Things To Do
in Zarumilla

Classic Peruvian seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp cured in lime, onion and chili — widely available in local cevicherías and beach restaurants.

Must-Try!

Local specialty using black clams or mixed shellfish, prepared in tangy marinades; try at coastal stalls and seafood stands.

Seafood rice similar to paella; hearty and common in family restaurants and bodegas in the region.

Fried green plantains and yucca, common as snacks or sides in street food stalls and small eateries.

Daily market selling fresh fish, produce and prepared snacks — ideal for trying tamalitos, fresh fruit juices and local sweets.

Bustling stalls and street vendors near the border where you can taste quick seafood snacks, empanadas and cross-border specialties.

Use polite greetings: 'Buenos días'/'Buenas tardes' and a handshake or light kiss on the cheek among acquaintances. Be friendly and use basic Spanish; locals appreciate efforts to speak the language.

Show respect to elders and town authorities; formal titles (Señor/Señora) are commonly used in introductions.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially vendors or near the border — some people prefer not to be photographed.

Casual, modest clothing is appropriate for daytime; bring a light layer for evenings and respectful attire for church visits.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small towns; round up a bill, leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, and give small tips (S/1–S/5) to helpful guides or porters. Cash is preferred for tips.

Local currency is the Peruvian Sol (S/). Cash is king — many small vendors and taxis take only cash. Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in larger restaurants and hotels in Zarumilla and Tumbes, but ATMs can be limited, so carry enough cash.

Short boardwalks and guided trails through mangrove ecosystems for birdwatching and photography — low-impact, easy walks suitable for most visitors.

Trails through dry forest and coastal hills offering varied terrain and viewpoints; hikes can be moderate and are best done with a guide in hotter months.

Gentle trails and paths along the river great for casual walks, birdwatching and observing local life; accessible and family-friendly.

Longer shoreline walks across beaches and dunes; bring sun protection and water and plan for tidal conditions.

The nearest regional airport serving Tumbes city, roughly a 30–60 minute drive from Zarumilla depending on route; offers domestic flights and connections to larger Peruvian cities.

Larger domestic airport in Piura (around 2–3 hours by car) with more frequent flights and connections; useful for travelers coming from farther in Peru.

Peru's main international gateway; reach Zarumilla via a domestic flight to Tumbes or Piura and then by road — overall travel time varies but is common routing for international visitors.

International hub in southern Ecuador; some travelers combine overland travel via the border crossing (Aguas Verdes/Huaquillas), but ensure you have proper travel documents and check customs/immigration rules.

Vegetarian options are limited but available: look for vegetable stews, rice, plantain, yucca and salads at larger eateries and markets. Explain 'soy vegetariano/a' and be specific about avoiding fish/broth; bring snacks if you have strict requirements.

Vegan choices are scarce in small towns; fresh fruit, juices, rice dishes and fried yucca/patacones are safe bets. Consider self-catering using market produce or traveling to Tumbes city for more options.

Many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free (ceviche, arroz con mariscos), but check for breading or soy sauces in prepared foods. Ask vendors about ingredients and avoid unknown sauces.

Carry a translation card in Spanish explaining your allergy and keep necessary medication; cross-contamination can occur in street stalls.