Letters from Venezuela: Mérida, The City on the Crown of the Andes…

My dear travellers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the last travel post in the series of travelogues about Venezuela on the Mr.M blog. During the previous months, you had the opportunity to get to know some of the countries of the unusual continent: South America, and during the months of September and October, I will show you the beauty of the country located in the very heart of this continent – Venezuela. At the very beginning of today’s travelogue, where I will try to convey to you the beauty of the city located at the top of the Venezuelan Andes – Mérida, I would like to thank the Ministry of Tourism of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela – MINTUR, as well as other partners who selflessly supported my adventure in Venezuela. With their help, travelogues from this exotic country were created, as well as numerous fashion stories that you will have the opportunity to read during this series of posts, and I sincerely hope that you will enjoy the new adventure.

There are places in the world that can cause some kind of change in your worldview. Places you don’t forget, even after a lot of time has passed. Merida is definitely one of those places. Located in the heart of the Venezuelan Andes, this university town at 1,640 meters above sea level is a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventurous spirit and cultural richness that will leave no one indifferent.

Why Mérida?

You know that feeling when you arrive somewhere and immediately realize you’re in the right place? Well, that’s how I felt when I first stepped into Merida. Surrounded by the snowy peaks of the Andes, with the coldest climate in Venezuela and a student energy that permeates every corner of the city, there is something magical about this place.

Merida is not a typical South American destination. Forget about the heat and the jungle, here you are greeted by cool mountain air, temperatures that rarely exceed 20 degrees and landscapes that will take your breath away. Here, the altitude literally brings rare air, so don’t be surprised if you need a little more time to acclimatize at first.

The city has over 250,000 inhabitants, of which as many as 40,000 are students of the University of Los Andes, the second largest in Venezuela. That student population gives the city a special rhythm: the cafes are always full, the nightlife is lively, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Mérida was founded back in 1558 under the name of Santiago de los Caballeros de Mérida, after fierce resistance from the indigenous Mucujún people.

El Teleférico de Mérida: A Perspective-changing ride

Let’s start with what put Mérida on the world map – El Teleférico de Mérida, better known as Mukumbarí. This is no ordinary cable car. This is the second longest cable car in the world, and definitely the highest, taking you up a staggering 4,765 meters above sea level to the Pico Espejo station.

The first stop is in the city itself at 1,640 meters, and the journey begins from there. The entire ride takes about 50 minutes and passes through four stops: Barinitas, La Montaña, La Aguada and finally Pico Espejo. The higher you climb, the landscape changes dramatically – from green forests through the clouds to the almost lunar terrain of the high páramo region.

A completely different world awaits you at the top. The temperature can drop below zero, even when it is a pleasant 20 degrees in the city. Therefore, be sure to bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves. I made the mistake of not and along with other unprepared tourists bought overpriced souvenirs just to keep warm.

Ticket prices depend on your status: locals pay around $10, foreigners $25, while children and students with ID pay just $5. The cable car operates from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 am to 4 pm. My honest advice is to go as early as possible in the morning. Not only because of the crowds, but also because of the clouds that often form later in the day and can spoil your view.

With Pico Espejo, you can try to conquer Bolivar (4,978 meters) itself, but it is already a serious mountaineering endeavor that requires technical experience, equipment and a guide.

Plaza Bolívar and the Historical Center of Mérida

Let’s go back down to the city. As in most South American cities, the heart of Mérida beats around the Plaza Bolívar. This is not just a tourist attraction, this is where the real daily life of the city takes place. Here local residents sit on benches, read newspapers, talk, play chess. Students use free Wi-Fi. Children run around while their parents buy fresh fruit juices from vendors.

In the center of the square stands, of course, the monument to Simón Bolívar, the liberator who brought independence to this part of South America. The square is surrounded by colonial architecture that takes you back several centuries.

Merida Cathedral, which was built for 150 years

Right next to the square is the Basílica Menor de la Inmaculada Concepción, better known as the Mérida Cathedral. This building has a fascinating history, its construction began in 1803 and was completed only in 1960! That’s more than 150 years of construction, resulting in an eclectic mix of architectural styles.

