7 Best Sights in Merida and the Andes, Venezuela

Facing the main square is the embellished baroque facade of the Catedral Metropolitana. Although construction began in 1787, the cathedral wasn't completed until 1958. Its geometric designs make this one of Venezuela's most striking churches. A visit to the plaza for a rest in the shade (with a view of the cathedral, of course) is an absolute must.

At least once during your sojourn in Mérida, head to Heladería Coromoto for a scoop of ice cream with the flavor of rose petals, local beer, or even chicharrón (fried pork skin). Proprietor Manuel S. da Oliviera holds a proud place in the Guinness Book of Records for producing the most flavors (860 and counting). Dare your companions to sample the sausage or smoked trout, and order for yourself a cone topped with ginger, corn, arroz con leche (rice pudding), or plain old strawberry. We were tempted by the more mysterious flavors, such as El Nido de Amor ("the nest of love") and No Me Odies ("Don't hate me").

From Lomas Redonda, the second-highest point on the Teleférico, you can hire donkeys, mules, or horses for a descent to Los Nevados, a secluded mountain village that was once a garrison for Spanish conquistadors. Following an initial sharp ascent through a thick forest called the Bosque de los Coloraditos, you'll begin a four- to five-hour ride down a rocky path followed by pre-colonial indigenous peoples. Weary and winded, you finally come upon the red-tile roofs of Los Nevados. There are unpretentious accommodations in local posadas. For the return trip, take a four-wheel-drive vehicle back to Mérida. This route takes you through tiny hamlets, past generations-old farms, colonial ruins, and some of the most spectacular scenery in the Andes.

With five beautiful lakes and several waterfalls, this section of Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada is the ideal area in which to get to know the páramo. The well-designed and informative displays at the visitor center introduce you to the flora and fauna of the region. Travel on foot or horseback along the clearly marked scenic trails to Pico Mucuñuque, which soar to 13,800 feet. While you're enjoying the mountain air, remember that there isn't much of it. Keep your pace slow and take time to smell the frailejones (daisy-like flowers). Mucubají is 2 km (1 mi) from Apartaderos on the road to Barinas.

The Museo Arqueológico has the region's finest collection of figurines, ceramics, and tools from the pre-Hispanic cultures that once dominated this part of the Andes.

The Museo de Arte Colonial houses a rich collection of religious art from the 16th to 19th centuries and also showcases rotating exhibitions with plenty of local flavor. Though the space is small, it's utterly worth the small entry fee to enjoy the sun-splashed space and to soak up some rays in the open-air courtyard.

Founded in 1558, Mérida grew up around the Plaza Bolívar, a bustling center that attracts meandering students, locals, and artisans hawking their wares during the day; By night, you'll see shadier characters along with flocks of young couples. The best time to come is mid-morning, before Mérda's famous midday heat makes things too hazy, and, hopefully, in time to catch the views of the mountains.