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The summer in Tumbes is eternal,
and the surroundings resemble Paradise. The fact it lies
so close to the Equator has determined the landscape, which
teems in plantlife. Its history dates back centuries, when
the Tumpis, a tribe who were excellent sailors, settled
in the far northwest of Peru. These were the first natives
discovered by the Spaniards in 1532.
The superb beaches of Tumbes and its warm sea are ideal
for surfing and underwater fishing. The beach of Punta Sal
is considered one of the finest on the Peruvian coast for
its pure white sands and a sea ideal for water sports. North
of the city of Tumbes lies Puerto Pizarro, the gateway to
the National Mangroves Sanctuary. The mangroves have formed
vast clumps of water-borne forests which have created a
unique eco-system linking the river and the sea. The mangroves
are the breeding grounds for black scallops, which are served
up in Tumbes' most famous dish, the ceviche de conchas negras.
Other mouth-watering local recipes include ají de
langostinos (spicy shrimp strew) and majarisco (plantain
served in a shellfish sauce).
South of Tumbes lies Zorritos, the town which received its
name from workers involved in drilling the first oilwell
in the area, back in 1863. Not far from Zorritos lies the
Bocapán beach, where visitors can swim in Hervideros,
natural hot springs bubbling with iodized salts.
A good time to visit Tumbes is in October, when visitors
can take part in the local Tourism Week and enjoy the beaches,
the local cooking and above all the warm hospitality of
its people.
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