Your Guide to Mancora, Peru
- twoeejitsabroad
- Jun 28, 2024
- 5 min read
If you're planning a short getaway that combines adventure, and relaxation, Mancora, Peru should be on your list. It's a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and its kite surfing! Here’s our guide to spending three incredible days in Mancora, including where to stay and the best activities to fill up your days!
How to Get There
By Air
Fly to Talara, Tumbes or Piura:
You can get direct flights from Lima to Talara or Piura and they take about 1.5 hours.
Transfer to Máncora:
By Bus
Direct Bus from Lima: Several bus companies offer direct services from Lima to Máncora. The journey takes around 18-20 hours. We took this option and it wasn't as bad as it sounds! We would always pick a seat on the bottom floor of the bus and be pretty comfortable for the journey! Seats recline and are generally very comfortable, much nicer than those airline seats! They are often equipped with Wi-Fi, and entertainment options too. Popular bus companies include Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa.
Where to Stay?
There are so many options when it comes to looking for a place to stay. If you're like us and like to have atmosphere but on a budget, then one of these hostels could be for you!
Hostels
The Point Hostel is another favorite among backpackers. Located right on the beach, it offers ocean views and easy access to the water. The hostel provides a range of dorms and private rooms too. It has a swimming pool looking right out onto the beach, a beachfront bar, and a restaurant. The Point Hostel is known for its friendly staff, laid-back atmosphere, and a good balance of relaxation and fun.
Selina Máncora is a trendy and modern hostel that caters to both backpackers and digital nomads. It offers a variety of rooms, from dorms to luxurious private suites, all with stylish decor. The hostel features a co-working space, swimming pool, yoga deck, and a wellness center. With its beachfront location, Selina provides a perfect blend of relaxation and productivity, ideal for those looking to work remotely while enjoying the beach life. The hostel also organizes numerous activities and tours for guests.
This is the place that we chose to stay. The Wild Rover Hostel is a chain of hostels in Peru that boasts an Irish heritage which made us want to book straight away! Known for its social scene, the hostel features regular events, and occasionally live music. It offers both dorms and private rooms, but we chose to stay in the dorms. They were comfortable with their own mosquito nets for each bed. It also has a swimming pool, bar, and a restaurant serving a mix of local and international food.
Loki del Mar is one of the most popular hostels in Máncora, known for its lively atmosphere and social vibe. It offers a mix of private rooms and dorms. Best of all it's right in the middle of the action and on the beach. The hostel features a large pool, bar, restaurant, and various common areas where guests can relax and socialize. Loki del Mar is particularly well-known for its organized events and parties, making it a great spot for meeting fellow travelers.
Hotels
DCO Suites Lounge & Spa is a luxurious beachfront hotel known for its elegant design and exceptional service. The hotel offers spacious rooms with private terraces, and stunning ocean views. There's even an on-site spa! The hotel also features an infinity pool, a fine-dining restaurant and a lounge bar.
Arennas Máncora is a sophisticated and stylish hotel surrounded by tropical gardens and offering direct access to the beach. It offers luxurious bungalows and suites to suit all travellers. It has an amazing beachfront pool, a restaurant with Peruvian and international dishes, and a beach bar.
KiChic Boutique Hotel is an eco-friendly boutique hotel that combines luxury with sustainability. Located right on the beach, the hotel offers uniquely designed rooms and suites, each featuring natural materials and a minimalist aesthetic. It even has its own yoga studio, spa services, and a vegetarian restaurant that emphasizes healthy and organic meals.
Things to Do in Mancora
There's so many things to keep you entertained in this Peruvian beach town. Here are our top 8 things to do in Mancora:
1. Surfing
Máncora is renowned for its excellent surf conditions, making it a top destination for surfers of all levels. The consistent waves and warm water attract surfers year-round. There are several surf schools and rental shops where beginners can take lessons and rent equipment. The main beach, Playa Máncora, is the most popular spot, but nearby beaches like Punta Ballenas and Los Órganos also offer great waves. Book a full day tour here where you get an all inclusive experience, complete with secret spots and drone shots!
2. Kite Surfing
With strong and steady winds, Máncora is an ideal location for kite surfing. The best months for kite surfing are from May to December. There are several schools offering lessons for beginners and advanced kite surfers. The thrilling experience of gliding over the waves while harnessing the power of the wind is a must-try for adventure enthusiasts.
3. Whale Watching
From July to October, humpback whales migrate along the Peruvian coast, and Máncora offers excellent opportunities for whale watching. Boat tours are available, taking visitors out to sea to witness these majestic creatures breaching and playing in the water. It's a breathtaking experience to see whales up close in their natural habitat.
At El Ñuro, a short drive from Máncora, you can swim with green sea turtles in their natural environment. These gentle creatures are accustomed to humans and often come close, providing a unique and unforgettable snorkeling experience. Local tours provide transportation and snorkeling gear, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
5. Horseback Riding on the Beach
Horseback riding along Máncora's picturesque beaches is a relaxing and scenic activity. Guided tours are available, allowing riders to explore the coastline, nearby dunes, and even local fishing villages. It's a perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area at a leisurely pace.
A day trip to the Mangroves of Tumbes offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can take boat tours through the mangrove forests, home to a variety of wildlife including birds, fish, and crustaceans. The tranquil boat ride through the winding waterways is both educational and serene.
7. Relaxing at the Beach
Máncora's beaches are perfect for simply relaxing and soaking up the sun. Playa Máncora, the main beach, is lined with palm trees, beach bars, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming in the warm waters, or indulging in fresh seafood at the beachfront eateries.
8. Nightlife and Food
Máncora has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. Whether you're looking for a lively party atmosphere or a more relaxed setting, there's something for everyone. Many places offer live music, dancing, and a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. The town also boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional Peruvian cuisine to international dishes.
If you enjoyed our blog and are planning your trip to Peru, why not check out our other blogs! We spent a month in Peru and have plenty of activities and itineraries for you! Thanks for supporting us! ☘️
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