Things to Do in Mérida

Nestled in the Venezuelan Andes at over 5,000 feet above sea level, Mérida feels like a world apart from the rest of the country. This university city has a distinctly cool, mountain atmosphere that's both literally and figuratively refreshing - you'll find students cycling between colonial buildings while snow-capped peaks loom in the distance. The city serves as Venezuela's adventure sports capital, but it's also got this laid-back, intellectual vibe thanks to the massive Universidad de Los Andes campus that dominates much of the town. What makes Mérida genuinely special is how it balances outdoor thrills with cultural depth. You might spend your morning riding the world's longest cable car system up to nearly 16,000 feet, then your afternoon wandering through art galleries and bookshops in the historic center. The surrounding Andean landscape offers some of South America's most accessible high-altitude adventures, while the city itself maintains that comfortable small-town feel where locals still gather in the main plaza each evening.

Mérida's food scene reflects its mountain location and student population - you'll find hearty Andean specialties alongside budget-friendly international options. Traditional dishes like arepas andinas (made with wheat flour instead of corn) and trucha (local trout) appear on most menus. The area around the university has numerous casual restaurants and cafes popular with students, while the historic center offers more upscale dining. Local markets sell excellent fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables that don't grow in Venezuela's lowlands. Given the country's economic situation, restaurant scenes can change rapidly, but locals are usually happy to recommend current favorites.

December through April offers the most stable weather, with clearer skies and less rain making it ideal for outdoor activities and mountain views. This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds at popular attractions. The rainy season from May through November brings afternoon showers and more cloud cover, but also fewer visitors and lusher landscapes. Temperature stays fairly constant year-round due to the altitude - expect cool mornings and evenings with warm afternoons. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers regardless of when you visit.