Buena Esperanza Beach

Ricefield on the Río Huancabamba border

joosts

More an afternoon trip than a day trip, you can go to a riverside beach pretty easily. Buena Esperanza at the Rio Huancabamba is a good example of that.
At the bus terminal on the main boulevard out of town (direction Chiclayo – Chachapoyas), you can either take a colectivo car (2,5 soles) or a combi minibus (2 soles) to Buena Esperanza.

Walk down to the river through the palm trees and rice fields, and try to find a spot with some shadow. You’ll have to look around a bit to find one. You’ll want to go for a dip as the water has got an excellent temperature. But take care. The river isn’t deep, but it has got serious force. The rocks aren’t sharp, but as you’ll keep bumping into them bring your water sandals. You can buy food at the football pitch. It might be a better idea to bring your own pick nick though.

To get back to town, just wait at the roadside for a passing car or minibus. 9 out of 10 are going to Jaén. Locals say it’s best to leave before sunset.