From Mérida it will take us about 20 minutes by public transport to get to La Hechicera at 2000 meters above sea level, the starting point of our hike. The well-trodden but relatively inclined path rises restlessly through a humid forest. We arrive after 3 hours of walking at Monte Zerpa where a superb view of Mérida awaits us. Shortly after we take the small path that goes to the left towards the páramo del Roque. The vegetation is becoming more and more rare and we will camp on the spot at 3400 meters of altitude after 7 to 8 hours of walking.

Accommodation: Night in a tent.
Communication: No network.

After 1 hour of walking the path passes through the crash zone of the Santa Barbara Airlines flight that occurred a few years ago. Many airplane remains can be found there. The path continues towards the pass of the same name at 4050 meters above sea level. The landscape is harsh with these numerous and immense cliffs. We finally arrive at one of the most beautiful lakes in the Andes of Venezuela, the Iglesias Lagoon. The mountains literally throw themselves into deep water, the spectacle is simply magical. The bypass path of the lake includes some slightly technical passages that you will face with serenity thanks to your guide. Night on site at 4000 meters above sea level after 7 to 8 hours of walking.

Accommodation: Night in a tent.
Communication: No network.

As a free option for volunteers, we can climb the Cara Del Indio peak. The view of Mérida is splendid from the top of its 4120 meters of altitude. On the descent, we will pass by another superb high altitude lake, the Puentes Lake. Bypassing this lake risks getting your feet wet if you are not careful! The barely visible little path continues towards El Abismo, a geological peculiarity where a mountain torrent rushes. We will finally arrive at our camp site after 5 to 6 hours of walking at 3500 meters above sea level.

Accommodation: Night in a tent.
Communication: No network.

Return path quickly returns to a dense forest on an often wet path. This is an area where bears have been seen on several occasions, silence is essential if you want to have the chance to see one. Here again the small path takes us to a very small chapel with a very beautiful view of Mérida. After 6 to 7 hours of walking we will join the civilized world. A short bus ride will take us to the center of Mérida.

Accommodation: none.
Communication: No network.