Province of Contralmirante Villar: Beaches and Cultural Heritage

The Province of Contralmirante Villar combines a range of beach activities with a distinctive trace of oil history. In Zorritos, marine life observation and swimming are separate focal points; in Canoas de Punta Sal, Playa Punta Sal is divided into three named areas. When choosing a holiday rental, you can therefore first consider which experiences you want to shape your trip: observing the beach, swimming, or visiting a cultural and historical landmark.

Beaches for different experiences

At Playa Bonanza, various marine species can be observed in small rocky pools at low tide. Snorkeling is also possible there directly from the beach, without special equipment. A short footpath leads to Playa Bonanza from the main road; since access conditions can change, it is advisable to check the route before your visit. Low tide is the key time for observing the rocky pools.

Playa Acapulco has moderate waves that are suitable for swimming. This distinguishes the two beaches in terms of the main experience described: Bonanza combines rocky pools and snorkeling, while Acapulco stands out for its swimming conditions. In Canoas de Punta Sal, Playa Punta Sal comprises three areas: Punta Sal Chica, Playa Punta Azul, and the resort town of Punta Sal Grande. The names help orient you to the areas that make up this beach.

Oil history in Zorritos

In Zorritos, a wooden tower in Plazuela Faustino Piaggio commemorates the drilling of the first oil well in South America on November 2, 1863. The tower brings a precisely dated historical event to life at a site in the province. Plazuela thus complements the beach activities with a cultural and historical perspective: anyone interested in the history of oil extraction will find a specific landmark here, while Bonanza and Acapulco offer different experiences by the sea.

These differences can help determine where to stay. Bonanza is known for observing rocky pools and snorkeling, Acapulco for the waves described as suitable for swimming, and the plazuela in Zorritos for commemorating the 1863 drilling. First decide which of these focal points matters to your trip, then use it to guide your search for a holiday rental in the Province of Contralmirante Villar.

In the broader destination of Tumbes

The broader destination of Tumbes also offers distinctive nature and cultural experiences. The knowledge, know-how, and practices involved in harvesting black mangrove clams and red mangrove crabs from the mangroves of Tumbes were declared National Cultural Heritage in 2022. Cebiche de conchas negras, prepared with black mangrove clams from the mangroves of Tumbes, is one of the coastal region’s well-known culinary specialties. This connects regional cuisine with the mangrove resources found there.

At Santuario Nacional Los Manglares de Tumbes, the Ruta Tradicional offers opportunities for birdwatching. The Ruta Especializada runs from Embarcadero de Puerto 25 or Puesto de Control El Algarrobo, via Isla Matapalo, to Punta Capones. This route also includes a demonstration of the harvesting of hydrobiological resources. The road trip from Zarumilla to the Puerto 25 control post is listed as 5 km and 10 minutes; check the route before setting out.

In the broader destination of Tumbes, the Rica Playa sector offers more nature experiences connected with Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape: it is the park’s main access point and offers tours combining nature, adventure, and relaxation. At Bocana Carrillo, in the Rica Playa sector, visitors can travel along the Río Tumbes, fish recreationally, and canoe. Rica Playa also has areas suitable for camping. Reserva Nacional de Tumbes is part of Reserva de Biosfera del Noroeste.

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