This farming settlement is nestled high up in the Valley of the Indians, a challenging place to get to by jeep or foot. Foreigners and Venezuelans alike marvel at the dusty self-sufficiency of this humble town. Los Nevados offers a warm welcome and a glimpse into the past. We will journey by jeep - easier said than done - all the while treated to views of the highest peaks of the Andes. A night at one of the family-style “posadas” (“guest house”) energizes us for a journey, by mule, to Alto de la Cruz, a pass that strides both sides of the mountain range. The mule trek offers us a view of both the valley we have just ascended and a hazy Mérida almost lost in the depths below. While backpacking and camping in the fresh mountain air, bathing in natural hot springs, and trekking through mountain rainforest we get a truly exhilarating experience in the Venezuelan Andes.
This is one of our most popular tours for those wanting maximum variety in the mountains. We travel by jeep, by mule and by foot on a circular route from Mérida, passing through quaint, traditional settlements, patchwork farms, semi-desert, páramo scenery (highland landscape brightened by the flowers of low-lying plants), high rocky crests dusted with snow and ice (close to Pico Bolivar), and cloud forest. It’s a tour for all ages and abilities.
Your Itinerary:
Day 1: Merida - El Morro - Los Nevados.
First, we enjoy a typical Andean breakfast, after which you will take a 4WD vehicle to the small oasis of El Morro. After El Morro, the road to the picturesque village of Los Nevados (2,700 m) is strictly devoted to 4WD and professional drivers. Once settled in there, we will walk around to appreciate this small and remote village which has been suspended in time. Accommodations are in a quaint inn where a typical dinner will be provided. (5 hours by jeep).
(B), (L), (D)
Day 2: Los Nevados - Alto de La Cruz - Los Calderones Valley.
We will start the day with breakfast prepared by our Andean host. From 2,700 m, the mules take the strain as we climb northwards up the mountain valley to Alto de la Cruz at 4,200 m. From here we have a wonderful view of Pico Bolivar. Departing from the mules, we hike for about two hours down the hill to our camp at Los Calderones Valley (3,500m). (4 hours by mule, 2 hours hiking).
(B), (L), (D)
Day 3: Los Calderones Valley - Mucunutan – Merida.
After breakfast, we’ll trek downhill through a cloud forest for 4 hours to Mucunutan. On the way, we will enjoy the views of the city of Mérida and the cloud forest. The flora and fauna is rich in the lush green mountain forests, home to a variety of bromeliads and orchids. The hike provides an excellent opportunity for birding and butterfly sighting. We will picnic on the way. From Mucunutan, a 4WD will transport us to the Mercado Principal in Mérida. Afterwards, our guide will takes us through the typical mountain Mercado where he/she will introduce us to the wonders of the region. If we desire, there are typical crafts to buy or typical treats and beverages to enjoy. The market gives us excellent insight into the fruits and vegetables, treats, beverages and arts & crafts of the Andes. (5 hours hiking and 1 hour by jeep).
(B), (L)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price includes:
- Transfer from and to airport in Mérida;
- Tour transportation with 4WD;
- Bilingual guide;
- Permits for National Parks;
- All meals and soft drinks during the trip;
- First aid;
- Necessary camping equipment;
- Radio communication.
Price does not include:
- Domestic flights (we can arrange them);
- Lodging in Mérida (we can arrange this);
- Items of a personal nature;
- Meals, alcoholic beverages, tours, or other services not listed on the itinerary;
- Tips to local staff, nor any expenses incurred in preparing for the trip such as but not limited to non-refundable airline tickets or insurance or additional expenses encountered as a result of flight delays, cancellations, or missed connections.
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Venezuela
Cultural Journey
Hiking & Trekking
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