Weekend Wonders of Venezuela
From Caribbean Shores to Mountain Heights
Trip Overview
Experience the incredible diversity of Venezuela in just two days, combining coastal paradise with mountain adventure. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you from the crystalline waters and pristine islands of Parque Nacional Morrocoy to the breathtaking heights of the Andes aboard the Teleférico de Mérida Mukumbarí, the world's highest and longest cable car. You'll discover why Venezuela is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, with landscapes ranging from white-sand beaches to cloud forests. This moderate-paced journey balances outdoor adventure with cultural experiences, offering glimpses of colonial heritage, local cuisine, and natural wonders. Perfect for those who want to maximize a short visit while experiencing two completely different faces of this remarkable South American nation.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Caribbean Paradise & Coastal Exploration
Where to Stay Tonight
Chichiriviche or Tucacas (Comfortable posada or beachfront guesthouse)
These coastal towns provide easy access to Morrocoy's boat docks and offer authentic Venezuelan hospitality at reasonable prices
Where to Stay Tonight
Mérida city center (Colonial-style hotel or mountain lodge)
Central location provides walkable access to restaurants, cultural sites, and serves as a perfect base for mountain activities
Practical Information
Getting Around
Domestic flights connect major cities, though this itinerary requires either a rental car or organized transportation between coastal and mountain regions. From Morrocoy to Mérida involves a significant journey (approximately 6-8 hours), so consider flying from Valencia to Mérida or adjusting the itinerary to focus on one region. Within each destination, boats serve the islands and walking suffices in Mérida's center. Private transfers or buses connect regional destinations.
Book Ahead
Teleférico de Mérida Mukumbarí tickets should be booked online in advance. Domestic flights between regions fill quickly during high season. Boat tours to Morrocoy can be arranged on arrival, but accommodations should be reserved ahead.
Packing Essentials
Layered clothing for extreme temperature variations, swimwear and beach gear, warm jacket for high altitude, sunscreen and sun protection, waterproof bag, snorkeling equipment, comfortable walking shoes, and any medications for altitude sickness
Total Budget
$165-240 for 2 days (excluding inter-city transportation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in budget posadas and hostels, prepare some of your own meals, join group boat tours to Morrocoy instead of private charters, skip the cable car and opt for hiking trails in Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada instead, and use public buses for all transportation. This can reduce costs to $50-70 per day while still experiencing Venezuela's natural beauty.
Luxury Upgrade
Book boutique hotels with ocean or mountain views, arrange private boat charters for exclusive island access in Morrocoy, hire a private guide for the cable car experience with personalized stops, enjoy gourmet dining featuring local ingredients prepared by top chefs, and arrange helicopter tours over the Andes. Upgrade to premium accommodations with spa facilities and personalized service throughout.
Family-Friendly
Focus on calm, shallow beaches in Morrocoy perfect for children, pack plenty of snacks and entertainment for boat rides, choose family-run posadas with spacious rooms, consider stopping at intermediate cable car stations if young children struggle with altitude, visit Waterland Mundo Marino for additional water-based fun, and adjust the pace with more rest breaks and shorter activity windows to accommodate varying energy levels.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Venezuela