best time to visit mancora peru

Visiting Mancora, Peru: What to See, Know, & Do

Located in Northern Peru, Mancora holds the title of my favorite beach town in the world. During my two years of living in Peru , I frequently enjoyed long weekends in Mancora.

The center of Mancora is bustling with an abundance of fantastic restaurants, lively bars, intriguing Peruvian markets, and thrilling activities such as surfing. It’s a unique blend of a tranquil beach town and an energetic party destination. Additionally, just a short distance from the center of Mancora, there are smaller local beach towns that offer a slower and more relaxed pace for those seeking that during their trip.

Throughout my time in Mancora, I had the opportunity to explore all the popular bars and restaurants, as well as experience various accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan your trip to Mancora, catering to any budget.

Table of Contents

How to get to mancora, peru.

When visiting Mancora, you’ll either be coming from another country or from within another city in Peru. Here are three of the most common scenarios that tourists visiting Mancora find themselves in:

Visiting Mancora from a Country Outside of Peru by Flight:

If you’re planning to visit Mancora from a country outside of Peru by flight, you’ll need to make a stop in Lima. All international flights heading to Mancora are required to have a layover in Lima. This means that if you want to visit Mancora, Peru from another country, you’ll need to stop in Lima first. Once you’re in Lima, you have the choice to fly to either Piura Airport (PIU) or Talara Airport (TYL). 

The driving distance from Piura Airport (PIU) to Mancora is 3 hours, while it takes approximately 1 hour from Talara Airport (TYL) to reach Mancora. Usually, it’s more convenient to reach Mancora from Talara Airport, but some visitors opt to fly into Piura Airport because it offers a wider range of flight options between Piura and Lima.

Visiting Mancora from Within Peru by Flight:

If you’re planning to visit Mancora from another city within Peru by flight, there are affordable flights available from almost every major city. However, due to the flight routes in Peru, it is highly likely that you will have to make a transfer in Lima to reach Mancora. Similar to flying to Peru from an external country, as mentioned earlier, you will fly directly into either Piura Airport (PIU) or Talara Airport (TYL).

Getting to Mancora by Bus from Within Peru:

One of the strengths of South America, specifically on the western coast, is its ground transportation. It’s possible to get to/from most major cities within Peru by bus. 

Since Lima is the most common first destination for tourists visiting Peru, there are several bus options that will take you from Lima to Mancora within 20 hours. It’s a long jury, but worth it if you’re a budget traveler looking to save some money. My favorite bus transportation company in Peru is Cruz Del Sur —I used them many times and they are very reliable and affordable. Pro tip: if you can afford it, upgrade to a VIP ticket! It’s just a few extra soles and will provide you with a much more comfortable experience which is worth it if you’re taking a long trip.

Getting to Mancora by Bus from Ecuador:

Since Mancora is located close to Ecuador, you might consider taking a bus from Ecuador to Mancora. In such cases, there are numerous buses that offer direct transportation from Ecuador to Mancora, Peru.

Additional Tips for Ground Transportation to Mancora in any scenario:

As Mancora is a small town, you may need to take a bus to Piura first and then transfer to a local bus company for a further 3-hour journey to Mancora — whether you’re coming from within Peru or from Ecuador. Fortunately, there are several bus companies available in Mancora that can safely and affordably take you to your destination. Once you arrive, simply follow the signs and choose the first reputable option that catches your eye.

If you prefer, you can also opt for a communal van to travel to Mancora. If you decide to go this route, make sure to negotiate the price with the driver as it is common practice and expected.

Ground Transportation in Mancora

In Mancora and the surrounding areas, there are taxis, caravans, and motor taxis available for transportation. When arriving from the airport, it’s recommended to take a taxi or a caravan to reach your accommodation. Both options can be booked in advance or on the spot upon arrival.

Motor taxis are the preferred mode of transportation within Mancora. Typically, motor taxi rides cost around 3SOL (equivalent to 1USD) for each trip. The price may vary depending on the distance you need to travel. These can be hailed easily by throwing your hand in the air to hail them down when you see them coming down the road.

With all local ground transportation in Peru, and specifically Mancora, make sure to negotiate the price with the operator before getting into the vehicle. This is a common practice in Peru and will help you save money. Regardless of whether or not you negotiate, it’s important to agree on a price in advance. Once you’re in transit, the driver has the upper hand and may raise the fare—charging you far more than you should pay.

Top Accommodation in Mancora, Peru

The two best ways to book accommodation in Mancora is through booking.com or hostelworld.com.

One important aspect to keep in mind about accomodation in Mancora is that it’s a beach town, and as a result, the Wi-Fi connection can be generally poor, and the water supply may be limited. Expect your accommodation to have subpar Wi-Fi (consider using a phone hotspot as a backup) and light water pressure, with no hot water available. Additionally, mosquitoes are often present in accommodations, but most hostels and hotels provide mosquito nets in the bedrooms to address this issue.

Here are a few of my favorite hotels and hostels in Mancora at varying price points to satisfy any budget.

Address : Antigua Panamericana Norte 1217, Máncora

Address : Au. Panamericana Nte. 1215, Máncora

• Eco Lodge : This hostel is a lovely and cozy accommodation option situated near Playa Mancora. While it’s not directly located on the beach, it is nestled in the “mountains” of Mancora. Guests staying here can reach the beach within a short 10-minute walk. Address : Calle s/nombre, Barrio Industrial, Manc 01 Máncora

Address :  Av Piura 262, Máncora 20851

The Best Things To Do in Mancora, Peru

Mancora is famous for its stunning beach, incredible surfing opportunities, and extensive dining options. Chances are, you’ll spend the majority of your time engaging in one or all of these activities. To make the most of your trip to Mancora, here’s a rundown of the top attractions and experiences to consider:

1. Relax on one of Mancora's beaches

Mancora, along with its surrounding region, is renowned for boasting some of the best beaches in Northern Peru. The area encompasses Mancora City, which features a public beach, as well as several other beaches stretching along the coast in neighboring towns. Here are a few of my personal favorite beaches in the region:

• Playa Mancora : This is a public beach in the “center” of Mancora. It’s nestled within a town that has lots of stores, restaurants, hostels, bars, etc. This is what I like to refer to as the “party center” of Mancora. Most of the hostels here, like Loki Hostel , have daily parties and events. There are also a lot of great bars and restaurants worth checking out in the area. The food in Mancora is actually really good, and most of the good restaurants are near this beach. Read down for more info on those.
• Playa Las Pocitas Mancora : This beach is within walking distance of Playa Mancora (where the action is) but is very tranquil and chill. I prefer to stay here when I visit Mancora, and then walk to Playa Mancora and the surrounding area when I want to go to a bar, shop, take surfing lessons, or go to a restaurant.
• Playa Arenillas : This beach is in Vichayito Mancora, which is another one of my favorite sections to visit. My experience of the area is that it can be a bit crowded with families, but still manages to provide a tranquil and fun experience. The town surrounding the beach has got some great local restaurants, cafes and bars. Playa Arenillas is approximately a 45-minute walk, or 15-minute motor-taxi ride from Playa Mancora .
• Playa Los Oreganos :  This beach is approximately a 30-minute motor-taxi ride from Playa Mancora . I wouldn’t recommend attempting to walk here, as it’s quite a distance away. In my experience, this town was the most local among the four listed here, and its beach is one of the most beautiful in the area. The water at Playa Los Oreganos appeared slightly greener and calmer compared to the other beaches, which I personally enjoyed. The area also gave off a more tropical vibe. If you have the time and plan on spending more than a few days in Mancora, I definitely suggest checking out this beach.

2. Watch the Sunset

3. hit the waves - go surfing.

Mancora—specifically Playa Mancora— is a great place to learn how to surf for beginners. Experienced surfers also enjoy the waves. Playa  Mancora generally has no waves, but there’s a small section near the city center that always has at least a few small waves to ride on. I’m a newbie surfer and took lessons here. The instructors are excellent— I’ve watched lots of new surfers practice here and have never seen a new student fail to catch a wave on their first try.

There are two places that you can take lessons or rent boards from. They’re both located right in the center of Playa Mancora in front of the Green Eggs & Ham restaurant (you can’t miss them). Both of the surf schools in the section are in partnership with one another, so the cost of renting in both and quality of service from each is equal. The cost of surfboard rental & surf lessons in Mancora is reasonable and varies depending on the time of year. Visitors should expect to pay between 60-100SOL for a 1.5-hour lesson and 20-60SOL/hour for a surf-board rental.

I’m not converting the costs to USD here, as conversion rates vary. However, at the time of writing this article 1SOL(Peruvian Currency) = $3.6 USD. 80SOL = $22 USD, for reference.

4. Check out the Sea Life: Swim with the Sea Turtles or go Whale Watching!

Depending on the time of year that you go to Mancora, you can see some great sea life. Whales hang off of the coast of Mancora and the surrounding region from mid-July until late October. There are many local tours that can take you out on a boat to view the whales. People have also claimed to see them from the shore. The whales hang off of the shores of Mancora a few months a year to mate and train their young ones, before heading up north to feed.

It’s also possible to see and swim with sea turtles in the Mancora area. Swimming with the sea turtles is hit or miss. I swam with sea turtles in Playa Los Oreganos in April and saw tourists swimming with them in Playa Las Pocitas in December. There are official tours that you can book this through in advance, but I recommend going and asking a local if the sea turtles are around. If they say yes, then look for a pier with tourists bobbing up and down in the water with life jackets on next to it—that’s likely where the sea turtles are.

5. Go on a Boat Ride & Catch Your Lunch

Ceviche is one of the most popular foods in Peru . Ceviche is fish, that’s cooked with lemon and then served up with other ingredients like onions & corn. In Mancora, you can ride a boat, catch a fish, have a local prepare it for you as a ceviche dish, and then eat it then and there. The company that offers this is a bit, “underground” and not searchable on the internet (like many things in Mancora). I recommend going, finding a local, and asking them to point you in the direction of the “fishing for ceviche” expedition. If this experience feels too risky to you, then you can also try ceviche at a local restaurant in the area.

6. Go Shopping for Hand-Made Peruvian Goods

Mancora’s got a lot of really cute clothing and tchotchke stores. The vibe of Mancora is beach-town, spiritual, hippie—and the items in the stores reflect that. I recommend browsing the shops near Playa Mancora (if coming from the beach, walk past the Green Eggs & Ham restaurant, onto the street). You’ll see all the stores within a small 10 block radius of the restaurant).

You can also find a lot of cool handmade Peruvian goods in the Mercado (market). The market is next to Playa Mancora, and about five blocks walking distance from the town center. The market has about 50 stalls full of vendors that sell various things such as bracelets made of alpaca thread, hand-made clothing, crystals, hand-made wooden items, and more. I once requested a white crochet bikini, made to order, from one of the stalls in Mancora. The price is right and if you ask some of the vendors, they’ll custom make a lot of different kinds of things for you.

My Favorite Restaurants in Mancora, Peru

T There are many excellent restaurants in Mancora that offer a variety of cuisines. The most popular ones include seafood, particularly ceviche, Italian food, and, of course, Peruvian cuisine. Here are a few of my favorite spots. However, don’t hesitate to explore other places that may not be listed in my or any other “best of” lists—there is a lot more to discover beyond these recommendations and sometimes the best things are discovered unexpectedly:

• Green Eggs & Ham : This is the best restaurant in Mancora if you’re looking for a great view of the beach. They’ve got a large balcony that customers can sit on and eat while taking in the views. They offer a menu del dia ( menu of the day), which includes a juice (usually papaya, pineapple, or mango), appetizer (ceviche or similar) and main entree (i.e., chicken and potatoes, tacos, etc.). Their desserts are also stellar. Address: Pasaje 8 de Noviembre Centro Comercial BirdHouse, Mancora

Address: Av, Piura 36o 20851 Máncora, Peru

Address : Av. Piura 224, Máncora, Peru

Address : Máncora District 20850

The Weather in Mancora

Mancora is warm throughout the year. The optimal time to visit Mancora, Peru in terms of climate is from mid-June to mid-October. Summer in Mancora lasts from late December to late March, and during this period, the weather is generally hot and humid. In the winter months, the heat is drier, accompanied by mostly clear skies.

What to Pack for a Trip to Mancora

Mancora is a scorching beach town, so it’s essential to pack light and breathable clothing. Here’s a list of items you should bring with you:

• Summer Clothes: tank tops, shorts, dresses, breathable pants, etc.
• Bathing Suit
• Sunglasses 
• Sunscreen (the sun is strong in Mancora)
• Mosquito repellent ( the mosquitos are aggressive in Mancora, bring good repellent! )
• Sandals 
• Beach bag 

If you happen to forget to pack an item, don’t worry. Mancora has numerous stores where you can find everything you need, including convenience stores and clothing stores. You’ll have no trouble finding anything from the aforementioned list and more if needed.

So, What Are You Waiting For? Vamos a la Playa!

Mancora, Peru is one of my favorite little beach towns in the world. There’s something for everyone here: the luxury traveler, the backpacker, families, and more. The time that I’ve spent in Mancora has been the most relaxing, exciting and thrilling of my travels. It’s a really authentic beach town that’s won my heart, and I definitely plan on going back to visit much more in the future. If you are planning a trip and have any questions, shoot me a note via the contact me section. Happy to offer more advice directly. 

Read More Inspiration for a Trip to Peru

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Where to Stay in Lima, Peru: The Best Areas & Accommodations (2023)

Pisac, Peru Travel Guide (2023)

Rainbow Mountain Hike in Peru: Tips for a Successful Trek

Swimming with Sea Lions in Peru: A Complete Guide

Peruvian Street Food: 10 of the Most Popular Dishes & Drinks

Disclosure: Please note that some of the above are affiliate links, and I earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend companies that I’ve personally used and like, and the income supports this site. 

3 thoughts on “Visiting Mancora, Peru: What to See, Know, & Do”

I spent a while in Peru, but didn’t make it to the beaches. It sounds like I need to go back!!

Vamos a la playa que a mi me gusta bailar!

Looks awesome! Had never heard of Mancora before but it has been added to my list! Sunsets look amazing and love the idea of swimming with turtles and whale watching. Thank you for sharing!

I would love to go fishing for my own ceviche!!!

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The Best Time to Visit Mancora, Peru for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Mancora for ideal weather are

July 9th to November 18th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Mancora Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Mancora Travel Info

Weather in mancora.

Average temperatures in Mancora vary little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a very low chance of rain throughout the year. The area is more temperate than most — in the 63rd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Mancora, the hottest months are March, February, and then April. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late February and early March where highs are regularly around 89.2°F (31.8°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 77.9°F (25.5°C) at night.

Mancora Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Mancora temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Mancora Perceived Temperature (F)

Mancora perceived temperature (c), average mancora temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Mancora are June, July, and then August. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early to mid January. For example, on the week of January 8th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early to mid March with an average of 0 days of significant precipitation the week of March 12th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Mancora.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Mancora (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Mancora has some high humidity months, with other comfortably humid months. The least humid month is January (51.5% relative humidity), and the most humid month is August (64.4%).

Wind in Mancora is usually stronger than many places . The windiest month is July, followed by June and December. July’s average wind speed of around 14.4 knots (16.5 MPH or 26.6 KPH) is considered “a moderate breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in late November to early December where average top sustained speeds reach 21.6 knots, which is considered a fresh breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Mancora.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to mancora.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Peru; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 29, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Mancora, Peru is July, followed by January and September. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Mancora in November. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall mancora travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 89.2°F (31.8°C) and 82.6°F (28.1°C) with colder temperatures in the later months. Rain is extremely rare with 0 to 1 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the least precipitation with about 0 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Mancora, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 81.2°F (27.3°C) and 77°F (25°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a trivial amount: approximately 0 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Mancora to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 89.2°F (31.8°C) and 81.6°F (27.6°C). On average, it rains or snows a very small amount: 0 to 1 times per month. These times of year are fairly slow with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Peru › Mancora, Peru

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A Traveller’s Guide To Mancora – Peru’s Best Beach Town

Published: September 11, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Floris Feaster

• Beaches & Islands
• Hotel Reviews
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Mancora, Peru’s best beach town nestled along the country’s enchanting northern coastline. With its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and array of water sports and activities, Mancora has become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a sun-worshipper, a foodie, or an adventure enthusiast, Mancora has something to offer to everyone.

Located in the Piura Region, Mancora is situated just 116 kilometers north of the city of Piura. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for both domestic and international travelers. With its tropical climate, Mancora enjoys pleasant temperatures year-round, making it the perfect beach getaway at any time of the year.

Getting to Mancora is relatively easy and convenient. For those traveling internationally, the nearest major airport is located in Piura, which offers regular flights from Lima and other major cities in Peru. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to Mancora, which is approximately a three-hour drive away.

Once you arrive in Mancora, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, Mancora has something for everyone. Whether you choose to stay in the heart of the town or along the tranquil outskirts, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and warm Peruvian hospitality.

One of the main attractions in Mancora is, of course, its magnificent beaches. Stretching over 15 kilometers, the beaches of Mancora are renowned for their golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular sunsets. Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore, take a refreshing swim, or try your hand at various water sports, Mancora’s beaches have it all.

Location of Mancora

Mancora is located on the northern coast of Peru, in the Piura Region. Situated approximately 116 kilometers north of the city of Piura, Mancora is easily accessible and offers a stunning coastal retreat for travelers seeking sun, sand, and surf.

The town of Mancora sits right along the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the sparkling blue waters and pristine beaches. It is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains, providing a unique blend of coastal beauty and natural landscapes.

The region surrounding Mancora is known for its arid deserts and dry forests, creating a distinct and vibrant ecosystem. Travelers to Mancora can explore not only the beaches but also the nearby natural wonders, including the Cerros de Amotape National Park and the nearby Tumbes Mangrove National Sanctuary.

In addition to its idyllic coastal location, Mancora benefits from a microclimate that lends to its pleasant year-round weather. The warm and sunny climate makes Mancora an ideal destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike, with temperatures averaging between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).

Despite its popularity among tourists, Mancora has managed to maintain its small-town charm and laid-back atmosphere. The town itself is relatively compact, with a main street lined with shops, restaurants, and guesthouses. This makes it easy for visitors to explore Mancora on foot and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Surrounded by unspoiled nature and stunning landscapes, Mancora offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adventure in the nearby mountains, or a taste of local culture and cuisine, Mancora provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and Peruvian charm.

How to Get to Mancora

Getting to Mancora is relatively easy, whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. While there are no direct international flights to Mancora, the town is easily accessible from Lima, the capital city of Peru.

If you’re flying from outside of Peru, your journey will most likely begin with a flight to Lima. From Lima, you have several options to reach Mancora. The easiest and most convenient way is to take a domestic flight from Lima to Piura, the nearest major city to Mancora.

There are regular flights from Lima to Piura, offered by several airlines. The flight takes approximately one hour and once you arrive at Piura Airport, you can then continue your journey to Mancora.

From Piura Airport, you have a few options for getting to Mancora. The most convenient option is to book a private transfer or take a taxi directly to Mancora. The journey takes approximately three hours, and while it may be a bit more costly than other transportation options, it offers the convenience of door-to-door service.

If you’re on a budget, you can take a bus from Piura to Mancora. Several bus companies operate routes between the two cities, and the journey takes around three to four hours. Buses in Peru are generally comfortable and affordable, but it’s recommended to choose a reputable company to ensure a safe and pleasant trip.

For those who prefer a more adventurous option, you can also rent a car and drive from Piura to Mancora. The journey takes approximately three hours, and having a car gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, it’s important to note that driving in Peru can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the local traffic and road conditions.

Once you arrive in Mancora, getting around is relatively easy. The town itself is compact and can easily be explored on foot. If you need to travel further distances or explore nearby attractions, you can rent a bicycle, take a taxi, or use local transportation options such as mototaxis, which are three-wheeled vehicles commonly used for short trips.

Whether you choose to fly, take a bus, or drive to Mancora, the journey to this beautiful beach town is an experience in itself, as you’ll be treated to scenic views of the Peruvian landscapes and the anticipation of the relaxation and adventures that await you in Mancora.

Accommodation Options in Mancora

Mancora offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preference and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront resort, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, you’ll find something that fits your needs in this charming beach town.

If you’re seeking a luxurious and pampering retreat, Mancora is home to several high-end beachfront resorts. These resorts offer upscale amenities such as swimming pools, spa facilities, gourmet dining options, and stunning ocean views. They provide a perfect escape for those who want to indulge in relaxation and luxury during their stay in Mancora.

For travelers looking for a more intimate and cozy experience, there are numerous guesthouses and boutique hotels scattered throughout Mancora. These accommodations often feature unique designs and personalized services, creating a warm and home-like atmosphere. Some guesthouses even offer private bungalows or villas, allowing guests to enjoy privacy and tranquility.

If you’re traveling on a budget, Mancora also has a variety of affordable accommodation options, including hostels and budget hotels. These options provide basic amenities and are great for backpackers or solo travelers looking to meet other like-minded adventurers. Hostels often offer communal areas, where travelers can socialize, and some even have in-house bars or restaurants for added convenience.

Many accommodations in Mancora are located near the beach, allowing guests to enjoy easy access to the sand and surf. Waking up to the sound of crashing waves and the sight of breathtaking ocean views is a common experience in Mancora. Some resorts and guesthouses even offer private access to the beach, ensuring a secluded and exclusive beach experience for their guests.

Regardless of where you choose to stay in Mancora, you can expect warm Peruvian hospitality and friendly staff. The locals take pride in providing excellent service and ensuring that their guests have a memorable stay in their town.

It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred choice and take advantage of early booking discounts. Additionally, be sure to read reviews and check the amenities offered by each establishment to ensure it aligns with your preferences and needs.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious oceanfront resort, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, Mancora offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to every traveler. Take your time to explore the options available, and find the perfect place to call your home away from home in this charming beach town.

Attractions in and Around Mancora

Mancora is not just about the beautiful beaches; it also offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring natural wonders to immersing yourself in local culture, there’s something for everyone in and around this vibrant beach town.

One of the must-visit attractions in Mancora is Cerros de Amotape National Park. Located just a short distance away from the town, this national park is home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, spot unique wildlife, and marvel at the stunning natural landscapes.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby Tumbes Mangrove National Sanctuary is highly recommended. This protected area is a haven for birdwatchers, as it is home to numerous bird species, including herons, ibises, and flamingos. Visitors can also take boat tours through the mangrove forests, immersing themselves in the tranquil beauty of this unique ecosystem.

If you’re interested in local culture and history, a visit to the town of Zorritos is worth considering. Located a short distance from Mancora, Zorritos is known for its picturesque beaches and its historical significance as the location where Peru declared its independence from Spain in 1821. Explore the town’s colonial architecture, enjoy a walk along the beach, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained in Mancora. Surfing is particularly popular due to the consistent and favorable wave conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking to learn, Mancora’s beaches offer great opportunities to catch some waves. Kitesurfing and paddleboarding are also popular options for those seeking a thrilling water adventure.

If you’re looking to unwind and rejuvenate, Mancora is known for its natural hot springs. These geothermal pools provide a relaxing experience, allowing visitors to soak in the therapeutic mineral-rich waters while enjoying the beautiful surrounding landscapes. The hot springs are accessible either through organized tours or by renting a private vehicle.

Lastly, don’t miss out on exploring the vibrant local markets in Mancora. These markets offer a glimpse into the local culture and cuisine, with stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Peruvian dishes. It’s a great opportunity to take home some unique souvenirs and sample the local flavors.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the attractions in and around Mancora cater to all tastes. Dive into the natural wonders, engage with the local culture, and make unforgettable memories in this vibrant beach town.

Best Beaches in Mancora

Mancora is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in Peru, attracting visitors from far and wide. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, take a refreshing swim, or try your hand at water sports, Mancora’s beaches offer something for everyone.

Playa Mancora is the main beach in the town and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. The calm and clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day. Playa Mancora is also a great place to take a leisurely stroll along the shore, watch the local fishermen at work, or simply relax and soak up the sun.

Located just a short distance from Mancora is Playa Las Pocitas, known for its tranquil and picturesque setting. This beach is a bit more secluded and offers a more peaceful atmosphere compared to Playa Mancora. The calm waters and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for families with children. Playa Las Pocitas is also home to exclusive beachfront resorts, where you can enjoy the luxury of having the beach just steps away from your accommodation.

For those seeking a more adventurous beach experience, Playa Vichayito is a must-visit. This beach is known for its great surf breaks, attracting surfers from all around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll find waves suited to your level of expertise. Playa Vichayito is also a fantastic place to witness breathtaking sunsets, when the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink, creating a truly mesmerizing view.

If you’re looking to explore a hidden gem, head to Punta Sal. Located to the south of Mancora, Punta Sal is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The white sandy beaches are lined with palm trees, creating a tropical paradise atmosphere. This beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. For a truly luxurious experience, you can visit one of the exclusive resorts located in Punta Sal, where you can enjoy the ultimate beachfront retreat.

Lastly, for those who love wildlife encounters, Mancora is also home to El Ñuro Beach, where you can swim and interact with sea turtles in their natural habitat. This unique experience allows visitors to snorkel or swim alongside these beautiful creatures, creating unforgettable memories.

Whichever beach you choose to visit in Mancora, you can expect stunning natural beauty, white sandy shores, and warm Pacific waters. Take your pick, unwind, and enjoy the incredible beach experience in this coastal paradise.

Water Sports and Activities in Mancora

Mancora is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities to enjoy in its turquoise waters. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking to try something new, Mancora has something for everyone when it comes to aquatic adventures.

Surfing is undoubtedly one of the most popular water sports in Mancora. The town is known for its consistent and favorable wave conditions, making it a paradise for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner looking to take your first lesson, Mancora’s beaches offer ideal spots to catch some waves. Numerous surf schools and local instructors are available to guide you through the learning process and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

In addition to surfing, Mancora is also a fantastic destination for kitesurfing. The strong and steady winds that sweep across the coastline provide excellent conditions for this thrilling sport. Several kitesurfing schools and rental shops are available, offering lessons and equipment for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers. With the stunning beachfront scenery as your backdrop, kitesurfing in Mancora is an exhilarating experience not to be missed.

Paddleboarding, or SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), is another popular water activity in Mancora. The tranquil waters of Mancora’s beaches are perfect for this relaxing and enjoyable sport. You can rent a paddleboard and explore the coastline at your own pace, enjoying the views, and getting a great workout at the same time. Paddleboarding is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a fun activity for the whole family.

If underwater exploration is more your style, Mancora offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful marine life, making it a paradise for snorkelers. Several tour operators offer snorkeling trips to nearby spots where you can observe tropical fish, coral reefs, and even swim with sea turtles.

For those seeking a more thrilling water adventure, you can also try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Mancora has a reputation as a fantastic fishing destination, with various types of fish available, such as marlin, tuna, and grouper. Charter a fishing boat and venture out into the deep waters, guided by experienced local fishermen who know the best spots to cast your line.

No matter which water sport or activity you choose, safety is of utmost importance. It’s essential to follow all safety guidelines, wear proper equipment, and be aware of any potential hazards. Also, be respectful of the environment and do your part in preserving the natural beauty of Mancora’s waters.

From riding the waves to exploring the underwater world, Mancora offers a plethora of water sports and activities to keep visitors entertained. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, get ready for an unforgettable aquatic adventure in this vibrant beach town.

Local Cuisine and Dining Options

Mancora is not just a paradise for beach lovers; it’s also a haven for food enthusiasts. The town offers a diverse and delicious culinary scene, blending traditional Peruvian flavors with coastal influences. From fresh seafood to delectable street food, Mancora has something to satisfy every palate.

One of the highlights of dining in Mancora is the abundance of fresh seafood. Being a coastal town, Mancora boasts a wide variety of fish and seafood dishes. Ceviche is a must-try specialty, made with marinated fish or shellfish, citrus juices, and a mix of spices. The freshness of the seafood combined with the tangy flavors make it a true delight for the taste buds.

Another popular dish in Mancora is tiradito, a close cousin of ceviche. Made with thinly sliced raw fish, tiradito is typically drizzled with a fresh chili sauce or a light citrus-based marinade, resulting in a burst of flavors with each bite. It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish that showcases the quality of the seafood in the region.

If you’re a meat lover, you won’t be disappointed in Mancora. You’ll find a variety of grilled meats, such as anticuchos (marinated and grilled skewered beef heart), lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with onions and tomatoes), and alpaca steak. These dishes are often served with traditional sides like Peruvian corn and mashed potatoes and are sure to satisfy your carnivorous cravings.

As you explore the town, be sure to indulge in some of the local street food offerings. Whether it’s a delicious empanada filled with savory meat and vegetables, a piping hot anticucho from a street vendor, or a refreshing fruit salad, the street food scene in Mancora provides a taste of local flavors and a glimpse into everyday Peruvian cuisine.

When it comes to dining options, Mancora offers a range of choices to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a casual restaurant, you’ll find a variety of establishments throughout the town. Many restaurants offer al fresco dining, allowing you to enjoy your meal while soaking up the coastal breeze and seaside views.

Accompany your meal with a refreshing cocktail or a traditional drink, such as Pisco Sour, Peru’s national drink made with Pisco, lime, egg whites, and bitters. The mixologists in Mancora know how to create the perfect blend of flavors, turning your dining experience into a true culinary journey.

As you explore the local cuisine in Mancora, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try dishes that might be new to you. The food scene in Mancora offers a wonderful opportunity to discover new flavors and immerse yourself in the vibrant Peruvian culinary culture.

Nightlife in Mancora

When the sun sets in Mancora, the town comes alive with a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene. From beachfront bars to lively nightclubs, Mancora offers a variety of options for those looking to dance, socialize, and enjoy the evening hours.

One of the highlights of the Mancora nightlife is the beachfront bars that line the coast. These bars offer a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, with comfortable seating and stunning ocean views. Here, you can sip on a refreshing cocktail while listening to the sound of crashing waves and enjoying the cool ocean breezes. Many beachfront bars also offer live music, ranging from local bands playing traditional Peruvian music to DJs spinning energetic beats.

The energy in Mancora truly comes alive as the night progresses, with several nightclubs catering to those who love to dance and party until the early hours. These clubs feature a mix of international and Latin music, creating a lively ambiance that entices visitors and locals alike to hit the dance floor. Some of the clubs even host themed nights or special events, adding an extra element of excitement to the experience.

For those who prefer a more intimate setting, there are also cozy lounges and pubs in Mancora. These venues offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can mingle with friends or strike up a conversation with fellow travelers. Enjoy a craft beer, a glass of wine, or even a traditional Peruvian drink while unwinding and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

One of the unique aspects of the nightlife in Mancora is the fusion of different cultures and nationalities. Travelers from all around the world come together to celebrate and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that Mancora has to offer. This multicultural blend creates a lively and inclusive environment where friendships are formed and memories are made.

It is worth mentioning that Mancora is known for its party scene, especially during the peak tourist seasons. The weekends can be particularly lively, with larger crowds and a more energetic atmosphere. However, even on quieter nights, there are always options to enjoy a relaxed and unforgettable evening in this beach town.

As with any nightlife scene, it’s important to drink responsibly and be mindful of your surroundings. Mancora has a reputation for being a safe destination, but it’s always wise to take precautions and stay aware of your belongings.

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy live music, or simply unwind with a drink in hand, Mancora offers a diverse and exciting nightlife that is sure to keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning.

Shopping in Mancora

Mancora is not only known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife but also offers a unique shopping experience for visitors. From vibrant markets to stylish boutiques, the town provides an array of options for those looking to indulge in a little retail therapy.

One of the highlights of shopping in Mancora is exploring the local markets. The town has several markets where you can find a variety of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. These markets offer a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and interact with the friendly vendors.

The Mancora Craft Market is a must-visit for those looking to take home a piece of Peru. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of handmade crafts, including textiles, jewelry, pottery, and artwork. Many of these crafts are created by local artisans, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don’t be afraid to haggle and negotiate prices, as it’s a common practice in Peruvian markets.

In addition to the craft market, Mancora also has a few stores that specialize in surfwear and beach accessories. These stores offer a range of trendy swimwear, board shorts, hats, sunglasses, and other beach essentials. Whether you’re an avid surfer or simply looking to update your beach wardrobe, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.

If you’re interested in skincare and beauty products, Mancora is home to a few stores that specialize in natural and organic cosmetics. These stores offer a range of beauty products made from locally sourced ingredients, including creams, lotions, soaps, and oils. This is your chance to pamper yourself with products that are not only good for your skin but also support sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

Foodies will also find delight in the local markets of Mancora, where you can find a variety of Peruvian spices, coffee, and other culinary delights. Take home some Peruvian coffee beans, cacao nibs, or traditional Peruvian spices to recreate the flavors of Mancora back home.

When shopping in Mancora, keep in mind that cash is often preferred, especially at local markets and smaller shops. It’s always a good idea to have some Peruvian Soles on hand. However, some larger stores and boutiques may accept credit cards.

Exploring the shops and markets of Mancora is not just about acquiring material goods; it’s also a chance to support local businesses and artisans. Take the time to engage with the vendors, learn about their craft, and appreciate the unique beauty of their products.

Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, stylish beachwear, or locally made crafts, shopping in Mancora offers a delightful experience that reflects the vibrant and creative spirit of this charming beach town.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Mancora is generally a safe destination for travelers, but like any other tourist hotspot, it’s important to take precautions to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy your time in Mancora while keeping yourself and your belongings secure.

1. Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or unfamiliar neighborhoods. Stay vigilant and be cautious of pickpockets or snatch-and-grab thieves. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places such as markets, beaches, or public transportation.

2. Use reliable transportation: When booking transportation, whether it’s a taxi or a local tour, choose reliable and reputable providers. If possible, arrange transportation in advance through your accommodation or use licensed taxis. Avoid hailing taxis from the street. It’s always a good idea to ask for recommendations or check online reviews before choosing any transportation service.

3. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen: Mancora’s tropical climate can be hot and sunny. Protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing. Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re spending time outdoors or participating in water activities.

4. Respect local customs and traditions: Peru has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs, traditions, and social norms. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local customs. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in indigenous communities.

5. Secure your accommodations: Choose accommodations that have good security measures in place. Lock your room and use hotel safes or lockers to store your valuables. If you’re staying in a private rental, ensure that it has proper security measures, such as locked doors and windows.

6. Stay informed about local weather conditions: Mancora’s climate can be unpredictable, with occasional heavy rainfall or strong winds. Stay informed about weather conditions, especially if you plan to engage in water activities. Avoid swimming in rough seas or during periods of inclement weather.

7. Be cautious with your personal information: Be cautious when sharing personal information, especially with strangers you meet during your travels. Be mindful of scams or people who may try to take advantage of tourists. Avoid sharing sensitive information or displaying valuable items in public.

8. Follow COVID-19 safety guidelines: As of now, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines issued by local health authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask, practice social distancing, and follow hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing.

While these safety tips can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Mancora, it’s important to remember that no destination is completely risk-free. Use your common sense, trust your instincts, and take necessary precautions to minimize any potential risks. With proper preparation, you can have a safe and memorable experience in Mancora.

Mancora, Peru’s best beach town, offers travelers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. From its picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife to its mouthwatering cuisine and exciting water sports, Mancora has something to captivate every visitor.

The location of Mancora, nestled along Peru’s northern coastline, provides easy access for both domestic and international travelers. Once you arrive, you’ll discover a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Mancora’s attractions are not limited to its beautiful beaches. The surrounding natural wonders, such as Cerros de Amotape National Park and the Tumbes Mangrove National Sanctuary, offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploration.

The culinary scene in Mancora is a delight for food enthusiasts, offering a range of traditional Peruvian flavors and fresh seafood. Whether you’re indulging in ceviche by the beach or sampling local street food, your taste buds will be tantalized by the vibrant and mouthwatering dishes.

The nightlife in Mancora is vibrant and diverse, with beachfront bars, lively nightclubs, and cozy lounges. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy a relaxing cocktail with ocean views, Mancora has options to suit every mood.

For shoppers, Mancora’s markets and boutiques offer a chance to discover unique crafts, surfwear, and local produce. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring home a piece of Mancora’s vibrant culture and support local artisans.

As with any travel destination, it’s important to prioritize safety. By staying aware of your surroundings, using reliable transportation, and respecting local customs, you can enjoy a worry-free and secure visit to Mancora.

In conclusion, Mancora is a jewel along Peru’s coastline, offering a blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous exploration of the outdoors, Mancora has it all. Discover the charm and allure of this captivating beach town and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Dos Manos Peru Travel

Dos Manos Peru Travel Blog

Exploring peru, when is the best time to visit peru a month-by-month guide.

The best time to visit Peru depends completely on which part of the country you plan on exploring. Peru can be divided into three main areas when it comes to the country’s average climate: the coast, the Amazon Jungle and the Andes Mountains – the latter of which being the location of Machu Picchu. When is the best time to Visit Peru? A month-by-month Guide.

As a result, it’s hard to give an exact idea of the average weather in Peru as it varies significantly across the country; this country covers around 1.285 million square kilometres, making it just a bit smaller than the state of Alaska.

But there are distinct variations in weather and temperatures between the different parts of Peru, meaning there are certain months when it’s better to visit a particular region.

Weather in Peru month by month

We’ve broken the average weather and temperatures in Peru down into the different months of the year to give you a real sense of when is the best time of year to go to Peru – all depending on the type of activity you’re hoping to do.

Note that the rainy season in Peru lasts from December through March, with most rainfall in the Andes Mountains and the jungle, while winter, when temperatures drop, particularly at night, is from June through August.

Peru weather in December through March

December through March in Peru is considered the rainy season. You can expect high rainfall in the Andes Mountains, peaking at 144mm in and around Cusco. This isn’t a great season to visit Machu Picchu, particularly as rainfall can make many of the more challenging hikes to the Inca site, including the Salkantay, Lares and the extension of the Choquequirao trek , dangerous, with many operators choosing not to run tours from the start of January.

Peru in February is also not a great month if you plan to visit Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail , as the path actually closes for the entire month (although Machu Picchu remains open).

Further north in the Amazon Jungle , rainfall is even greater, with levels of up to 278mm in Iquitos. This means boat travel around the jungle is easier because the rivers are fuller, but there’s an increased risk of mosquitos.

However, in December, January or February, the coast is a winner. Lima in December and January has some of its most pleasant weather: temperatures peak at around 25˚C (77˚F), matched with humidity levels of around 81% (the lowest in the year), making this a good month to visit the Peruvian capital.

Other coastal towns including Huanchaco, Mancora and Punta del Sal, experience peak tourist season during these months – and you can expect price hikes on accommodation and beaches full to bursting with bronzing tourists.

Peru weather in April through May

Marking the start of the Peruvian shoulder season, April is when the showers stop and the dry season creeps back in, making it an excellent time for trekking in the Andes Mountains – including to Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain .

Temperatures along the coast and in Lima in April and May see a slight drop to an average of 23˚C (73˚F) in the capital, although humidity increases – so be sure to drink plenty of water if planning to visit the city.

Elsewhere in the mountains, it’s perhaps the best time to visit Peru because you can expect less footfall on famous hikes, such as the famous Inca Trail , than in the coming months and temperatures are still warm, hovering around 19˚C (66˚F).

The weather in the Amazon Jungle in April and May bucks the trend of the rest of Peru with heavy rainfall (the highest in the entire year), although a slight drop in humidity makes this a good time for trekking and other active jungle adventures in and around Iquitos. The chances of spying endemic wildlife swimming in the swollen river waters is also high.

Peru weather in June through August

The peak months for travel in Peru, June through August see the driest weather in Peru – which, coinciding with summer holidays in the northern hemisphere see crowds of tourists at sites such as Machu Picchu. Be aware that nights can get cold, particularly at altitude in Cusco and Huaraz , so you’ll want to pack some warm clothing for this season.

If you want to escape the crowds, it’s still a good time to visit coastal Peru, with Lima in June and July experiencing warm, slightly humid weather, with temperatures hovering around 19˚C and matched with plenty of sunshine.

Further north up the coast, temperatures in vibrant beach town Mancora are still at a balmy 26˚C (79˚F), combined with warm waters and far fewer other beachgoers than in the peak months of summer, making this period an excellent window for a visit.

June, July and August in the Amazon Jungle see some of the lowest periods of rainfall, although this generally doesn’t affect your chances of heading deep into the rainforest by boat and often means you can actually explore further into the undergrowth because of the land that is uncovered when the waters recede. It’s also low season for mosquitos – a handy thing if you’re prone to being bitten.

Peru weather in September through November

The other shoulder season lands in the months of September, October and November, when temperatures across the country start to increase and tourist numbers decrease – making this one of the best times to visit Peru.

Rainfall is a possibility in Cusco in October and November, although these months remain excellent for trekking to Machu Picchu, particularly as the warmer weather means nights at altitude aren’t quite so cold. However, cloud coverage can potentially spoil some of your photos – although the risks are still minimal.

Along the coast, temperatures pick up to a pleasant springtime 22˚C (71˚F) in Lima in November, with decreasing humidity making it a good time for exploring the capital city, as well as other coastal locations.

In the jungle, rainfall is still low, allowing for trekking through the rainforest, as well as boat trips along Amazon tributaries .

Planning a trip to Peru? Check our overview of complete Peru Tours including sample itineraries .

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An Honest Guide to Máncora

Máncora is a small fishing village that sits on the northern coast of Peru close to the Ecuadorian border. It’s easily accessible from Lima and Ecuador as the Pan-American Highway runs right through the town. It’s a Pacific Ocean beach resort with year round sun and waves that draw in troops of surfers. It pulls in the party crowd too, with locals and tourists rubbing shoulders especially from December to March when things get a bit out of hand.

What’s there to do?

As you arrive in Máncora you´ll notice that it’s really small.  It’s made up of two main streets containing cafés, restaurants, budget hotels and hostels and some beach front huts. If you’re into surfing rent a board from the southern end of the beach. Surfing is good all year round but the best time is generally from November to February. Water temperatures are warm and waves are good for beginners too. If you’re an avid surfer it might be worth your while grabbing a mototaxi and heading to one of the next beaches or even to Lobitos , 64km from Máncora. Mototaxis are cheap but agree a price before you get in and haggle for a fair price. From April to November, try out some Kitesurfing. Winds of 30 knots make it popular around this time. Rent a board and take a lesson.

So other than surf in Máncora what else is there to do? Eat, drink, party and sun yourself! Honestly, these activities seem like the only other things to do. The main promenade, Avenida Piura, has some new artisanal eateries, cafés and places with typical local grub. Angela´s Place is a good spot with exciting vegetarian and vegan dishes ranging from $3-6 and Wi-Fi. There are some top end choices including La Sirena d´Juan which serves seafood and Peruvian dishes. Another is El Espada , offering award winning seafood dishes. On the beach front there´s an abundance of cafés and restaurants that offer local meals for little of nothing. Be sure to try the traditional favourite ceviché while you´re in Máncora. Ceviché is a seafood dish. The fish is usually marinated in lime and accompanied by salad and corn.  If you wander northwards up the main drag, Avenida Piura, there´s usually a street market. Locals sell handmade crafts such as jewellery and souvenirs and clothing and some traditional food.

ENTERTAINMENT TIP: If looking for fun at night, or to watch sports during the day, or even a taste of home, visit the Wild Rover Hostels Chain for great food, sports and beer! Entrance to their bars is free even for non-guests

Mancora Beach, Not Even At It´s Busiest

Máncora is famed for its beach. But to be honest I´m not really sure why! There is white-ish sand and blue-ish water but it looks nothing like how it’s described in some guide books. I read once that it rivals some of the Brazilian beaches of the northeast. If so then the beaches in northeastern Brazil must be awful! After that 20 hour bus journey from Lima I was expecting much much more. Perhaps the influx of tourists and local traders has changed the beach in Máncora over the years but in my opinion this beach could never rival a beach anywhere! It’s filthy and quite overcrowded. Swimming is safe here, if you can manage to manouver your way around all the bodies in the water.  In the evening the beach is used by party goers and food vendors. The sand is littered with cigarette butts, bottle caps and other miscellaneous trash. Also be very careful of your belongings day or night, clothing and shoes have been known to go missing as well as the usual wallets and phones. A better option to enjoy the sun is to opt to stay in accommodation that offers a pool or take a short trip to one of the nearby beaches by mototaxi.

Where to Rest Your Head?

The famous Loki Hostel chain have a resort like hostel complete with swimming pool and in-house bar and restaurant. It offers dormitory style and some private rooms. If you’re happy and willing to stay up to the wee hours and party with fellow travelers then Loki is a good option. If you’re looking for something quieter but still colourful and fun Kokopelli or Tikki Bungalows might be better options. For more intimate and luxury accommodation you´ll find deluxe bungalows further down the beach away from the town, such as Hotel Arennas Máncora  or Máncora Beach Bungalows . These options are more expensive but good alternatives for tranquility and peace. If you’re thinking of traveling to Máncora from December to March be sure to book ahead as places book out quickly or rates shoot through the roof.  If you´re looking for something a bit more peaceful altogether go elsewhere. Peru has way more to offer than Máncora.

Main Boulavard in Mancora

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Mancora Travel Guide – 2024

Mancora is probably one of the best travel destinations in Perú. It has warmed beaches all year sunny, bright sand, a spectacular turquoise sea, and unrivaled ambiance.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Mancora. How to get there, things to do, the closest beaches to enjoy, and all the features that have made Mancora the favorite bay to go on vacation, rest and party.

Guide Content:

• Where is Mancora? – Get to know Peru’s most famous beach town.
• How to get to Mancora from Lima? – Compare the options for your transportation.
• How is the weather in Mancora? – Details about what to expect from the weather and what to pack.
• Beaches guide: short trips – Best shores close to Mancora.
• Surf in Mancora – Best points to surfing and some advices.
• What to do in Mancora? – Most popular activities according to travelers.
• Nightlife – Best places to go for a drink and party.
• Where to stay – Compare the best options to accommodation.
• What to eat and where? – Typical dishes to taste and places to find them.
• What to buy – Get the best souvenirs to take home.
• Useful information – Phone numbers and addresses you need to carry with you.
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Where is Mancora?

Mancora is probably one of the best travel destinations in Peru. It has warm beaches, sunshine all year, white sand, a spectacular turquoise sea, and unrivaled ambiance.

The collision of Humboldt’s oceanic current (cold, traveling from south to north) with El Niño current (hot, moving from north to south) have made Mancora’s waters the perfect combination to practice aquatic sports like surfing and kitesurfing. These currents ensure that the northern coast is much warmer than the Peruvian south coast.

Mancora is located in Talara Province , Piura Region, in the north of Peru. In summer the sea is bluish-green, while in winter it is turquoise. The coast is surrounded by sandy mountains and, in the east Tumbes Equatorial Dry Forest can be found.

How to get to Mancora from Lima?

If you want to get to the north from Lima , have some alternatives: get there driving a car, by bus or by plane. Here are the distances and times for each one:

• To Mancora by car: 17 hours driving through Carretera Panamericana Norte.
• To Mancora by bus: it is the same distance and route, but it can make more time because the bus stops.
• To Mancora by plane: the flights take about 1 hour and 40 minutes, and there are three airports: Talara’s airport, Tumbes’ airport, and Piuras airport. From each you will need to get a second transport to Mancora town.

Which is the closest airport to Mancora?

These are the closest airports to Mancora, according to the distance:

• Talara’s airport: 75 km south Mancora – 1 hr. 15 min away.
• Tumbes’ airport: 105 km north Mancora – 1 hr. 15 min away.
• Piuras airport: 220 km south Mancora – 2 hr. 15 min away.

The main difference between these airports (besides the distance from Mancora) is the flight frequency from Lima, which is crucial to choosing between the airline options available.

• Talara’s airport: up to 2 flights daily. Airlines: Latam y Viva Air .
• Tumbes’ airport: up to 2 flights daily. Airlines: Latam
• Piuras airport: More than 6 flights daily. Airlines: Latam , Avianca , Peruvian Airlines , Viva Air .

How to Get From the Airport to Mancora

You have several options according to your budget:

• Take a taxi (a trusted one): (S/150 – S/200 top)
• Rent a private van: (S/280)
• Take a taxi to the private bus station that goes to Mancora. (between S/30 to S/35)

Transport advice

The majority of the hotels will help you with your airport-Mancora journey, by recommending you a trustworthy taxi, or by picking you up at the airport as part of their service.

In Talara’s airport, you can take a cab to the EPPO company bus station in Av. Panamericana 243 or to El Dorado company buses in Av. Sánchez Cerro N° 1119..

Quick tip: if you want to save some cash, you can take your taxi outside of the airport to avoid paying the parking fee.

The ideal scenario is to pay for a safe taxi, recommended by your hotel. You can also move around in mototaxis , those little units of transportation drive you for S./1 or S./2 to the closest places.

A further recommendation is to change your currency inside the airport , or in authorized places, and use ATMs to get cash.

Almost all the touristic places accept VISA, MasterCard and AMEX but it is always a good idea to have cash and prevent any complications.

How is the Weather in Mancora?

In Mancora it is sunny every day. The average temperature is 26° C up to 45° C in the summer. The temperature fluctuates with the seasons.

• Summer: (from December to April) there is lightly raining during the night, and when El Niño phenomenon occurs temperatures can reach 50 C°… That’s hot! What to wear? Light clothes, sandals, shorts, sunglasses, sunscreen and hats for the day. You should also bring waterproof clothing, sneakers, umbrellas and jackets or windbreakers for the night.
• Winter: (from June to September) expect fresh nights and cold wind. The minimum temperature drops to to 17 ° C. What to wear? Since will be sunny all the time, bring your beach clothes but include some jackets in your bag to protect yourself from the wind, especially at night. Don’t forget sunglasses and insect repellent.
• Autumn (May to June) and spring (November to December) the temperature remains stable between 19 ° C and 30 C° top. In fact, they rarely drop under 26 ° C. What to wear? All your summer clothes are welcome in these seasons. Sandals, shorts, light shirts and, of course, sunscreen.

Rain alert: from December to April rainfall increases in Piura, especially in the highlands. Take note of this when you plan your trip.

Why is the Northern Coast of Peru Warm?

Humboldt’s current -named after the famous German naturalist- brings the cold water from the deep ocean to the surface, serving all the Peruvian coast. This current moves from south to north.

Just before arriving at the equator, the current turns towards Galapagos Island and meets with the equatorial northern current called El Niño, which is warm with temperatures that reach 30 C°.

This “encounter” make the northern Peruvian waters warmer and an infinite source of world class waves for surfing . There are also many other beautiful and quiet beaches to go with children .

Mancora Beach Guide: Short Trips

You can stay in Mancora to enjoy its beach, but you can also try different beaches in the Talara province. This brief guide will help you to know what to find in each one:

• Mancora Beach: Has excellent waves for surfing and windsurfing but its main attraction is the nightlife. Mancora’s nights are well known for being fun and wild, with a lot of options to party in bars and discotheques.
• Las Pocitas Beach: is closest to Mancora town. It is formed after the tide comes to the shore and leave little pools where kids can play without risk.
• Playa Vichayito: it has the best of Mancoras sea but the atmosphere is much more relaxed. It has a strong wind from July to August, but the waves are also more calm.

• Los Organos Beach: with a beautiful turquoise sea, and one of the popular beaches among the tourists, Los Organos is excellent for surfing and windsurfing practice. Whale watching tours also depart from its quay.
• Punta Veleros Beach: has clear water and white sand. This is the quietest spot on the coast to enjoy nature and relax. You can rent an ATV to explore the bay or learn to surf without the pressure of Mancora.
• El Ñuro Beach: On this beach you can swim with giant sea turtles. This unforgettable experience is one of the best that you can get in your travel around the north of Peru. Between July and October is whale watching season. Totally worth seeing.

• Cabo Blanco Beach: this is the point where the Humboldt current and El Niño current collide, creating the incredible waves for surfing.
• Lobitos Beach: if you love water/wind sports, this is the place for you. The water is a little bit colder than other beaches up to the north because it’s the Humboldt current territory, but its waves are incredible.

Surfing in Mancora

Peru is a global hotspot for surfing. Each year 150 thousand people come to Peru just to surf. Most of these people choose the north.

The Peruvian coast extends for almost 3 thousand kilometers and it’s home for high-quality waves. The Mancora’s “crecidas” (sea floods) are ideal to surf between October and March .

Here are some of the best beaches to surf in the North of Peru:

• Mancora: Its waves are perfect for beginners. Reach an average altitude of one and a half meters. It is the ideal beach for surfers and kite surfers alike.
• Los Organos: Has waves to learn to surf in Punta Veleros. The most advanced surfers can practice in La Vuelta. Nevertheless, this beach can be affected by northern sea floods, so the reef could be dangerous. Check before heading over.
• Cabo Blanco: Its left beach has been globally recognized for having one of the most perfect tubes in the world. The beach has both sides Panic Point (perfect for the winter surf) and Cabo Blanco (for summer surfing)
• Lobitos: Has 4 world class surf spots. It’s an ideal place to kite surf and windsurf because of its harsh winds.

Tips for surfers

Despite the fact that in the north the water temperature is warmer than in the south, it’s recommended using 2/2 wetsuit for summer, and a 3/2 one for winter.

When it comes to the south Peruvian coast is better to use a 4/3 suite to explore their waves in the coldest months.

What to do in Mancora?

When it comes to things to do in Mancora the options are endless. Here are some of the favorite tourist activities for your beach vacation in the north of Peru.

• Surfing: Whether you’re an expert or an amateur, it doesn’t matter. Mancora has everything for surfing enthusiasts of all levels. You’ll find enormous and challenging waves, but also surfer schools to start from beginners.
• Canopy: If you like extreme sports and you can keep yourself away from the beach, this is a great option for you. Coordinate a day trip to Ecofundo La Caprichosa, about 30 minutes from Mancora, and slide through a 1600 meters canopy cable. Also, you can visit the bird watching spot to sight white hawks and woodpeckers.
• Whale watching: From the last days of July until the end of October you can take a tour offshore and see the humpback whales, who come to this area every year to give birth.
• Horse riding: the undeniably best way to see a sunset is on horseback from the northern beaches of Peru- The incredible sight is 10 times more exciting because ocean creatures regularly show themselves right before sundown.

• Scuba diving: the sea over the waves is one of a kind, but under the sea is a whole new world. Explore some of the diversity of the planet with help from the oceanic currents. Be sure to dive with certified instructors to help you.
• Swimming with turtles: one of the best tours that you can take. If you’re staying at Mancora’s town, it will take you 3 hours sailing to the turtles’ protected area in El Ñuro where you can swim with them. Remember: do not touch the turtles!

• Jet ski: you can rent these to explore offshore and capture a different perspective for the coast while living the adrenaline of water-driving as fast as you can.
• Go to Punta Sal: a seacoast placed 30 km away from Mancora is beautiful and also less touristy. That means you could pass the day in complete peace. You can rent a bike or grab a taxi to get there.
• Mangroves Tour: 2 hours away from Mancora is the National Mangroves Sanctuary of Tumbes, a protected area of 2.972 hectares and the typical fauna from this ecosystem, including the famous Tumbes’ crocodile, an endangered species.

Nightlife in Mancora

Mancora is famous for being fun and wild. Is the favorite spot for Peruvians and tourists because of the excellent parties and a safe beach scene.

You can meet new people and enjoy all the fun of the beach with a classic “Mancoreña” nights. We recommend the party in these places:

• Wild Rover Hostel: with the only Irish bar in town, completed with great cocktails and the very best of the local scene. It has pool parties with invited DJs and live music are famous not just in Mancora, but in all of Peru.
• Loki del Mar: every night is party in this backpacker hostel. If you want to have a nice time, have fun and meet people, this is a great place to go.
• Wiracocha Surf Restobar: if being barefoot on the beach with a Pisco Sour is what you need to be reconciled with the world… this is your place. The party blazes on after the sunset.

In Mancora, the party continues in the streets, so it’s easy to find where to have fun.

Quick tip: for the next morning hangover, there is nothing better than coconut water or cocada .

Where to stay in Mancora

There are many different types of accommodation to choose from in Mancora, and for almost every budget. Take into consideration that the cheapest options aren’t synonyms of “good service.”

If you don’t want to have a bad experience with your accommodation, it’s best to do some research to find out where to stay in Mancora.

Here are some good options:

Stay in a Hotel:

Because it is a tourist place, the accommodation options are seemingly endless. From those along the seashore, to those in town; luxurious or simple, hotel boutique, resort or backpacking hostels, simply choose what kind suits you and your needs.

Quick tip: check the hotels’ online profiles, reviews, and scores. Most of them offer an American breakfast.

Be sure to ask if the hotel has air conditioning, private bathroom, wifi, and a view of the sea.

We recommend:

• Wild Rover Máncora (Av. Playa El Amor 121): comfortable beds and great vibes. Experience the best party in town in their Irish bar (complete with pool) by the pool, and taste the food from its international restaurant.

Address: Av. Playa El Amor 121, Máncora Phone: +51 996206525 Website Tripadvisor

• Hotel Loki del Mar (Av Piura 262): A hostel with a pool and bar, a nice ambiance and a great spot to meet new people and light up the party.

Address: Av. Piura 262, Máncora Phone: +51 73 258484 Website Tripadvisor

• Arennas Hotel Máncora (Antigua Panamericana Norte km 1213) If you like a little more of luxury and comfort, this hotel offers you peace and romance at the same time.

Address: Playa Las Pocitas, Vichayito – Máncora. Phone: +51 73 283800 Website Tripadvisor

Rent a beach house

This is a perfect option if you’re traveling in a group. In Mancora there are a lot of homes available for temporary rent . These houses are located in front of the beach and have all the facilities you need for your vacation, including kitchen appliances and cookware.

The prices change depending on the property, but when you split the amount among a group it can be very affordable. Be sure to make the rental deal with someone trustworthy.

What Do You Need to Know About the Service in Mancora?

Some of the tourists have complained about the slow service in some places in Mancora.

The first thing you need to know is “cheap” rarely means “good.” However, you can easily find excellent service options according to your budget. Let the recommendations and reference online being your guide.

Usually, 10% of tips are not included. Also, you can tip according to the quality of service. Remember to support local tourist entrepreneurs who are doing a good job.

What to eat and where?

The food in the north of Peru shines for its fresh ingredients and terrific flavors. With such biodiversity from the sea in front, it couldn’t be any other way. Fish and seafood are the specialties you should definitely try.

• Traditional ceviche: With fresh raw fish and lemon juice.
• Traditional “secos” like “seco al chabelo” (dry meat stew with plantains) or “seco de cabrito” (baby goats meat stew with beans). This plate is macerated with chicha de Jora and vinegar.
• Parihuela: delicious soup, traditional to the Peruvian coast. It includes seafood, fish, lobster or crab, and aji peppers.
• Plantain Causa: take the mashed potatoes from the traditional causa and change it to plantain. That’s it!
• Black shell ceviche: It is made of the best shellfish from Tumbes’ mangroves..

• Chinguirito: Is believed to be a dish derived from the traditional ceviche but made with swordfish, or a drink. Both of them have the same name.
• Grosella Macerated: Is a traditional liquor made of the same red berry with a bittersweet taste.
• Antecoco: delicious custard made of coconut water, fresh coconut, milk, sugar, and cornflour or rice flour.
• Dulce de guineo: a dessert made of “silk” plantain ( plátano de seda ) and oranges. Delicious!
• Dulce de pechiche: “peniche” is a fruit that looks like cherries but black. The dessert is made boiling the fruit, adding cloves, cinnamon, and chancaca (unrefined sugar syrup).
• Chifles from Piura: plantains or sweet potatoes chips to eat ceviche with, or eat them like snacks. In Piura -the department where Mancora is located- chifles are famous for their smoked taste.

• Majado de yuca with fried pork: Boiled and mashed cassava mixed with Peruvian ají and a portion of chicharrón (fried pork).
• Custard: with goat milk, chancaca, and rice flour.

Where to eat in Mancora?

• La Sirena D’ Juan Address: Av. Piura 316, Máncora Phone: +51 073 258173 Website Tripadvisor
• Yuka-Máncora Address: Av. Piura 261, Máncora Phone: +51 073 258173 Website Tripadvisor
• Tokuyo Address: Av. Piura 229, Máncora Phone: +51 073 290666 Website Tripadvisor

What to buy in Mancora?

Crafts from catacaos.

Three hours from Mancora is Catacaos town. The place is famous for its national and internationally recognized artisan crafts. In fact, it has been named the Peruvian Craft Capital.

It is worth going there and buying some uniques pieces, particularly the leather or gold and silver filigree. This jewelry is well known for its quality and delicacy. You can also can buy wood pieces, hats and textiles as souvenirs .

Chifles from Piura

An original souvenir is chifles from Piura. If you can’t carry with these fried plantains chips to your country, at least you can stock up for the rest of your trip. They are delicious!

Useful Information About Mancora

Some telephone numbers you may need:

Local Government

• Mancora’s Police Station: +51 73 258414 / +51 968892000 / 968892100 / 969553757 / 969553734
• Mancora’s Municipality: +51 73 258061

Health & Hospital

• San Pedro Apostol Clinic: +51 73 258513 Calle Grau 636
• Banco de la Nación Av. Piura N° 525 -527
• Western Union Calle Grau N° 316
• Banco de Crédito Auxiliar Panamericana Nte. 1672
• Global Net Auxiliar Panamericana Nte. 1672
• Scotiabank Auxiliar Panamericana Nte. 704

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Máncora: Peru’s Hidden Surfing Paradise!

Máncora, located in northwest Peru, is a beach resort town in the Piura Region. The small town only has a population of less than 10,000 but is famous for its beautiful beaches and big waves meaning this formerly quiet town has become a surfer’s paradise and a popular destination for enthusiasts of the adrenaline-fueled sport. Whether it’s a surfing weekend away you seek or some me-time at the beach, Máncora really is the place to be in Peru!

Máncora: A Background

The little town is intersected by the world-famous Pan-American Highway, acting as a main road of sorts. Máncora today relies heavily on the business brought by holiday-makers to the popular destination. Although its population is less than 10,000 people, over 350,000 visitors came to the city last year, proving the popularity of the destination.

The beautiful town of Máncora is quickly becoming one of the more popular destinations for those visiting Peru, with numbers visiting the city rising annually. Don’t worry though! Although the numbers of travelers to Máncora is increasing, the old surf-resort has managed to maintain a lot of its old charm throughout this change, making it the perfect way to spend a few days in Peru.

Once a small fishing town, Máncora has now become a perfect place to spend a well-needed getaway for many Peruvians, especially surfers. The surfing scene in Peru grew dramatically in the 50s and Máncora had a big part to play in that. The idyllic beaches of the small town were perfect for competitive surfing, meaning the Máncora quickly became a regular location for the best surfers to show off their talents. Word quickly spread and Máncora is now a well-known location for surfers worldwide. Literature lovers will also be pleased to learn that this beautiful seaside town actually acted as inspiration for Ernest Hemingway in his Nobel Prize-winning novel The Old Man and the Sea!

How to Get to Máncora

Lima to Máncora by bus takes approximately 18 hours, meaning many travelers favor taking to the skies in order to reach the surfing paradise, which takes around 2 hours in the air. For more information on flights and what airline to choose for your journey to Máncora, check out our post on the best airlines in Peru.

Several bus companies offer services to Máncora from Lima. For more information on the best bus companies in Peru and which is the most suited one for you on your journey to the North of Peru, check out our blog on the best bus companies in Peru, where you can find out everything you need to know.

Things to Do in Máncora

The most obvious reason to visit Máncora is, of course, the surfing! The beautiful white beaches and aqua-blue seas combined with the incredible waves attributed to the area mean the location is the perfect place to catch some waves and put your skills to the test. Surfboards and all the necessary gear can be purchased or rented along the many beaches of Máncora, meaning even first-timers can have a go on the waves.

For sea-life enthusiasts, Máncora has something for you too! Both Humpback whale tours and sea turtle snorkeling are available from tour operators in the area for the reasonable price of $45 and $35 respectively. What better way to spend a day than swimming with some of the most majestic creatures on Earth!

Another popular activity in Máncora for adventure lovers is kitesurfing. Along the famous beaches, there are many a vendor willing to give lessons for first-timers or rent boards to more experienced thrill-seekers. A 3-day course is a perfect way to learn the basics, meaning you’ll be able to take on the Máncora waves and winds in no time!

What to Eat in Máncora

Unsurprisingly, the trademark delicacy of Máncora is seafood! The town’s location next to the Pacific Ocean and an abundance of sea life make the town the perfect place to enjoy some of the finest, freshest seafood this side of the equator!

For the cheapest meals, check out the road leading to the beach where you can get a meal for as little as 5 PEN. The main road is filled with restaurants which tend to be more expensive, but the choice is greater. Be aware that some travelers complain of an upset stomach after dining in some of the restaurants in Máncora, so do be wary of cleanliness when choosing which restaurant to eat in.

We have compiled a short list of a few nice places to eat in Máncora to help you find a place that will suit your needs:

BUDA Mancora Cuisine BUDA Máncora is renowned for its Asian Fusion themed cuisine and is one of the best in Máncora. With the help of their attentive staff, you will be guaranteed to have an enjoyable meal, with some of the freshest fish on the north-west coast of Peru.

Máncora Beef House For those who can’t beat a good steak on holidays, this is the perfect restaurant to spend a night in Máncora. From steaks to burgers, this American style steakhouse has some of the best red meat in Máncora.

Ganaha Restaurant This Japanese-themed sushi restaurant has been accoladed as ‘the best sushi in Máncora’ by many of its customers. Located on the seafront, this is the perfect way to spend a romantic night in the surf capital of Peru.

Aqua Restaurant Máncora This seafood restaurant is one of the most popular in Máncora. This well-located Peruvian restaurant has been credited as one of the reasonably priced in Máncora, while still serving top quality dishes.

Where to Stay in Máncora

Del Wawa This is the perfect place to stay for those looking to spend a few days surfing on the Peruvian coast. Located on the seafront, this comfortable hotel even has an acclaimed restaurant on the premises meaning you will have everything you need, right in the hotel foyer!

Wild Rover The famous Wild Rover hostel is coming to Máncora! Renowned for its wild parties, this is the perfect place to stay for adventure seekers looking to surf during the day and let loose at night! If you need an early night though, don’t worry! This hostel is equipped with comfortable beds in cozy rooms meaning you can have a great night sleep too!

Sunset Hotel for those looking to spend their time in a more luxurious hotel, this is the one for you! With a rooftop restaurant located atop a cliff with a view, there really is no better way to spend a night in the beautiful seaside town of Máncora!

What Are You Waiting For?

The beautiful seaside town of Máncora is calling! With a range of amazing activities, continental restaurants and exciting places to stay, Máncora really is the perfect place to chill out and catch some waves on the west coast of Peru.

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MANCORA | PERU

Why visit mancora in peru, "still unspoiled, with a great climate, wild, empty beaches, a handful of charming boutique hotels and excellent fresh seafood, it is a wonder why more people don’t visit this relaxed corner of peru.", map of mancora in peru, when is the best time to visit mancora in peru.

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Travel guide to Máncora, Peru

Home / Our trips / Travel guide to Máncora, Peru

When you want to enjoy the beach, the sun, and the sea in Peru, you think of Máncora. It is definitely the place you will want to reach if you are looking to spend time relaxing and enjoying the summer. Known as one of the most important spots for surfing in South America, and due to its reputation of having an active and vibrant nightlife, Máncora has a lot to offer. So come and find out everything there is to know about it. Welcome to our travel guide to Máncora, Peru.

Travel guide to Máncora: Arriving

Máncora is a small seaside town located in the north of Peru, in the Piura region, about 130 km from the border with Ecuador. It is precisely for that reason that it is a strategic location if you are entering Peru from Ecuador or vice-versa.

So let me start this travel guide to Máncora by telling you how to arrive.

Most backpackers get to Máncora by bus. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be reached by plane.

Although Máncora does not have an airport, there is 3 nearby city that does. Those are Piura, Tumbes, and Talara. Piura is located approximately 3 hours away from Máncora. Tumbes, 1.30 hours away.

Talara’s airport (Cap. FAP Víctor Montes Arias International Airport) is located 1 hour away. It connects all the main Peruvian cities, such as Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.

Once you arrive at Talara airport, you can reach Máncora by bus. The buses depart every hour and cost about $3. The company that provides the service is called Eppo. You can also arrive with a private transfer, that you will find outside the airport.

Since the Panamericana road passes by Máncora, all the buses that go to and come from Ecuador pass through this town.

Máncora is well connected by land with the main Peruvian and Ecuadorian cities. The particular thing is that there is no real terminal. The buses just stop at the main street. And get ready, because once you get off, you will be “attacked” by a crowd of tuk-tuks drivers. Tuk-tuks are like moto-taxis, typical of the area. They will propose to take you to your hostel. Do not get fooled, never pay more than 8 soles ($2,5) for this service.

As you will understand after a few days in Máncora, Tuk-tuks are the main transportation system in town.

Travel guide to Máncora: Things to do

Ayelen and I arrived in Máncora at the end of January with the idea of ​​staying for a couple of weeks. The first impression I got was not very positive. The beach was not as I expected. And we had been to Montañita, Ecuador, and the atmosphere was very similar. Seemed like nothing special.

But in a few days, I would have changed my mind. We ended up staying for almost three months in this splendid and crazy town. And I loved every single day.

So let me tell you about the best things to do while in Máncora. Check them out.

Learn to Surf

Surfing in Máncora is one of the activities you shouldn’t miss. Even if you never surfed in your life, it will definitely leave you with one of the best memories of your trip.

The waves of the area are among the best in Peru to start in the world of surfing and other watersports, like kitesurfing. Many of the tourists who visit Máncora use the opportunity to embark on the adventure, get on board for the first time, and experience this exciting sport firsthand.

As I said before, it’s one of the main spots when it comes to surf. So people from all over the world arrive looking to face the best waves that can be found in the South American Pacific.

It might be it’s a bit scary at first, but, as long as you do it with a teacher who is experienced in the matter, it poses no danger. Just in case, make sure you have reliable travel insurance covering you.

Máncora beach is full of schools that, for a small price, offer you a course with an experienced teacher. Or also rent boards for those who dare to enter into the sea alone.

Also, many hostels offer the possibility to rent boards during the day. The prices depend on for how long, and what kind of board you want to rent. I recommend this alternative only to people who already have a minimum of experience surfing.

Hang Out At The Beach

We’re talking about the South American Pacific, so don’t expect to find the paradisiacal beaches you’ll see in Colombia or Brazil .

Still, it has an almost endless beach where you can go to relax, sunbathe or play sports.

The main beach, in the town center, has a lot of different bars and restaurants where you can eat the typical dishes of the region or have a cold drink.

If you keep walking to the right, following the sea, you will reach Playa del Amor. It’s basically the same beach, but much less crowded. There are no bars or restaurants there, and you can have more space in the sand just for you.

Don’t forget to stay for the sunset. It’s one of the most beautiful spectacles nature has to offer in Máncora.

Walk around the town

The city is small, but it has a center full of shops, bars, restaurants, and a beautiful handicraft market where you can go for a walk and have a good time.

Máncora has basically one main avenue, where the long-distance buses stop, and a pedestrian street that goes down to the beach.

All along the main avenue, you will find restaurants where you can try the daily menu for as little as 8 soles or 2,5 dollars.

The pedestrian street is where you will find also several bars, markets, and restaurants to enjoy on the way back from the beach. After sunset, it gets really crowded there.

If you are looking to buy some souvenirs, go to the handicraft market in the main avenue. But, remember, I always advise you to bargain to find the best price.

Join the party

Máncora is famous for its crazy nightlife. Many Peruvians go there to spend their holidays all year along. But it gets especially wild during the New Year’s Eve and Carnival seasons.

It also receives a lot of international tourists. As I told you before, people from all over the world arrive to practice surf. But, once the sun is down, they are all signed up to the party!

So if you are looking for a place to party, or simply want to spend a few days of pure madness and fun, Máncora is the right place. That’s why we have included it in our top 5 party beaches in South America . If you’d like, feel free to read that post we wrote.

Go swimming with the turtles

El Ñuro is a small fishing village located 7 km from Los Órganos and 23 km from Máncora.

Besides its beauty, with the desert tones of its beaches and the turquoise color of the sea, El Ñuro is currently known for its sea turtles who have made the local pier their permanent residence.

Only a few years ago the first sea turtles appeared on El Ñuro beach, searching for food and shelter. Little by little the turtles began to populate the area and thanks to local projects, the fishermen and the people of El Ñuro decided to take care of these animals.

You can go to El Ñuro to visit the turtle’s refuge and swim with free turtles at the pier. It’s a beautiful tourist activity both for young and adults.

The refuge charges an entrance of 5 soles or $1,5 per person. And that money goes to keep helping the turtles, so it’s a good deal.

Take a tour to Puerto Pizarro

If your budge is loose and you can afford a day tour, I recommend you take the Puerto Pizarro tour.

Many tourist agencies are offering the tour throughout Máncora. They all offer the same, so compare prices and choose the one that seems most suitable for you.

From Máncora, they will take you to visit the mangroves of Puerto Pizarro and its islands, places full of wildlife.

You will also visit the Island of the Birds, and a Crocodile and Alligator Zoo, where they work to repopulate the area of ​​the Tumbes River.

In addition, the tour offers the possibility of visiting two beautiful beaches near Máncora, Zorritos, and Punta Sal. If you do not want to take the tour, try to visit at least some of those beaches on your own.

Travel guide to Máncora: Nightlife

As I mentioned at the beginning of this travel guide to Máncora, the town’s nightlife is sparkling and crazy.

The main stars in the scene are the hostel’s bars. In fact, you can find the major South American chains of party hostels located in this city.

But is not every hostel that has a party soul. So, to start the evening, I suggest you go to either The Point or Wild Rover Hostel . Either way, you will find a great party atmosphere and many foreigners looking for some fun. 

The party starts in the early afternoon, with pool parties and drinking games involving the guests, which makes it very easy to make friends and meet new people.

We have volunteered in the Wild Rover and I can say that it was fantastic, here we had the opportunity to interact with many people from all over the world. And believe, at Wild Rover, the party never ends.

The hostel’s bars close around 2:00 in the morning. But, don’t worry, it continues at Loki del Mar , another hostel chain that keeps the music and party alive until 6:00 in the morning. 

To reach the various points and parties, I recommend you to use those famous tuk-tuks I mentioned. They have an average price of 5 soles during the day and 8 during the night. They will allow you to move safely between the various party’s locations.

Travel guide to Máncora: Accommodation

So, as I said before, you can find many party hostels in Máncora. But you can also find some quiet hostels to chill and relax. So let me continue with this travel guide to Máncora by recommending you the best hostels in both categories.

Party hostels

If you are looking for a place to make friends and where there’s great customer service, then you will surely want to book one of the following hostels.

The Point Máncora

Is one of the most famous party hostel chains in Peru. You can find them in Lima, Cusco, and Máncora. If you have already been to one of these hostels, you will surely know crazy it is. And, instead, if you haven’t, I strongly suggest you do it.

Recently, The Point Hostel expanded and updated the one in Máncora. They now have a beautiful swimming pool with a sea view, and it is phenomenal. The prices are $8 for a bed in a dorm and $ 40 for a private room for two.

Loki del Mar

Another of Peru’s most famous party hostel chains. You can find them in Lima, Cusco, Máncora, La Paz (Bolivia), and Buenos Aires (Argentina).

Loki del Mar was one of the first hostels to open in Máncora and has become a classic for its crazy parties. They are open until 6 am on weekends and high season. It’s located in the town center. Prices go from $10 for a bed in a dorm to $50 for a private room for two.

Wild Rover Máncora

Is one of the most famous chains of party hostels. You can find them in Cusco, Máncora, Arequipa, Huacachina, and La Paz (Bolivia). We “shared” our journey through Peru with them, and it will always be our favorite one.

It was in Máncora that we discovered the Wild Rover family. And we ended up visiting all the hostels they have and volunteering in more than half of them.

They recently built and updated the one in Máncora. They have a beautiful swimming pool and a modern bar where the atmosphere is truly among the best I’ve ever seen. Here, the prices per night go from $8 in dorms to $44 for a private room for two.

Chill hostels

If you are looking for a more peaceful place to spend your stay in Máncora, then I can only give you one strong suggestion: go to the Misfit Hostel. You will love it.

Misfit Hostel

Located at the Playa del Amor, the Misfit Hostel is uniquely charming. It’s located by the shore and has a bohemian colorful vibe. The dorms are all small wooden houses with the doors facing directly to the beach. Super recommended if you want to spend moments of relaxation and enjoy the sea at its maximum.

Travel guide to Máncora: Where to Eat

If you have opted for one of the party hostels, you will not have to worry about where to eat. Besides the best bars in Máncora, they also have excellent restaurants, where you can find all kinds of dishes. From vegetarian food to pizzas, burgers, and typical food, as Lomo Saltado and Arroz Chaufa.

But if you want to explore the local cuisine a little, I suggest you take a tour in the central market, where you can find typical dishes for $2 or $3 and will be able to discover Máncora’s authentic food.

Also, all along the main avenue and the pedestrian street, you will be able to find a lot of cozy restaurants to chose from.

Travel Guide to Máncora: Final Tips

Máncora is a beautiful place, but it is one of those places that need time to get used to and love. I want you to leave some tips to help you get to know it better and enjoy it at its maximum.

Weather in Máncora

The climate in the Máncora is very warm all year around. So, I recommend that you take a big bottle of water everywhere you go, and always stay hydrated. Make sure you use a good sunscreen as well. The sun is really strong at the beach.

Moving Around

Everyone moves around by tuk-tuks in Máncora, both tourists and locals. But that doesn’t mean the drivers won’t try to rip you a little bit off! The average price is 5 soles during the day, and 8 when it’s nighttime or rains. Of course, it depends on the distance you will be making, but that’s the price for a distance of up to 2 kilometers. And there are not many places to see in Máncora farther than that!

If you are lucky enough to be traveling in Máncora towards the end of February, then you might be able to observe the wonderful luminous plankton. As the sea waters are cold, here the luminescence turns on on blue shades, and is fantastic!

Do not party too hard

You might have arrived in Máncora chasing the best parties, but don’t overdo it. You won’t want to spend all your budget and run out of money for partying too hard. I’m telling you, I almost committed that mistake!

Don’t go chasing mod cons

Máncora is a small city that has been developing for only a few tens of years. You will probably not find all the mod cons large metropolitan areas have. So make sure you have everything you need before arriving.

Also, if you have things to arrange concerning your tourist permits, or you have to buy electronic devices, it might be difficult to do it here.

Ready to enjoy Máncora?

As you must have seen, there’s a lot of things in Mancora while backpacking Peru.

We hope you have found this travel guide useful. And, if you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to use the comments below. We will be happy to help!

Have a great adventure!

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15 Exciting Things To Do in Mancora Peru: Where To Stay & Activities To Try

Is your ideal vacation lounging on a quiet beach, surfing under sunny blue skies, and eating yummy ceviche? If yes, then your best bet for your next getaway destination in South America is Mancora Peru.

Mancora is considered Peru’s best beach and party town. This town, northwest of Peru, is popular because of its laid-back vibe and amazing sea views. Apart from that, there are plenty of activities, such as surfing, kitesurfing, boat riding, etc., for you to try.

The place is loved by both locals and tourists, making it a must-visit spot on your vacation. So, if you want a breather from the usual tourist spots with Peru’s gray and foggy weather, make sure to spend a few days in Mancora.

This article will share an overview of this famous town: what makes it special and the sights, activities, deliciousness, and accommodations that Mancora offers. 

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do in Mancora Peru – Activities 

1. surfing .

Placing surfing first on the list of best activities to experience in Mancora shows how amazing it is. The sea waves on this town’s beach are ideal for surfers; they are usually small, which makes them perfect for beginners. You can learn to surf if you haven’t tried it before. 

If you visit Playa Mancora beach, you can find 2 surfing schools right at the center of the beach. The cost of renting a surfing board from both schools is almost equal. They charge around 57 to 76 Peruvian soles ($15 to $20) for 1.5 hours of lessons. 

However, if you just want the board, the rent is around 19 to 38 soles ($5 to $10) per hour. 

2. Whale Watching and Other Sea Activities 

Wildlife in Mancora is a treat to watch. From whales to sea turtles, there is much to watch and enjoy. However, some wildlife can only be seen in specific seasons. 

To watch whales, you will have to visit Mancora between July and October. You can find many boat providers to take you to the whale-watching points during these months. 

If you love watching turtles swim under the surface of the sea, ask a local if the sea turtles activity spot is nearby. You will find local service providers providing life jackets to tourists in the location where sea turtles are. 

Keep in mind that while you’re there, you can admire the wildlife but avoid touching them.

3. Go Shopping 

Shops near Playa Mancora beach sell amazing hand-made local items to take back home as a memory. 

The market has around 50 stalls selling items such as bracelets, crystals, hand-made clothes, wooden items, etc. Most vendors quote very reasonable prices, and negotiating is always possible. They can also craft some items just for you. 

4. Boat Ride 

A boat ride and ceviche are a combination that you will never forget. In Mancora, you can get fresh ceviche made from fish caught on the spot by the fisherman on the boat. You can also catch the fish on your own if you like. 

To get this amazing experience, you must search for the service providers on the beach, as they aren’t available online. 

5. Eco Ranch Adventure Park 

When you are tired of watching the beach, head to Eco Ranch adventure park. Here, you can find various activities such as zip lining, rope circuits, and wall climbing. 

As the name suggests, the park is based on an eco-friendly theme so that you will feel more connected to nature. 

The overall cost of the park is around S/190 ($50). 

6. Watch the Amazing Sunset 

Nothing can beat the view of a sunset in Mancora. The sunset in this place is the best you will find in Peru. 

Make sure to grab a folding chair with a drink before sunset to get the best experience. 

7. Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing is an activity that every adventurer should try, as nothing is more fun than flying high above the sea waves at full speed. There are kitesurfing schools on Mancora’s beach, so take some classes and prepare to fly above the sea. 

8. Mud Baths 

Mud springs are located in Zorritos town in the northwestern city of Tumbes. One of the most popular is Pozas Termales de Hervideros (Hervideros Mud Baths), a thermal bath resort 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Bocapan beach. Hervideros has around 5 different mud baths for different ailments based on the concentration of minerals in the mud. 

Another thermal bath with allegedly therapeutic mineral waters is El Tubo in Pampas de los Chivatos, located in the middle of Zorritos’ hills. El Tubo is an artificial geyser originally created as an oil drill. Still, many believe these mud pools have healing properties, so they are worth a try. 

9. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding allows you to enjoy the beach without walking long distances. Many locals with their horses offer the service on the beach, so you can easily find one on your visit. 

Best Things To Do in Mancora Peru – Beaches

10. playa mancora .

Playa Mancora is located at the center of the town. Tourists mostly populate the place as it has plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels nearby. 

You can also find many stores for shopping on this beach. 

11. Playa Arenillas 

Playa Arenillas is located in Vichayito, Mancora, which is a small section of the town. Considering the views and nearby restaurants, the place is a lot of fun, but it can sometimes be too crowded. 

You must take a 15-minute taxi ride from Mancora beach to get to Playa Arenillas.

12. Playa Los Organos

Playa Los Organos has the best views of all beaches, but most tourists do not visit this beach because it’s about 30 minutes from the center. 

If you visit this area, you will get a completely different vibe as the atmosphere is much more tropical and calmer. 

Best Things To Do in Mancora Peru – Food and Restaurants

13. green eggs and ham.

Green Eggs and Ham is undoubtedly the best restaurant in the area. Go for the menu del dia (menu of the day) and get everything in one order. Menu del dia contains everything from juices to the main course to desserts. 

The view from the balcony makes the meal even more special.

14. Bananas Café 

Bananas Café is where you can enjoy not only the meal but also the overall atmosphere of the place. The hand-made artwork and ambiance keep you excited. The food and coffee here are absolutely delicious.

15. Mercado Municipal 

Mercado Municipal is for people who love to stay more on the local cuisine side. You will have to walk farther from the center to reach this place. 

You can try almost any local cuisine at Mercado Municipal because they are all freshly made. When you visit, remember to go to the stalls where the locals eat. Those are probably the ones that provide the best food. 

How To Get To Mancora, Peru

• From Outside of Peru 

If you are an international traveler traveling from outside Peru, landing directly in this small beach town would be impossible as Mancora has no international airports. The best way to get here is by landing in Lima with connecting flights to airports in Talara or Tumbes, 2 major cities near Mancora. 

• From Lima and Other Cities to Mancora 

Once you have landed in Talara or Tumbes, you can get a private taxi or bus to Mancora. Many bus companies provide luxury and budget seats to Mancora. Some of the best bus service providers are Cruz Del Sur, Oltursa, and Excluciva. Prices vary depending on your point of departure and chosen option. 

It takes about 19 hours from Lima to cover the 745 mi (1,200 km) distance to Mancora, but the views will keep you busy. 

Where To Stay In Mancora, Peru?

There are plenty of accommodation options in Mancora, considering it is a small town with a few beaches. Some of the best hotels we highly recommend staying in are as follows.

Budget-Friendly: Casamar 

Casamar is a great place to spend your night in Mancora. It is located only 1,312 feet (400 meters) from the beach. The high-speed WiFi and a garden make this place ideal for people who love to work while traveling. 

They also offer family and couple rooms. 

Mid-Range: Hotel del Mar Mancora 

Hotel del Mar Mancora ’s main highlights are its amazing restaurant and free bikes. You can also get a private beach area to enjoy without large crowds. 

The hotel is very close to the main beaches of Mancora, such as Playa Pocitas, Mancora Chico, and Puerto Chico. 

Luxury: Dco Suites Lounge & Spa

Dco Suites Lounge & Spa is worth every penny because of the quality of service, location, and amenities, including an on-site restaurant where you can try delicious local cuisine and an outdoor pool within walking distance of Pocitas beach. 

All rooms come with air conditioners and speedy WiFi. 

How To Enjoy Your Mancora Peru Trip

 Here are some expert tips to get the best Mancora experience:

• Pack your summer clothes as the weather is quite warm. 
• Take mosquito repellent, as mosquitos in this town can make your visit from best to worst. 
• The temperatures vary from 66 to 87 degrees Fahrenheit (19° to 31 degrees Celsius) all year round, so prepare yourself for the heat (especially from late December to late March).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Mancora, Peru 

Is mancora, peru worth visiting.

Mancora is an amazing beach town with plenty of beach activities. It is a must-visit for people who want to relax and enjoy the views. 

As there are plenty of activities to do, from surfing to whale watching, you won’t get bored.

What Airport Is Closest to Mancora, Peru?

Talara’s airport is the closest to Mancora, around 1 hour and 15 minutes drive away, as there are no international airports in Mancora. 

The best way to get here is by landing in Lima with connection flights to airports in Talara or Tumbes, 2 major cities near Mancora. 

Is Mancora Good for Surfing?

Mancora is an ideal place for surfing. It is a great place to learn how to surf. 

The beaches have waves ideal for all levels of surfers. 

Conclusion – Mancora, Peru 

After trekking in Peru’s majestic mountain ranges and historical attractions, Mancora Peru’s warm turquoise waters, white sands, gentle waves, and sunny skies will offer a welcome, laid-back change for your vacation. 

Towards the evening, you can also enjoy a shift to party mode since this beach town is well-known for its nightlife. 

So make sure to include Mancora in your itinerary and enjoy the variety of experiences that Peru offers. 

Related reads:

• Experience Arequipa Peru: 10 Best Things To Do
• The Best Travel Guide To The Amazing Rainbow Mountain Peru

Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter

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Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.

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Meet Me in Máncora: 5 Reasons to Visit This Locals-Only Peruvian Hideaway

By Rachel Waldman

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

When Peru pops up in conversation, most thoughts go straight to Machu Picchu. Beyond that, Lima gets a little love, as does the Sacred Valley . But generally speaking, the list ends there. Mention Máncora—a strip of sandy beaches on the country’s northern Pacific coast about an hour’s drive from the equatorial line—and you’ll likely get a whole lot of blank stares and follow-up questions like “What’s that?”

Máncora is a quiet seaside village whose biggest claims are surfing, ceviche, and year-round, sun-drenched skies. It doesn’t take long to fall in love with the under-the-radar spot free of tourist clatter and full of charm. Simply put: If you’re looking for the good things in life without added fuss, Máncora is the haven you’ve been dreaming of. Book your trip now before the masses make a run for it.

Horses on the beach in Máncora, Peru.

How to get there Truly, the journey is half the fun and arriving to Máncora is an experience in itself. Fly into one of the (relatively) nearby airports of Piura, Talara, or Tumbes. Drive an hour or two on winding roads through rugged and desolate desert landscape as far as the eye can see until you spot the sea. Upon arrival, you won’t need a car: the best bars, restaurants, hotels, and dance venues are all within walking distance, and there’s just one dirt road that runs through the town. If you have to get from one end to the other, you won’t be hard pressed to find a motorized tuk-tuk ready to take you for no more than 5 soles (about $1.50). Slow things down at sunset and opt for the alternate, more scenic mode of transportation: horseback on the beach.

A suite at Kichic Boutique Hotel in Máncora, Peru.

Where to stay The beach scene in Máncora is reminiscent of Montauk 20 years ago or say, Tulum 10 years ago, filled with the rhythm of reggaeton music and laid-back, feel-good vibes. The beaches aren’t yet overrun with American tourists, so it’s highly unlikely you’ll run into anyone you know from back home. You’ll be tempted to hop from one seaside hotel for drinks in your swimsuit; Don’t miss private-home-turned-hotel, KiChic . Located in the strip known as Las Pocitas, KiChic is the passion-project of owner, Cristina Gallo, who raised children on the beachfront property until three years ago when she decided to give new life to her empty nest, remodeled, and opened her doors to travelers. Crack a coconut with friends and family in this intimate home away from home, or rent an oasis of your own at Airbnb.com . The best of Las Pocitas’s beachfront properties ( Villas del Mar , Coco Né, and Arennas , to name a few) come standard with white-sand beaches, uncompromised coastline views, countless coconuts for the taking, and plentiful palm trees that will have you contemplating a life off the grid in no time.

By Alexandra Macon

By Leah Faye Cooper

By Jenny Berg

Pizza at La Sirena in Máncora, Peru.

What to do and where to eat Thirty minutes south of Las Pocitas is the neighboring fishing village, Cabo Blanco, aptly nicknamed “Peruvian Pipeline” for its large surf swells that rival those of Hawaii’s North Shore. If you need to brush up on your skills before hitting the board, take a lesson from the pros at Kite Club , just one of many local surf and kite surfing schools. Then, stop by the restaurant Cabo Blanco for all the fresh fish you fancy. Don’t be fooled by the extremely modest restaurant façade: this steps-from-the-seashore spot serves up the most mouthwatering seafood—you can even spot the fishing boats bobbing in the distance as you slurp equal portions of ceviche and pisco sours. (Fun fact: Ernest Hemingway was a visitor to the area, which is said to have inspired The Old Man and the Sea . Word has it he caught a 700-pound marlin fish on one of his many travels.) If you’ve somehow had your share of ceviche, the town is bustling with no-frills restaurants that offer international menus at affordable prices. Café Local is a favorite for smoothies, sandwiches, and salads made with ingredients sourced straight from the neighboring organic garden. Otherwise, recharge at La Sirena d’Juan or its sister restaurant Sirena Café , brainchildren of Mancora-born Juan Seminario, who studied at the culinary institute in Lima. You’ll find several traditional dishes inflected with Asian and Mediterranean influences. The result? A godsend on a plate to fill up on before retiring to a beach recliner for afternoon siesta.

Before you go, be sure to drive an hour and a half up the coast from Máncora to the Tumbes region. You’ll see a shift from neutral desert palettes to lush green landscape; an offbeat adventurer’s paradise with multiple national parks and ecological reserves. The Mangroves and the Amotape Hills National Park are two must-sees, thanks to their eerie lagoons and abundant wildlife. Take in the sites and take a picture or two (the flora and fauna makes for Instagram gold) before you head off to the airport to take flight.

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Best time to visit Mancora , Peru

Our verdict

The best time to visit Mancora is July-September

The warmest month of the year in Mancora is March, where the average temperature gets to around 29℃ (84℉), but temperatures can reach as high as 30℃ (86℉) on the hottest days in summer. The weather at night in the winter can get down to temperatures as low as 16℃ (61℉).

If you’re a sun-chaser and want to visit Mancora when the days are longest, you should visit in August. February sees the most amount of rain in a month if you’re ok with chancing getting drenched, so if you’re looking to stay dry, visit in August instead.

Continue reading to find out loads more about when to travel to Mancora, then use the handy tools below to search for the best flight and hotel options that are right for you.

Quick links: Fast facts / Seasons / Average temperatures / Monthly climate / FAQs / Map

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Mancora seasons

Before you continue, it’s important to know when the seasons are in Mancora as they might be different to yours depending on where in the world you’re travelling from. Mancora is in the Southern Hemisphere, so the seasons fall during these months:

Average temperatures in Mancora

If the temperature is a big factor for you to help you decide when to visit, the chart below shows the average minimum and maximum temperatures in Mancora for each month side-by-side so you can easily see the difference in weather throughout the year. To see the temperatures in both Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F), hover or tap the shaded boxes on the graph.

Mancora climate by month

If you already have a rough idea about which months you might want to travel, the section below shows a detailed breakdown of the climate in Mancora for each month so you can see if it all suits your wants and needs. Scroll down, or use the quick menu below to jump to your preferred month.

Mancora in January

• Average temperature: 25℃ (76℉)
• Average high temperature: 28℃ (82℉)
• Average low temperature: 22℃ (72℉)
• Average humidity: 72%
• Average sunny days: 18 days
• Average rainfall: 20mm (1") over 11 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in January, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Add visitor or local insider tips >

Mancora in February

• Average temperature: 25℃ (78℉)
• Average high temperature: 29℃ (83℉)
• Average low temperature: 23℃ (74℉)
• Average humidity: 73%
• Average sunny days: 10 days
• Average rainfall: 59mm (2") over 16 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in February, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Mancora in March

• Average temperature: 26℃ (78℉)
• Average high temperature: 29℃ (84℉)
• Average low temperature: 24℃ (74℉)
• Average humidity: 71%
• Average sunny days: 12 days
• Average rainfall: 52mm (2") over 17 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in March, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Mancora in April

• Average temperature: 25℃ (77℉)
• Average humidity: 70%
• Average sunny days: 16 days
• Average rainfall: 20mm (1") over 13 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in April, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Mancora in May

• Average temperature: 24℃ (76℉)
• Average low temperature: 22℃ (71℉)
• Average sunny days: 22 days
• Average rainfall: 8mm (0") over 7 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in May, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Mancora in June

• Average temperature: 23℃ (73℉)
• Average high temperature: 27℃ (80℉)
• Average low temperature: 20℃ (68℉)
• Average sunny days: 27 days
• Average rainfall: 1mm (0") over 2 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in June, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Mancora in July

• Average temperature: 22℃ (71℉)
• Average high temperature: 26℃ (78℉)
• Average low temperature: 19℃ (66℉)
• Average sunny days: 30 days
• Average rainfall: 1mm (0") over 1 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in July, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Mancora in August

• Average temperature: 21℃ (70℉)
• Average high temperature: 25℃ (78℉)
• Average low temperature: 18℃ (65℉)
• Average sunny days: 31 days
• Average rainfall: 0mm (0") over 0 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in August, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Mancora in September

• Average sunny days: 29 days
• Average rainfall: 0mm (0") over 1 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in September, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Mancora in October

• Average high temperature: 26℃ (79℉)

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in October, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Mancora in November

• Average temperature: 22℃ (72℉)
• Average low temperature: 19℃ (67℉)
• Average rainfall: 4mm (0") over 2 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in November, make sure you pack t-shirts for the daytime and maybe a light jumper for the evenings as it cools down a bit.

Mancora in December

• Average temperature: 23℃ (74℉)
• Average high temperature: 27℃ (81℉)
• Average low temperature: 21℃ (69℉)
• Average sunny days: 24 days
• Average rainfall: 8mm (0") over 5 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Mancora in December, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

😎 When should I go to Mancora for the hottest weather?

☀ when does it rain the least in mancora, ☔ when does it rain the most in mancora, 🌤 when should i go to mancora if i want the most daylight, mancora map.

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How to Plan Your Trip to Mancora & Vichayito | Peru

Last Updated on July 10, 2023

In October, JC and I flew to Lima, Peru for the first time since the pandemic and Isabella finally met JC’s Peruvian family for the first time. October is technically spring in Peru (opposite hemisphere). However, the closer you go to the equator, the warmer it gets. For that reason, we decided to take a trip to Mancora and Vichayito , in the north of Peru, for 5 nights to enjoy some warmer weather, sunshine and, most importantly, the beach. Read below for how to plan your trip to Mancora and Vichayito and make the most of your time there.

How to Plan Your Trip to Mancora & Vichayito: When to Go

December through march is peak season in mancora.

We went to Mancora and Vichayito in October, which is technically spring season. The weather was chilly. At night we were in pants and jackets and during the day, while we could be on the beach in swimsuits, going into the pool or the ocean was out of the question (at least for me). In general, in October highs are 26 C (79 F) and lows are 19 C (66 F). It was also very windy. Summer in Peru technically starts in December and ends in March. If I were to go to Mancora again, I would try in May or June when the weather is warmer, but not as hot nor as crowded as during the peak summer months.

How to Plan Your Trip to Mancora & Vichayito: How to Get There

Fly from lima to talara airport and then take a car or taxi.

The trip to Mancora and Vichayito from Lima is a long one. First, you need to fly almost 2 hours from Lima airport to Talara airport . Then, you need to take a car or a taxi over 1 hour to either Vichayito or Mancora, depending on where you are staying. Mancora is about 25 minutes further north from Vichayito. We arranged with the hotel we were staying at in Vichayito to have a van waiting for us at the airport. However, that van never came! Luckily, we were able to pick up a van in the parking lot of the airport.

Where Should You Stay – Mancora or Vichayito?

Stay in vichayito if you want an all-inclusive hotel on the beach.

Before our trip, I had only heard of Mancora, not Vichayito. Mancora is well-known world-over as the birth place of surfing. So what about Vichayito? Vichayito is a small resort town. It has beach and resorts directly on the beach. Outside of the resorts, there isn’t too much to do. The resorts are family friendly, with lots of games and activities geared towards children and adults alike. For example, our resort had a game room with pool (billiards), sapo (a Peruvian game), table tennis and table soccer. There was even a night club at the resort, although I never saw anyone there. Mancora is more like a city, with a downtown, restaurants, shops, etc. You can easily drive or take a moto taxi (~ 20 soles one-way) between the towns, and if you want to walk along the beach from Vichayito to Mancora, it takes about 2 hours. We went to Mancora almost everyday to take surfing lessons and eat at our all-time favorite restaurant, La Meche (we ate here three times in four days!).

How to Plan Your Trip to Mancora and Vichayito: Where to Eat

Eat at la meche in mancora for the most authentic and delicious peruvian food.

JC and I follow a YouTube channel called ‘Viaja y Prueba’ hosted by Luciano Mazzetti, in which Luciano travels throughout Peru (and other countries as well) and tries local food. Before coming to Mancora, we made sure to watch his episode on Mancora and bookmark some of his favorite restuarants, including Restaurant Jasusi , and of course, La Meche . While Jasusi is very good, La Meche by far blew us away. The star dishes are the ‘los cuatro ceviches de Meche’ (four different ceviches, including ‘conchas negras’ or black clams) and ‘triple puerto pizaro’ which has three dishes within it: ‘chicharron mixto’ or mixed fried seafood , ‘conchas negras’ with rice, and a crab paste. And of course, we always had a jar of chicha morada to wash it all down. On our third visit we even had the good fortune to meet Meche herself!

How to Plan Your Trip to Mancora and Vichayito: What to Do

Go horseback riding on the beach in vichayito.

In Vichayito, there is not too much to do outside of the resorts. You can horseback ride on the beach (although there are signs saying it is forbidden). Men walk on the beach with horses, though some of the horses look very malnourished. We were able to connect with one family with very nice and well-cared for horses and the owner let me gallop down the beach on my own with his horse for about 30 minutes in the early morning, when there weren’t many people on the beach. However, this is unusual as most of the time they only allow walking with the horses on the beach. I had to ask around until I found the right contact, and then showed him that I was a capable rider with his horse. Other activities in the area include surfing in Mancora and whale watching in Los Organos.

Learn to Surf at the Birthplace of Surfing

Mancora is known as the birthplace of surfing, so what better place to learn how to ride some waves? We were able to book a class without pre-booking at this spot right on the beach. We paid 80 soles which included the board for the full day, wetsuit, a class on surfing theory and about an hour and a half in the ocean with the instructor. Each of us had our own personal instructor who went out with us in order to assist us in catching and riding the waves. It was super fun but also very exhausting!

Go Whale Watching in Los Organos

Another activity you can do near Vichayito is whale watching. If you are lucky enough to visit Mancora or Vichayito between the months of July and October you may catch a sight of the Humpback whales as they migrate further south to Chile. We booked our whale watching tour with Oceanica Expeditions in Los Organos, which is about a 15 minute cab ride from Vichayito. The tour starts early! We had to be at the docks at 6 am. Be sure to arrange your taxi the day before as you are not likely to find so many taxis at that hour. We paid about 30 soles one way to the pier of Los Organos. Also be sure to dress warmly on the boat as it is very windy! We had a great tour with Oceanica and saw a mother Humpback whale and her calf, plus sea lions and dolphins. We took our tour on the yacht, which I would also recommend, as the waters can be quite rough, so better to be on a bigger boat. And FYI we did not bring Isabella with us, although there were children on the boat.

Overall, we had a really great time in Vichayito and Mancora and would definitely recommend it. The only thing we did not love was our hotel . Do not stay there! If we were to go back, we would probably stay at Las Cabañas de Antica , which was also on the beach and nearby our hotel, but the food was much better (we ate at their restaurant) and the vibe was more ’boutique’ hotel rather than giant chain hotel.

Have you been to Mancora or Vichayito? Let us know your favorite spots in the comments below! Want to do some more traveling in Peru? Check out our guide to Machu Picchu below!

Read More: How to Get to Machu Picchu: A Step-by-Step Guide

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When is the best time to visit Peru?

Nov 6, 2023 • 5 min read

Whether you're a foodie stopping in Lima or an adventurer heading for the Inca Trail, your perfect Peru vacation starts here © R. Tyler Gross / Getty Images

A sizzling strip of coastal desert. Endless snow-capped Andean summits. A humid expanse of rainforest mazed by mighty rivers. These three types of terrain form a triumvirate of completely different climates, ensuring there is no bad time of year to visit  Peru .  

This is a tradition-entrenched, festival-focused land, with at least one vibrant celebration a week to add color to your trip. Whether you're a city lover stopping in the famous foodie capital of  Lima  or an adventurer heading for the Inca Trail, you'll find what you need to plan your perfect Peru vacation here.

June to August is the best time for Andean and Amazonian adventures

Most Western travelers prefer Peruvian winter. This isn't only because it coincides with their main holiday period, but because the crystal-clear weather casts the Andes , where the country’s most popular tourist sights beckon, in sharp sunlight. 

Fascinating festivals also occur, and the tantalizing trekking ground is dry underfoot. Adventure season is in full swing.

The ancient Incan capital of Cuzco grabs the most attention, along with the nearby Sacred Valley , where picturesque, Inca-ruin-dotted gorges invitingly thread through to the greatest site of them all: Machu Picchu .

The big treks – especially the Inca Trail , but others in Sacred Valley and those in snow-bedaubed Cordilleras Huayhuash and Blanca – are also irresistibly beautiful in the brilliant sunshine, but it's peak hiking season and they do get very busy.

June brings an array of fabulous fiestas, which enliven thoroughfares in Cuzco and other regional towns on a near-daily basis, the most notable being Inti Raymi, an Inca celebration of the winter solstice.

Further south down the Andes, Lake Titicaca glitters like a blue jewel, with tempting tradition-rich islands. The Selvámonos festival kicks off in Oxapampa at the end of the month and its live music and cultural celebrations are a wonderful way to spend a week in the valley.

It's dry season in the Amazon Basin  too – July is as dry as it gets in the Amazon, even though it's never truly dry there! The sunnier weather in the cloud forest lures birdlife out into the open, including the bright orange-red Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird, which mates at this time.

Down in the low jungle, wildlife is easier to spy than on the riverbanks, and forays down rivers like the Tambopata, near Puerto Maldonado , yield especially diverse sightings.

Lower water levels mean excellent whitewater rafting conditions: the Apurimac, near Cuzco, and the Tambopata are ideal for rapids-riding. Locals take to the streets in Paucartambo in mid-July to celebrate La Virgen del Carmen with music, dancing and colorful costumes – it's like a mini Mardi Gras.

September to November is best for quiet hikes and surfing without crowds

It's shoulder season everywhere, particularly in the Andes, where clear sunny days linger through September. For trekkers who prefer to have the mountains to themselves, this is the best time to go – utter solitude beckons on many hiking routes .

The Inca Trail is always well-trodden, but alternatives such as the Salkantay Trek, where you traverse a 4630m (15,190ft) pass loftier than any point on the Inca Trail, allow you to lose the crowds.

September also marks the end of the jungle’s dry season, so it's a good time to try rainforest trekking or wildlife-watching on a boat trip from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado before the spring rains descend and make travel trickier.

As the action in the interior decreases, it's pre-peak season on the coast. Toward late spring, the thick garúa (coastal fog) that's been enveloping Lima since July begins to lift, but it's still worth visiting Peru’s dynamic gastronomic capital earlier. 

Temperatures are rising along the country’s sandy beaches, but the masses have not yet checked in. By November, waves at Peru’s best surfing spots – including the home of the planet’s longest left wave at Puerto Chicama – are approaching their cresting best. 

Día de los Muertos is celebrated all over the country at the start of the month. Though this occasion is about loved ones who have passed away, the atmosphere is anything but somber – it's a celebration of love and life.

December to February is the best time for beach lovers

This is the season to see Peru’s magnificent beaches at their best. Sunbathing on the searingly warm northern beaches is delightful – temperatures routinely hover in the 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F) realm, and crowds flock to see-and-be-seen resorts like trendy Máncora .

Cusco hosts the biggest celebrations for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8 – a national holiday in Peru.

It's peak surfing season too. But for a different coastal experience, take a boat trip to the rarely glimpsed mangrove forests near Tumbes, or to the rocky sealife sanctuary of Islas Ballestas near Paracas, where sea lion pups are born in January.

From Paracas, it's a straight shot inland to Peru’s most colossal dunes at Huacachina – sandboarding down is the coastal region’s greatest adrenalin rush. Lima is largely garúa -free, so capitalize and try activities like paragliding over the city.

Inland, the wet season is at its height, and the Inca Trail is closed through February. Carnaval  kicks off at the end of February and Latin America's biggest party is celebrated in style across the entire country.

March to May is best for budget travelers and festival fanatics

With the exception of the riotous pre-Easter revelry of Semana Santa (Holy Week), this is a wallet-friendly time to visit Peru. Summer’s manic crush of visitors is over, the coast retains pleasant weather through March and deals can be struck as popular spots try to eke out their custom.

Carnaval  season in Peru continues from February into March with an explosion of color and celebrations everywhere.

It's not yet high season in the Andes or the Amazon, despite increasingly sun-kissed weather and bursts of bewitching greenery tinting the slopes, so accommodation and tours will be well below high-season tariffs.

The coastal strip entices as grapes ripen to the picking point, erupting in Ica’s wine-harvesting celebration, Fiesta de la Vendimia, in the second week of March.

Up in the mountains, against a canvas of steadily improving dry, bright weather, May can rival high season in terms of eye-popping festivals. 

Marvel at the spectacle of El Señor de Muruhua y, one of South America’s biggest pilgrimages held near Tarma, or the intriguing religious celebration of Fiesta de las Cruces, in cities like Cuzco, Ayacucho, and Lima. 

This article was first published March 2021 and updated November 2023

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Mancora, Peru

A Digital Nomad Guide to Mancora

Máncora is a seaside area in northeastern Peru, a small tourist city that is located 190 kilometers from Piura and more than a thousand from Lima. Although it continues to be a fishing town, it mostly lives off tourism thanks to its beaches and busy nightlife. The area is known for its sandy beach, the waves of which attract those who want to learn surfing. It is an attractive destination for national and international travelers with a relaxed atmosphere and a warm tropical climate all year round.

If you want a quiet stay, the area has accommodations on nearby beaches such as Las Pocitas and Vichayito where you will have a paradisiacal view with luxury accommodations.

The hotel infrastructure is enormous both in the town and in its surroundings. Although there are quite a few things to do as a family, with your partner, friends or alone, if you are a professional surfing, it would be better to go to Chicama, 600 kilometers away.

The town is not planned to work comfortably online so do not expect a good internet connection or options of places to work comfortably. The best you will find is your own accommodation.

The main street, Avenida Piura, is lined with restaurants and cafes. The bars in the city give rise to a lively nightlife. The Poza de Barro hot springs and mud baths are located to the southeast of the city. Migratory whales visit the waters off the coast and within a few kilometers you can swim freely alongside the giant tortoises of Los Organos.

Whether it’s for the party or the nature, this part of Peru is worth the visit.

Living in Mancora Overview

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Police : 110 Ambulance : 112 Firefighter : 113

Precautions

Tap Water: Non Drinkable Traffic: Dangerous Hygiene:  Medium

Air Quality

Vaccinations .

Typhoid Hepatitis A Tetanus Diphteria

Sun Screen Mosquito Repellent

Currency: Indonesian rupiah (Rp)

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Max Withdrawal: Rp 3,000,000

Withdrawal fee: rp 30,000 – rp 50,000, use of credit cards: mostly cash, transport & delivery.

ojek will help you to stay productive at home because we are beyond an app for online transportation. You can do groceries, food delivery, logistics, payment, and even watch series with us.

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Average Temperature °C

Average temperature °f, average rainfall, average rain days, daily sunshine hours.

My stay in Mancora was divided between my days in an accommodation in the city and my days in Las Pocitas, on the neighboring beach three kilometers away. Both places were very different and with different pros and cons.

While in Mancora I met a lot of people who changed week by week and I had fun in their endless parties, in Las Pocitas I found the inspiration and tranquility I needed to renew energy and work calmly.

My big battle was with internet speed as I work editing videos and creating content for others. I spent endless hours each week waiting for the files to be shipped. As much as I moved in, the internet connection was still sufficient but not incredible. That was one of the reasons why I ended up leaving the area, although I remember it very fondly.

The most incredible experience I had was not the people, nor surfing, nor the tranquility of Las Pocitas, since I can find all that in other places as well. The most incredible experience was swimming with the giant turtles of Los Organos. At first, I was against doing it because I thought they were caged, but when I realized that they were free in the sea and they were coming because they wanted to, I happily dived in looking for them. How to explain what it is to swim with them? Your chest fills with love and happiness; you feel free, wild and renewed.

In short, it is a place I would return to because I think it will always inspire me to write and smile. If it is for a short or long stay, you will decide it.

Work in Mancora

As you surely know, Mancora is known as a destination for parties and passing through. In general, it will be difficult to work from a hotel room or a house if you are in the center near the clubs and bars. Mancora do not have good options for temporary offices or coworking spaces like other destinations. 

Selina Mancora

The only coworking space in the area is Selina Mancora (Au. Panamericana Nte. 1215, Máncora) which is a hybrid that adds shared rooms, small rooms, large luxury rooms and a coworking space. It also has facilities in the center and in front of the beach, a bar, movie room, restaurant, swimming pool, terrace for their yoga’s classes and live music. Selina’s WiFi service offers the highest bandwidth and speed in the area; however, due to local infrastructure and weather conditions beyond their control, guests may experience temporary outages. Average Wi-Fi speed is 15-30 Mbps and the coliving is also pet friendly. Their community kitchen is fully stocked with everything you need to prepare meals, cook, bake, and clean. In addition to silverware, pots and pans, you also have access to a four-burner stove, extractor hood, microwave oven, toaster, kettle, coffee maker, and blender. The prices for the daily hot desk starts at USD 7, the weekly plan starts at USD 40 and the monthly plan at USD 160. However, Selina has CoLive which is a monthly subscription suitable for any period of stay, for a minimum period of 30 days. Through CoLive you pay the same flat rate every month and in return you have access to the accommodation and all other benefits on the site for which you are eligible. The monthly cost starts at 450 USD but you have to bear in mind that in many cases it does not include tax and it will be charged in cash once you arrive at the site (and they do not inform you!). Another consistency issue is co-work availability. It’s a frustrating problem to encounter since one of the biggest perks of booking a Selina CoLiving package is access to a comfortable working space.

Besides Selina, your luck will be tied to the season and finding a cafe far enough from the center. But don’t expect to find a good wifi connection. Your best option will always be private accommodation with Wi-Fi connection or good hotels.

Best Places to Live in Mancora

Los órganos, punta veleros.

Mancora, located at kilometer 1165 of the Panamericana Norte, is definitely the beach that attracts the largest number of tourists throughout the year. In the northern limit of the department of Piura, the district of Máncora offers accommodation and restaurants for all tastes and pockets. This is where you will find the greatest variety of bars, discos and restaurants as well as the youngest atmosphere. You can find ATMs, laundries, banks, police, a small hospital, Internet and telephone services, garages and small supermarkets. On its main avenue, the Panamericana Norte, you can see several handicraft stores, clothing boutiques and some surfboard rental venues.

Just 3 kilometers south of the center of Mancora is Pocitas, a beach with a total length of approximately 6 kilometers. At low tide, small natural pools form between the rocks that; together with the beautiful houses and hotels, become a unique sight. It is the most beautiful beach in the area and has a quiet, more exclusive atmosphere, with greater comfort and higher prices. This beach offers accommodation, lodgings and bungalows of good category, some with bars and restaurants with a decent service. Pocitas is an ideal area for those who want to rest between palm trees and the turquoise sea, enjoy a day at the beach with family or your partner.

Belonging to Los Órganos district, Vichayito is located between the beaches of Pocitas to the north and Los Órganos to the south. Its beach has absolute tranquility and is free of rocks. Here you will find hotels and lodges with restaurants, as well as bungalows, a couple of small stores and a modern beach spa. It is ideal for kitesurfing as the winds blow strong and even between the months of April to November.

Los Organos and Punta Veleros, just 13 kilometers south of Mancora, is a good alternative if you are looking for even more tranquility next to a town that has everything you will need. Its busiest beach is Punta Veleros, where there is a small beach condominium with bungalows and rental houses. The Los Organos spa offers good spots for surfing, lodgings, bungalows and restaurants. It also has bus and taxi companies, ATMs, banks, buses and accommodation in the town and on the seashore.

23 kilometers south of Mancora you will find El Ñuro beach, which is the natural continuation of the Los Organos beach, 7 kilometers away. This small fishing village of no more than a thousand inhabitants, enjoys a spectacular beach where the coastal desert meets the sea. In addition to a pier for local fishermen and several beach houses for rent, El Ñuro has stood out in recent years for its huge sea turtles, an impressive attraction. It is also a good place to surf. When there are waves in Mancora and Los Organos, you will surely find waves here but with fewer people at the beach.

Mancora is a small and highly touristy area, so finding a furnished monthly accommodation that meets certain comfort requirements, such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi, is not an easy task.

On Airbnb you will find small two-bedroom houses for 1.000 USD and studios between 800 and 1.000 USD. To find luxury houses with swimming pools and facing the sea, you can check vivamancora.com website, which has incredible homes with all the comforts. If your idea is to rent for several months, you can ask them what they have available and how much is the discount since you want a more permanent rental. You can also ask them to lower the price during the low season months, between May and June. The best thing would be to rent somewhere temporarily for the first month and once there start the search for a more temporary place.

If instead you prefer to stay in a hotel near the center with all the comforts and simply go out to eat at a restaurant, the options are many. For example, Don Giovanni Suites consists of spacious rooms with a view to the sea and other internal rooms that are quieter at night. The beach is just one step away, breakfast will start the day in a good mood (scrambled eggs with bread, jam, coffee and juice) and the staff is friendly and attentive. Choose the one with a bed with a mosquito net, it takes you to the tales of The Thousand and One Nights. If what you are looking for are quiet nights and quiet awakenings with a view of the sea, I recommend you look for a hotel in Las Pocitas. It is three kilometers from Mancora’s center and a mototaxi costs 3 soles (same price for one person or for three). The Hotel Punta del Mar, for example, has swimming pools and rooms with ocean views and Paraguayan hammocks. I really enjoyed the place but keep in mind that the kitchen closes at five in the afternoon and there are no places with reasonable prices nearby, there is no laundry service and at night only the security guard remains at the hotel. When staying in a hotel for a long time it is always advisable to ask if they have all the comforts one needs and under what terms.

The cheapest option the camping of Mancora that cost 5 soles (1,30 USD) per night followed by PK’s, a hostel on the beach that offers beds in shared rooms for 20 soles (5 USD) per night though it is possible to burgain it for 10 soles (2,50 USD). Although the establishment is quite neglected, it is centrally located and has a kitchen, a large balcony with sea views and armchairs to relax. You will also be surrounded by travelers and near the sea for 150 USD per month. On Airbnb you can also find different options of shared rooms in hostels for 150 and 200 USD per month and for 250 USD a room only for yourself. Once there it is easier to be able to talk to local people and find a room or a house for a cheaper price. Keep in mind that it is an incredibly touristy area so it will not be easy to find something cheap with a certain standard of comfort. My advice is to try between May and June, during the low season.

Similar Digital Nomad Destinations

Compare mancora with other destinations.

Most of the countries of America and Western Europe do not require a tourist visa to enter Peru, and the maximum length of stay granted by the authorities is 180 days, although it cannot be extended. For a stay for a longer period with other objectives (business, study, work, etc.) it is necessary to previously request the corresponding visa from the Peruvian consulates. Some of the available visas are:

• Tourist visa that allows a foreigner to visit Peru for tourism purposes.
• Business visa that allows a foreigner to visit and do business in Peru.
• Humanitarian visa for Venezuelan citizens who wish to enter Peru, in order to ensure an orderly and safe migration.

To enter Peru, it is an essential requirement to present a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months counted from its entry into the national territory. Citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia and Chile can enter with their national identification document.

On the other hand, people with a passport from Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua do require a visa to enter Peru and the costs vary according to nationality and can be consulted at the Peruvian consulate.

I always recommend checking in advance the information with the Peruvian embassy in your country of origin as it may change.

In Mancora the options are varied. The most economical are the menus that appear on the posters on the main avenue. There you can eat for 8 soles (2 USD) and choose between 4 starters, 5 main dishes and a lemonade. To enlarge the dishes and lower the price of the menu, just go to eat at the market restaurants. They are less pleasing to the eye but they give you better and bigger portions and the main menu costs only 6 soles (1.50 USD).

La Meche, located behind the market, is a small family restaurant with really good ceviche. Prices vary between 40 and 60 soles per person (10 and 15 USD). It is better to go earlier because this place is crowded after 2 pm. Although, if your intention is to try the best hake ceviche in the area, I recommend going to the Los Órganos pier. There you will find a cevichera called Nirma that prepares it in front of your eyes only for 4 soles (1 USD). Watching her prepare it is a show itself.

Returning to Mancora, Banana’s restaurant, just outside a chic clothing store, has prices to watch out for. For example, a large seasonal juice with a ciabatta sandwich for 8 soles (2 USD). The one I liked the most was the vegetarian one: lettuce, tomato, avocado, fresh cheese, mushroom, olive, basil and olive oil. In addition, it also sells fruit cups with yogurt, cereal and honey for 5 soles.

If you have a higher budget, the most pleasant place for a romantic dinner is La Sirena d’Juan, which has a menu with pasta, fish and seafood. They use national inputs such as quinoa and also offer classic dishes with the catch of the day. The dishes are impeccably presented and their desserts are delicious. For example, you should ask for the apple crisp. 

La Mosca en la Sopa has Argentine owners who offer gourmet dishes and warm service. The menu has seafood, pasta and meats, as well as a delicious piña colada. I recommend the smoked tuna.

Café del Mundo, almost at the entrance to Máncora, has French owners who offer healthy food. Their dishes are a French-Peruvian fusion where you will find from ratatouille with garlic prawns and salad to a falafel burger and sea salads. It is an excellent option for a light, delicious and healthy lunch.

Since mid-2005, Antonio Ortenzio created his own Ristorante Pizzeria Volentieri, in the heart of Máncora. Here you can try Italian stone pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven as well as gnocchi, ravioli, lasagna and tagliatelle in a family atmosphere with the best Italian traditions. ¡Buon appetito!

The nightlife in Mancora is famous for being fun and crazy. Its night offers good parties in a beachy and relaxed atmosphere. Here you can drink alcohol almost anywhere, from hostels to hotels and restaurants.

Atelier is a good place to start the night with their happy hour and delicious cocktails. Its menu features Peruvian and Latin American wines and a classic cocktail selection. It also has weekly live music shows, which is not a common thing in other places of Mancora.

At the Wild Rover Hostel you will find the only Irish bar in the area with excellent cocktails and a local atmosphere. Their pool parties with guest DJs and live music are famous in the area.

If you want to go to an authentically Peruvian bar, I recommend La Tienda, just to the right of La Sirena d’Juan restaurant. It is a little luxurious bar, with plastic chairs and a local atmosphere that makes you experience another Peru.

The biggest parties in Mancora take place in Loki del Mar. Every night is partying in this hostel full of travelers from all over the world. If you want to have a good time, have fun and meet new people, this is the place.

At Wiracocha Surf Restobar you can enjoy typical cocktails in front of the beach with your feet on the sand. This place is what you need to reconcile with the world. As the sun sets, the music begins and your outdoor bar turns into a party.

Along the beach there is a row of bars with dance floors where you can enjoy the best Latin rhythms of the moment. These bars usually close early in the morning so the vast majority of people end up here to watch the sunrise to the rhythm of the music.

Tip: to alleviate the hangover the next day, drink coconut water.

El Ñuro pier

One of the adventures in Mancora that generates the most emotions is whale watching. Any agency will want to charge you a fortune for taking you into the sea. A cheaper option is to go to the El Ñuro pier at 6 am and take one of the tourist boats that leave from there. The cheapest I could bargain for it was for 50 soles (13 USD) but it depends on how many people there are for the tour. Perhaps, on the same day the price can be lowered a little more. The whale season runs from the first of August to the end of September / October.

Swimming with Turtles

Swimming with Turtles is one of the most recommended activities. The giant tortoises are completely free inside the ocean but they stay by the dock because the fishermen throw fish at them and take care of them due to tourism. For a comfortable walk you can hire the tour but the place is not far and if you travel accompanied it will be cheaper to go on your own. The round-trip by bus to El Ñuro costs 12 soles (3 USD). Another option is to take a mototaxi (tuc-tuc) for 7 soles (2 USD). To return, to Los Órganos it costs 1 sol (0,25 USD) and from there you can get remises for 4 soles (1 USD). Once on the beach there are two options: pay five soles to enter the pier and go directly to an area with turtles or swim from the beach around the pier where they are scattered. The life jacket costs 2 soles (0,50 USD) but it is not mandatory to use one. On the way back, don’t forget to stop by the cevicheras on the Los Órganos pier for a plate of hake ceviche prepared in front of your eyes for 4 soles (1 USD). It was the best one I try in my life.

The Mud Pools

The mud pools, in Quebrada Fernández and Zorritos, are also a good choice to spend the day. The first option is approximately 30 kilometers away from Mancora. I do not recommend it since it only has a small well where so many people go that when you want to grab mud you end up with a lot of other people’s hair on your hand. Instead, Zorritos has three pools with different mineral properties. The place is called Hervideros and it is 65 kilometers away. Here you will find more locals than tourists and also the pools are larger. They are filled with the rising of the sea and at low tide the locals enjoy warm water and mud with special properties for the skin.

Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary

The tour to the Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary costs 80 soles (20 USD) but you should consider that they crowd many people together and sometimes it can be uncomfortable. The boat takes you to visit the different islands with characteristic flora and fauna from Peru, such as the Island of Crocodiles, the Island of Love and the Island of Birds with hundreds of colorful birds flying over it. The sanctuary consists of 2.972 hectares where the fishermen of black shells go to collect them among the roots of the mangroves. In the center of Mancora there are many tourism agencies that show the images of the tour on their televisions so that you can have a better idea of what you will experience on the tour. If you prefer to do activities on the beach and without leaving Mancora, you can take kite surfing and surfing classes. Beginning children and adults can take classes at one of the many schools that display their posters on the beach. For those who already have an idea, equipment is rented at Victors Surf Lessons. When I was there the waves didn’t look good to me. All the advanced surfers that I met where to Chicama to surf, a little further south. There you will find “the longest perfect wave in the world”, according to the magazines and those cute crazy people who fly on the board. Therefore, I recommend Mancora only for beginners.

Jet skis and quad bikes are also rented to stroll along the beach. A more interesting offer is that of Eco-Fundo La Caprichosa with a canopy-aeromoto circuit consisting of four lines of cables that run 1.600 meters down the mountain. In addition, along the beach you will see men with two horses that come and go from one end to the other offering rental services. It costs 10 soles (2,50 USD) for half an hour if you bargain enough and you have the option of galloping or going quietly with their owner monitoring you. I recommend considering how well the horse is treated and not encouraging animal abuse.

The good thing about the area is that you can spend a peaceful night away from the center or a crazy night in one of its bars facing the sea. Drugs and alcohol seem commonplace, although it is not always obvious since each tourist is in their own world. The night of Mancora is why most people visit it.

The geographical position of the area locates the beaches of Piura, Tumbes and Mancora in front of the crossing of the two great marine currents: the cold Humboldt that comes from the south and the warm Equatorial or El Niño current that comes from the north.

The confluence of these two currents creates an excellent semi-tropical and dry climate, with an average relative humidity of 60% and with more than 300 average sunny days per year. Temperatures range from 21 °C to 34 °C. It also has moderate southerly winds and almost no rain, except in exceptional summers.

The ocean temperature varies between summer and winter. In summer (from December to April) it ranges between 22 °C and 26 °C and the rest of the year between 18 °C and 21 °C. The beaches located south of Cabo Blanco have lower temperatures due to the greater influence of the Humboldt Current.

One of the best reasons to visit Mancora and nearby beaches is its amazing climate, which remains almost unchanged throughout the year.

Mancora is an ideal place to vacation with children but not to live there mainly due to the lack of a good hospital and good bilingual schools. The local schools have a very low level of education and completely in Spanish. Also, although places like Los Organos and Las Pocitas are quite safe, in the center of Mancora you will see drug use and robberies due to the high turnover of people and tourism.

However, for short stays outside the school period or if you teach your children from home, areas like Las Pocitas have enormous tranquility that will allow them to play in nature. Keep in mind that the friends you make may rotate according to the tourist seasons, although there are many foreigners and locals who live in the area.

Living in Mancora

If you are not yet in Mancora and you are wondering how to get there, the airline with the best deals from Latin America is LaTam. The closest domestic airports are Talara (72 km), Tumbes (102 km) and Piura (190 km). The international ones are those of Lima (1.165 km) and Guayaquil in Ecuador (470 km). All of them have transport agencies (bus, minibus and taxis) that connect with Mancora. From Guayaquil the trip costs approximately 20 USD and from Lima around 30-35 USD.

Some of the long-distance transport companies in Mancora are: Oltursa (www.oltursa.com.pe, 225-4499 / 224-1839), Civa (www.civa.com.pe, 332 5236/423 2755) and Cruz del Sur (www.cruzdelsur.com.pe, 225 6163/215 5031).

Once in Mancora, the town is quite small so a walking tour is ideal. You can take walks along its extensive boardwalk where both during the day and at night there are bars and restaurants to taste the local cuisine. You can also walk through its small pedestrian area full of handicraft and souvenir shops or on its main street where you will find clothing stores, markets, bars and restaurants. You do not need any means of transport to visit these places.

To cover slightly greater distances, you can take a motorcycle taxi, or even public transport to reach more remote points such as Los Órganos beach. For example, the round-trip by bus to El Ñuro costs 12 soles (3 USD). Another option is to take a mototaxi (tuc-tuc) for 7 soles (2 USD). To return, to Los Órganos it costs 1 sol (0.25 USD) and from there you can get remises for 4 soles (1 USD) back to Mancora.

Another widely used option is the private minivan to cover some short trips such as to Punta Sal Beach. The cost is usually per person and you will have to wait for the car or minivan to fill up for the driver to start the car. These minivans are stopped on the Panamericana which is the street with all the businesses, and it will be very easy for you to find them.

Among the gyms in the area is the Xserfit Mancora Fitness Center in the town of Mancora and also at Hotel Las Cabañas de Antica in Vichayito. Every Friday they have a class where you work with dumbbells, discs, garters, isometric, localized, box and functional exercises that make the class entertaining, dynamic and intense where you will burn many calories and increase your aerobic capacity to the rhythm of the music. They also have spinning classes, localized, yoga, aquaerobics and the machines area. They are open every day from eight in the morning.

You can also find hotels with gyms such as the Hotel Punta Ballenas Inn. Some of them charge a pass per day to be able to train at their facilities.

Another possibility is to learn surfing, kitesurfing or Stand Up Paddle in some of the schools in the area such as Wild Kite Peru, Inka Warrior Surf School or On Shore Kitesurf School.

Inka Warrior Surf School is located in front of the Mancora surf break. They offer private surf lessons for all levels, surfboard rentals, stand up paddle board lessons and rentals, and surf trips. They open from 6:30 am to 6 pm.

The people in Mancora and in the north of Peru in general are friendly, calm and very traditional in terms of the roles of women and men in the house. Every day they are becoming more westernized but still preserve many of the traditions of yesteryear. For example, the Inti Raymi festival. This is the oldest Peruvian tradition in the Peruvian Andes, and it is an Inca celebration in honor of Taita Inti (the father sun), which takes place on the winter solstice of the southern hemisphere, that is, on the longest night of the year. Nowadays it is also considered a ceremony of tourist interest since it has the presence of foreign visitors.

Also, Peruvians are very Catholic and celebrate Saint John’s Day. This is the largest and most popular celebration in the Peruvian Amazon, which takes place between June 21 and 27 every year. This holiday originates from the introduction of Christianity in the region by the Catholic missions, which declared Saint John the Baptist as the Patron Saint of the Amazon. Among the activities that take place on this date are book festivals, handicraft fairs, concerts by musical groups, dances, stoves, the election of Miss San Juan, and the use of parades and typical clothing of the area.

It is also worth making the 500-kilometer trip to witness the Marinera Festival that takes place in Trujillo, between January 20 and 30. The great Marinera contest is one of the most beautiful Peruvian dances, where people of all ages participate with dances full of joy, agility and elegance. In the festival there are also parades and competitions of horses with the famous Peruvian horse that moves in such particular way.

The north of Peru is full of traditions and festivities both Catholic and from the indigenous peoples of the area. Its people are always willing to tell you about their roots and customs since foreigners are not always interested in them.

In addition to a small state hospital that provides basic health care and serves mostly the residents in Mancora, there are institutions and private clinics that have different more specialized health services. In case of more complex problems, you should be transferred to nearby cities such as Piura, Tumbes, Talara or even the capital of the country. I recommend paying a private insurance because even in the largest cities, state hospitals have too basic facilities and medical care that can be inefficient.

Currently there are several pharmacies throughout Mancora. Many of them are pharmacy chains from Peru, with a good assortment of medicines and diapers. They mostly accept credit and debit cards.

Some international media and tourist guides wrongly show Mancora and its surroundings as a zone of yellow fever or malaria. There are no records of such diseases here in recent years. The usual illnesses are mild poisonings and stomach upset, mainly due to water or bad fish. It is always advisable to buy bottled water and avoid food stalls that do not have adequate hygienic measures or that are not very crowded.

Dengue disease also exists in the area, so it is recommended to use mosquito repellent all the time.

Another factor to consider is the sun and skin burns. I recommend the use of sunscreen during the day.

Make sure you are fully covered by reading our full Digital Nomad Travel Insurance guide .

To work in Peru legally without being a native of the country you need a working visa. However, many employers in different areas operate informally and hire staff without the need for a work permit and without declaring them as employees.

If you are looking for a job as a professional, Mancora is not a good place and it will be more convenient for you to go to Lima or work remotely through internet. In the town you will find mostly low-paying jobs related to tourism and the hotel sector. Keep in mind that the minimum wage in the country is 236 USD per month so don’t expect much more than that for a simple job at a hotel or at a restaurant.

Check out our Digital Nomads Jobs Postings to find the best jobs available for Digital Nomads .

Mancora Overall Budget: $2210 per Month

The cost of accommodation varies a lot according to the comfort you choose. You can find a bed in a shared dorm in a house with few amenities for 150 USD a month or a house with a pool for 2.000 USD a month. 

Regarding transportation, a motorcycle taxi (tuc-tuc) in Mancora or Las Pocitas will cost you 1 USD. The round-trip by bus to El Ñuro costs 12 soles (3 USD). Another option to El Ñuro is to take a mototaxi (tuc-tuc) for 7 soles (2 USD). To return, to Los Órganos it costs 1 sol (0.25 USD) and from there you can get remises for 4 soles (1 USD).

The cost of food also varies greatly depending on what you want to eat. Peruvian food is one of the most varied in South America due to the Spanish and Asian influence. The basic ingredients are rice, potatoes, corn and cassava, which are very cheap. They also cook a lot with chicken and pork. Street stalls typically sell take-out for 1 to 2 USD, while simpler street restaurants have menus for 3 to 15 USD. Other random prices: a beer varies between 5 and 8 soles (1,30 and 2 USD), a cappuccino 7 soles (2 USD), a 650 cl bottle of water 2 soles (0,50 USD), one kilo of tomatoes 3,6 soles (1 USD) and one of bananas 3,4 soles. The average cost of a kilo of fruit is 5 soles (1,30 USD).

However, if you want western food like a pizza with beer for one person, the prices go up to between 10 and 20 USD. Gourmet food also has higher prices although they are still cheap for what you get.

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Best Time to Visit Peru: When to Visit Every Region

An important research point for any dream vacation is knowing the best time to visit your destination of choice. Each place has its own distinct climate and time of year when it’s most picturesque. Peru is a country unlike any other, with many differing landscapes and climates. We’ve got your back in helping decide the best time to visit Peru, and what to pack for your adventure. 

