Piura, located in northern Peru, offers a diverse travel experience characterized by year-round warm weather and stunning beaches, attracting those seeking relaxation and water activities like surfing. The region also boasts a rich history and vibrant local culture, with opportunities to explore ancient sites and traditional craftsmanship.
The Máncora area, within the Piura region, is a popular social hub known for its lively beach atmosphere, numerous bars, restaurants, and active nightlife, which appeals particularly to younger travelers and beach enthusiasts.
Top 5 Things to do in Piura
Visitors to Piura can immerse themselves in historical exploration, vibrant local culture, and exhilarating beach and desert adventures.
1. Explore Piura City Center
The heart of Piura offers a glimpse into its rich history and colonial heritage. Wander through the Plaza de Armas, a beautiful main square adorned with tamarind trees, and visit the majestic Piura Cathedral, considered one of the oldest churches in South America. Nearby, the Casa Museo Gran Almirante Grau provides insight into the life of Peru's naval hero, displaying personal artifacts and historical documents. The Museo Municipal Vicús showcases archaeological treasures from the ancient Vicús culture, including gold objects, offering a deeper understanding of the region's pre-Columbian past.
Cost: Exploring the Plaza de Armas and Cathedral is free. Entry fees for museums are typically low, often a few soles.
Transport: The city center attractions are easily walkable from most central accommodations.
2. Day Trip to Catacaos and Huaca de Narihualá
Just a short distance from Piura, the picturesque village of Catacaos is a hub of traditional craftsmanship. Explore local markets filled with intricate gold and silver filigree jewelry, unique pottery, and finely woven textiles, including the renowned Toquilla straw hats, which are recognized as Cultural Heritage of Peru. After experiencing the vibrant artisan scene, visit the Huaca de Narihualá, an ancient archaeological site with a large mud pyramid that offers a historical perspective of the pre-Inca Tallán culture and views of the surrounding landscape.
Cost: Artisan crafts vary in price. Entry to Huaca de Narihualá is typically around 3 soles. A guided tour combining Piura and Catacaos, including Narihualá, can be booked.
Transport: Catacaos is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Piura. You can take a local bus, which takes about 15 minutes, or a taxi.
3. Relax and Play at Máncora Beach
Máncora, one of Peru's most famous northern beaches, offers a dynamic coastal experience with year-round warm weather and consistent waves. It is a prime spot for surfing, with options to rent boards or take lessons. Beyond the waves, the beach provides opportunities for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and restaurants catering to a younger crowd. For a unique wildlife encounter, consider a tour to swim with sea turtles in nearby areas like Los Órganos.
Cost: Surfboard rentals range from 20-60 soles per hour, and a 1.5-hour lesson can cost 60-100 soles. Swimming with turtles tours are available through various operators.
Transport: Máncora is about a 3-4 hour bus ride from Piura. Taxis from Piura airport to Máncora can take around 2.5 hours and cost $85-110. Within Máncora, moto-taxis are common and cost around 3 soles (approx. 1 USD) per trip.
4. Discover Vichayito Beach
For those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, Vichayito offers golden sands and clear, warm waters, ideal for swimming. This beach is particularly noted for kitesurfing and diving due to its waves and water depth, with no rocks near the shore for easy swimming. Various establishments along the beach offer relaxing treatments and massages, allowing for ultimate relaxation. It's a peaceful alternative to the more bustling Máncora, perfect for enjoying the serene coastal environment.
Cost: Costs for activities like kitesurfing lessons or diving vary by provider. Relaxing treatments are offered by beachside establishments.
Transport: Vichayito is located approximately 10 kilometers from Máncora. From Piura Airport, a taxi takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, or a bus takes around 4 hours. Transfers from Piura Airport to Vichayito can be arranged, with private transport costing $85-110 and buses costing $13-15.
5. Adventure in the Sechura Desert with Sandboarding
Experience the unique landscape of the Sechura Desert, Peru's largest desert, located south of the Piura River. The Médano Blanco, a significant sand dune, provides an excellent opportunity for adventurous activities like sandboarding. Gliding down the soft sand dunes offers an exhilarating experience and a chance to witness a tropical desert environment. Guided tours often include transportation and equipment for sandboarding, making it an accessible adventure.
Cost: Costs are typically included as part of a tour package, as this is best experienced with a guided excursion.
Transport: The Sechura Desert is about 50 km from Piura city. Tours from Piura are available and include transport to the sand dunes.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
