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Located on the far northwest Peruvian coast, covering an area of 2,972
hectares, the Tumbes mangroves are the borderline for many
species of flora and fauna associated with this kind of eco-system.
The natural sanctuary protects the country's largest mangroves,
and is a haven for the many varied animal species that feed
off them. Particularly striking are the invertebrates, featuring
an enormous variety of mollusks, including black scallops,
34 species of crustaceans, 33 types of snails and more than
a hundred fish species. The sanctuary is also a key breeding
ground for commercial marine species such as shrimp. Migratory
and resident bird species, as well as the endangered black
American alligator, a unique species, and the anteater, are
just a few of the more interesting inhabitants of the area.
Access: One can reach the area
from the city of Tumbes, which is served by regular flights
from Lima or by land along the North Pan-American Highway,
following the route to the Ecuadorian border.
Services: There are many boats
which provide guided tours.
Visitors are advised to spend a full day.
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