Mérida

Venezuela, South America

Mérida, nestled in the Andes, is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and adventure opportunities. The city is famous for the Mérida Cable Car, one of the longest in the world, providing panoramic views of the mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here for hiking and mountain biking, especially in the nearby Sierra Nevada National Park. The lively Plaza Bolívar and colorful markets reflect the rich heritage, making it an inviting hub for culture and nature lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Active

Airport

Alberto Carnevalli

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Mérida

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience Mérida's Nightlife

Enjoy vibrant bars and live music scene.

No booking required
2

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Los Andes

Discover stunning landscapes and local culture in the Andes.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Merida Cable Car

Ride the world's highest and longest cable car.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Indulge in Local Food

Savor traditional Venezuelan dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike to Roraima

Trek to the majestic Roraima mountain.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mérida Botanical Garden

Explore diverse flora in a peaceful setting.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Plaza de Los Estudiantes

Relax at a lively plaza surrounded by cafes.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Museo de Arte Colonial

Admire colonial art and architecture in this museum.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cathedral of Mérida

Explore the historic and breathtaking cathedral.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Coffee Tour

Learn about coffee production and enjoy tastings.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Cultural Festival

Experience local traditions and vibrant celebrations.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike the Sierra Nevada Trails

Enjoy scenic trails with stunning views.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mercado de las Tradiciones

Shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-8 (#127 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Bolivar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pabellón

Shredded beef with rice and beans (National dish)

Arepas

V

Cornmeal cakes with various fillings

Hallacas

Corn dough stuffed with meat, wrapped in leaves

Cachapas

V

Sweet corn pancakes, often with cheese

Asado Negro

Slow-cooked beef in a dark sauce

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)