Tumbes Attractions

Tumbes is unique compared to the rest of the North Coast of Peru. The climate here is more tropical and sunny. Tumbes is lush and green, with palm trees and warm weather. On the downside, it also has mosquitoes.

Only 30km / 18mi from the Ecuadorian border, the town was once part of Ecuador. It was claimed by Peru in 1940-41 during a border war. Tumbes does not warrant much time. If you have time for sightseeing, the Plaza de Armas is a nice green space with the Iglesia San Nicolás de Tolentino. The pedestrian streets north of the Polaza de Armas are nice places to walk, hang out, and see some modern monuments.

The area around Tumbes has some excellent beaches and nature reserves. Many people spend only a short time here before heading out to the surrounding areas.