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Malambo is a charming town that often flies under the radar of international travelers and Carnival partygoers. While it might not be as renowned as nearby Barranquilla, Soledad, or Cartagena, Malambo offers a unique blend of culture and local life, making it an authentic Colombian experience.
This post covers Malambo, when to visit, getting around, where to stay, safety, and attractions. We’ll also delve into considerations for those seeking to remain long-term, like living costs and healthcare.
Overview
Malambo has a colonial history, and its historical sites are a testament to its rich past. Wander through the town’s central square, where you’ll find the impressive Parroquia Santa María Magdalena, a stunning example of colonial architecture. The church, with its ornate facade and serene interior, provides a glimpse into the town’s historical significance and religious heritage. The surrounding area, lined with colorful buildings and bustling markets, adds to the charm and vibrancy of Malambo.
Malambo is renowned for its lively festivals, including the vibrant Festival del Paloteo, where locals celebrate with music, dance, and traditional cuisine. This festival is an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and witness the passionate performances that define Malambo’s festive spirit.
Nature enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore in and around Malambo. Scenic landscapes, including lush forests and serene rivers, surround the town. Take a short drive to the nearby riverside areas to enjoy peaceful picnics and refreshing dips in the calm, clear waters. The region’s natural beauty offers a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation.
In Malambo, every street corner and local interaction tells a story, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to visit for a few hours. Malambo forms the southernmost part of the Metropolitan area of Barranquilla.
Malambo
- Department: Atlántico
- Population: 140,000
- Official language(s): Spanish
- Currency: Colombian peso (COP)
- Climate: Aw (tropical savanna)
- Safe to visit: Yes, but be cautious
- Cost of living: Low
When to Visit
The best time to visit Malambo is during the shoulder months, typically from April to June and September to November. The weather remains pleasant during these periods, with lower chances of heavy rainfall compared to the peak rainy season. You’ll also experience fewer tourists than during peak travel periods and local festivals.
Getting Around
Malambo’s main airport is Ernesto Cortissoz Barranquilla International Airport (BAQ). Avianca, LATAM Colombia, Wingo, and Clic Air lead Colombia’s airline sector and serve Latin America, North America, the Caribbean, Oceania, Asia, and Europe.
Malambo’s central bus terminal is at Carrera 14 Esquina Calle 62 in Soledad. You may need a transit pass to take local buses.
Cabify, InDrive, Uber, and taxis are available in Malambo. Rental car dealers are not present.
Where to Stay
Malambo has a few hotels, and its neighborhoods aren’t well-defined. However, areas around Plaza Santa María Magdalena are the best places to stay. Airbnb and Vrbo listings are also in short supply. Therefore, you might consider staying in Barranquilla or Soledad for more options.
Things to Do
The top things to do in Malambo include:
Plaza Santa María Magdalena and Parroquia Santa María Magdalena: In Malambo’s center, people watch, shop, eat, and relax.
Festival del Paloteo: If you visit in December, don’t miss this lively festival celebrating local traditions with music, dance, and food.
Local Markets: Wander through Malambo’s streets to experience local flavors and crafts and interact with friendly vendors.
Riverside Areas: Take a short trip to nearby rivers for a peaceful retreat. These offer opportunities for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the region’s natural beauty.
Discover more things to do, attractions, and tours in Malambo and surrounding areas.
Shopping and Gyms
The best shopping malls in Malambo are Plaza Malambo Mall Comercial and CC Plaza Malambo Mall.
Malambo’s best gyms include Center Gym and Olimpus Gym.
The best supermarkets in Malambo are Olímpica, Éxito, and Ara.
Safety and Crime
Malambo is safe to visit, but you might be better off staying in Barranquilla or Soledad, which are more touristic. Like many small cities, Malambo has areas with varying levels of safety.
Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas, so secure your valuables when out and stick to busy streets.
Consult your government’s travel advisories for more details.
Cost of Living
Malambo’s living costs are low, with accommodation, food, and transportation well below the prices of other major cities.
Dallas, Texas, is a good representation of the average cost of living in the U.S.; it is neither extremely expensive like New York or San Francisco nor particularly cheap like Mississippi or Arkansas.
Malambo’s living costs are similar to Soledad’s and about 72% lower than Dallas’s.
- Rent prices in Soledad are 87% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Restaurant prices in Soledad are 70% lower than in Dallas, TX.
- Groceries prices in Soledad are 66% lower than in Dallas, TX.
Healthcare
Colombia’s healthcare system includes public and private hospitals. Public hospitals suffer from supply shortages, overcrowding, and long wait times. Private hospitals charge a premium and provide better care, equipment, and services.
The best hospitals and medical centers in Malambo include Clínica Campbell and Hospital Local de Malambo Santa María Magdalena. Barranquilla has much better health services.
Pharmacies include independents and chains, including Farmavida and Farmanorte.
Health insurance providers are available nationally and locally. They operate in Spanish, so you might consider getting insurance from a company that operates globally, like SafetyWing and WorldTrips. That will make policy and claim management much easier should a medical concern or incident arise.
Real Estate
Visit Metrocuadrado, Fincaraiz, Remax Colombia, and Century21 Colombia for Colombian real estate and rentals.
Nearby Cities
- Barranquilla
- Soledad
- Cartagena
- Sabanagrande
- Valledupar
Updated: October 17, 2024