Maicao Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive travel guide to Maicao, Colombia.


Maicao is a hidden gem located in La Guajira, on the Costa Norte of Colombia. This town is known for its unique culture, history, and natural attractions. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, where to stay, the food and drink scene, and everything else you need to know about Maicao.

Introduction to Maicao

Maicao is a vibrant town situated on the border of Colombia and Venezuela. It’s a melting pot of cultures with a large Middle Eastern population that migrated years ago. The fusion of culture has led to a unique gastronomy that emerges from the combination of native indigenous foods with Middle Eastern spices, and Spanish influences.

List of Places to Visit in Maicao

Here are some of the must-visit places in Maicao:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of History and Culture: This museum showcases the history of Maicao, including the stories of its indigenous people, Middle Eastern migration, and the town’s early years.
  • The Mosque of Maicao: One of the largest mosques in South America, the mosque is a beautiful building with stunning architecture.

Natural Attractions of Maicao: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cerro de la Pentildez: This is a hill located in Maicao that offers a panoramic view of the city. You can hike the hill or take a vehicle up to the top.
  • Cienagas de Maicao: This is an amazing place for nature lovers. It’s a natural reserve full of lagoons, wildlife, and beautiful vegetation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maicao

Maicao is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a scenic view. Here are some places you should consider:

  • Cerro de la Pentildez: This hill offers a moderate hike and is perfect for solo travelers or groups.
  • Cienagas de Maicao: You can bike or hike through this nature reserve and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

Best Things to Do in Maicao: Activities and Tours

Maicao is full of activities and tours that cater to different interests and ages. Here are some of the best activities:

  • Cultural tours: You can take a tour to explore the town’s rich history and culture.
  • Food tours: Maicao is known for its excellent gastronomy. Discover the town’s culinary secrets by taking a food tour.
  • Adventure tours: Maicao is home to a vast natural reserve, which offers many adventure activities. Horseback riding, bird watching, and camping are among the popular activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maicao

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

Day Activity
1 Arrival and hotel check-in
2 Explore the Museum of History and Culture, visit the Mosque of Maicao, and try some Middle Eastern cuisine
3 Take a cultural tour and then relax on a beach in Cienagas de Maicao
4 Hike to Cerro de la Pentildez, then enjoy an afternoon shopping at the local market
5 Take an adventure tour, such as horseback riding, to see more of the natural surroundings and local wildlife
6 Join a food tour and sample more of Maicao’s delicious cuisine
7 Departure day

Food and Drink Scene of Maicao

Maicao offers a diverse food scene, influenced heavily by its Middle Eastern culture. Here are some must-try dishes in Maicao:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shawarma: This dish is a Middle Eastern staple made with roasted meat, vegetables, and spices wrapped in pita bread.
  • Falafel: Another Middle Eastern classic, falafel is made with chickpeas and herbs, and is usually served with tahini sauce and pita bread.

Local Beverages

  • Maicao is known for its delicious, strong coffee.
  • Guarapo: This is a local drink made from sugarcane juice and is popular in Maicao.

Where to Stay in Maicao: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Maicao has plenty of accommodation options for all types of travelers. Here are some top choices:

  • Hotel Nawamaki: This is one of the top-rated hotels in Maicao, offering modern amenities, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
  • Zalamer Hostal: This is a great budget option for travelers who want to stay in a central location.

What to Buy in Maicao: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Maicao is known for its unique traditional products and handicrafts. Here are some items to consider bringing home with you:

  • Guajira bags: These colorful bags are woven by indigenous people and are typical of the region.
  • Hammocks: Another traditional product, hammocks are made by hand and provide travelers with a comfortable place to relax.

Local Culture and Customs of Maicao

The culture of Maicao combines indigenous, Middle Eastern, and Spanish traditions. It’s common to see people wearing typical Middle Eastern clothing and enjoying traditional food. Respect for religion is also essential since it’s a community with a big Muslim population.

Best Time to Visit Maicao

The best time to visit Maicao is from December through March when the weather is milder. Keep in mind that this is the peak season for tourism, so be sure to book your accommodations and tours in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maicao

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Explore the natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public.
  • Take pictures of people without their consent.
  • Drink tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Maicao

Overall, Maicao is a safe place to visit. However, travelers should take general precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Maicao

Make sure to drink bottled water and use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites and potential diseases. In case of an emergency, there are hospitals and clinics in the town.

Getting to Maicao: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options and logistics for getting to Maicao:

Airports Near Maicao

  • Alfonso Lopez Pumarejo Airport (VUP) in Valledupar, which is about 170 km away from Maicao.
  • Antonio Narino Airport (PSO) in Pasto, which is about 835 km away from Maicao.

Bus Stations Near Maicao

  • Maicao Terminal de Transportes: This is the main bus terminal in Maicao that connects to other parts of the country, such as Barranquilla, Cartagena, and Santa Marta.

Other Options

  • Private transportation: You can also hire a private car or take a taxi to Maicao from nearby towns or cities.

How to Get Around in Maicao

The most popular mode of transportation in Maicao is taxi service. Alternatively, if you prefer a more authentic experience, you can walk or take a local bus to get around.

Where to Go Next from Maicao: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Maicao is an excellent springboard for other attractions in La Guajira. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to check out:

  • Riohacha: This is the capital of the department and is located about 70 km from Maicao.
  • Punta Gallinas: This is the northernmost point of South America and is one of the top natural attractions in the region.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a destination with fascinating culture, delicious food, and abundant natural beauty, Maicao is a must-visit. Plan your trip to Maicao today and be prepared to be amazed by all that this hidden gem has to offer.