Los Hervideros

Location:
5 kilometers (3 miles) east of Bocapán
Peru

Spa/Hot Springs Types:
Hot springs

By Lorraine Caputo

Surrounded by the ragged desert hills southeast of Zorritos, in this broad valley along the Quebrada El Grillo, the five natural pools of Los Hervideros provide an additional heat to the the sun. Los Hervideros are not your typical hot springs, though. The springs are full of fine clay muds that are rich in chlorides, iodine, iron and other salts. Each small pond has a different temperature and type of soil. One has green waters and black mud and another has reddish-brown clay. Local swear to the springs' medicinal properties.

Getting There
Near Bocapán south of Zorritos is the signed turn-off for Los Hervideros. From there it is five kilometers (three miles). Follow the road from the turn-off two kilometers (1.2 miles) to Cañaveral. Then head north three kilometers (1.8 miles) north to Quebrada El Grillo. Tour companies in Tumbes and Zorritos offer excursions.

Travel Tips: Daylight hours are best, though some tour operators do have night excursions. Be ready to get down and dirty. Some pools are clearer, allowing one to wash off (a bit).

Price Description: Free, though tip the caretaker.

Relative price: Very cheap

Travel Skills: None

You Need to Bring: Bring along swimming gear, towel, water and food.

Cerros de Amotape National Park, Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary, Tumbes National Forest; El Tubo hot springs; surfing, bird watching, fishing.

Currencies accepted
Nuevo Sol