The original design was inspired by the 17th-century cathedral of Toledo, Spain, but several earthquakes and different eras of construction have left their mark. The result is a unique building with elements of baroque, neoclassicism, beautiful stained glass windows and large frescoes. Once inside, you simply stop. The silence, the dimensions of the space, the light pouring through the colored glass, everything is there to leave you speechless.

The church is open to visitors throughout the day, admission is free, but decent behavior and dress are expected. If you are there during Mass, sit quietly in the back and enjoy the atmosphere.

Botanical Garden: An oasis of peace in the heart of Mérida

Jardín Botánico de Mérida is a place that separates you from the hustle and bustle of the city and leads you into a world of green silence. Located in the sector of La Hechicera and administered by the University of Los Andes, this garden covers more than 44 hectares and has served as a biodiversity conservation and environmental education center since 1991.

The trails take you through different ecosystems from cloud forests to areas with endemic plants. The central lake gives the garden an extra dose of serenity and is a perfect spot for photography. If you are lucky, you can see various species of hummingbirds, parrots and other birds that live there.

The garden also organizes educational programs, workshops and guided tours that give you a deeper insight into Venezuela’s biodiversity. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission costs about $1.50 for adults and $1 for children and students. For that money, you get a few hours of peace in one of the most beautiful natural surroundings in the city.

Llano del Hato National Astronomical Observatory

If you are interested in the sky and want to peek a little above the clouds, be sure to visit the National Astronomical Observatory in Llano del Hato. This is the most important center for astronomical research in Venezuela, located at 3,600 meters above sea level, which provides optimal conditions for observing celestial bodies.

The observatory offers guided tours that explain the research conducted there, and you can observe stars, planets and other objects through advanced telescopes. For lovers of astronomy and science, this is a must-stop. The entrance fee is about 5 euros, which is more than you will pay for most things in Mérida, but the experience is worth every cent.

Bullring and Feria del Sol

Plaza de Toros Román Eduardo Sandia is not just for bullfighting fans (which I personally am not). This arena is used for various cultural and sports events such as concerts, festivals, fairs. The most famous event is the Feria Internacional del Sol, which takes place every February and attracts thousands of visitors. In addition to bullfighting, the festival celebrates local culture through Venezuelan music, food and rich traditions.

Even if you’re not a fan of bullfighting, the arena itself is an imposing architectural creation and worth seeing.

Mercado Principal: The heart of local culture

If you want to feel the real pulse of Merida, bypass the tourist shops and head straight to the Mercado Principal. This is the biggest and best local market where you can find souvenirs and much more.

The market is primarily a craft market, but there are also stalls with clothes, shoes and food. Artisans sell various things – traditional ruanas (Andean ponchos), wooden figures, jewelry, toys. Everything is handmade and the prices are affordable. This is the perfect place to haggle, which is more customary than rude in South America.

But the real value of the Mercado Principal is not in the souvenirs – but in being able to connect with local people, try authentic food and immerse yourself in the culture that is lived here, not just posing for tourists. Try fresh juice from local fruits that you’ve never seen before. Buy the empanadas while they’re still hot. Talk to people (with a basic knowledge of Spanish or the help of Google Translate, they will appreciate your effort!).

Los Aleros: Time Travel

About 20 kilometers from Mérida is Los Aleros, a unique Andean village-museum created by Alexis Montilla. This is no ordinary tourist attraction, this is a living recreation of the life and customs of colonial Mérida in the 1930s.

The route through the park includes various attractions: a bus ride from the entrance, a search for the lost Morocoto (an old Venezuelan gold coin), a tour of a wheat mill and numerous other stops that recreate the typical activities of citizens of the time. There is also a restaurant with traditional Andean food, and along the way you can buy drinks and snacks at small stands.

Los Aleros is open from 9am to 6pm during high season, while in low season it is open from 10am to 6am. You can get there by public transport from the bus station on the Tabay line or by taxi. The experience is authentic and gives you a great insight into how life used to be in this part of Venezuela.

La Venezuela de Antier

Similar to Los Aleros, La Venezuela de Antier is a theme park that recreates the architecture, folklore, gastronomy, music, traditions and history of different regions of Venezuela from the early 20th century. The park represents twelve regions and states of the country: Oriente, Los Llanos, Falcón, Miranda, Aragua, Trujillo, Zulia, Caracas, Lara, Amazonas, Táchira and Mérida.

