Piura - Discovering Peru

Travelling to Piura

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Piura, a pretty good destination in Peru (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Piura and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Piura, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Peru, here's everything to know about Piura for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Piura

Piura is a city located in the northwest of Peru. It is the capital of the Piura region and is known for its warm climate and beautiful beaches. The city has a rich history and is home to many historical sites and museums. Piura also has a vibrant cultural scene and is known for its lively festivals and traditional food. Some of the popular attractions in Piura include the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Piura, the Municipal Museum Vicús, and the Casona Grau Museum.

What to visit in Piura

Sure! 1. Plaza de Armas: This is the main square of Piura and is a great place to start exploring the city. It is surrounded by colonial-style buildings and has a beautiful fountain in the center.
2. Catedral de Piura: Located in the Plaza de Armas, this cathedral dates back to the 16th century and has an impressive façade and beautiful interior.
3. Museo Vicus: This museum highlights the archaeology of the Vicus culture that existed in northern Peru around 300 BCE - 300 CE. The museum displays artifacts like pottery, textiles, and metalwork.
4. Iglesia de San Francisco: This church was built in the 17th century and features a beautiful baroque-style façade and a stunning wooden interior.
5. Catacaos: This town is located just a short distance from Piura and is known for its handicrafts, particularly pottery and straw hats. It's a great place to buy souvenirs and see traditional craftspeople at work.
6. Cerro de la Cruz: This hill overlooks the city of Piura and offers beautiful views. There is a small park at the top of the hill where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
7. Mangroves of San Pedro de Vice: Located about an hour's drive from Piura, this protected area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including birds, crocodiles, and monkeys. You can take a boat tour through the mangroves to see wildlife up close.
8. Yacila Beach: Piura is located near the coast, and Yacila Beach is a great place to enjoy the sun and sand. The beach is known for its clear water and is a popular spot for swimming and surfing.
9. Huaca El Carmen: This archaeological site is located near the town of Chulucanas and features the remains of a pre-Columbian pyramid and ceremonial center.
Overall, Piura has a rich history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those interested in archaeology, culture, and outdoor activities.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Peru, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Piura.

When to go on holiday to Piura

The best time to visit Piura is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm with little to no rain. The temperatures are usually between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) during the day and cooler at night. Additionally, the dry season is the best time for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting the beaches. It's important to note that Piura can be quite hot and dry during this time, so make sure to stay well-hydrated and wear sunscreen. The wet season runs from December to April and brings hot and humid weather with heavy rainfalls, which can cause flooding and landslides.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Piura

Piura is a city located in the northwest of Peru and there are different ways to get there.
By Plane: Piura has an airport, the Capitán FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport (PIU), which receives daily flights from several cities in Peru, including Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, as well as international connections to some cities in Ecuador.
By Bus: Piura has a bus terminal, the Terminal Terrestre de Piura, which receives buses from different cities in Peru, such as Lima, Trujillo, Chiclayo, and Tumbes. The trip from Lima to Piura takes around 17 hours.
By Car: Piura can be reached by car through the Pan-American Highway, which runs along the coast of Peru. From Lima, the trip takes around 14 hours. It is important to note that the road can be challenging in some sections and travelers should take precautions and drive during daylight hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Piura, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Piura

Piura is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine that is influenced by indigenous ingredients and the regional geography of the area. Here are some typical foods from Piura with a short description: 1. Seco de chabelo: This is a hearty and flavorful stew made with ripe plantains, beef, cilantro, and garlic. It is often served with rice and beans.
2. Cabrito al palo: This is a roasted goat dish that is commonly served at traditional celebrations and gatherings in Piura. The meat is marinated in garlic, cumin, and chili peppers before being roasted on a spit over an open fire.
3. Chifles: These are thin, crispy plantain chips that are a popular snack and side dish in Piura. They are usually served with salsa or guacamole.
4. Cebiche de conchas negras: This is a variation of cebiche, a popular Peruvian dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juice. In Piura, it is made with conchas negras, or black clams, which are chopped and mixed with lime juice, onions, and chili peppers.
5. Arroz con pato: This is a flavorful rice dish made with duck that is marinated in chicha de jora, a fermented corn beverage, before being roasted and added to the rice. It is often served with aji amarillo, a spicy yellow pepper sauce.
6. Sopa seca: This is a hearty and comforting dish made with spaghetti that is cooked in a flavorful broth made with beef or chicken, vegetables, and spices. It is often served as a main course.
7. Alfajores piuranos: These are traditional cookies that are made with cornstarch and filled with manjar blanco, a sweet and creamy caramel sauce. They are often served with coffee or tea.
You can find general info about typical foods in Peru here.

