The Andes

The Andes

The Venezuelan Andes belong to the northern section of this mountain chain. In Venezuela the Andes are divided between the Merida range and the Perija range, the latter mainly shared with Colombia. Because of the changes in altitude, the Merida range has two distinct ecosystems, namely the Andean mountain forests and the plateaus. The Venezuelan Andes have a wide variety of endemic species, both flora and fauna. We invite you to appreciate the stunning landscapes and to join us in observing the unspoilt ecosystems.

Merida

Merida, a city of around 300,000 inhabitants, is located in the shadow of the Venezuelan Andes in the west of the country. Home to the University of the Andes and many tourist attractions, for most Venezuelans Merida has a reputation as the country’s most peaceful city. Often called ‘A city of Gentlemen’, Merida is well-known for its commitment to its traditional culture and the history of Venezuela. One out of every six inhabitants in Merida is a student giving the city a feeling of youth and fun.

El Vigia

El Vigia is the capital of Alberto Adriani municipality, just to the west of Merida (part of Merida State), and the second most developed city after the state capital. It is a very ethnically diverse place with people from all parts of the country. El Vigia is also well known for its rich agricultural  production and its cattle ranches which employ many of the local people.

Sierra Nevada National Park

Venezuela is one of the ten most biologically diverse countries in the world. Pioneers in environmental protection, Venezuela has introduced many laws concerning the use and enjoyment of these national treasures. As a result of these laws there are 43 national parks and 22 nature reserves (around 21% of the country), 2 bio-reserves, 7 sanctuaries and 5 wildlife reserves. This fantastic combination of boundless and raw beauty makes it exceptionally good for the tourism industry.

The Sierra Nevada National Park was created on 2 May 1952 in the heart of the Venezuelan Andes. Most of the park is located in Merida’s Sierra Nevada and it is here where the highest peaks are found including Pico Bolivar (5,007m) and Pico Humboldt (4,942m). There are many places of interest and activities for visitors to the park, such as hikes and climbs to the magnificent peaks,  looking for flowers and visiting the tiny villages, surrounded by stunning scenery, and learning about their fascinating culture. You can also have a go on the longest and highest cable car in the world.

The tour includes

• Pre-departure information
• All meals and non-alcoholic drinks as indicated
• Overnight in hammocks with shared bathrooms as indicated
• Transport in 4x4 vehicles with English-speaking guide on excursions
• Tours and activities outlined in the itinerary
• Spot (Satellite GPS Messenger)

The tour does not include

• Domestic flights (we can book these for you)
• Accommodation in Merida (we can book this for you)
• Items of a personal nature
• Tours, meals, alcoholic drinks and other services not included in the itinerary
• Tips to local staff, costs incurred in the organisation of the trip, such as non-refundable air tickets, insurance policy or additional costs incurred by flight delays, cancellations or missed connections

We recommend that you bring with you:

• Day pack
• 1 pair hiking boots
• Sun hat
• Goretex (or similar) waterproof jacket or cape
• Optional: waterproof trousers
• Sunglasses
• Sturdy boots for walking in the mountains
• Sunblock – minimum factor 15

How to get to Merida

Our tours in the Andes start in Merida. There are two ways to get to Merida from the Simon Bolivar International Airport at Maiquetia. We can book flights and arrange assisted transfers in both places. The options are:

Option 1: Maiquetia – El Vigia – Merida

A Fly from Maiquetia to El Vigia

B Transfer by private car or by bus to Merida (45 minutes)

C Overnight in a hotel and start the tour the following day

Option 2: Caracas – Merida

Travel by bus from Caracas to Merida.

PROS: This is the cheapest option. The sleeper-buses travel through the night and you can sleep on the reclining seats or watch films. There are several companies with departures every night so there is no problem with availability.

CONS: The sleeper-buses are chilly so you need to wear warm clothing and take a blanket. If your flight arrives in Caracas after the last bus departs, around 2130 hrs, and depending on how long it takes to get through customs and get transferred to the bus station, you will have to spend the night in Caracas and leave the following day. For this reason we are unable to book the buses and you will have to buy the bus ticket on arrival in Caracas.

NB: If you have any questions about the itinerary or want to check availability, please call or email us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.