Merida Weather, When to Go and Climate Information

(Merida, The Andes, Venezuela)

Venezuela's topography shows vast variations, from the Andes mountain range through high valleys to gently sloping plains and wetlands at the mouths of rivers. Consequently, it supports a large number of micro-climates, based more on altitude than area. Although the country lies in the world's tropical zone, its climate shows wide variations between humid tropic and Alpine. There are two basic seasons in Merida, the shorter wet season between November and May, and the dry season through the remainder of the year.

Due to its altitude above sea level and its proximity to the Andes, Merida's climate classification is temperate. Temperature variations throughout the year are minor, but due to its distance from the coast and its altitude, variations throughout the day can be considerable. Maximum daytime temperatures hover around 25°C / 77°F with occasional increases, but the temperature can drop as much as 10°C / 50°F at night. Rainfall depends on the wind direction, with most rain falling from June through to the end of August.

Seasonal Climate Variations / When to Go

Whatever time of year you come to Merida and whatever you plan to do when you arrive, layered clothing is an essential here. A fine, pleasantly warm day in the city soon becomes a chilly or even freezing experience on a trip into the mountains. This prevails throughout the year as actual temperatures vary little according to season. Temperature / climate zones here are horizontal, and within a day's sightseeing several zones will be encountered at least once.

The only time worth avoiding is the high point of the rainy season, when smaller roads, especially in the mountains, can become impassable and the peaks are shrouded in cloud or impenetrable fog, ruining any chance of catching the spectacular views on offer.

Merida Weather and Climate Chart (Averages)

	Maximum	Minimum
January	24°C / 75°F	14°C / 57°F
February	25°C / 77°F	15°C / 59°F
March	25°C / 77°F	15°C / 59°F
April	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
May	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
June	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
July	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
August	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
September	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
October	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
November	24°C / 75°F	15°C / 59°F
December	24°C / 75°F	14°C / 57°F