Mérida - Discovering Venezuela

Travelling to Mérida

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mérida, a pretty good destination in Venezuela (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mérida and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mérida, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Venezuela, here's everything to know about Mérida for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mérida

Mérida is a city located in the western region of Venezuela, in the Andes Mountains. It is the capital of the Mérida state and known as the "City of Gentlemen". The city has a population of around 300,000 people and offers a combination of colonial architecture, natural attractions, and outdoor activities. Mérida is an important cultural and educational center, featuring several universities, museums, and theaters. The city is also known for its cable car system, which is the highest and longest in the world, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Mérida attracts many visitors from around the world each year who come to experience its unique blend of culture, history, and nature.

What to visit in Mérida

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Mérida, Venezuela: 1. Teleférico de Mérida: This is a cable car that takes you on a scenic ride up to the top of Pico Espejo, the highest peak in Venezuela. Along the way you'll see stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the city of Mérida below.
2. Plaza Bolívar: This is the main square in Mérida and a hub for social activity and cultural events. It's surrounded by historic buildings and monuments, and many locals and visitors come here to relax and people-watch.
3. Jardín Botánico de Mérida: This botanic garden is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species native to the region. It's a peaceful and serene oasis in the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
4. Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada: This national park is located just outside of Mérida and is known for its rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's a popular destination for hiking and camping.
5. Museo Arqueológico “Gonzalo Rincón Gutiérrez”: This museum showcases the pre-Columbian cultures that once inhabited the region, with exhibits ranging from pottery and jewelry to ancient weapons and textiles.
6. Basílica Menor de la Inmaculada Concepción: This grand church is one of the most notable landmarks in Mérida and is known for its neogothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows.
7. Mercado Principal: This bustling market is a great place to experience local daily life and shop for souvenirs, fresh produce, and handmade crafts.
8. Estadio Metropolitano de Mérida: This soccer stadium is the heart of sports in Mérida and is often filled with enthusiastic fans during big matches.
I hope this list helps you plan your visit to Mérida!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Venezuela, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mérida.

When to go on holiday to Mérida

The best time to visit Mérida is between December and March, which is the dry season. During this time, temperatures are comfortable, and the air is dry, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and higher prices. The rainy season in Mérida runs from May to November, with the heaviest rains falling between June and September. While the scenery is lush and green during this time, it can be difficult to get around due to mudslides and flooding.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mérida

There are several ways to get to Mérida, Venezuela: 1. By plane: The easiest way is to take a flight to Alberto Carnevalli Airport, which is located in the city of Merida. Airlines such as Avior, Conviasa, and Laser offer regular flights to Merida.
2. By bus: There are several bus lines that travel to Merida from different cities in Venezuela. Some of the most popular bus lines are Expresos Occidente, Expresos Maracaibo, and Expresos San Cristobal.
3. By car: If you have your own vehicle or are renting a car, you can drive to Merida. The city is located on the Pan-American Highway, so you can get there by car from any point in the country.
4. By train: There is no train service to Merida, but there is a train station in the neighboring city of Barinas, which is about 3 hours away by car. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Merida.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mérida, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mérida

Sure, here are some typical foods of Mérida, Venezuela and their descriptions: 1. Hallacas: a traditional dish made during Christmas time. It is a mixture of corn dough, filled with beef, pork, chicken, and vegetables wrapped in plantain leaves and boiled.
2. Arepas: a popular dish made with cornmeal dough, flattened into a patty and cooked on a griddle. They can be filled with various fillings such as cheese, beef, chicken, avocado, and black beans.
3. Pabellón criollo: a national dish of Venezuela, consisting of shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried bananas. 4. Quesillo: a dessert similar to flan, made with condensed milk, eggs, and caramel sauce.
5. Mandocas: fried corn fritters containing cheese, grated coconut, and anise seeds.
6. Chicha Andina: a refreshing beverage made from fermented maize, often served along with arepas.
7. Perico: a delicious breakfast dish of scrambled eggs, tomatoes, onions, and sweet peppers.
8. Cachapas: a sweet corn pancake filled with cheese and sometimes accompanied with ham.
9. Tequeños: fried dough sticks filled with cheese.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods that you can find in Mérida, Venezuela.
You can find general info about typical foods in Venezuela here.

