Happy TravellerWelcome to Paita, a vibrant city located in the northwestern region of Peru. As the capital of the Paita Province, this bustling seaport is a hub of activity and a gateway to the stunning Piura Region. With a rich history dating back to the colonial era, Paita is a city that is steeped in culture and tradition. Join us as we explore the many wonders of Paita and discover why this hidden gem should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
Geographically, Paita is located on a small peninsula south of the mouth of the Río Chira, facing the Bay of Paita. The city is sheltered from southerly winds by a headland called Punta Paita and by a large hill called Silla de Paita. Paita is located 1,089 km northwest of the country’s capital Lima, and 57 km northwest of the regional capital of Piura. The city covers an area of 1,785 km2 and is home to a population of over 168,900 people.
Paita has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The city was founded on 30 March 1532 by the conqueror Francisco Pizarro, who named it San Francisco de Paita of Good Hope. From 1578 to 1588, Paita was the Spanish capital of the northwestern Peruvian coast, before attacks from English pirates and corsairs made it necessary to relocate the capital at Piura. Paita was the port for Peru and the end terminus of the Manila Galleons connecting Latin-America with Asia. The port of Paita is best known to many Peruvians as the former home of Manuela Sáenz, Simón Bolívar’s lover.
Paita was a significant port of call for whaling ships in the first half of the 19th century. The whaling grounds west of Peru were popular with British and American whaling ships that often called at Paita for supplies and repairs. Local men were sometimes recruited to serve as crewmen on these vessels. The first vessel known to have called was the British whaleship Emilia in 1792. Sixty-four American whaleships visited in 1833 alone. So many American vessels called that in 1833 the United States government decided to establish a consulate at Paita. A hospital was established for American seamen in the 1840s. The large protected Bay of Paita provided a safe anchorage for visiting vessels and the irrigated farms of the nearby Chira Valley produced a wide range of agricultural produce for the whalers.
Today, Paita is an important container port and one of Peru’s top five ports. The city’s natural harbor is one of the best on the Peruvian coast, and regular mail steamers run between Valparaíso and Panama. Paita is also known for its vibrant celebrations, including the Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, which is celebrated on 24 September and lasts a week. The festival includes pilgrimages in honor of the Catholic icon.
In conclusion, Paita is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its stunning harbor to its vibrant celebrations, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem of Peru. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Paita is a destination that should be on your bucket list. So why wait? Book your trip to Paita today and discover the many wonders of this enchanting city!
