Tumbes: Puerto Pizarro islands and mangroves

Discover the Tumbes: Puerto Pizarro Islands and Mangroves Tour

If you’re heading to Peru’s northern coast, the Puerto Pizarro Islands and Mangroves tour offers a peaceful escape into nature’s quieter side. At $69 per person, this 8-hour trip provides a chance to see a variety of islands, enjoy boat rides through lush mangroves, and interact with local artisans. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit scenic viewpoints, explore different islands—like the Island of the Zoo, home to crocodiles, and the Island of Birds—and have time to browse handcrafted souvenirs.

What we love about this tour is its combination of wildlife viewing and cultural experiences. The boat ride is smooth and offers fantastic views of the coast, and the opportunity to purchase handicrafts from local artists adds a genuine touch of the community. Plus, the visit to the interpretation center helps contextualize your surroundings, enriching the trip with local history and ecology.

However, one consideration is that it involves a full day of outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy being on the water and in nature. Also, since it’s a small group experience, the tour feels intimate, yet that means it may fill up quickly—so reservation in advance is recommended.

This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and curious travelers eager to see the authentic coastal ecosystems of northern Peru without straying too far from Tumbes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife and Islands: Discover diverse islands such as the crocodile farm and bird sanctuary.
• Boat Experience: Enjoy a motorboat tour with water gear included for safety and comfort.
• Local Handicrafts: Support local artisans by browsing and purchasing unique handicrafts.
• Scenic Lookouts: Take in panoramic views from designated viewpoints, ideal for photos.
• Flexible Timing: Tour lasts around 8 hours; check availability for start times.
• Inclusive Price: Cost covers transportation, entrance fees, water gear, photos, and a snack.

An In-Depth Look at the Puerto Pizarro Islands and Mangroves Tour

The tour begins with a hotel pickup at 9:00 am, a straightforward start that ensures you’re ready to go without the hassle of organizing transport. From there, you’ll head to the lively fishing port of Puerto Pizarro, a hub of local activity and seafood markets. This initial stop provides a firsthand look at the day-to-day life of the coastal community, setting the tone for an authentic experience.

The Interpretation Center and Viewpoint

Your first stop after arriving at Puerto Pizarro is the interpretation center, where guides share insights into the area’s ecology and cultural history, giving context for what you’ll see during the day. It’s a small but informative space that helps frame the importance of the mangroves and islands, especially if you’re new to the region.

The lookout point offers sweeping views of the coast and nearby islands, a perfect spot for panoramic photos. We appreciated how this vantage point helps you grasp the scale of the islands and the lushness of the mangrove ecosystems — ideal for photography and simply soaking in the scenery.

Exploring the Islands — From Crocodiles to Bird Sanctuaries

Next, the boat departs for the main island hopping. The Island of the Zoo (also called the crocodile farm during some days) is a highlight for animal lovers. You’ll get close to resident crocodiles, with safety precautions in place, making it an engaging and slightly adventurous stop. This island is especially lively from Tuesday to Sunday, when the crocodile farm is active.

The Island of Birds is a peaceful haven where you’ll spot various bird species nesting and feeding — perfect for birdwatchers or anyone who enjoys observing wildlife from a respectful distance. The boat ride itself is smooth, and the guides are attentive to your comfort, providing vests and water gear as needed.

One of the most romantic spots is the Island of Love, renowned for its scenic beauty, tranquil waters, and swaying palms. It’s a favorite for couples, offering a quiet moment amidst nature.

Finally, the Bocana area provides a different perspective — a calm waterway where mangroves thrive. This part of the tour highlights the importance of mangrove ecosystems in coastal protection and biodiversity.

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Lunch and Handicraft Shopping

You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch on your own, perhaps sampling fresh seafood from the nearby stalls or bringing your own picnic. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the flexibility allows you to indulge in local flavors or relax at your own pace.

After the boat trip, the boat returns to Puerto Pizarro, where you can browse handicrafts crafted by local artisans. These often include woven textiles, jewelry, and small souvenirs—great for supporting the local economy and remembering your trip.

Return to Tumbes

The final leg of the journey takes you back to Tumbes, typically arriving around mid-afternoon, leaving you with time to explore more of the city or relax after a full day outdoors.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

The cost of $69 covers all essential aspects — transportation, entrance fees to all sites, water gear, photos, a snack, and a knowledgeable guide. The small group size (up to 10 participants) offers a more personalized experience, allowing for better interaction and attention from your guide.

Not included is lunch, so plan accordingly, and any extra expenses such as additional souvenirs or beverages. The tour is designed to be convenient, safe, and informative, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic nature-based outing.

Practical Details and Tips

To make the most of this experience, we recommend bringing a passport (for identification), a sun hat and sunscreen to protect against the tropical sun, and sandals or waterproof shoes suited for boat rides. A towel might come in handy if you’re near the water, and remember that alcohol and drugs are not allowed, ensuring a safe and respectful environment.

Since the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, visually impaired, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, it’s best for active travelers comfortable with outdoor activities. The 8-hour duration means you should be prepared for a full day, so packing light but adequately for sun, water, and possibly a bit of walking is wise.

Authentic Experiences and Traveller Feedback

Reviews highlight the stunning views and the chance to see local wildlife up close as major strengths. One traveler mentioned, “The boat ride was smooth, and the views of the mangroves and islands were breathtaking.” Another appreciated the local handicrafts, noting, “I loved browsing the crafts; it’s a great way to support local artists.”

Some travelers, however, pointed out the need to plan for your own lunch, as the tour does not include it. The emphasis on small group size ensures a more intimate experience, which many found more enjoyable than larger, busier tours.

The balance of ecological insight, scenic beauty, and cultural interaction makes this tour a well-rounded choice for those wanting to connect with northern Peru’s coastal environment.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Pizarro Islands and Mangroves tour offers a well-rounded day that combines nature, wildlife, and local culture at a reasonable price. It gives travelers a chance to see unique islands, observe bird and crocodile species, and support local artisans—all in a manageable, 8-hour outing. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet engaging experience that showcases the less-visited coastal ecosystems of Peru, this tour fits the bill.

Ideal for nature lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and those curious about local livelihoods, it’s a chance to enjoy authentic scenery and wildlife without venturing far from Tumbes. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash for souvenirs, and your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is there a specific start time for the tour?
Yes, the tour begins with hotel pickup at 9:00 am, but check availability for the exact starting times as they can vary.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport for identification, a sun hat, sunscreen, a towel, sandals, and perhaps a water bottle. Pack light and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time to buy or bring your own food to enjoy during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the full-day outdoor nature focus suggests it’s best for children comfortable with boat rides and walking.

What’s the main attraction?
You’ll enjoy boat rides around the islands, wildlife viewing—including crocodiles and birds—and panoramic views from the lookout point.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the boat ride safe?
Absolutely, safety gear such as vests is provided, and guides are attentive to your comfort and safety.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $69 per person, which includes transportation, entrance fees, water gear, photos, and a snack.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour combines the best of ecological discovery and cultural interaction, making it a worthwhile addition to your Northern Peru itinerary. Whether you’re keen on spotting wildlife, supporting local artisans, or simply enjoying scenic boat rides, it offers a genuine and affordable way to experience the coastal treasures of Tumbes.

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