There you can see typical Venezuelan constructions: a colonial house (casona colonial), a traditional sugar cane mill (trapiche de caña), bahareque houses (wood and mud construction technique), stone castles, indigenous churuatas and churches.

This is a great opportunity to “travel” through Venezuela without leaving Mérida and understand the country’s cultural diversity.

La Montaña de los Sueños

Another project by Alexis Montilla, La Montaña de los Sueños is a theme park that tells the history of media in Venezuela, based on the 1950s. The park has several cinemas, theaters and places where you can rest and eat. It also has a car museum and a gift shop.

It is located 40 kilometers from Mérida, on the road that leads to the village of Virgilia. If you are a fan of nostalgia and history, this is an interesting place to visit.

Lagoon Mucubají: A crystal lake in the clouds

If you are driving towards the neighboring state of Barinas or towards the famous Pico Águila, be sure to stop at Lagoon Mucubají. This is one of the most beautiful Andean lagoons, surrounded by the unique landscape of the páramo region of high mountain grasslands with characteristic plants called frailejones.

The water is crystal clear, the surroundings are quiet, and the air is so clean that you feel like you are breathing something completely new. You can come with an organized tour or by public transport – by bus from the city terminal to Barinas.

The temperature here can be quite low, so dress appropriately. If you’re lucky enough to catch a sunny, cloudless day, the colors you see – the green grass, the blue sky, the white cloud frailejones, seem almost unnaturally alive.

Pico Bolívar: Peak of Peaks

Let’s talk about Pico Bolívar – the highest peak in Venezuela with its 4,978 meters above sea level. This is not a hike for everyone. This is a serious mountaineering challenge that requires technical knowledge, equipment and good physical preparation.

A normal expedition takes 5-6 days and follows a U-shaped route known as La Travesía. It starts from La Mucuy, one of the entrances to the Sierra Nevada National Park at 2,300 meters above sea level. On the first day, you enjoy an approximately 5-hour walk through the cloud forest.

The second day is steeper and rockier – you climb to Lagoon Verde at 3,900 meters, where you camp. On the third day, you continue to the base of Pico Bolívar and camp next to Lagoon Timoncito at 4,700 meters. On the fourth day – the big day – you try to conquer the summit.

The climb to the top of Pico Bolívar requires complete equipment: ropes, safety harness, helmet, and during the rainy season crampons and ice axes. The time required for the ascent depends on the weather conditions, snow, ice and physical fitness of the climber. It can last from 4 hours to a whole day.

At the top you are greeted by a bust of Simon Bolívar, and the view… Well, the view is something I cannot describe in words. You are standing on top of Venezuela, surrounded by the Andes, with the clouds below you. It is an unforgettable feeling.

It is important to note that the dropout rate is around 10% during the dry season (December-March) and around 30% during the rainy season. Weather alone gives only a 50% chance of success during the rainy season. This is not just a walk – this is a serious mountain adventure.

It can also be organized via Los Nevados, a small village accessible only by mules or off-road vehicles. If you have more time and like authentic experiences, this route is amazing.

Bosque Sagrado: The Magical Forest

The magical forest – “Bosque Sagrado” is simply one of those places that really intrigues me. This unusual forest is located in a mountainous region near the city of Mérida in Venezuela. It is not an ordinary forest, it is a space where nature and art merge and where something magical, almost mystical, happens.

What makes this place special is that it was created and run by the artist-sculptor William Marcano, who answered the call of the forest and created his own vision that he had in his dreams in this forest. Gradually, he began to carve figures directly into trees and logs, turning the forest setting into a space of artistic meditation and exploration. Thus, “Bosque Sagrado” is not just a natural path, it is an artistic project, a ritual, a place to meet something deeper. Here you can find numerous characters from legends, spiritual beings and even “little aliens” carved into the trees.

When I arrived at Bosque Sagrado, I was immediately overwhelmed by the atmosphere. This forest is full of tall trees, low fog that crept in between the branches, and the soft sound of a stream or river running through the terrain. The air was fresh, with a hint of humidity, typical of the mountain forest ecosystems of the Andes.
As I walked along the path, I noticed wooden carved figures like human figures, duendas (forest creatures from local myths), animals, all somewhere woven into nature: logs that became seats, stone paths, natural elements that were integrated into art. The feeling was as if the forest was breathing on its own, and I was not just an observer, but a part of this story.

If you are looking for something different, not only an attraction but also an unusual experience, this place is ideal. There are no big crowds here, this place is not commercialized, but there is an intimate connection with nature and creative human hands. Moreover, in an age when many tourist sites are overcrowded and often uniform, Bosque Sagrado radiates authenticity. It is a very suitable option for those who want to slow down and have time to think about the world around them. Also, the emphasis on the artistic aspect and local legend/mythology adds an extra dimension, because this is not just a walk among the trees, but a walk among stories, symbols and inner thoughts.

Tips for visiting Bosque Sagrado

• It is best to go early in the morning or in the afternoon, when the light is softer and the forest has that special golden or silver atmosphere.
• Wear good shoes because the terrain can be uneven, wet, and the wooden paths are sometimes slippery.
• Respect the space: this is not just a “photo spot”, but a place with soul and meaning. Be respectful and be quiet and follow the rules as this is private property.
• Ideally planned visit time: at least 1-2 hours, maybe even half a day if you want to be calm, unhurried.

Visiting Bosque Sagrado was one of those unusual adventures that left the impression that something changed in me, the view of nature, of art, as well as other things in life. In a city like Mérida, which is often recognized for its spectacular Andean landscapes, this corner of the forest represents a different kind of beauty: inner, meditative and artistic. If you are planning a trip to Venezuela and have time to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, don’t forget to include this place in your plan, where the forest becomes a gallery, and you become a silent observer but also a participant in this natural abstract art.

Sierra Nevada National Park

This entire region is part of the Sierra Nevada National Park, famous for its rich biodiversity. Endemic species such as the sabre-billed hummingbird and various species of orchids live here. The park offers numerous opportunities for hiking, camping and exploring untouched nature.

Entrance to the park costs a little (depends on status), but the experience you get is priceless. Just be prepared for physical effort – the altitude and terrain are no joke.

Los Nevados: Village in the Clouds

Los Nevados is a small mountaintop village, accessible only by mules or 4×4 off-road vehicles. It was founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, and even today it retains its traditional atmosphere. At 2,983 meters above sea level, it is considered by some to be the highest settlement in Venezuela.

The drive to Los Nevados is an adventure in itself – narrow mountain paths, dramatic views of the valleys below, a stomach-churning steep ride. It lasts about 5 hours and is definitely not for the faint of heart. But when you get there, you understand why it was worth it.

Time seemed to stand still in the village. People live simply, engage in agriculture, keep small herds. You can stay overnight in one of the traditional posas (small hotel or B&B). The atmosphere is warm, the hosts are hospitable, and the peace you feel is something you cannot find in the city.

From Los Nevados you can continue to Pico Espejo on foot or organize a guided tour to Pico Bolívar.

Mucuchíes and the Chapel of San Rafael

Continuing north from Mérida, you reach the small village of Mucuchíes, founded by the Spanish at the end of the 16th century. It is located at 2,983 meters above sea level.

A few kilometers away is the Chapel of San Rafael de Mucuchíes, a building that will leave you speechless. It was built by hand between 1980 and 1984 by Venezuelan folk artist Juan Félix Sánchez, using cement, shells, coral and stones. The chapel has been declared a cultural heritage of Venezuela.

The rustic yet fascinating interior is a joy to explore. Every detail is handmade, every stone set with love. When you walk in, you can feel the dedication and love that the builder put into this project.

The surrounding mist creates an ethereal ambiance as you return to Merida – as if you’ve been in another world and are now coming back to reality.

Casa del Ángel del Sol: Garden of Hummingbirds

In the heart of the Andean region of the state of Mérida, only about 20 minutes drive from the city, there is one of the most unusual and magical places I have had the opportunity to visit: Casa del Ángel del Sol, also known as “Jardín de Colibríes”. This is not just a tourist attraction, this is a sanctuary for one of the most beautiful birds in the world and a place where nature and ecology go hand in hand.

The site was started by two biologists, Michelle Ataroff and Pascual Soriano, professors at the Universidad de Los Andes (ULA) in Mérida. They recognized that in the Monterrey Alto zone in the nublada jungle (cloud forest) there is an exceptional place for the development of a project dedicated to hummingbirds, among which is the endemic species Ángel del Sol (Heliangelus spencei). The project is conceived as a combination of ecotourism, education and nature protection where visitors have the opportunity to see, learn and participate in the experience of nature, and the place simultaneously functions as a research center for birds.

When I arrived at Casa del Ángel del Sol, I was greeted by a terrace overlooking a dense cloud forest, the sounds of the wind through the treetops, the whistling and cheerful sound of hummingbird wings, the smell of moss and moisture. First I sat and watched, then the host showed me the bebederos (nectar feeders) to which the hummingbirds approached within half a meter. One of the most intimate scenes was when I held the feeder in my hand and watched the tiny, swift hummingbirds come, shower you with a quick sweep of their wings and pour nectar, an experience that is both calming and exciting. The tour included a walk through the cloud forest (selva nublada) that surrounds the facility with a guide who did matching information on species, habitats and bird behavior.

Why is Casa del Ángel del Sol special?

• The place is home to numerous species of hummingbirds, 19 species of hummingbirds have been registered on the property, including endemic species such as Angél del Sol and Colibrí Inca de Mérida.
• The project is not only touristic, it actively contributes to nature conservation, increasing the hummingbird population, and ecological biology research.
• The localization is in the Andean “cloud-forest” zone, which means that there is a specific ecosystem, high altitude and unique climatic conditions that allow the existence of these birds.

Tips for visiting

• I recommend booking tickets in advance, as seating is limited and the experience includes a guided tour and hummingbird feeding.
• Bring good footwear and protection against moisture: forest areas can be wet, slippery and foggy.
• Be patient, the best moments are when the hummingbirds get used to the feeder and your presence. Waiting pays off many times over.
• Don’t forget your camera, if you like photography, this is heaven for photographing small, fast birds in a spectacular setting.
• Enjoy the silence and beauty of nature! This is not just a “visit”, this is an experience of direct connection with nature.

Páramo La Culata

If you’re in town and have half a day to spare, head to Páramo La Culata. This is a landscape of high mountain grasslands with spectacular views. You can get there by bus from the city center, the final destination is La Culata, from where you can hike or ride a horse in the Sierra la Culata.

This is a great place to try local dishes such as pisca andina (traditional soup), pastelitos (fried meat or cheese pies) and blackberry wine. Small restaurants along the road offer authentic food at affordable prices.

Chorros de Milla: Zoo with waterfalls

Chorros de Milla is a combination zoo and nature reserve with small waterfalls. An ideal place for families with children. The trails are beautiful, the waterfalls small but charming, and the animals are well treated (although the cages are quite small).

The entrance is affordable, and spending an afternoon here is relaxing, especially if you are traveling with children who are already tired of museums and churches.

Santa Ana Coffee Plantation

Travels often take us to places we do not expect, and it is precisely such places that most often leave the deepest mark. One such discovery during my time in Venezuela was a coffee plantation near the small village of Santa Ana, located in the Mérida region, in the heart of the Venezuelan Andes.

The journey to Santa Ana is already a special experience. The winding roads, which climb up the green mountain slopes, reveal sights that are hard to forget, endless coffee fields stretching to the horizon, a mixture of fog and sun that refracts the colors of the landscape, and the smell of fresh earth that accompanies every step. Santa Ana del Táchira, as the locals often call it, is one of those places where time stands still and life flows in the rhythm of nature and tradition.

The plantation I visited is a family farm over a hundred years old, where everything is still done by hand, with respect for the land and each coffee bean. The hosts welcomed me with a smile and the typical warmth of the Venezuelan people. They showed me every step from picking the ripe red fruits, through drying and frying, to tasting the final product. What fascinated me the most was the dedication and passion with which they talk about their coffee, for them it is not a job, but a legacy, a way of life.

In Santa Ana, coffee is not just a drink, but a symbol of community. Every morning starts with a cup of freshly ground coffee and there is almost no house from which its intoxicating aroma does not spread. Locals believe that the best coffee is precisely that from the Mérida region, due to the ideal combination of altitude, rich volcanic soil and a climate that allows the slow and gradual growth of the plant, which gives the beans a full aroma and a balanced taste.

