Things To Do
in Zarumilla

Zarumilla is a small yet vibrant town located in the Tumbes region of northern Peru, known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to the Ecuadorian border. The town serves as a gateway for travelers exploring the surrounding natural beauty, including the Tumbes National Sanctuary and the Pacific coast. With a warm climate and friendly locals, Zarumilla is an inviting destination for those seeking an authentic Peruvian experience.

Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, historical sites, and various outdoor activities in this enchanting area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Zarumilla
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a local café, then visit the Plaza de Armas to see the main square and its beautiful colonial architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Tumbes National Sanctuary for a guided nature walk, exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant serving seafood specialties, then stroll through the town to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to the nearby beach of Punta Sal for a morning of sunbathing and swimming in the Pacific Ocean.

afternoon
:

Visit a local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy a traditional lunch at one of the food stalls.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local bar or club where you can enjoy live music and dance with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20
🚌Local Bus Ride$0.50
🍺Beer at a Bar$2
Coffee$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Access to beautiful beaches and nature reserves.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to major cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Public transportation can be less reliable.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Me gustaría..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Zarumilla

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de Armas

The heart of the town with beautiful colonial buildings and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for capturing local life.

Punta Sal Beach

A stunning beach with golden sand and picturesque sunsets, ideal for landscape photography.

Tumbes National Sanctuary

A protected area with diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes, offering numerous opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zarumilla

Zarumilla offers a delightful array of culinary experiences that reflect both Peruvian and coastal flavors, making it a haven for food lovers.

Zarumilla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche

A refreshing dish made from fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers.

Must-Try!

Arroz con Mariscos

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and a variety of ready-to-eat street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zarumilla enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. The wet season runs from December to March, with higher humidity and occasional heavy rains. The dry season from June to November sees cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet with 'Hola' when entering shops or restaurants.

Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance when conversing, as personal space can vary between cultures.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zarumilla is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Petty crime can occur, so stay vigilant in crowded places and be cautious when using ATMs.

Tipping in Zarumilla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some larger establishments may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to March)

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

Autumn (April to June)

Temperatures begin to cool, making it a pleasant time for hiking and cultural tours.

Winter (July to September)

Cooler and drier, this season is perfect for enjoying the local festivals and markets.

Spring (October to November)

Mild temperatures with occasional rain, suitable for visiting natural reserves and enjoying the lush scenery.

Nightlife Guide

Zarumilla at Night

Zarumilla's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of local bars and clubs offering live music and dance. Most nightlife venues are concentrated around the main square, where you can enjoy traditional Peruvian music and salsa dancing. Many establishments cater to a younger crowd, providing a lively atmosphere and opportunities to mingle with locals.

Hiking in Zarumilla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero Los Manglares

A scenic trail within Tumbes National Sanctuary, allowing hikers to explore mangrove ecosystems and spot various bird species.

Cerro El Cañon

A moderate hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Zarumilla by plane.

Capitán FAP Pedro Canga Rodríguez Airport (TBP)

Located approximately 40 km from Zarumilla, this airport serves domestic flights and is the main gateway to the Tumbes region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zarumilla is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally available, making it easy to explore on foot. However, be mindful of traffic when crossing streets, as local driving habits may be unpredictable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to various indigenous groups, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Zarumilla.

Migrant Population

Due to its proximity to Ecuador, Zarumilla has a significant number of migrants, creating a diverse cultural environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Zarumilla, with local teams often playing matches in community fields.

Surfing

The nearby beaches, especially Punta Sal, attract surfers looking for great waves.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zarumilla is generally light, with most transportation occurring by foot or local buses. Public transportation is available, but schedules can be irregular, so it's best to plan ahead. Taxis are also available but should be negotiated before the ride.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zarumilla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants have vegetarian options, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Zarumilla is basic, with a few clinics and pharmacies available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, it's advisable to travel to Tumbes city, where larger hospitals can provide better services. Travelers are encouraged to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Peru

Read more in our Peru 2025 Travel Guide.

Peru Travel Guide