Plizio Visual Lab

Pico El Buitre

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

peak

Weather…

Pico El Buitre, also known as Alto de Mucuchíes, is one of the most prominent elevations in the Sierra de la Culata, Mérida State, reaching an altitude of approximately 4,650 meters. Geologically, the mountain is part of the crystalline core of the Venezuelan Andes, consisting primarily of granites and gneisses uplifted during the Tertiary period. The relief displays clear evidence of Pleistocene glaciation, such as cirque lakes, moraine ridges, and sharp arêtes. The summit is located amidst an expansive paramo landscape, characterized by extreme cold, high UV radiation, and the iconic Frailejones flora. Historically, the region was a crucial landmark for travelers on the Transandean route long before the modern highway was completed. The hydrological significance of Pico El Buitre is notable, as its runoff feeds numerous high-altitude lagoons essential for regional water management. Despite the extreme conditions, the area hosts specialized fauna, including the Andean condor and various endemic rodent species.

Location: Venezuela
Top sights: Cerro Las Hernández · Loma El Medio · Ecowild

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	21	21	22	22	22	22	22	23	23	22	21	21
Rain mm	33	37	72	134	141	106	100	108	131	153	129	70

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to this peak typically starts from nearby mountain villages in the Mérida state, often requiring a trek through the high-altitude páramo landscape.

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Best season

The best months for hiking are between December and March during the dry season, when the weather is more stable and the trails are less muddy for visitors.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain consists of rugged Andean slopes and unique páramo ecosystems, characterized by specialized plants like frailejones and rocky mountain paths.

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What to bring

Hikers should carry sturdy waterproof boots, thermal clothing, and protection against the strong tropical sun, as well as plenty of water and energy snacks.

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Parking

Parking is usually found in the base towns or at the beginning of the trailheads; visitors often hire local guides who arrange transport to the starting point.

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Safety

Be prepared for sudden weather changes and low visibility in the páramo; it is highly recommended to hike with a guide who knows the local mountain trails well.

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Time needed

A round trip to this peak can take several hours to a full day depending on the starting location and the fitness level of the hiking group involved.

Geography

Coordinates

8.76500, -71.05500

Facts

Elevation is approximately 4,650 meters.
Part of the Sierra de la Culata Massif.
Features prominent Pleistocene moraines.
Habitat for the endangered Andean condor.
Average temperature is often below freezing point.
Crucial watershed for the Chama Valley.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Pico Reverón7 km · NWExplore →

Pico Bolívar8 km · WExplore →

Pico Púlpito8 km · NWExplore →

Sierra de la Culata8 km · SExplore →

Pico Humboldt9 km · NWExplore →

Pico Muertos10 km · NWExplore →

Mukumbarí Cable Car12 km · SWExplore →

Pico Mucuchíes14 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Pico El Buitre (7)

Cerro Las Hernández🌿 nature

A remote Andean peak surrounded by the characteristic frailejón high-altitude vegetation.

Loma El Medio🌿 nature

A gentle mountain ridge in the high Andes, offering a vast view of the Buitre massif.

Ecowild🎡 recreation

An ecological park featuring a collection of local wildlife in the natural Andean setting.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-18:00

Pueblito Sueños del Abuelo🎡 recreation

A cultural theme park recreating a traditional mountain village and showcasing Andean heritage.

Mesa Amarilla🌿 nature

A flat-topped mesa in the Andes, named for the yellowish lichens found on its rocks.

Iglesia 📍 landmark

A small, simple mountain chapel providing shelter to hikers at the foot of Pico El Buitre.

Iglesia de Mucurubá 📍 landmark

The characterful village church of Mucurubá with its white facade set against the high mountain peaks.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How high is Pico El Buitre?

The summit reaches an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level.

Is a permit required for climbing?

Usually no special permit is needed, but check locally at the ranger station first.

Is a rope needed for climbing?

No rope is needed for normal routes, but good footwear is important.

What is the best season?

The period between November and March is good for clear views from the summit.

Are there dangers from sudden weather changes?

Yes, at high altitudes fog or rain can occur very suddenly, so plan for extra time.

Pico El Buitre: where is it located?

Pico El Buitre is located in Venezuela.

Pico El Buitre: what is there to see?

Highlights include Cerro Las Hernández, Loma El Medio, Ecowild.

Pico El Buitre: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

Pico El Buitre: why is it worth visiting?

Pico El Buitre, also known as Alto de Mucuchíes, is one of the most prominent elevations in the Sierra de la Culata, Mérida State, reaching an altitude of approximately 4,650 meters.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →