Hiking

Mérida is the base for three- to seven-day treks into the Andes. Rocky trails trod during the early 19th century by armies struggling for independence from Spain make for good hiking.

Montaña Adventure Travel. Montaña Adventure Travel arranges multiday excursions to El Tisure, the secluded village of Los Nevados, and Paso Pico El Aguila. Av. Las Américas, Mérida, Mérida. 0274/266–1448; www.venadventure.com.

Páramo Tours. Another company offering trekking in the region is Páramo Tours. Centro Commercial Oasis, Piso 2, Viaducto Campo Elias, Mérida, Mérida. 0274/244–8855.