the settlement’s location to the current one. From then on until 1607, it would be ruled by the corregimiento of Tunja.

Cost

If you are going to take a taxi, it will cost Bs.8000 (BsF 8.00). The fee for the Teleferico is Bs. 55,000 (25 US$). If using the SUVs, the charge will be 15 USD.

Other Info

The Mercado Principal is the place to buy tourist souvenirs, fruits and assorted vegetables. A popular breakfast spot is Panaderia Roma. Its specialties are bread, pastries and lots of coffee. Their pastries cost about Bs 3.000. La Montana offers different meals including lemon pie and orange sauce.

Delicias Mexicanas is for those who love Mexican food. Of particular interest is the Heladeria Coromoto. It holds the Guinness record for a parlor with the most ice cream flavors (over 800). Two of their more unique offerings are the rice and hamburger favored ice cream.

Merida in Andes also has night clubs. One of the most popular is El Bodegon de Pancho. Alfredo’s meanwhile, has some of the most affordable beer in the city.