Piura

Introduction

Located in northwestern Peru along the Piura River, you will find this bustling regional capital situated north of the Sechura Desert. Positioned in the central eastern part of the region, the city sits near the border with Ecuador.

Before you go

When planning your trip, exercise caution regarding currency exchange. Avoid using street changers, as they are known to target tourists with dishonest practices such as tampering with calculators or substituting genuine bills with fake ones. To ensure your funds remain secure, use an established money exchange or visit a bank instead.

If you are traveling south through Peru, you can wait until you reach Arequipa to conduct your currency exchanges, where numerous locations offer favorable rates.

Getting there

You can reach the region by air via Captain Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport. Frequent flights connect you to Lima and Chiclayo, with various airlines operating throughout the day from early morning until the evening.

Alternatively, you can travel by bus along the Panamerican Highway. National buses provide long-distance routes from Lima toward Piura and the Ecuadorian border. For a more comfortable journey, luxury buses are available to destinations such as Trujillo and Lima. Other transport companies offer frequent service to northern cities like Chiclayo and Trujillo, while specific lines run toward the border regions of Loja and Cuenca.

Getting around

Information regarding transportation and local transit options within the area is not currently available.

Where to stay

You can find various accommodations throughout Piura, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to more upscale options in residential neighborhoods. For a social experience, some hostels offer amenities like shared kitchens, yoga lessons, gym access, and live music in their bars. Other family-run establishments provide a charming atmosphere within decorated colonial houses featuring period features and outdoor courtyards.

Depending on your preference for location and atmosphere, you can choose from several types of stays:

• Hostels near the center or close to the Plaza de Armas that offer basic rooms with fans and Wi-Fi.
• Establishments in areas near bus offices providing clean rooms and on-site dining.
• Options featuring private bathrooms, hot showers, and nearby swimming pool access.
• Higher-end hotels located in quieter residential neighborhoods for a more polished experience.

Food & drink

Savor the fresh flavors of the coast by trying local ceviche, where fish and other types of seafood are always fresh. You can also enjoy leche de tigre, seco de chabelo, or jalea. While the food is not particularly spicy in the Mexican sense, you will find a good deal of hot onion and citrus juice in your ceviche. For those seeking traditional dishes, traveling to nearby Catacaos or Sullana offers access to great restaurants. If you venture into the mountains around Ayabaca, you can find meals featuring cuy and more ají.

Explore various dining atmospheres throughout the region:

• Experience local specialties at a long-standing favorite known for its ceviche.
• Visit a vegetarian bakery and restaurant for bread, granola, yogurt, and fresh fruit juices.
• Dine in an establishment near the main plaza offering a wide range of vegetarian options including soups.
• Enjoy seafood, desserts, and friendly service in a pleasant atmosphere near the Plaza De Armas.
• Listen to Italian music while enjoying pasta and pizza in the center of the old town.

What to see and do

You can explore the historic heart of the city to admire its colonial architecture and stroll through various plazas and parks. Your visit can also include a trip to a local museum or a walk through a large market.

Three days in Piura

Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the local area and finding a place to stay in various establishments. You can relax while enjoying the atmosphere of the city.

Day two, you can travel toward the Piura River or experience the vast landscape of the Sechura Desert. Depending on your interests, you can choose from different options for your surroundings.

Day three, you can visit the Plaza de Armas to take in the local sights before concluding your time in the region.