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Isla Margarita: Sights & Places of Interest |
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Background |
Margarita was discovered by Christopher Columbus on August 15th, 1498, and claimed by Emperor Carlos V on March 18th, 1525. By petition of Jose Cortes of Madariaga, one of the leaders of the Independence movement of Venezuela, our state was named Nueva Esparta on May 12th, 1817. The seat of government was then officially established in Pampatar. | |
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Maria has put together some suggested itineraries for you. |
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1 Day Tour |
Walking Tour 1: We're working on this | |
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2 Day Tour
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If You Have 2 Days, spend the first day as suggested above. In the morning of the second day, We're working on this | |
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3 Day Tour
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If You Have 3 Days, spend the first 2 days as outlined above. On the third day, We're working on this | |
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4 Day Tour
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If You Have 4 Days, spend the first 3 days as outlined above. In the morning of the fourth day, We're working on this | |
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5 Day Tour
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If You Have 5 Days, spend the first 4 days as outlined above. In the morning of the fifth day, We're working on this | |
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Marite's Lagoon |
In Mariño Municipality, Marite's lagoon covers an area of 3674 hectares and is situated in the southern part of Margarita. It is mainly formed of mangroves, with Rhizophora mangle covering 35.8% of the lagoon. The northern part is covered by xerophytic vegetation among which there are live trees, a variety of cacti and date palm trees. The lagoon is not deep and has a labyrinth of scenic canals. A body of water covers an area of 9 kilometers of its 940 hectares. The lagoon was declared a natural reserve on February 27th, 1974. Public transportation runs between Porlamar and the lagoon. | |
| Guyamuri Mountain | One of the most beautiful places on the island, and revered by the Indios Guaiqueri. The natives believed that they could feel the presence of a higher being there and that a magical spirit blessed the mountain. The mountain in 470 m.a.s.l. and has a surface area of 1670 hectares. Located in the Municipality of Antolin del Campo, it was declared a natural monument on February 27th, 1974. You can get to the mountain by taking the Avenida 31 de Julio, via El Agua Beach. You’ll need to go by car, as there is no public transportation available to take you there. | |
| Matasiete Mountain | Declared a natural monument on February 27th, 1974 is located northeast of La Asuncion, and is 660 m.a.s.l. It was here where one of the most famous battles in the history of Margarita’s struggle for independence took place on July 31st, 1817. In the Battle of Matasiete, Margaritan warriors fought so valiantly against the Spanish troops of General Morillo that the General named them Nueva Esparta, comparing the Margaritans to the famous Greek warriors, the Spartans. It was this famous battle which brought about the end of Spanish rule in Margarita. If you are driving, you can reach the mountain via La Asuncion, either by taking the old road or the new highway. Another means of transportation is to take the public transportation service towards El Agua beach, get off in Guacuco and from there take a taxi. | |
| The Breasts of Maria Guevara | Shaped like a woman’s breast and situated in the district of Tubores to the south of La Restinga Lagoon. The hills reach a height of 130 meters and cover an area of 1670 hectares covered in giant cactus, prickly pear, barrel cactus, aloe vera plants and other exotic xerophytic vegetation. Maria Guevara, for whom the hills are named, was born in Sucre State and lived in Tubores, where she owned a considerable number of fishnets. Her work ethic earned her the respect and admiration of the local fisherman. The hills were declared a Natural reserve on February 27th, 1974. The Boca de Palo Lagoon (85 hectares) and Raya Lagoon (38,125 hectares) are also part of this natural reserve. You can reach the hills by the public transportation line that runs from Porlamar towards Macanao Peninsula and which passes in front of this natural monument. | |
| Macanao Peninsula | A sparsely populated area is in the western part of the island. Since 1963, there is a bridge linking it to the rest of the island. From the peninsula you’ll have an excellent view of several of Margarita’s mountains: Cedros (745 m.a.s.l.); Risco Blanco (680); Guaraguao (660); Piedra Lisa (500); El Castillo (380). Macanao Peninsula has beautiful scenery and offers deserted fine sandy beaches and splendid shorelines. If you plan an outing to the peninsula, don’t forget to bring along water, food and sunscreen. | |
| Canaima |
A Natural Park, located in a region of the Guyana Massive known as La Gran Sabana. In 1975 it was proposed as Natural Resource of Humanity by the International Union for Conservation of Nature because of the importance of its scenic and resources. The rain forest and savannas with impressive table mountains called Tepuys. Cross the Orinoco river and fly through territory of tepuys and savannas until we encounter the highest waterfalls of the world, Angel Falls. (1005 m). Close to Canaima Lagoon you can take a ride in a typical Indian boat to admire the spectacular waterfalls that surround the lagoon. Tours are available from most hotels. |
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| National Park Los Roques | Just a 50 minute flight from Margarita. Visit some of the cays of this incredible park, one of the largest in the world, outstanding for its exceptional landscapes of beaches with white sands and multicolored, warm and crystalline waters with a marine biodiversity. You can do snorkeling in the coral reefs or just enjoy the warm white sand of the beach. Tours are available from most hotels. | |
