Cross of Pizarro: regional history

The history of the Cross of Pizarro dates back to 1532. In the wider surrounding region, the Cross of Pizarro is located at a viewpoint on Cerro Buenaventura overlooking the Tumbes coast; beach activities at Playa La Cruz and an area of equatorial dry forest are part of the La Cruz District. When choosing a holiday rental, it is worth first considering whether you are mainly interested in beach activities, nature, or the history of the cross.

Beach, dry forest, and fishing

At Playa La Cruz in La Cruz District, activities include swimming, jet skiing, and quad biking. A tourism listing dated September 15, 2022, lists jet skiing and quad biking there and also mentions swimming. If jet skiing or quad biking is important to your plans, check current rental availability in advance.

Another focus is the Equatorial Dry Forest in La Cruz District, where horseback riding, trekking, and camping are possible activities. This means different questions may take priority when planning: are you more interested in the beach or an activity in the dry forest? The listed options differ not only in the type of activity, but also in their geographic setting.

Residents of Caleta La Cruz also engage in artisanal fishing in the coastal area of La Cruz District.

Two routes to Playa La Cruz

An official access record dated September 15, 2022, lists two paved routes in the corresponding municipality. One route runs from a stop on Calle Tumbes Norte in Tumbes to Playa La Cruz by combi; the listed distance is 20.9 kilometers and the journey takes 30 minutes. A second route starts at the main square in the city of Tumbes and goes to the beach by private car. For this option, the record gives a distance of 16 kilometers and a journey time of 15 minutes.

The recorded figures for the car route are lower for both distance and time. Since the starting point and mode of transport also differ, this is not a direct comparison of the modes of transport alone. Both routes start in Tumbes; if Playa La Cruz is important to your stay, factor in the relevant starting point when planning. The figures are dated September 15, 2022. Check current route conditions and public transport before setting out.

An inventory dated September 15, 2022, lists lodging establishments without a specified category, as well as restaurants, in the city of La Cruz.

The history of the cross and coastal views

The Cross of Pizarro, also known as the Cross of Tumbes or the Cross of the Conquest, is considered the first Catholic symbol of faith erected in these territories in 1532. The historical relic returned to Tumbes in 1990; its return was commemorated at its location on August 18, 1990. Historians believe that the cross was erected in 1532 on Cerro de Buena Ventura, facing the coast.

In the surrounding region, the Cross of Pizarro is located at a purpose-built viewpoint on Cerro Buenaventura. The viewpoint offers a view of the Tumbes coast. Check current access conditions before visiting.

Caleta de Cruz Pizarro is also associated with a historical account: it is considered the place where Francisco Pizarro began the conquest of Peru. A replica of the cross he is said to have erected in 1532 is displayed there. The qualification “is said to have” reflects the account of the cross; it is also advisable to check current access conditions in advance before visiting Caleta.

The different points of interest can help guide your search for a holiday rental. Plan your stay around the destinations that interest you: two starting points in Tumbes are described for Playa La Cruz, while horseback riding, trekking, and camping are associated with the dry forest in La Cruz District. This can help you choose a location and plan your journey around your intended activities.

For the broader travel overview: Province of Tumbes.