Mérida

Mérida is a high-altitude university city in the Venezuelan Andes, often called the City of Gentlemen and recognised as the academic capital of the region. Set at around 1,630 metres in the valley of the Chama River, it is framed by the Sierra Nevada de Mérida and the Sierra La Culata, with Pico Bolívar, Venezuela's highest summit, rising on the horizon.

Founded in 1558 by Juan Rodríguez Suárez, the city grew around a colonial grid that still shapes its historic centre. Plaza Bolívar, the Cathedral of Mérida and restored colonial houses sit near the Albarregas River, while the Teleférico Mukumbarí cable car climbs from the city toward the snow-dusted peaks of Pico Espejo.

Districts range from the lively El Centro and its university cafés to quieter residential and hillside areas such as La Parroquia and La Pedregosa. Visitors can explore the Botanical Garden, the Chorros de Milla park and the Los Aleros theme village, or use nearby Tabay as a gateway to Sierra Nevada National Park and the Mucubají lagoon.

Home to the University of the Andes, Mérida combines student energy with a strong Andean identity, seen each February during the Ferias del Sol. Local food includes arepas andinas, pizca andina and trout, while the famous Heladería Coromoto is known for its enormous menu of ice cream flavours. The city's mountain scenery, cable car, national parks and university events make it relevant for both leisure and business travellers.