Many Peruvians head north when they feel it’s time to get away from it all, and with good reason. The beaches are empty and expansive, the ocean is warmer than in the south, and life is enchanting. During the last couple of years, accomodations of all types have started to pop up along the northern coast: from small rustic cabins, to luxerious hotels. Here is a guide for those of you who are looking for a great luxerious place to stay on your trip up north.
Surfing, Diving And Spas In El Ñuro
El Ñuro is located 6.6 kilometres south of Los Organos. It is a perfect place for relaxing, surfing, or diving. Along the beach, you’ll also find natural rock pools, as well as a small fishing pier. Hotel owners have built in this area because of its vast landscapes, and the solitude that the area provides. In El Ñuro, you’ll find four-star hotels that are surrounded by gardens of exotic plants, air conditioned rooms with Jacuzzis, beach terraces, and even swimming pools. Check out Hotel Grandmare & Bungalows (www.grandmare.com). This hotel is somewhat distant from the noise of other towns, and includes every amenity that you are likely to need.
Further north is Los Organos, a resort town that has slowly grown in size, since people are constantly coming to discover its wonder, especially families. The town is more peaceful than Mancora, but is still close by, if you ever feel like taking a short day-trip. Also, if you come during the right time of year while whales are passing by in migration, it’s possible to organize a boat trip and spend time with these amazing animals.
THE MANCORA DREAM
Mancora is one of the most visited beaches in the north. The town continues to grow, without sign of stopping any time soon: from bars, to designer clothing stores; from gourmet restaurants to basic ceviche stands; from tourist shops, to street vending jewellery makers, Mancora is the tourist beach-hub of the north coast.
Some of the country’s best hotels and hostels can be found near center of town, at Las Pocitas and Vichayito. You’ll find bungalows equipped with good wifi and satellite TV, right along the beach. Check out Vichayito Bungalows & Carpas by Aranwa (www.aranwahotels.com). Or maybe you’re interested in staying at one of Mancora’s boutique hotels, such as Arennas (www.arennasmancora.com), Ecolodge Suites Bienestar Natural (www.ecolodgemancora.com), Dco Suites, Lounge & Spa (www.hoteldco.com), or KiChic (www.kichic.com) at Las Pocitas.
TUMBES PARADISE
About 45 minutes north of Mancora you will reach Punta Sal, a more traditional resort, characterised by vast white beaches and calm seas, which are ideal for diving. Here you will find luxury hotels, such as Punta Sal Suites & Bungalows Resort (www.puntasal.com.pe), an oasis of palm-fringed houses with wooden terraces, and swimming pools almost on the seashore.
Farther north along the Ecuadorian coast, you’ll find Cancas, a spot that is even quite during its high season. An idea place to spend the night is Bungalows Canoas de Punta Sal.
We end this trip in Zorritos, another typical northern town, neglected by most travellers. Close to the mangrove swamps, you’ll find Casa Andina Select (www.casa-andina.com), which offers spacious and immaculate rooms. The hotel can also help you to organize a trip to Los Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary, a great place to visit and to spend the day. Other hotels that might be of interest are Hotel La Posada de los Tumpis (www.laposadadelostumpis.com), and El Mango de Costa Azul (www.costaazulperu.com). Thus you can end your trip among tropical vegetation, mangroves, and sandy and mysterious landscapes.
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Cover photo: Traveling and Living in Peru Archives
Article author: Ultimate Journeys Peru
