Venezuela: Trans-Andean Highway & Prickly Pear Cacti

The road from Merida to the town of Mucuchíos high up in the Andes is actually a stretch of the Trans-Andean Highway. As you ascend out of Mérida, the steep valley sides transition into a dry mountain microclimate. Despite being high in the Andes, rainwater drains rapidly off the deforested slopes, allowing drougth-hardy species like Opuntia da ti to flourish alongside agricultural fields. The most profuse species here is the Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia elatior) or as the locals call it – Tuna. The dark purple fruits are edible raw, juices, made into jams and syrups, and artisanal liquors.