| Cabatucan | Cabatucan: If you love horses, you should not miss the adventure of a horseback ride on the exotic beaches and mountains of Peninsula Macanao in Far West Style. Enjoy a horse back ride you will never forget. Tours are available from most hotels. | |
| Swimming with Dolphin | Swimming with dolphins: If you always dreamed of a swim holding the fin of a dolphin, this is the moment to make your dream come true. You will be briefed (videos in Spanish and English), with explanations of the trainer, provided with floating devices, supervision in the water by the trainer and his assistants and demonstrations. You will have contact with the dolphins and make exercises with them. Tours are available from most hotels. | |
| Los Testigos | The fishermen from Los Testigos are specialized in Shark fishing. Those small islands are also a place of lobster migration. There is the possibility to join the fishermen on a Shark fishing trip about 20 miles in open sea, a quite unique and unforgettable adventure. | |
| El Agua Beach |
El Agua is the most well known tourist development on the Island. It offers a wide selection of restaurants to choose from along this palm tree studded beach. Rough waters and 4.000 m. Long (2.5 miles). |
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| Paraguito
Beach
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Parguito offers waves that are quite strong. Parguito is popular among the surfers. Under its palm trees, you will find restaurants with complete public services. Rough waters and 900 meters long. (0.6 miles). | |
| Guacuco Beach | Guacuco is the most popular among its local patrons, but has yet to be frequented by many foreign tourist. Shallow waves and 2.000 meters long. (1.3 miles). | |
| Pampatar Beach | Pampatar is in the large picturesque bay of Pampatar serves as one of the most important ports for the local fishermen. Tranquil waters and 3.000 meters long. (1.7 miles). | |
| La Caracola Beach | La Caracola is the "IN" beach for the younger crowd, and is located in front of Costa Azul. Semistrong shallow waves and 1.000 meters long. (0.6 miles). | |
| Bella Vista Beach | Bella Vista is affectionately known as the beach of Porlamar, offering many fine restaurants among scattered palm trees. Calm waters and 1.000 meters long. (0.6 miles). | |
| El Yaque Beach | El Yaque is world famous among windsurfing enthusiasts. It is also ideal for children, as the waters are shallow and warm. 2.000 meters long. (1.3 miles). | |
| Playa La Galera |
Playa La Galera is Located beside Juangriego bay, just east of the town, this beach offers its patrons shade huts, jet ski rentals, and restaurants. Calm waters and 1.200 meters long. (0.8 miles). |
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| Playa Caribe | Playa Caribe is becoming a favorite for many people. Here you will find many quality beach restaurants, palm trees, and your desired tranquillity. Rough waters and 1.200 meters long. (0.8 miles). | |
| Manzanillo Beach | Manzanillo is a picturesque bay positioned among the mountains in the most extreme north/eastern point of the Island. Calm waters and 900 meters long. (0.5 miles). | |
| Puerto Cruz | Puerto Cruz is the widest and windiest beach of the Island. You will encounter many palm trees, shade huts and public services. Rough waters and 1.000 meters long. (0.6 miles). | |
| Puerto Viejo | Puerto Viejo is beside Puerto Cruz, this beach is much calmer, hence inviting for children and less experienced swimmers. Calm waters and 700 meters long. (0.4 miles). | |
| La Restinga | La Restinga is located in a national park, 10 kilometers of beach unites the peninsula of Macanao to Margarita Island. Calm waters and 10 Km long. (6.2 miles). | |
| La Pared |
La Pared offers magnificent sunsets and complete tranquillity are guaranteed. No public services are available. Rough waters and 1.500 meters long. After walking around Ayder's rolling meadows, you can relax in one of the many hot springs. |
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| Duty
Free Shopping
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With its 2000 duty free shops, is the most important retail center of the Caribbean and offers visitors a fabulous range of luxury duty free articles. The island has been exempt from all import duty and taxes since 1975, thus providing tourists and residents an excellent opportunity to acquire top name brand goods at no name prices. There are three main shopping areas in Margarita where tourists and locals mingle to find the best buy. Visitors to the island enjoy a similar tax exemption for purchases up to the value of $1500.00 US$ per person | |
| Mercado de Los Conejeros | Locals and visitors enjoy this city market for its very competitive prices in clothing, linens, shoes and small appliances. You’ll find over 100 friendly vendors eager to make a sale. | |
| Guevara and Gómez Boulevards | This shopping area, well-frequented by locals, has an abundance of retail and wholesale duty free shopping for the bargain hunter. Despite the low prices, you’ll find some great quality items. | |
| Avenida Santiago Mariño and Avenida 4 de Mayo | The boutiques and shopping centers, which line Avenida Santiago Mariño and Avenida 4 de Mayo, carry the best of lines in all sorts of merchandise. You’ll find an array of shops, where merchandise, whether it is clothing, electronics, cosmetics, perfume or liquor, carry exclusive names. You’ll also find original creations by Gucci, Fendi, Cartier and other fine designers. | |
| The Free Port of the North: Juan Griego | One of the larger cities in Margarita, Juan Griego, located on the north coast of the island just 30 minutes from Porlamar, has developed its own duty free shopping district. You’ll find many shops along an avenue, which faces Juan Griego’s beautiful harbor, which is a vantagepoint in the area for admiring sumptuous sunsets. Generally, the shops carry low price, merchandise as opposed to designer items, and you’ll find a great selection of inexpensive articles sold in retail and wholesale quantities. There’s almost everything from linens, shoes, clothing, fabrics, to jewelry and much more. | |
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If
you have any comments or if you have any full or half day trips you
would like to add, we would be very happy to share them with the world! |