Kelli Drummer-Avendaño
A view of homes in Mérida, Venezuela
Mérida, a beautiful city of about 213,000 people, lies in a valley of the Andes Mountains in western Venezuela. See if you can find Mérida on a map. With its springlike climate, numerous parks and plazas, well-preserved colonial architecture, and spectacular mountains and foothills in every direction, Mérida attracts visitors who enjoy not only the activities and culture of this friendly city but also nature, wildlife, colonial history, hiking, camping, fishing, and relaxing in thermal waters. Mérida, home of the prominent University of the Andes, also has a large student population that ensures the town remains a vital, interesting place to live and visit.
The highest and longest aerial tramway in the world is located in Mérida. From the tram high up in the sky, riders can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and countryside—green, fertile valleys covered with coffee and sugar cane plantations and a wide variety of brilliant flowers. The mountain views include snow-capped peaks, lush rain forests, and rocky cliffs. The tramway transports up to sixty people at one time to Venezuela’s highest summit, Pico Bolívar—not a ride for you if you’re afraid of heights!
Kelli Drummer-Avendaño
Until its closure in 2008, the Mérida tramway was the highest and second-longest aerial tramway in the world.
Explore More:
The Mérida tramway closed in 2008 before it reopened in 2013. Investigate the reasons for its closure. Research how a tramway works. Why was the Mérida tramway considered one of the most efficient modes of transportation in this area?