Things To Do
in Sechura

Sechura is a coastal town in northwestern Peru, known for its diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Sechura Desert, it offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and vibrant local communities. The town serves as a gateway to the surrounding natural attractions, including the nearby Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary.

Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, explore archaeological sites, and engage with the friendly locals that contribute to the town's charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Sechura
morning
:

Start your day with a breakfast of fresh pan de yuca and coffee at a local café. Afterward, visit the Sechura Cathedral to admire its architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the beach, sampling ceviche, followed by a visit to the nearby Sechura Desert for some stunning views and photography opportunities.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant known for its seafood dishes and enjoy the sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary, where you can observe diverse wildlife and unique mangrove ecosystems.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the nearby archaeological site of Narihualá to learn about the ancient Moche civilization.

evening
:

Experience local culture with a traditional Peruvian dinner and maybe catch a live music performance at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Night in a budget hotel$20-40
🧢Souvenir$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Delicious seafood cuisine.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Transportation can be challenging in remote areas.
  • Hot summers may not be suitable for all travelers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Sechura

Visit one of these nice places.

Sechura Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and stunning sunsets, perfect for capturing the beauty of the Pacific coast.

Manglares de Tumbes

A unique ecosystem with mangrove forests, offering opportunities to photograph diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Narihualá Archaeological Site

An ancient site with impressive ruins that provide a glimpse into the area's historical significance, ideal for capturing both culture and nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sechura

Sechura offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh seafood and local Peruvian flavors. Must-try dishes include ceviche, jalea, and arroz con mariscos.

Sechura Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers.

Must-Try!

Jalea

Fried seafood platter served with a tangy sauce, typically made with fish, shrimp, and squid.

Arroz con Mariscos

A flavorful rice dish cooked with a variety of seafood, spices, and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Sechura

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and seafood, perfect for trying street food like anticuchos.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sechura has a desert climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. Summers are warm, ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), while winters can be cooler, averaging between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Rainfall is minimal, mainly occurring during the winter months, leading to clear skies and sunny days ideal for exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a light kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone.

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and ceremonies.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of the local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sechura is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay alert and take common safety precautions. Avoid displaying valuable items in public, and be cautious when walking alone at night. Use reputable transportation options and ensure your accommodations have good security measures.

Tipping in Sechura

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash (Peruvian soles), and some larger establishments may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and sunny days, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Autumn (March to May)

A pleasant time to visit with moderate temperatures, perfect for cultural festivals and enjoying local cuisine.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures and occasional rain, making it a good time for indoor activities and exploring the town's history.

Spring (September to November)

Mild weather with occasional rain, suitable for nature walks and wildlife observation.

Nightlife Guide

Sechura at Night

Sechura's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a few local bars offering live music and traditional Peruvian dances. While not a party town, the atmosphere is welcoming for those looking to enjoy a relaxed evening with drinks and local culture. Popular spots often feature outdoor seating where you can enjoy the warm coastal breezes.

Hiking in Sechura

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Blanco

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the desert and coastal landscapes.

Las Dunas de Sechura

A scenic hike through the sand dunes, ideal for those looking to experience the unique desert ecosystem.

Airports

How to reach Sechura by plane.

Capitán FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport

Located in Piura, this airport is the nearest major airport to Sechura, offering domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sechura is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and markets are located. However, some areas might require transportation to reach, particularly those outside the main urban area. Sidewalks are generally available, making it convenient for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Local indigenous groups often maintain traditional customs and lifestyles, contributing to the cultural richness of the area.

Migrant Workers

Many migrants from other parts of Peru have settled in Sechura, adding to the diversity of the population and local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is extremely popular in Sechura, with many local teams and community matches taking place regularly.

Surfing

The nearby beaches offer great waves for surfing, attracting both locals and tourists looking to ride the waves.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sechura is relatively light compared to larger cities. Local public transportation includes buses and mototaxis, which are affordable and widely used. Roads are generally well-maintained, but it's important to remain vigilant, especially for pedestrians.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sechura.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood dominates the local cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as vegetable stir-fries and salads.

Gluten-Free Options

Rice and corn-based dishes are common, but it's advisable to check with restaurants for gluten-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Sechura include a few small clinics and pharmacies. For more serious medical issues, the nearest hospitals are located in larger cities like Piura, which is about an hour away. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Peru

Read more in our Peru 2025 Travel Guide.

Peru Travel Guide