📍 Location & Geography
Maricao is a small town nestled in the western region of Puerto Rico. It is located in the Maricao municipality, which is part of the Mayagüez–San Germán–Cabo Rojo Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town is situated in the mountainous region of the island, offering breathtaking views and a cool climate. Maricao is bordered by the municipalities of Sabana Grande, San Germán, and Mayagüez to the north, and by the municipalities of Lares, Yauco, and Las Marías to the south.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Maricao are approximately 18.15 degrees north latitude and 66.98 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Maricao is part of the Mayagüez–San Germán–Cabo Rojo Metropolitan Statistical Area in Puerto Rico. It covers a total area of approximately 37 square miles (97 km²), making it one of the smallest municipalities in Puerto Rico.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 Census, Maricao had a population of approximately 6,276 residents. The population is predominantly Hispanic, with a majority identifying as Puerto Rican. Spanish is the primary language spoken in Maricao, although English is also widely understood and spoken.
🏛️ History
Maricao was founded on April 10, 1874, by Bernardo Collado, Julio R. Collado, and Francisco M. Sojo. The town was originally a district of San Germán before it was given the status of a municipality. The name “Maricao” is believed to have originated from the Taíno name for the area, which translates to “Place of Marias”.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Maricao is known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The town is home to the Maricao State Forest, also known as Monte del Estado, which is a popular destination for nature lovers. The forest is known for its unique plant and animal species, including the endangered Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk. The town is also famous for its coffee plantations, which produce some of the finest coffee in Puerto Rico.
🏫 Education
Education in Maricao is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town has several public and private schools that offer education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, a renowned institution for its engineering and agricultural programs, is located nearby.
🚧 Transportation
Maricao is accessible by road, with the main route being PR-105, which runs through the town. Public transportation in the form of buses and taxis are available, but many residents prefer to use private vehicles for commuting. The nearest major airport is the Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla, which is approximately an hour’s drive from Maricao.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year in February, Maricao hosts the Maricao Coffee Festival, a popular event that celebrates the town’s rich coffee heritage. The festival features coffee tasting, traditional music, arts and crafts, and a parade. Another notable event is the Festival de la China Dulce, which celebrates the sweet orange, a fruit that is abundant in the area. The festival includes live music, food stalls, and various competitions.