Is Piura an expensive destination for tourists?

Piura (Peru) is generally not considered an expensive destination for tourists compared to other cities or regions in Peru. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, transportation, and activities you choose. In Piura, there are many affordable lodging options available, including hostels and budget hotels. Street food can be found at low prices and there are many restaurants to choose from that cater to a range of budgets.
Some popular tourist activities in Piura include visiting local beaches and historic sites, which can be relatively inexpensive. However, if you plan to take organized tours or book activities through a travel agency, the prices may be higher.
Overall, Piura can be an affordable destination for tourists, especially if you plan and budget wisely.

Where to find accomodation in Piura

It is best to find accommodation in the city center of Piura or in the nearby districts of Miraflores and Los Ejidos. These areas offer a wide range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to suit different budgets and preferences. Staying in the city center gives you easy access to Piura's main attractions, such as the main plaza, the Cathedral of Piura, and the Municipal Museum Vicus. Additionally, Miraflores and Los Ejidos are located near the airport and offer a peaceful and relaxed environment away from the bustle of the city center.
You can check hotel prices at Piura here:
Booking.com

Is Piura a safe destination for tourists?

Piura is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any other tourist destination, it is important to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe trip to Piura: - Avoid walking alone at night, especially in dark and isolated areas.
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing services for transportation, and avoid getting into unmarked vehicles.
- Keep your belongings close to you at all times and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for any suspicious behavior.
- Respect the local customs and laws, and avoid any activities that may be considered illegal or risky.
Overall, with common sense and caution, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Piura.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Peru here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Piura.

What type of travelers will enjoy Piura the most?

Piura offers something for everyone, but I would say that it's more suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for relaxation and cultural experiences. While there are some bars and clubs in Piura, this isn't a party town like other places in Peru. Instead, visitors can explore historical sites, go on nature tours, and enjoy delicious local cuisine. For example, you can visit the Catacaos district, which is famous for its crafts and markets, or travel to nearby beaches like Mancora and Los Organos for surfing and sunbathing. Overall, Piura is a great destination for those who want to immerse themselves in Peruvian culture and enjoy a quieter, more laid-back travel experience.

How to get around Piura

In Piura, you can use a variety of transportation options to move around the city, including taxis, buses, and moto-taxis. Taxis are readily available and can be easily hailed on the street or through ride-hailing apps. Buses are also a popular and affordable mode of transportation, with different routes servicing different parts of the city. Moto-taxis are another option, particularly for short distances, but may not be the most comfortable or safest option. It is important to exercise caution and use reputable taxi or moto-taxi services, particularly if traveling at night.

What to see around Piura

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Piura (Peru): 1. Mancora Beach: This is a popular beach destination located about 116 km from Piura. You can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, go surfing, or take part in other water sports activities.
2. Colan Beach: Another beautiful beach destination in the Piura region, Colan Beach is about 20 km from the city and offers pristine waters, soft sand, and great seafood.
3. Chulucanas: This is a small town located about 48 km from Piura. It is known for its pottery-making tradition and you can visit local workshops to see the beautiful ceramics being produced.
4. Cerros de Amotape National Park: Located about 145 km from Piura, this national park boasts a pristine ecosystem that includes dry forests, mangroves, and a variety of wildlife, including jaguars and anteaters.
5. Catacaos: This is a charming town located about 12 km from Piura. Known for its handicrafts, you can visit local workshops and stores to shop for leather goods, textiles, and more.
I hope that helps!
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