From Piura | Tour to Sechura and Sandboarding

If you’re exploring northern Peru and want a day packed with variety—deserts, beaches, wildlife, and a dash of adventure—this Sechura and Sandboarding tour offers a compelling way to see the region. Starting at just $78 per person, it spans around 8 hours, giving you a well-rounded experience of the local scenery, history, and adrenaline-pumping activities.

What we love most are the stunning vistas of expansive dunes and coastal wetlands, and the chance to try sandboarding in Médano Blanco—an experience that’s as fun as it sounds. Plus, exploring a forgotten fishing village adds a touch of authenticity and history you won’t find in typical tourist spots.

One thing to consider: the tour involves a fair amount of outdoor walking and activity, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are a must. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural sights, nature, and adventure, rather than those looking for a purely relaxing or indoor-focused itinerary.

This tour is ideal for curious explorers eager to see both the natural landscapes and historical remnants of this part of Peru, all while enjoying some spirited sandboarding.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From desert dunes to mangrove estuaries and beaches, offering rich visual contrasts.
• Authentic local sights: Visiting Sechura’s Plaza de Armas and an abandoned fishing village provides insight into regional history.
• Adventure activity: Sandboarding on Médano Blanco dunes is a highlight, suitable for all ages with full equipment provided.
• Wildlife observation: Migratory birds in the San Pedro de Vice mangroves are a bonus for bird lovers.
• Flexible options: Small groups (limit 10) and a free cancellation policy make this a low-pressure choice.
• Value for money: Well-rounded day for $78, covering transportation, guide, and equipment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Out: Comfortable and Convenient

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Piura around 9:00 a.m., making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation logistics. The group typically moves in a minibus or coach, which is spacious enough for comfort during the roughly 1.5-hour drive southwest to Sechura. This transfer allows you to settle in, get your first glimpses of the Peruvian landscape, and chat with your guide—who usually speaks both Spanish and English.

Exploring Sechura: History and Local Life

Once in Sechura, the tour hits the town’s main highlights: the Plaza de Armas and the church of San Martin de Tours. The guides do a good job explaining the town’s origins from as early as 1770, and the architecture’s baroque details and tall towers give a glimpse into its colonial past. As one traveler noted, “It’s fascinating to walk through a place where history is still alive in the buildings.”

Walking around Sechura offers a rare chance to see a provincial Peruvian town that hasn’t been overly commercialized. It’s a straightforward, authentic stop that adds context and depth to your day.

The Mangroves of San Pedro de Vice: Nature and Wildlife

Next, the tour heads to the mangroves of San Pedro de Vice, a haven for birdwatchers. Here, the guide will help you spot migratory birds arriving from as far as Canada—an impressive feat of nature. The biodiversity in this estuary is surprisingly lively, with various animal species that you can try to identify. The scenery is peaceful, and the quietness of the mangroves makes it a calming contrast to the desert dunes.

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Lunch and Ruins at Chulliyachi: A Mix of Relaxation and History

Following the mangroves, you’ll arrive at Chulliyachi Beach, where we’re given about an hour to have lunch and explore. The golden sands are beautiful, and it’s a great spot to relax, soak up the sun, or stroll along the shoreline. This area features the ruins of an abandoned fishing village, including a church and old adobe houses, which visually tell stories of a once-thriving community that succumbed to erosion and sea action.

One review mentions, “Seeing the abandoned village with the sea slowly reclaiming it made me think about how fragile coastal communities are. It’s a hauntingly beautiful reminder of nature’s power.”

The Dunes of Médano Blanco: Adventure Meets Nature

The final and most adrenaline-filled part of the day takes place at Médano Blanco, a famed desert dune area. The vast, rolling sands create a dramatic backdrop for sandboarding. Full gear is provided, and the guides are encouraging yet safety-conscious. Expect to spend about an hour sliding down impressive dunes—a fun activity even for beginners.

The views from the top of the dunes are spectacular, offering sweeping vistas of the desert and distant coastline. Travelers commented that “the sandboarding was a blast; I couldn’t stop laughing while trying to stay upright.” This area’s natural beauty and the thrill of sliding down the dunes make it the tour’s standout moment.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up around 5:30 p.m., and after a full day of sights and activities, you’ll be back at your Piura hotel. It’s a packed itinerary, but the varied scenes—from cultural sites and wildlife to adventurous sandboarding—make every moment worthwhile.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $78, this tour offers an excellent value—covering transportation, a bilingual guide, and full sandboarding equipment. You get a good mix of cultural insights, nature, and adventure, making it suitable for travelers who want to experience more than just beaches or cities.

However, keep in mind that the activity level involves some walking and physical movement, especially during sandboarding. Wearing breathable clothing and sports shoes is essential to stay comfortable. Also, since the day involves outdoor exposure, sun protection—like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses—is highly recommended.

The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures a more personalized experience, and the free cancellation policy provides flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see a different side of Peru’s coast—combining cultural history, birdwatching, and desert fun. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy outdoor activities, like sandboarding or walking through scenic landscapes. Families with older children (over 7 years) will find it fun and engaging, but those with mobility issues or seeking a more relaxed day might find it too active.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting a full-day adventure that mixes history, nature, and thrills, this Sechura and Sandboarding tour hits all the right notes. It offers a rare glimpse into the diverse landscapes of northern Peru, from the coastal mangroves to the glorious dunes of Médano Blanco.

You’ll leave with a camera full of stunning views and perhaps a bit of sand in your shoes—both signs of a day well spent. If you’re looking to experience authentic local scenery and add a splash of adrenaline to your trip, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 7 years old can participate, but it’s best for those who are comfortable with outdoor activities and sandboarding.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, change of clothes, snacks, drinks, water, sports shoes, personal medication, and a pen. Don’t forget sunscreen to shield yourself from the sun.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, as most activities are outdoors, the tour may be affected by weather conditions. It’s advisable to check the forecast and dress appropriately.

Are meals included?
No, food and beverages are not included, but there are stops where you can buy or bring your own lunch.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.

How long is the drive from Piura to Sechura?
The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours in a comfortable minibus or coach.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of no more than 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible for international travelers.

This Sechura and Sandboarding tour offers a well-balanced mix of local culture, wildlife, and adventure, making it ideal for travelers ready to explore northern Peru’s diverse landscapes with a guide who appreciates both the fun and the history.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby