Andes Mountains

The Andes is the longest continental mountain range in the world, running 8,900 km (5,530 mi) along the western edge of South America. The mountain range extends through Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Chile.

The Andes are home to several large cities, including Arequipa, Bogotá, Bucaramanga, Cali, El Alto, La Paz, Medellín, Mérida, Sucre and Quito.

The Andes are grouped into 3 different divisions: the Tropical Andes, the Dry Andes and the Wet Andes. The highest peak in the Andes is Aconcagua in Argentina, which rises to 6,961 m (22,838 ft) above sea level. The world's highest volcanoes are also located in the Andes.

The northernmost range of the Andes Mountains is formed by the Venezuelan Sierra Nevada de Mérida. There are numerous traditional villages in the region, as well as countless trails that provide excellent hiking possibilities and offer stunning views. One of Venezuela's major tourist destinations is the town of Mérida in the center of the Sierra.

The most spectacular part of the Andes in Peru is the area around the city of Huaraz and the town of Caraz. It includes permanently glaciated peaks of up to 6000 m. Climbing and hiking is possible from May to September. Several glacial lakes and hot springs are also in the vicinity of Huaraz, as well as Inca and pre-Inca archeological sites, of which Chavín de Huántar is the most interesting. A large part of the Cordillera Blanca, east of Huaraz is included in the Parque Nacional Huascarán.