The Mukumbarí Cable Car Is Running Again
Venezuela · TRAVEL
Key Facts
- —What happened The Mukumbarí cable car in Mérida, Venezuela, reopened on 19 August 2026 for the holiday season.
- —How big a jump The full system runs daily with all five stations open, from Barinitas to Pico Espejo.
- —The real story The reopening signals a return to normalcy after earthquakes disrupted the cable car since late May.
- —The catch No opening hours or ticket prices have been published, so visitors must pay cash and check locally.
- —Where it is The cable car climbs from the city of Mérida through the Venezuelan Andes to Pico Espejo.
- —What comes next Visitors should arrive early, dress in layers, and prepare for crowds during the holiday rush.
After months of quiet, the cable car is back for the summer holidays, with all five stations open daily.
The Mukumbarí cable car in Mérida, Venezuela, is running again for the holiday season, after months of closure. As a result, you can ride from the Barinitas base station up to Pico Espejo.
It is known as the roof of the Andes.
What Is Happening
The Mukumbarí cable car reopened on Wednesday 19 August 2026, just in time for the holiday season. Tourism minister Daniella Cabello announced the news on her social media, and national outlets carried it the same day.
The full system is running, so all five stations are open, from the Barinitas base station to Pico Espejo. In fact, it is one of the longest and highest cable car systems in the world.
It climbs in stages from the city towards the high peaks.
Exact Dates and Times
The cable car is operating every day of the week for the rest of the August and September holiday season. However, no specific opening or closing times have been published for this season.
Therefore, plan to go early in the day, but be flexible. Since no timetable is available, it’s wise to check locally before you set out.
What to Do
Your main activity is simply the ride itself, which takes you through the Venezuelan Andes in stages. You can hop off at any of the five stations, although the highlight is Pico Espejo, the roof of the Andes.
For example, you can enjoy the mountain views, take photos, and breathe the crisp high-altitude air. Moreover, because the cable car is running daily, you have plenty of chances to go.
Getting There
The cable car starts at the Barinitas base station, which is in the city of Mérida. Mérida is a university city in the Venezuelan Andes, and the cable car is its best-known attraction.
The base station sits in Mérida itself, at Barinitas. After all, it’s a central part of the city’s identity.
Who Is Affected
This reopening is great news for tourists and residents alike, since the cable car had been suspended since late May. The suspension was for maintenance and then because of disruption from the earthquakes of 24 June 2026.
Because of that disruption, the reopening had been rescheduled, so many people were waiting for this moment. Now, however, the full system is back, and everyone can enjoy it again.
What It Means for Residents
For people in Mérida, the Mukumbarí is more than a tourist ride. It is a source of pride.
Its return signals a return to normalcy after the earthquakes. In addition, the holiday season means more visitors, which can boost local businesses.
Still, the cable car’s daily operation offers a reliable outing for families and friends.
Tips for Your Visit
Since no ticket prices have been published for this season, bring cash and be ready to pay on the spot. Also, because the cable car is high and long, dress in layers, as temperatures can drop sharply.
Moreover, arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Although the cable car runs every day, holiday periods can be busy, so a morning start is a smart move.
Mukumbarí’s Unique Status
The Mukumbarí is not just any cable car; it’s one of the longest and highest in the world. As a result, the ride offers dramatic views that you won’t find elsewhere.
In fact, climbing from the city to Pico Espejo is an unforgettable experience. Therefore, make sure to have your camera ready for the entire journey.
Final Thoughts
In short, the Mukumbarí is back, and it’s ready for the holiday season. So if you’re in Mérida, don’t miss the chance to ride to the roof of the Andes.
After all, this is a rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s great cable car systems, running daily. Enjoy the ride, and take in the beauty of the Venezuelan Andes.
Is the Mukumbarí cable car open every day?
Yes, it is operating every day of the week for the rest of the August and September holiday season. However, no specific opening or closing times have been published.
When did the Mukumbarí reopen?
It reopened on Wednesday 19 August 2026, after being suspended since late May. The reopening was announced by tourism minister Daniella Cabello.
Which stations are open on the Mukumbarí?
All five stations are open, from the Barinitas base station up to Pico Espejo. The full system is running.
How much does it cost to ride the Mukumbarí?
No ticket prices have been published for this season. It’s best to bring cash and be prepared to pay at the station.
Connected Coverage
Sources: Agencia Venezolana de Noticias; El Diario; Noticias Venevisión.
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This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error · Editorial responsibility: Matthias Camenzind, Editor-in-Chief