Discover 15 Thrilling Mancora Peru Adventures Now

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. 

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. 

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

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).

Tips To Stay Safe During Your Trip In Mancora, Peru

To ensure a safe trip to Mancora, Peru, consider traveling in groups, especially when exploring beaches or venturing out at night. Stay vigilant of your surroundings, particularly in tourist areas, and keep your belongings secure to deter theft.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

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. 

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