Zorritos Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, eat, and buy souvenirs in Zorritos, Peru. Learn about the local culture, customs, and safety tips.


Introduction to Zorritos

Zorritos is a small coastal town located on the northern coast of Peru, in South America. The town is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched natural beauty. Zorritos is a hidden gem that is perfect for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Zorritos. We will also cover the local culture, customs, and safety tips to help you have an enjoyable and memorable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Zorritos

Zorritos has a lot to offer travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Zorritos:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo de la Caza y Pesca: This museum showcases the history and culture of fishing and hunting in the region. The museum has a collection of ancient artifacts and tools used by fishermen and hunters.
  • San Francisco de Asis Church: This historical church was built during the colonial period and is a prime example of baroque architecture. The church has a beautiful carved wooden altar and a statue of Saint Francis of Assisi.
  • Punta Sal Light House: This historic lighthouse was built in the 19th century and is located on Punta Sal, a rocky promontory that offers stunning views of the ocean.

Natural Attractions of Zorritos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cerro Sagrado: This hill offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby mountains. The hill is easy to climb and is an ideal location for watching the sunset.
  • Playa Bocapan: This beach is located about 30 minutes south of Zorritos and is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
  • Zorritos Thermal Baths: These hot springs are located within walking distance of the town and are a popular spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zorritos

The natural beauty of Zorritos is best discovered on foot or bike. Here are some hiking and biking routes to explore:

  • La Cuesta Trail: This trail starts from Zorritos and takes you through the hills and forests surrounding the town. The trail is well marked, and the views are spectacular.
  • Cabo Blanc Trail: This trail starts from Mancora and takes you along the coastline to Cabo Blanco. The trail is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the ocean and wildlife.
  • Zorritos to Bocapan Trail: This trail follows the coastline from Zorritos to Playa Bocapan. The trail is easy to moderate and is perfect for a morning or afternoon hike.

Best Things to Do in Zorritos: Activities and Tours

Zorritos has a range of activities and tours to suit all tastes. Here are some of the best things to do in Zorritos:

  • Surfing: Zorritos has some of the best surf spots in Peru, with waves suitable for all levels of surfers.
  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The clear waters of Zorritos are perfect for exploring the underwater world. The local dive shops offer dive trips and snorkeling tours.
  • Fishing: Many local operators offer fishing trips to nearby reefs and islands.
  • Whale Watching: From July to October, humpback whales migrate through the area, making it an excellent spot for whale watching tours.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the countryside around Zorritos on horseback, with tours available for riders of all abilities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zorritos

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Zorritos:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and relaxation at thermal baths
2 Surfing lessons in the morning, followed by horseback riding in the afternoon
3 Whale watching tour in the morning, followed by scuba diving in the afternoon
4 Hiking La Cuesta Trail in the morning, followed by a sunset visit to Cerro Sagrado
5 Day trip to Playa Bocapan for snorkeling and beach activities
6 Fishing trip in the morning, followed by a visit to Museo de la Caza y Pesca
7 Departure day

Food and Drink Scene of Zorritos

Peruvian food is known around the world for its unique flavors and various regional specialties. Zorritos has a range of eateries and local dishes to explore.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche: This dish is made with raw fish marinated in lemon juice and served with onions, chili peppers, and sweet potatoes.
  • Papa a la Huancaína: This dish consists of boiled potatoes covered with a spicy cheese sauce made with yellow chili peppers and milk.
  • Lomo Saltado: This dish is a stir-fry made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and Peruvian spices served with rice and fries.

Local Beverages

  • Pisco Sour: This is Peru’s national cocktail made with Pisco, a grape brandy, lemon juice, egg whites, and simple syrup.
  • Chicha Morada: This is a refreshing non-alcoholic drink made by boiling purple corn with cinnamon, cloves, and pineapple.

Where to Stay in Zorritos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zorritos has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Zorritos:

  • Casa Andina Select Zorritos Zorritos: This hotel is located on the beachfront and has a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar.
  • Hotel Saltos del Mar: This hotel is located on a hill overlooking the ocean and has comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
  • La Casa del Viajero Hostel: This hostel is located in the town center and has shared and private rooms, a kitchen, and a terrace.

What to Buy in Zorritos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Zorritos is known for its handicrafts and local products. Here are some souvenirs and products to bring home:

  • Alpaca Wool Clothing: Zorritos is located near the Andes Mountains, where alpacas are bred for their wool. Look for sweaters, scarves, and hats made of alpaca wool.
  • Pottery: The local artisans make pottery using local materials and techniques.
  • Pisco: Bring home a bottle of Pisco, a grape brandy that is Peru’s national drink.

Local Culture and Customs of Zorritos

Peru is a diverse country with a rich culture and history. Here are some local customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind when visiting Zorritos:

  • Greetings: When you meet someone for the first time, a handshake and a smile are appropriate.
  • Gifts: It is customary to bring a small gift when you visit someone’s home.
  • Language: The official languages of Peru are Spanish and Quechua. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish before your trip.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service at restaurants and for tour guides.

Best Time to Visit Zorritos

The best time to visit Zorritos is from December to February when the weather is sunny and dry. The rest of the year is humid, with occasional rain showers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zorritos

Do:

  • Respect the local culture: Learn about the local customs and traditions and respect them.
  • Pack appropriately: Pack lightweight and loose clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
  • Try the local food: Peruvian food is delicious and unique, so try as much local food as possible.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Help keep the beaches and natural areas clean by not littering.
  • Disrespect the local culture: Be mindful of customs and avoid behavior that could be disrespectful.
  • Bring illegal substances: Drug laws in Peru are strict, and possession of drugs can result in jail time.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zorritos

Zorritos is generally a safe town, but it is always wise to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit areas and travel with a group or use transportation.
  • Protect your valuables: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Stay alert when using public transportation: Pickpocketing is a common issue in Peru.

Health in Zorritos

It’s essential to take care of your health when traveling to any destination. Here are some health tips for Zorritos:

  • Stay hydrated: The weather in Zorritos is hot and humid, so drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
  • Protect yourself from the sun: Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outside.
  • Insects: Zorritos is located in a tropical area, so mosquitoes can be a problem. Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Zorritos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Zorritos is located about 1,100 km north of Lima, Peru’s capital city. Here are some transportation options to get to Zorritos:

Airports Near Zorritos

The nearest airport to Zorritos is Tumbes Airport, located about 40 km south of Zorritos. The airport has daily flights from Lima and other major cities in Peru.

Bus Stations Near Zorritos

The nearest bus station to Zorritos is located in Tumbes, about an hour’s drive away. There are daily bus services from Lima and other major cities in Peru.

Other Options

If you prefer to hire a car or take a taxi, there are several car rental companies and taxi services available in Tumbes and nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Zorritos

Zorritos is a small town and easy to explore on foot or by bike. Taxis are also widely available, and there are local buses that connect Zorritos with nearby towns.

Where to Go Next from Zorritos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zorritos is a great base to explore the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Mancora: This beach town is located about an hour’s drive north of Zorritos and is known for its lively nightlife and surf scene.
  • Tumbes: This town is located about an hour’s drive south of Zorritos and has a range of historical and cultural attractions.
  • Cabo Blanco: This small fishing village is located about two hours south of Zorritos and is a great spot for fishing and wildlife watching.

Conclusion

Zorritos is a hidden gem in Northern Peru, with stunning beaches, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. This comprehensive travel guide has covered the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay, eat, and buy souvenirs in Zorritos. By following the local customs and taking necessary health and safety precautions, you can have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Zorritos.