Peru is composed of hundreds of microclimates, but you’re likely to encounter three major climate zones on your adventure to Peru. Peru weather varies drastically across the country because of these differing landscapes: mountains , coast and jungle . Additionally, s easons in Peru can be divided into a wet season and a dry season no matter the region. And since Peru is in the southern hemisphere, the traditional seasons are opposite to those in North America and Europe. This means that winter in Peru lines up with the summer months in the USA, and vice versa. For a comprehensive list of some of the ruins you’re likely to come across at these locations, read our blog post on the 21 Best Ancient Ruins to Visit in Peru .

To summarize at a glance, the best time to visit Peru in all three regions: the Coast, Andes and Amazon, is in April or May. 

Table of Contents:

• Machu Picchu
• Cusco/Sacred Valley 
• Lake Titicaca
• Arequipa/Colca Canyon
• Paracas/Nazca
• Puerto Maldonado 

Don’t have time to read the full article? Talk with one of our travel advisors today to get personalized answers for your exact questions. 

Best Time to Visit the Andes Mountains 

The Andes Mountains as seen from the Ausangate Trek . Image: View of the blue lagunas of the cordillera Vilcanota on the Ausangate circuit by sergejf on Flickr under the CC BY 2.0 License. Resized, cropped and compressed from original.

If you’re at high altitude in Peru, you’re in the Andes region. A mountain range that spans seven South American countries, it’s an impressive destination for hikers, climbers and modern-day explorers. The Peruvian Andes, in particular, boasts breathtaking destinations. There is Lake Titicaca , the highest navigable lake in the world, which has the dream-like floating Uros Islands and other unique cultures. There is Huaraz , which has a seemingly infinite number of hikes for adventure lovers. And then there’s, of course, Machu Picchu , the great Incan citadel that remained hidden from the Spanish conquerors.

Best Time to Go 

Dry season in the Andes region (April-October) is the best time to visit Peru. This is because you’re more likely to get sunny days, most notably at Machu Picchu. During the rainy season, clouds are more likely to obscure the ruins, especially in the morning. You’re also more likely to encounter periodic showers in the Andes during the rainy season. 

Seasons in the Andes Region 

• Rainy season: November–March 
• Shoulder seasons: April/May and September/October 
• Dry season : April–October 

What to Pack for the Andes 

• Voltage converter: South America voltage is 220v compared to 110v in the U.S. (Read more here: Electrical Outlets in Peru )
• Lightweight waterproof jacket
• Sunblock & hat
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with a good grip
• Warm clothes for colder evening & early morning temperatures
• Light clothes for warmer daytime temperatures
• Scarf, hat & gloves (if you’re prone to getting cold)

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Wild orchids bloom in the wet season between February and April in the green mountains surrounding Machu Picchu. Image by PublicDomainPictures on Pixabay.

Machu Picchu is the number one draw for travelers to Peru and it’s no wonder why! A UNESCO world heritage site, this ancient citadel is a sight to behold. That is, if you can see it. There are a few months of the year that the ruins are obscured in clouds and rain at certain times of day. Therefore, the best time to travel to Peru is when the weather at Machu Picchu is at its best. 

So, what is the best month to go to Machu Picchu? Most will say that the dry season, between April and October, is the best time of year to visit Machu Picchu . Likewise, this is also the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Specifically, we would recommend April or May as the very best time to visit Machu Picchu. Why? This is a shoulder season with slightly fewer crowds. Moreover, after the heavy rainfalls of the rainy season, the surrounding landscapes on your Peru adventure will be lush and vibrant green. If visiting in April, however, be sure to avoid Semana Santa , or Holy Week leading up to Easter, as this is a very popular vacation time for locals. 

As can be said about any destination in Peru, there’s no bad month to visit Machu Picchu. In fact, there are good things to be said for visiting during the rainy season, like fewer crowds and off-season discounts.

Machu Picchu Tours:

Machu Picchu Climate 

• Machu Picchu is located in the Andes region of Peru in the geographical location called a cloud or montane forest.
• It is a subtropical highland climate.
• Rainy season (November-March) is wet and humid while dry season (April-October) is arid and cold. 
• Read more about Machu Picchu climate and weather here . 

Machu Picchu Weather

Weather in Machu Picchu generally varies between misty clouds, heavy rainfalls and brilliant sunshine. Located in the Andes mountains, it’s typical for weather patterns to shift throughout the day, especially during the Machu Picchu rainy season. If doing an early morning tour of Machu Picchu, be prepared with warm clothes until the sun rises over the mountains. You’ll notice the temperature remains fairly steady year round, but whether it’s cloudy or sunny in the mountains can affect the feeling of the temperature. 

The wettest month in Machu Picchu is March, with a rainfall average of 6 inches (141 mm). The driest month is June with an average of .6 inches (17 mm). In terms of temperature, the warmest months in Machu Picchu are November and December, with an average high of 79ºF (26ºC) and low of 55ºF (13ºC). The coolest months are June and July, with an average high temperature of 77ºF (25ºC) and low of 48ºF (9ºC).  

Best Time to Visit Cusco and the Sacred Valley

The Plaza de Armas of Cusco on a sunny blue day.

Like Machu Picchu, the best time to visit Cusco and the Sacred Valley is during the dry season between April–October. These three regions share similar weather patterns, though typically the Sacred Valley gets a bit more sunshine than Cusco. Year-round you can expect nighttime temperatures to drop and shaded areas to be chilly. Always dress in layers in the Andes, no matter when you’re traveling to Peru. 

Cusco and Sacred Valley Climate 

• Machu Picchu, Cusco and the Sacred Valley all share the same subtropical highland climate: cwb on the Köppen climate classification .
• Wet seasons or summers are wet and humid while dry seasons or winters are dry and cold. 

Cusco and Sacred Valley Weather

Cusco . The average high and low temperatures in Cusco during the wet season (Nov-Mar) is 67ºF/44ºF (19ºC/6ºC). Average rainfall during the wet season is 12 days of the month. The average high and low temperatures in Cusco during the dry season (Apr-Oct) is 68ºF/37ºF (20ºC/3ºC). Average rainfall during the dry season is 3 days of the month. 

Sacred Valley . The average high and low temperatures in the Sacred Valley during the wet season is 69ºF/45ºF (21ºC/7ºC). Average rainfall during the wet season is 13 days of the month. The average high and low temperatures during the dry season is 69ºF/38ºF (21ºC/3ºC). Average rainfall during the dry season is 3 days of the month. 

Best Time to Go to Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca on a clear day during the dry season. Image by fransoopatrick on Pixabay.

The best time to visit Lake Titicaca is during the dry season in the Andes between April-October. Adding on Lake Titicaca after Machu Picchu is a perfect way to discover more of Peru’s archeological treasures since you’ll already be acclimated to the high altitude. Lake Titicaca is brimming with culture, color, and wonder! Sunsets over the lake are uniquely painted in the sky by the thin air. History is in its very soil and even the depths of the lake reveal more to us about the cultures that still call this place home. 

Lake Titicaca Climate: 

• Tundra climate, ET on the Köppen climate classification .
• Lake Titicaca is cold year-round. While the high altitude still means the sunshine will warm your skin, nighttime temperatures drop drastically.
• Like other destinations in the Andes region, rainy seasons (summers) are wet and humid while dry seasons (winters) are dry and cold. 

Lake Titicaca Weather: 

Coldest months in Lake Titicaca are June and July with an average high of 61ºF (16ºC) and average low of 19ºF (-7ºC). Warmest month is November with an average high of 66ºF (19ºC) and low of 36ºF (2ºC).  The wettest month is January with 5 inches of rain (133 mm) and the driest month is July with .7 inches (2 mm).

Best time to Visit Arequipa and Colca Canyon

Plaza de Armas of Arequipa.

The best time to visit Arequipa and Colca Canyon is in April or May, during the shoulder season after the rainy season in the Andes region. This is when the area is at its most lush and most picturesque. Arequipa gets an exceptional number of sunny days each year (300+). However, temperatures average only 59F (15C) year-round. December to March marks the rainy season, though rainfall is milder than in other regions of the Andes. 

Arequipa-white-cathedral: 

Alt-Description: The Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, a white stone Catholic cathedral, is seen through the walkways of Arequipa’s main square. 

Description: The best time to visit Arequipa is in April or May. Photo by Ana Castañeda for Peru for Less. 

Arequipa Climate 

• Tropical and subtropical desert climate or Bwk on the Köppen climate classification.
• Arequipa is a closer climate to the coast than other parts of the Andes region. Why? Because Arequipa is actually the northernmost part of the Atacama Desert. 

Arequipa Weather 

Average high and low temperatures in Arequipa during the wet season (Nov-Mar) is 74ºF/52ºF (23ºC/11ºC). The average rainfall during the wet season is about 3 days of the month. Average highs and lows during the dry season (Apr-Oct) is 75ºF/49ºF (24ºC/9ºC). The average rainfall during the dry season is 0 days of the month. 

Holidays in the Andes

It’s not just weather that’s a determining factor in deciding when to travel. It’s also important to look out for regional holidays. During holidays and festivals in the Andes, it can get very crowded, traffic can be more congested, and lodging and dining options can be limited and pricier. On the other hand, certain festivals can provide an amazing cultural experience. Either way, here are the significantly busy holidays to be aware of:

• Christmas Eve and Christmas (Dec. 24 and 25)
• New Year’s Eve and New Year’s (Dec. 31 and Jan. 1)
• Virgen de la Candelaria — Puno only (first couple weeks of February)
• Semana Santa (week leading up to Easter)
• Inti Raymi — Cusco only (June 24) 
• Peruvian Independence Day (July 28 and 29). 

Best Time to Go to the Coast/Desert

Paragliders soaring over the Pacific coast of Miraflores, Lima.

Peru’s coast is home to the capital city of Lima, the beach towns of Mancora and Piura, and the desert destinations of Nazca Lines , Paracas and Huacachina . Peru’s desert, the Sechura Desert, stretches to the northern border of Peru, along the coast, and to the foothills of the Andes mountains. For archaeological mysteries, stellar surfing opportunities, interesting sea creatures, and one of the most amazing cities in all of South America, head to the coast. 

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit the coast is during the summer months (November to April) . This, unfortunately, coincides with the rainy season in the Andes, home to Machu Picchu. There is an ideal moment of overlap, however, during the shoulder seasons in April/May and October/November where you can still have great weather both on the coast and up in the Andes. fInti

Seasons on the Coast 

• Summer Season . Sunshine and warm weather (December to March).
• Winter Season . Cloudy skies and mist (June to September).  
• Shoulder Season . April/May and October/November have more moderate weather, with a mix of clouds and sunshine.

What to Pack for the Coast

• Hat and Sunscreen
• Bug repellant
• comfortable walking shoes or sandals 
• Stylish evening clothes for trying out a top-rated restaurant or Lima nightlife
• A sweater and long pants (winter season day & night, summer season if outdoors)
• Shorts and teeshirts (summer season day)

Best Time to Visit Lima

Road leading down the the ocean in Miraflores.

The best time to visit Lima is during the dry season on the coast between November to April . 

Lima is located in the coastal desert region of Peru. But while it’s easy to imagine it hot, and sunny year-round, Lima has winters that come with prolonged overcast skies despite it never quite raining. Many Limeños, or Lima residents , wear scarves and jackets during the windier and colder winter months. 

Lima Climate

• Lima is classified as a tropical and subtropical desert climate or Bwh on the Köppen climate classification.
• Though it has less than an inch of rainfall each year, this does not mean clear skies year-round. Instead, from June to October gray clouds hang overhead and a mist clings around the tall modern city buildings.
• From November to May, brilliant blue skies with a powerful sun illuminate the colorful flowers that give the most popular district its name, Mira flores. During this time, many Lime ñ os head south to the beaches, like Paracas, for the weekend. This means that during the summer months in Lima you will have fewer crowds at museums, archeological site, and some of the world’s best restaurants. 

Lima Weather 

The warmest month in Lima is February, with a high/low of 81ºF/66ºF (19ºC/26ºC). The coldest month in Lima is August with a high/low of 64ºF/59ºF (15ºC/18ºC). In general, the summer months (December-March) are warm and sunny and the winter months (June-September) are misty and grey. Shoulder months (April, May, October and November) have a mix of clouds and sunshine. 

Best time to Visit Paracas and Nazca

You can spot pelicans year round in Paracas.

The best time to visit Paracas or take a   Nazca Lines tour  is during the dry season on the coast between November to April. Like Lima, Paracas is also located in the coastal desert region of Peru. This is a popular spot for visiting the biodiverse Ballestas Islands and the Nazca Lines . Paracas is Limeños’ beach getaway destination during the summer making it full of life and activity. For a quieter getaway with fewer people, visit during the wet season or winter months. However, this season will be windier. For tours like Ballestas Islands opt for the earlier tour at 7 a.m. instead of 10 a.m. for a significantly less choppy boat ride. Nazca Line overflights operate year-round but only in the midmorning to midafternoon due to wind conditions.

Paracas and Nazca Climate

• Like Lima, Paracas and Nazca are classified as a tropical and subtropical desert climate or Bwh on the Köppen climate classification.
• Strong winds define Paracas, especially during the winter months. 

Paracas and Nazca Weather

Paracas . The warmest temperatures in Paracas are in February with a high/low of 84ºF/67ºF (29ºC/19ºC). The coolest temperatures are in August 70ºF/56ºF (21ºC/13ºC). There is little to no precipitation year round. 

Nazca . The warmest month in Nazca is March, with a high/low of 92ºF/67ºF (33ºC/19ºC). The coolest month is July with a high/low of 78ºF/51ºF (25ºC/10ºC). Like Paracas, there is little to no precipitation year round and almost always clear skies. 

Best Time to Go to Trujillo

The famous Chan Chan ruins.

Trujillo is blessed with great weather year-round . Nicknamed the City of Everlasting Spring, it is a marvel of a city on the coast north of Lima. With a mixed bag of neoclassical architecture, Italian sculptures, Peruvian traditions like marinera dancing and the Peruvian Paso horse, and the Chan Chan ruins that predate Machu Picchu . It makes for an ideal destination to add on to your Peru itinerary because it can be enjoyed any time of the year. 

Trujillo Climate

• Tropical and subtropical desert climate or Bwh on the Köppen climate classification. 
• Trujillo is defined by sunshine and warm temperatures.

Trujillo Weather 

The warmest month in Trujillo is March, with a high of 79ºF (26ºC) and a low of 67ºF (19ºC). The coolest months in Trujillo are August and September, with a high/low of 69ºF/59ºF (20ºC/15ºC). There is an average of 0 days of rain per month year-round. 

Best Time to Visit Mancora

Sunset over the Pacific in Mancora.

The best time to visit Mancora is during the dry season on the coast between November and April. Mancora is one of the best beach destinations in Peru bringing in local and foreign visitors, especially from mid-December to February. New Year’s, in particular, is a popular time to visit Mancora. Located in Northern Peru, close to the border with Ecuador, it is the ideal place to get some R&R. The wet season in Mancora is brief, lasting only a couple of months — March and April.  

Mancora Climate

Mancora weather .

The warmest month in Mancora is March with an average temperature of 80°F (27°C). August is the coolest month, with temperatures averaging 70ºF (21°C). There is barely any rainfall throughout the year, but the wettest month is February with one inch (29mm) and driest are July through November with 0 inches on average (no rain at all). 

Holidays on the Coast

Like in the Andes, while weather is a major factor when deciding when to visit Peru, so are holidays. There are some holidays on the coast that can affect traffic, hotel availability and tour/site opening. Here are some holidays to be aware of if you’re traveling to the coast:   

• Peruvian Independence Day (July 28 and 29) 

Best Time to Visit the Amazon Rainforest

Morning mist rising off the river in the Amazon.

Spanning eight South American countries, The Amazon Rainforest is the largest remaining rainforest on the planet. It is also one of the world’s most biodiverse places and home to jaguars, pink dolphins, macaws, monkeys and many more amazing creatures! A trip to the Amazon allows you to explore the flora and fauna, connect with local Amazononian communities and relax in a jungle lodge right among the birds and trees. 

The best time to visit Peru if you’re interested in exploring the   Amazon Rainforest is during the dry season between June to December. In the Amazon, there is a dry season and a rainy season like other regions of Peru. However, you’re likely to experience high humidity, heat, and rain regardless of the season. Good things can be said about both seasons, but the high season for travel is during the dry season. 

• Dry Season. Low water season is between June and December.
• Wet season . High water season is between December and May. 

What to Pack for the Amazon Rainforest 

• Camera Protector
• Bug Repellant
• Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
• Synthetic/light garments that cover your body
• Hiking boots & House shoes

Best Time to Go to Iquitos

Aerial view of the Amazon River snaking through the jungle. Image: clouds-32 by Apollo on Flickr under the CC BY 2.0 License. Resized, cropped and compressed from original.

Iquitos is a destination that can be visited year-round. The best way to plan when to go to Iquitos is to base your decision on your desired activity level. The wet season will have you doing more sitting boat excursions due to higher water levels at this time of year. Dry season means you’ll have more walking/hiking excursions. 

Read more about the best time to visit Iquitos in our full Iquitos Travel Guide . 

Iquitos Climate

• Tropical Rainforest climate or AF on the Köppen climate classification. 

Iquitos Weather 

The temperatures year-round in Iquitos stays pretty stable, with an average high of 89-90ºF (31-32Cº) and a low of 69-71ºF (20-22ºC). It also rains pretty steadily year-round, with September being the driest with an average of 10 days of rain per month. The wettest month on average is March with an average of 15 days of rain per month. During the high water season (December-May), water floods the jungle floor making much of it navigable only by boat. 

Best Time to Visit Puerto Maldonado

Rainbow over the river in the southern Amazon Rainforest.

The best time to go visit Puerto Maldonado is during the dry season in the Amazon region between June and December. Visitors can enjoy the Amazon year-round but heavier rains during the wet season make it the off-season for tourism. Unlike Iquitos, the wet season in Puerto Maldonado doesn’t mean less walking. Instead, you’ll be trekking along muddier trails. This isn’t all bad, though. Muddy trails are prime places to spot fresh animal prints. And don’t worry, the majority of lodges provide mud boots to guests. 

Puerto Maldonado Climate

Puerto maldonado weather .

The average daily high temperature in Puerto Maldonado ranges steadily between 85-91ºF. The low ranges between 64-72ºF. June and July tend to be the coolest months and October the warmest. Rainfall ranges significantly, with the driest month being July with an average of 2 days of rain per month and the wettest being January with an average of 17 days rain per month. 

Holidays in the Amazon

The Amazon also has its influx of local tourism during the holiday season. During this times the lodges can fill up quite quickly and have higher rates. Also, more people can cause the wildlife to scatter and be harder to spot. Here are the holidays to try to avoid if you’re traveling to the Amazon : 

While there is no bad time to visit Peru, there is a best time to visit Peru! If aiming to visit all three regions during your Peru adventure, the best months to visit Peru are April or May. You’ll have better chances of good weather on the coast, clear skies in the Andes, and more boat excursions (vs. walking excursions) in the Amazon. Of course, Peru is constantly in flux, its ecosystems shift as the year turns and there is beauty and inspiring vistas to be had year-round! The best time to visit Peru, truly, is as soon as possible!

Contact us to talk with one of our expert Travel Advisors and start planning your dream Peru vacation today!

Originally from Canada, Michelle is a wanderer who has made Peru her home since 2018. In search of the best Red Velvet cupcake, she has been eating and travelling her way through Peru and South America ever since. Obsessed with glaciers, mountains, and french fries Peru has become her home away from home.

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