Lo de Marcos Travel Guide

Get ready for an exciting adventure in Lo de Marcos, a beautiful and culturally rich destination in Mexico. Discover stunning natural attractions, amazing activities, delicious local cuisine and more!


Introduction to Lo de Marcos

Located in the Pacific Coast of Mexico, in the state of Nayarit, Lo de Marcos is a hidden gem that offers an authentic and unique travel experience to visitors. Once a small fishing village, this charming town has become a popular tourist destination over the years thanks to its beautiful beaches, relaxed vibe and cultural richness.

The town is known for its friendly locals, warm weather, and stunning natural attractions such as mountains, rivers, beaches and a lagoon. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, surfing, fishing and soaking up the sun.

List of Places to Visit in Lo de Marcos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Church of San Marcos: A stunning church that is the centerpiece of the town’s main square. Built in the 1800s and made of stone and brick, this church is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious or architectural history.

  • Biblioteca Lo de Marcos: A small library that offers a unique insight into the town’s culture. It has an interesting collection of literature and art for visitors to explore.

  • Casa Museo Amigos de Lo de Marcos: A beautiful museum showcasing the rich culture and history of the town. Visitors can learn about the town’s indigenous inhabitants, savor local cuisine or even learn how to make traditional handicrafts.

Natural Attractions of Lo de Marcos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lo de Marcos Beach: A stunning beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing or strolling along the shoreline. It’s also known for its vibrant sunsets and a great place to enjoy an evening with friends or family.

  • Ejidal Ejido San José del Valle: A beautiful lagoon that offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing retreat. The tranquil waters are home to a variety of wildlife such as birds and fish, and it’s a great spot for birdwatching, kayaking or taking a boat tour.

  • Sierra de Vallejo: A mountain range that offers breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding trails that meander through the mountains, taking in lush tropical vegetation, scenic vistas and natural waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lo de Marcos

  • La Lancha Trail: A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. The trail is a great place for birdwatching, and visitors can explore the nearby tide pools at low tide.

  • Sierra de Vallejo: A mountain range that offers hiking and biking trails suitable for beginner and experienced hikers alike.

Best Things to Do in Lo de Marcos: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing and Bodyboarding: With its long coastline and consistent waves, Lo de Marcos is an excellent place for surfing and bodyboarding.

  • Fishing: The surrounding waters are home to a variety of fish species, making it a great place to go fishing.

  • Horseback Riding: Visiting the mountains of Lo de Marcos on horseback is a fun and unique way to experience the stunningly beautiful natural landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lo de Marcos

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Lo de Marcos, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the town center, drink local beverages and enjoy the beach.

  • Day 2: Go to San José del Valle Lagoon, take a boat tour, and visit the surrounding wildlife.

  • Day 3: Take a surfing lesson or rent a board and hit the waves.

  • Day 4: Visit the Biblioteca Lo de Marcos, Casa Museo Amigos de Lo de Marcos, or the Church of San Marcos.

  • Day 5: Take a hike on the Sierra de Vallejo and cool off in a refreshing waterfall.

  • Day 6: Visit nearby towns, such as San Pancho, Sayulita, Puerto Vallarta, and explore their attractions.

  • Day 7: Go shopping for souvenirs and local products before saying goodbye to the town.

Food and Drink Scene of Lo de Marcos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tamales: A staple food of Mexico is a must try while in Lo de Marcos. Served steaming hot in corn husks with various fillings, such as chicken, cheese, or vegetables, these are delicious.

  • Pozole: A hearty soup consisting of meat, hominy, and spices.

  • Tacos de pescado: A local favorite, these fish tacos are made with freshly caught fish, served with cabbage and salsa.

Local Beverages

  • Cerveza: Try the Mexican beers, such as Pacifico, Corona, and Tecate.

  • Tequila Mezcal: Made in neighboring Jalisco, this local spirit is famous for its smoky flavor.

Where to Stay in Lo de Marcos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lo de Marcos is a small town with limited accommodation options. However, there are few choices for all travelers:

  • Casa Ayala: A bed and breakfast that is conveniently located in the town center.

  • Casa Piedra Luna: A guesthouse located in a peaceful, scenic part of town that offers stunning views of the sea.

  • Villanueva: A small hotel located in a quiet neighborhood that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Lo de Marcos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Huichol Art: Lo de Marcos is known for its indigenous Huichol people and their colorful beadwork.

  • Mexican Blankets: Mexican blankets with vibrant colors are excellent gifts for loved ones back home.

  • Silver Jewelry: Mexico is famous for its artisanal silverwork, and Lo de Marcos has several shops that sell an excellent variety of silver jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Lo de Marcos

Lo de Marcos has a laid-back vibe, and locals are known for their friendly attitude and willingness to help visitors enjoy a great vacation. Visitors should respect the culture and follow the basic social etiquettes.

Best Time to Visit Lo de Marcos

The best time to visit Lo de Marcos is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is pleasant and sunny. However, visitors can still enjoy the town in the rainy season, May to October, and enjoy lower prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lo de Marcos

Do:’s

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks and explore the town’s cultural attractions.

  • Respect the local customs and engage with the locals to learn more about their culture.

  • Enjoy the nature and outdoor activities Lo de Marcos has to offer.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or vandalize public places and natural attractions.

  • Do not engage in illegal activities, such as drug consumption or purchase.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lo de Marcos

Lo de Marcos is generally a safe town. However, visitors should be cautious and follow basic safety guidelines such as using taxis or public transportation, not flashing valuables and avoiding shady alleys and streets at night.

Health in Lo de Marcos

Lo de Marcos has several hospitals and clinics, and visitors should take common health precautions such as wearing sunscreen during the day and drinking only bottled water.

Getting to Lo de Marcos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lo de Marcos is a small town and has limited transportation options, but visitors can reach it by several means:

Airports Near Lo de Marcos

  • Puerto Vallarta International Airport: Located 60 miles south of Lo de Marcos, the airport receives both domestic and international flights.

  • Tepic International Airport: Located 60 km north of Lo de Marcos, most flights to Tepic come from within Mexico.

Bus Stations Near Lo de Marcos

  • Puerto Vallarta Bus Terminal: The closest major bus station to Lo de Marcos, with regular services to and from other towns.

  • Sayulita Bus Station: The bus station at Sayulita is located 20 miles south of Lo de Marcos and connects to other destinations in Nayarit.

Other Options

  • Private Car: Private transfer is another option for those wishing to avoid public transportation.

How to Get Around in Lo de Marcos

The best way to get around in Lo de Marcos is on foot or by bike. Visitors can rent bicycles in town at reasonable prices.

Where to Go Next from Lo de Marcos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Pancho: A beautiful town located to the South of Lo de Marcos with quaint beaches and lively nightlife.

  • Sayulita: A charming surf town with a bohemian vibe, located to the south of Lo de Marcos.

  • Puerto Vallarta: A popular tourist destination just 90 km south of Lo de Marcos, famous for its beaches, cultural attractions, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Lo de Marcos is a paradise for travelers of all types who want to experience Mexico off the beaten path. From stunning beaches and natural attractions to vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Plan your next adventure to Lo De Marcos today!

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