The Netflix Original Series Narcos became an instant hit, digging into the explosive life of the notorious gangster Pablo Escobar. Fans of the show can now stay at one of the many mansions the famed Colombian gunslinger owned during his brief, but insane life.
For the last 14 years, Escobar’s resort on the beaches of Tulum sat empty. That is until art dealer Lio Malca took over the property and gave it a complete makeover. The New York based dealer transformed it into the now-open Casa Malca.
Malca told Cool Hunter, “I purchased the property because I thought it was insane. I could not believe that in this world a property like this still exists and hasn’t been taken over by a corporation.”
For those looking for the Narcos experience, however, Casa Malca is not for you. You will not find secret tunnels or rooms filled with cash. You will not find a zoo like the one at Hacienda Napoles. Outside of being a property belonging to the former leader of the Medellin Cartel, Casa Malca is a tasteful lodging experience.
Sitting on the beach in Tulum on the Yucatan peninsula, Casa Malca is filled with the work of contemporary artists. Malca’s personal collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture give a fresh vibe to the place. For $530 per night, you can experience the magic of the Gulf of Mexico. Facilities at Casa Malca included a pool, a rooftop deck overlooking the beach, and even a steam room. To give guests the local flavor, the kitchen uses locally-sourced goods to produce Yucatan cuisine through partnerships with local businesses whenever possible. Contemporary dishes from around the globe will also frequent the menu, for those looking for a variety of flavors and cuisines.
Like all of Escobar’s properties, the now-Casa Malca was abandoned after the manhunt which led to his death in 1993. The gangster and occasional politician terrorized Colombia as he built an illegal empire across the country.
