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Pico Espejo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Pico Espejo is one of Venezuela's most famous peaks, rising to 4,765 meters and serving as the highest station for the world's highest and second-longest cable car system. Located in the Sierra Nevada de Mérida, it provides an unparalleled view of Pico Bolívar, the nation's highest point. The summit is home to the Virgin of the Snows monument, a statue dedicated in 1952 to protect mountain travelers. Geologically, the peak is composed of metamorphic rocks that record the tectonic uplift of the Andes mountains. The Mukumbarí cable car system makes this high-altitude environment accessible to tourists, despite extreme weather conditions where temperatures often drop below freezing. While permanent snow cover has declined due to global warming, the peak remains a central hub for mountaineering and high-altitude research. It represents a vital link between urban Mérida and the pristine alpine wilderness of the Sierra Nevada National Park.

Location: Venezuela
Top sights: Pico Espejo · Pico El Toro · Pico El León

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	17	18	18	18	18	17	17	17	18	17	17	17
Rain mm	30	35	72	143	163	136	119	115	135	156	133	68

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The most popular way to reach the summit is via the Mukumbarí Mérida Cable Car, one of the highest and longest in the world, starting from the city of Mérida.

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Best season

Visits are recommended year-round, but the dry months from December to March provide the best chance for panoramic views without interference from clouds or fog.

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Terrain & paths

At the summit station, the terrain is rocky and alpine; there are prepared walkways for visitors to reach the monument of the Virgin of the Snows safely.

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What to bring

Even when using the cable car, visitors must wear very warm clothing, gloves, and hats, as the temperature at nearly 4,800 meters is often below freezing point.

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Parking

Parking is available in the various public and private parking lots within Mérida city, near the Barinitas station where the cable car journey begins.

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Safety

Rapid ascent by cable car can cause altitude symptoms; take your time at the intermediate stations to acclimatize and avoid any sudden physical overexertion.

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Time needed

A full trip including the cable car ride and time spent at the summit station usually takes about 3 to 5 hours, depending on the crowds and weather conditions.

Geography

Coordinates

8.52000, -71.05000

Facts

Elevation of 4,765 meters
Highest station of the Mukumbarí cable car
Features the Virgin of the Snows statue since 1952
Located within the Sierra Nevada National Park
Offers a direct line of sight to Pico Bolívar
Geological structure consists of metamorphic rocks

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Pico Toro1 km · EExplore →

Pico León2 km · NExplore →

Pico El León4 km · NExplore →

Pico Reverón4 km · NEExplore →

Pico Muertos4 km · NExplore →

Pico El Buitre9 km · EExplore →

Mukumbarí Cable Car11 km · SExplore →

Sierra de la Culata15 km · SEExplore →

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 Espejo (3)

Pico Espejo 🌿 nature

The peak is famous as the terminal station of the Mukumbarí cable car, the highest in the world.

Pico El Toro🌿 nature

This prominent Andean peak is accessible via the Mérida cable car system.

Pico El León🌿 nature

A rugged peak in the Sierra Nevada national park, offering wide views over the highlands.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the highlight at Pico Espejo?

The wide-open panoramic view over the Andes is unique.

How do I get to the peak?

The famous cable car takes you comfortably to the summit area.

Is the cable car reliable?

Check locally if it is currently in operation.

What is the altitude at the summit?

The summit is at about 4,765 meters altitude.

Do I need warm clothes?

Yes, it is very cold all year round at this altitude.

Pico Espejo: where is it located?

Pico Espejo is located in Venezuela.

Pico Espejo: what is there to see?

Highlights include Pico Espejo, Pico El Toro, Pico El León.

Pico Espejo: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Pico Espejo: why is it worth visiting?

Pico Espejo is one of Venezuela's most famous peaks, rising to 4,765 meters and serving as the highest station for the world's highest and second-longest cable car system.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →