Andes Llanos
5 days
Andes Llanos
Andes and Llanos is one of the best combinations in Venezuela in just 5 days. On this journey, you will travel from the heights of Mérida, with its spectacular mountains and hikes in National Parks, passing through coffee plantations and waterfalls, all the way to the vast plains of Apure, where you will experience an exciting wildlife safari, with anacondas, anteaters, caimans, and much more.
Itinerary
Day 1. Merida- La Musuy
After breakfast, we will visit the highest and second-longest cable car in the world, reaching an altitude of 4,765 meters. You’ll experience all four stations and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Andean cloud forest in Sierra Nevada National Park and the city of Mérida. Upon our return, we’ll explore various Andean highland villages before arriving at La Musui. From there, we’ll begin a hike to the natural hot springs, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Sierra de La Culata National Park. We’ll spend the night camping, surrounded by nature, and enjoy stargazing under the clear night sky. (D)
After breakfast, we’ll visit Mucubají Lagoon (3,600 meters above sea level) and hike 8 kms downhill to Victoria Lagoon (3,250 meters above sea level) in Sierra Nevada National Park. From there, we’ll drive to Calderas (879 meters above sea level), a charming village nestled in the Andean foothills and surrounded by lush, small coffee plantations. Here, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and take a refreshing swim at the stunning Las Monjas waterfall. Later, we’ll visit a coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process from local farmers. We’ll spend the night at a local posada (All meals)
Day 3. Barinas- El Cedral
Departing early from Barinas, you’ll meet your guide for a 3-hour drive to Hato El Cedral. After lunch, enjoy a walk around the lodge, where you may spot Scarlet Ibises, Jabiru Stork nests, Red Howler Monkeys, Scarlet Macaws, and even Spectacled Alligators. At about 4 PM, take a truck safari to see Capybaras, White-Tailed Deer, Anacondas, and more. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay at Campamento Matiyure. (All meals)
Day 4. El Cedral
Wake up to the sounds of local birds and enjoy a peaceful sunrise walk. After breakfast, take another truck safari to explore the west side of Hato El Cedral, where you might see anacondas, Crab-Eating Raccoons, Whistling Ducks, and Scarlet Ibises. After lunch, prepare for a thrilling boat ride on the Matiyure River to spot rare species like the Agami Heron, Giant Potoo, and Hoatzins. Enjoy piranha fishing and a mini alligator-feeding show. End the day with a stunning sunset and birdwatching. Dinner and overnight at Campamento Matiyure. (All meals)
Day 5. El Cedral- Barinas
After breakfast, enjoy leisure time to relax or venture out for more wildlife spotting. A morning boat trip can be arranged for unique photo opportunities in the softer light. After lunch, we’ll drive back to Barinas, concluding your unforgettable Llanos adventure. (B)
When planning your trip:
Although we present a 5 day itinerary here, it could actually extend to 6 days. Keep in mind that changes in the schedule may occur due to weather conditions and flights availability, so it's important to plan your trip with some flexibility. Our team will provide you with the best options to ensure your visit to Venezuela is an unforgettable experience.
Tour info
Transport
- Andes: The size of the vehicles will be adapted based on the number of participants.
- Llanos: Open-air trucks will be used to provide the best wildlife observation experience.
Meals
Meals are provided as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
The food is simple but delicious. If you are vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, please inform us in advance.
Professional Guides
Professional guides are available at each destination, fluent in both Spanish and English.
- Tips
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs
- Laundry and other personal expenses
- Transfers to/from Maiquetía Airport before and after the tour (available as an optional service)
- Cable car ticket: $40 USD per person, payable on-site only
Accommodation
- Mérida: 1 night in a standard, centrally located hotel with private bedrooms and bathrooms.
- La Musui: 1 night in tents with shared bathroom facilities.
- Calderas: 1 night in a local posada with shared bathroom facilities.
- Hato El Cedral (Campamento Matiyure): 1 night in standard rooms with private bathrooms and air conditioning.
Suitability
This itinerary is suitable for everyone. The most challenging part is the Cable Car’s final station, as it is located above 4,000 meters, and some visitors may experience altitude sickness.
The hike to Laguna Victoria is approximately 8 km and involves walking downhill.
The rest of the program is easy and manageable for most participants.
We recommend NOT bringing hard-shell suitcases. Handling them can be very difficult and may incur additional costs at your expense.
Your luggage should not exceed 15 kg. Extra weight may incur extra charges, and airlines cannot guarantee transporting additional weight on the same day.
Take a photo of your luggage and label it for identification.
You are solely responsible for your personal belongings. If you forget something at any camp, waterfall, or natural location, retrieving it may require additional costs for fuel, logistics, personnel, etc., which will be exclusively covered by you in cash and on-site.
- Andes: Open to visitors all year round.
- Llanos: The best time to visit is during the dry or less rainy season, from December to June.
Important Notes:
During the wet season in the Llanos, wildlife disperses throughout the region, making it harder to spot animals at their best. For this reason, we recommend combining a visit to the Andes with a trip to Catatumbo, which is ideal during the rainy season in western Venezuela.
Weather in Western Venezuela
Expect a mix of weather conditions, including cold, heat, sun, and rain, sometimes all in one day and within minutes. Be prepared for varying temperatures and conditions.
- Andes Highlands: Nighttime temperatures can drop to as low as 4°C (39°F).
- Llanos: Daytime temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F).
Recommended Packing List
Remember that every kilogram counts, as you will carry all personal items.
– 40 liter Travel backpack + smaller essentials backpack
– Raincoat or poncho
– Waterproof pants and jacket
– Hiking boots and sandals (preferably waterproof)
– Plastic bag to protect clothes and electronics from moisture
– Small plastic bags for dirty or wet clothes
– Long-sleeve UV-protection shirt
– Walking pants
– Headlamp
– Biodegradable shampoo, soap, toothpaste, mosquito repellent, deodorant, sunscreen
– Disposable wet wipes
– Water purifier
– Phone or camera for photos + power bank
– Swimsuit
– Socks (4-5 pairs)
– Underwear (preferably polyester or nylon for quick drying)
– Water bottle (1-2 liters, refillable)
– Personal medications
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