After visiting the plantation, I spent the afternoon in the village itself. Santa Ana exudes simplicity, narrow cobbled streets, colonial houses with colorful facades, and a central square that is a gathering place for all generations. In a small cafeteria, whose terrace overlooks the mountains, I tried the coffee that the host had just prepared himself. It was one of those moments when you realize that luxury doesn’t always have to be in five-star hotels and restaurants, sometimes luxury is in the taste of lovingly brewed coffee and a breathtaking view.

Santa Ana is a place that combines the spirit of the past and the simplicity of life, but also shows how generous nature is to those who respect it. Visiting this plantation was more than a tourist tour, it was an experience that connects you with the land, people and a way of life that is slowly disappearing in the modern world.

If your road ever takes you to Venezuela, don’t miss the mountains of Mérida and Santa Ana. Here, you will discover not only premium coffee, but also warmth and authenticity that cannot be found anywhere else.

Mérida Toy Museum: A Journey into Childhood

There are places we don’t visit because of strong emotion. Places that leave us breathless not because of architecture or size, but because they remind us of the purest, most honest parts of ourselves. I found one such place in the heart of Mérida: the Fundación Museo Casa del Juguete Mario Calderón, a wonderful haven of nostalgia and memories, founded and run by artist-handcrafter Mario Calderón.

Mérida is known for its mountains, nature and university, but hidden among the alleys of the old part of the city, this museum offers a very different experience. From the moment I stepped inside, I had the feeling that I had opened a door to the past to a world where time does not flow, where you return to the carefree days of childhood.

The Toy Museum in Mérida is not huge, but every room exudes soul. It was founded in 2005 and is one of the first and most important spaces of its kind in Venezuela. It houses toys that Mario Calderón has been collecting, restoring and exhibiting for decades, from simple wooden dolls to mechanical marvels from the 1950s and 1960s. In addition, Calderón himself is a toymaker himself, which gives this museum an additional, almost toy workshop dimension.

In the display cases and antique shelves there are hundreds of toys: dolls with porcelain faces, tin car-compositions, teddy bears from the early decades of the last century, the first Barbie dolls, miniature cars, and even old Venezuelan children’s magazines and comics. The best part of this setup is not just what you see, but the atmosphere these toys create. The walls are painted in warm colors and a bit nostalgic, and in the background music from old cartoons and shows that children used to adore plays. Everything exudes the tranquility and warmth of home.

As I walked between the shelves, I found myself pausing in front of each figure, trying to imagine the child who once played with it. Each toy here carries a story of love, imagination and a world that used to be much simpler. The owner and founder of the museum, Mario Calderón, greeted me with a smile, ready to explain the origin of almost every toy on display. His passion is felt in every sentence, and the mission of the museum is to save childhood from being forgotten and become tangible. A special part of the museum is dedicated to traditional Venezuelan toys. It was there that I first saw handmade figures made of wood and fabric representing characters from folk tales and carnivals. These objects are not just toys, they are part of the cultural identity of the country, witnesses of the time when children created the world around them without technology, using only imagination.

The Mérida Toy Museum is not just a collection of objects, but a space that takes us back to our roots and reminds us that the real magic lies in simple things. If you ever find yourself in this part of Venezuela, don’t skip it. Going there is like having a gentle conversation with our own little child inside that each of us has, it’s just a matter of how well we understand each other as we age and mature.

Activities for adventurers in Merida

Merida is not just for sightseeing, it’s a paradise for adrenaline junkies. The city is known as the center for adventure tourism in western Venezuela, and for good reason.

Mountaineering and Hiking – I already mentioned Pico Bolívar, but there are other options for all experience levels. From easy walks to demanding multi-day expeditions.

Paragliding – Flying over the Andes with a paraglider is an experience you won’t forget. Several companies offer tandem flights for beginners.

Mountain biking – Numerous trails of varying difficulty await cyclists. You can rent a bike and equipment in town.

Rafting and canyoning – Rivers that flow from the mountains offer excellent opportunities for rafting, while canyons offer opportunities for canyoning adventures.

