Pico Espejo Mérida
Ascend to Venezuela's highest accessible peak via the world-class Mukumbarí Cable Car for unparalleled Andean views and a chance to see tropical snow.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Higher chance of snow
Pico Espejo Mérida
Best Time
Higher chance of snow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to Venezuela's highest accessible peak via the world-class Mukumbarí Cable Car for unparalleled Andean views and a chance to see tropical snow.
"The most beautiful place in Venezuela. The cable car ride is incredible, with gorgeous views of the city of Mérida."
🥶 Dress in Layers
Temperatures plummet at the summit. Pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and waterproofs. It can be extremely cold!
💊 Altitude Sickness Prep
Chew coca leaves or take medication if you're prone to altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before ascending .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pico Espejo Summit
Top station of the Mukumbarí Cable Car
Stand atop Venezuela's highest accessible point, surrounded by the majestic Andes. Snow-capped peaks and breathtaking vistas await.
Mukumbarí Cable Car Ride
Mérida City to Pico Espejo
An unforgettable journey through multiple climate zones, offering panoramic views of Mérida and the surrounding Cordillera de los Andes.
Snowfall Experience
Pico Espejo station
Witness the magic of tropical snow! Pico Espejo is one of the few places in Venezuela where you can experience snow, especially during certain months.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Acclimatization is Key
Book Cable Car Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥶 Dress in Layers
Temperatures plummet at the summit. Pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and waterproofs. It can be extremely cold!
💊 Altitude Sickness Prep
Chew coca leaves or take medication if you're prone to altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before ascending.
📸 Capture the Views
The cable car ride and summit offer incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The entire trip, including the cable car ride and time at the top, can take several hours. Plan accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥶 Dress in Layers
Temperatures plummet at the summit. Pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and waterproofs. It can be extremely cold!
💊 Altitude Sickness Prep
Chew coca leaves or take medication if you're prone to altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before ascending.
📸 Capture the Views
The cable car ride and summit offer incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The entire trip, including the cable car ride and time at the top, can take several hours. Plan accordingly.
💰 Foreigner Pricing
Be aware that prices for foreign visitors may differ. Check current rates before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pico Espejo is consistently described as breathtaking and awe-inspiring, offering stunning Andean vistas and the unique chance to experience snow in Venezuela. While the cable car ride is a highlight, visitors should be prepared for extreme cold and potential altitude sickness, with strict time limits at the summit.
"Awesome"
K M
"Breathtaking"
Sergio G Gamero Ascencio
"It is still impressive, follow the guides' recommendations and have a good experience. The maximum time you can stay at this station is 45 minutes. It is not recommended for children under 2 years old due to its height of 4,765 m and the reduction of oxygen."
Luis García Montenegro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The only way to reach Pico Espejo is by taking the Mukumbarí Cable Car system from Mérida city. The journey involves several stations, with Pico Espejo being the highest and final stop.
The Mukumbarí Cable Car is one of the longest and highest cable car systems in the world, offering a spectacular ascent through diverse ecosystems to Pico Espejo.
The full journey from the base station to Pico Espejo can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on transfers and any stops along the way.
Yes, there is parking available at the base station of the Mukumbarí Cable Car in Mérida. It's advisable to arrive early if you plan to drive.
Taxis and local buses are readily available in Mérida to take you to the Mukumbarí Cable Car base station. It's a common and convenient option for tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Mukumbarí Cable Car can vary, especially for foreign visitors. It's recommended to check the official Mukumbarí website or local ticket vendors for the most up-to-date pricing.
Tickets can be purchased at the base station of the Mukumbarí Cable Car in Mérida. For a smoother experience, consider booking in advance online if available, especially during peak travel times.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and may be subject to weather conditions. It's best to check the official Mukumbarí website for the most current schedule before your visit.
Yes, visitors are typically limited to a maximum of 45 minutes at the Pico Espejo station due to altitude and oxygen levels.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to inquire about the refund or rescheduling policy when purchasing your tickets, especially as weather can impact operations at high altitudes.
🎫 🏔️ Onsite Experience
The weather at Pico Espejo is extremely cold and can change rapidly. Expect freezing temperatures, strong winds, and potentially snow, even outside of winter months.
Dress in warm layers, including thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, a waterproof and windproof outer layer, a hat, gloves, and sturdy, warm footwear. Scarves are also recommended.
At Pico Espejo, you can enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Andes, experience the snow (if present), take photos, and acclimatize to the high altitude. Some reviews mention horseback riding nearby, but this is not part of the official cable car experience.
It is not recommended for children under 2 years old due to the high altitude and reduced oxygen. Parents should carefully consider the risks for very young children.
From Pico Espejo, you can often see Venezuela's highest peaks, including Pico Bolívar and Pico Humboldt, offering a spectacular view of the Cordillera de los Andes.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation deck at Pico Espejo offers incredible panoramic views. The cable car ride itself provides stunning aerial shots of the landscape below.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain peaks. Ensure your camera and phone are protected from the cold and have extra batteries, as they drain faster in low temperatures.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in national parks and high-altitude areas. It's best to check with local authorities or the cable car management for any restrictions before flying a drone.
Early morning often provides clearer skies and softer light. However, dramatic cloud formations and snowfall can create unique photographic opportunities at any time of day.
Absolutely! The cable car journey offers breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains. Be ready to capture the changing scenery as you ascend.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mukumbarí Cable Car Experience
As you ascend, you'll notice the dramatic shift in vegetation and temperature. The journey is broken into segments, allowing for acclimatization and appreciation of the changing landscapes. Many visitors describe the cable car ride as a highlight of their trip, with breathtaking vistas unfolding at every turn.
It’s essential to check the operating status of the cable car before your visit, as it can be affected by weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.Tips for the Cable Car Ride: Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends or holidays. Dress in layers as the temperature drops significantly with altitude. Keep your camera ready, as the views are spectacular throughout the entire ascent.
Experiencing Snow in the Tropics
The snowfall is not guaranteed year-round, but the months between August and October often see increased chances of snow. Even if there isn't active snowfall during your visit, residual snow can often be found at the summit, allowing you to touch and feel the cold, crisp snow. This 'tropical snow' is a testament to the diverse microclimates found within Venezuela's mountain ranges.
What to Expect: The cold can be intense, so proper winter gear is crucial. The visual contrast of snow against the rugged Andean terrain is striking. Many visitors express sheer delight and surprise at witnessing snow in such a location, making it a memorable part of their Venezuelan adventure.
Altitude and Health Considerations
Some visitors have reported feeling unwell after spending too much time at the summit without proper acclimatization. The recommended maximum stay at Pico Espejo is around 45 minutes to help manage these risks.
Recommendations: Listen to your body. If you feel unwell, descend immediately. Avoid pushing yourself too hard. Children under two years old are generally not recommended for this high-altitude excursion due to their increased vulnerability.
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