Is Mérida an expensive destination for tourists?

Mérida, Venezuela can vary in price depending on the type of activities you do, the accommodations you choose, and your overall travel style. In general, prices for food, transportation and activities can be fairly affordable, but accommodation prices may vary depending on your preferences and the time of year you visit.
Overall, Mérida can be considered an affordable destination for budget-conscious travelers if you plan your trip well. You can find reasonably-priced accommodations such as hostels and budget hotels, and there are many low-cost activities to enjoy, such as hiking, exploring the city, and visiting historical and cultural sites. However, it is always recommended to research prices and plan your budget before travelling to any destination to ensure that you have an enjoyable and stress-free trip.

Where to find accomodation in Mérida

For visitors to Mérida, Venezuela, the best areas to find accommodation are typically the city center and the surrounding neighborhoods. Some popular options include the historic center around Plaza Bolivar, the San Rafael neighborhood near the university, and the areas around Avenida Las Américas and Avenida Don Tulio. These areas offer a range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hostels, mid-range hotels, and high-end resorts. Additionally, staying in these areas allows for easy access to Mérida's top attractions, such as the cable car to Pico Espejo, the Jardin Botanico, and the Museo de Arte Colonial.
You can check hotel prices at Mérida here:
Booking.com

Is Mérida a safe destination for tourists?

Mérida is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take precautions to stay safe. Crime can happen anywhere, so it's best to always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. You can also ask locals or travel guides for the safest areas to visit and avoid, and to take necessary precautions such as not wandering alone at night in unfamiliar areas, not carrying large sums of money or valuable items, and staying away from major protests or demonstrations. Overall, if you're mindful of your safety and take common-sense precautions, your trip to Mérida should be enjoyable and hassle-free!
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Venezuela here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mérida.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mérida the most?

Mérida, Venezuela is a great destination for various types of travelers. Couples traveling for a romantic getaway will enjoy the city's charming colonial architecture, cultural attractions, and scenic surroundings.
Young people looking for adventure and fun will appreciate the city's outdoor recreational activities, such as trekking, mountain biking, and rappelling, as well as its vibrant nightlife.
Families will find plenty of family-friendly activities in Mérida, such as exploring the town's historic landmarks, visiting museums, and experiencing the beautiful and natural surroundings.
Overall, Mérida is a destination that can cater to different types of travelers, with its cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and scenic beauty.

How to get around Mérida

In Mérida, Venezuela, the most common way to move around is by taking a taxi or a bus. Taxis are easily available and can be flagged down on the street. Buses operate on fixed routes and are generally cheap. However, they can be crowded and not very comfortable. Another option to move around in Mérida is by renting a car or a motorcycle, but it can be more expensive and may require an international driver's license. Finally, if you prefer walking, the city center is quite walkable and provides a great way to see the city's sights on foot.

What to see around Mérida

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Mérida, Venezuela: 1. The charming colonial town of Jají, known for its beautiful architecture, crafts and delicious cuisine.
2. The picturesque town of Bailadores, located in the Andes Mountains, where you can visit the impressive San Rafael Waterfall.
3. The stunning Laguna de Mucubají, a high-altitude lake with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
4. The historic town of Nuestra Señora de Rosario de Lagunillas, famous for its traditional pottery.
5. The thermal baths of Tabay, a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the natural hot springs.
6. The Chorros de Milla waterfall, located in the outskirts of Mérida, with natural pools perfect for swimming.
7. The town of Tovar, known for its delicious and traditional Venezuelan cheese.
I hope you find this information helpful!
For every travel information about Venezuela you can click here.

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