Horse riding – A traditional way of exploring the páramo region. You can organize one-day or multi-day tours on horseback.

Most adventure agencies are located in the city center, around Parque Los Heroínas. It’s best to book in advance, especially for more serious expeditions like Pico Bolívar.

Food: Andean flavors

The food in Merida is different. This is not Caribbean Venezuela with its seafood based food. This is the Andes and the food reflects the mountainous character of the region.

Pisca Andina – Traditional soup made of chicken, potatoes, eggs, milk and coriander. Warm, nourishing, perfect for cold Andean evenings.

Arepas andinas – Different from the standard Venezuelan arepas, the Andean versions are made with wheat flour and usually filled with cheese.

Empanadas de trigo – Fried wheat flour pies with different fillings – meat, cheese, black beans. Tasty and cheap, you can find them everywhere.

Queso de páramo – Local cheese produced by farmers in the highlands. Salty, firm, excellent with local bread.

Dulce de lechosa – Papaya dessert in sugar syrup. Cute to the extreme, but that’s why he’s loved.

Chicha andina – Traditional drink made from fermented corn mash. The taste is… specific. Try it at least once.

Blackberry wine – Local wine made from Andean blackberries. Sweet, aromatic, great souvenir.

In the city center there are many restaurants of different budgets, from cheaper local ones where you eat with locals, to slightly more expensive ones with international cuisine. But don’t miss to try authentic local dishes at the market or in small family restaurants.

Heladería Coromoto: An ice cream empire with 860 flavors

I can’t finish the food story without mentioning Heladería Coromoto. This pastry shop is in the Guinness Book of Records as the place with the most ice cream flavors in the world, exactly 860! From classic vanilla and chocolate to completely bizarre flavors such as sardine, avocado, beer, soup… Yes, you read that right – soup ice cream.

The owner, Manuel da Silva Oliveira, is a true creative who is constantly experimenting with new flavors. Of course, you can’t try all 860, there are usually 70-80 flavors on offer per day. But the mere fact that there is an opportunity to try coconut shell or black bean ice cream is reason enough to visit this place.

It is located at Avenida Independencia 28-75 in the city center. The prices are affordable, the atmosphere is colorful, and the experience is unforgettable. Even if you’re not a fan of experimental flavors, the regular flavors are awesome.

Best time to visit Mérida

Mérida can be visited all year round, but different seasons offer different experiences.

December-March: Dry season. This is the best time for hiking and adventure activities. The sky is clear, the rains are rare, the temperatures are pleasant. This is also the busiest time – especially around Christmas, Carnival in February/March and Easter.

June-August: Rainy season. More rain (which one might expect), but that also brings its own beauty – everything is green, waterfalls are full, prices are lower, tourists are fewer. If you don’t mind the rain, this can be a great time to visit. Also, if you are lucky, you can see snow on the peaks!

September-November: Transitional period. A combination of sunny and rainy days. Good time if you want to avoid the crowds but also have decent weather conditions.

The temperature in the city hovers around 18-22 degrees throughout the year, which is pleasant every month. But don’t forget that the higher you go, the temperature drops dramatically.

Where to stay in Mérida

Junio ​​Hotel Boutique: Elegance next to the airport

If you’re arriving by plane or simply looking for luxury outside the busy center, Junio ​​Hotel Boutique at CC Junior Mall is a great choice. The hotel is located just a few meters from the bus station and Juan Pablo Pérez Alfonso International Airport in El Vigía, making it ideal for travelers who want easy access to transportation.

What I especially liked about this hotel is its practicality. It is located inside the Junior Mall shopping center, where you can find various stores of prestigious brands, a pharmacy, a supermarket, restaurants and even a bowling alley. Imagine, you can stay in a hotel and have everything at your fingertips without going out into the city. It’s great when you’re tired from traveling or when you just want to have dinner without the hassle of searching for a restaurant.

The hotel has 141 rooms of different categories – Deluxe, Junior Suites, Executive Suites and Master Suites. From experience, I can say that the rooms are spacious, modernly furnished and very clean. All have air conditioning, which is important because the temperature in El Vigía can be hotter than in Merida itself. The beds are comfortable, which is not always the case in mid-range South American hotels.

Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, bar, sauna, gym and spacious event rooms. I especially liked the pool after a long day of sightseeing, refreshing yourself in the pool while looking at the mountains in the distance is a real treat. The hotel also has a swim-up bar by the pool, restaurant and lounge, meaning you can spend the whole day without leaving the complex if you want to relax.

The staff was extremely friendly and professional. They spoke basic English, which is rare in this part of Venezuela. Breakfast is plentiful and varied – a mix of local and international options. There is free Wi-Fi, free and secured parking, which is a big advantage if you are traveling with your own or a rental car.

The hotel is about 7 kilometers from the center of Mérida, which means that you need a ten-minute taxi ride to the main attractions. Although it is not in the center, the location is actually strategic, close enough to everything important, but also far enough to have peace and access to the airport. The price of accommodation varies depending on the season, but generally falls into the category of good value for what you get.

Hotel Venetur Mérida: Traditional mountain charm

For a completely different experience, I recommend Hotel Venetur Mérida, located in Hoyada de Milla, just a 5-minute drive from the historic city center. This hotel is an institution in Mérida – with 68 years of tradition, it carries with it the nostalgia and charm of the old Venezuelan hotel industry.

The hotel is famous for its slogan “Tu hotel de montaña en la ciudad” – your mountain hotel in the city and that perfectly describes the atmosphere. The hotel offers various accommodation options – from cabanas to rooms in the main building and lobby area. I stayed in a cabana and it was a great experience for me – small but comfortable, with a private bathroom and hot water, surrounded by greenery. It feels like camping, but with all the comforts of a hotel.

What I appreciate most about Venetur hotel is its location and ambiance. It is a few minutes away from the main attraction – cable car station, bull ring, parks, squares, restaurants, pastry shops and astronomical observatory. You can actually walk to most places or take a short taxi ride. Nearby is the Teleférico de Mérida, Chorros de Milla Zoo, Alberto Carnevalli Airport and Sierra Nevada National Park.

The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast included in the price, parking and a restaurant. Breakfast is, as guests say, plentiful and delicious – typically Venezuelan with arepas, eggs, fruit and coffee. Facilities include swimming pool, spa, restaurant, green areas, children’s playground, sports fields and optional laundry service.

The pool is not big, but it is pleasant and clean. The green areas are spacious, you can walk, sit on a bench, children can run around. This is what gives this hotel a mountain feel, even though you are in the city, you are surrounded by greenery and you can see the mountains from most places in the hotel. Some guests mentioned during my stay that they could see Pico Bolívar from their rooms, which is a spectacular view.

The staff is what makes this hotel special. Employees really have a gift for service, they work with love. You feel that they really care about you, that your stay is not just their job. When you have a question or problem, it is solved quickly and with a smile.

In terms of price, the Venetur Mérida falls into the middle range, more affordable than the boutique hotels in the center, but better quality than the cheap options. The rooms are equipped with hot water, cable TV, hair dryer, safe, air conditioning, Wi-Fi network and mini fridge. Everything you need for a comfortable stay.

One small note, the hotel is showing signs of age in some areas. Not everything is perfectly new and shiny. But that’s part of its charm. This is not a sterile modern chain, this is a hotel with a soul, with history, with character and that’s what makes it authentic.

At the end of today’s post and the last travel post in this series of posts from Venezuela, I would like to express my special thanks to the Ministry of Tourism of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela – MINTUR for their support and help during my research and stay in this unique destination. Their dedication to the promotion of the country’s natural beauty, as well as their continuous work on the sustainable development of tourism, make Venezuela the destination it is: authentic, preserved and hospitable.

As always, I tried to share authentic impressions, the right atmosphere and recommendations for you who like to travel in style, but also with an open heart. Have you already had the opportunity to visit Mérida, its extraordinary surroundings and beautiful Venezuela? Or maybe you are just planning to discover this unusual country that is the hidden gem of South America?

Feel free to leave your impressions, comments or questions below the text, or contact me via email and social networks, all information is available on the CONTACT page.

See you soon, with a new story from the other side of the world.

With Love from Mérida,
Mr.M

This post is sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela – MINTUR, Junio ​​Hotel Boutique and Hotel Venetur Mérida, as well as other local partners. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.