Tumbes Tourist Attractions
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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.
Puerto Pizarro - Northwestern Biosphere Reserve
From Puerto Pizarro, about 13km / 8mi north of Tumbes, it's possible to take a tour of the Reserva de Biosfera del Noroeste (Northwestern Biosphere Reserve). The reserve contains crocodiles, which are endangered and only found in this one area of Peru. There is a nearby crocodile nursery, which is helping to increase their numbers. The Reserva de Biosfera del Noroeste is also a good spot for Birding. The islands of Isla Hueso de Bellena and Isla de Amor attract a variety of birds.Tours to the Northwestern Biosphere Reserve can be arranged in Tumbes. There are only limited access points and very little infrastructure for tourism, but it is still worthwhile visiting.
Sanctuario Nacional Los Manglares de Tumbes
The Sanctuario Nacional Los Manglares de Tumbes was established in 1988 to protect Peru's only mangroves. Covering 3,000 hectares, the sanctuary is located about a 1 hour drive east of Tumbes. In addition to the mangroves, the area is also known for a wide variety of birds. Tours through the sanctuary involves traveling by canoe.Tours to Sanctuario Nacional Los Manglares de Tumbes can be easily arranged in Tumbes.
