Paracas: Ballestas Islands and Candelabra of Paracas Boat

Paracas, a coastal wonder in Peru, beckons adventurers to embark on a captivating boat excursion. This 2-hour journey takes visitors to the enigmatic Ballestas Islands and the iconic Candelabra of Paracas. Witness the vibrant marine life, including playful Humboldt penguins and basking sea lions, while uncovering the mysteries behind the 120-meter tall Candelabra geoglyph. With guided insights in English and Spanish, and an affordable price tag of just $25 per person, this experience promises to leave you in awe of the region’s natural beauty and rich history.

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Key Points

Explore the Ballestas Islands and Candelabra of Paracas on a 2-hour boat tour, with English and Spanish guides available.
Discover the enigmatic 120-meter tall Candelabra geoglyph and learn about its mysterious origins.
Observe diverse wildlife, including sea lions and Humboldt penguins, at the Ballestas Islands.
Enjoy coastal views and hear stories about the islands, including theories about extraterrestrial involvement.
Prepare for the tour by bringing recommended items like sunglasses, hats, cameras, and comfortable clothes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a 2-hour boat excursion exploring the Ballestas Islands and the Candelabra of Paracas. Priced from $25 per person, the tour is available with English and Spanish guides.

Visitors can reserve the tour now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour departs from the Port of Paracas, where guests can store their luggage.

During the tour, you will view diverse wildlife on the islands and learn about the history and regional biodiversity.

Afterwards, they’ll return to shore while enjoying the coastal views.

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Highlights of the Experience

Discover the Candelabra of Paracas, a 120-meter tall geoglyph carved into a cliff, during this boat tour.

View diverse wildlife at Ballestas Islands, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, guanays, boobies, pelicans, and tendrils.

Learn about the islands’ history and their importance in regional biodiversity.

Experience the coastal views and capture memories as you return to shore.

Listen to stories about the islands, including theories of extraterrestrial connections.

This immersive experience offers a chance to witness the natural wonders of Paracas and gain insights into its rich cultural heritage.

Discovering the Candelabra of Paracas

What makes the Candelabra of Paracas so captivating? This gigantic geoglyph, carved into a coastal cliff, stands as a mysterious and awe-inspiring sight.

Measuring a staggering 120 meters tall, the Candelabra’s simple yet striking design has intrigued visitors for centuries. Its three-pronged shape is reminiscent of a candelabra, earning it the moniker that has endured.

As your boat approaches, you’ll marvel at the sheer scale of this ancient enigma. Theories abound about its purpose – was it a celestial marker, a religious symbol, or something else entirely?

Discover this captivating wonder for yourself on your Paracas adventure.

Wildlife of Ballestas Islands

Teeming with vibrant life, the Ballestas Islands offer a captivating glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Paracas.

Sea lions bask on the rocky shores, their barks echoing across the water. Playful Humboldt penguins dart in and out of the waves, while guanays and boobies soar overhead. Pelicans glide effortlessly, searching for their next meal.

Tendrils, a unique type of seabird, add to the spectacle. Visitors are enthralled by the sheer diversity of creatures inhabiting this protected marine reserve.

A boat tour allows for up-close encounters with these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.

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Historical Significance and Theories

The Ballestas Islands and the enigmatic Candelabra of Paracas hold a profound historical significance, sparking intriguing theories about their origins.

The islands were once an important hub for the Paracas culture, and the massive Candelabra geoglyph, carved into a coastal cliff, continues to captivate visitors.

Theories about its origins range from:

A pre-Inca celestial marker
A signaling device for ancient seafarers
Evidence of extraterrestrial contact

The enduring mysteries of the Ballestas Islands and the Candelabra make this boat tour a truly captivating experience, inviting visitors to explore the rich history and legends of this remarkable region.

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The Boat Tour Experience

As visitors board the eco-friendly boat, they’re greeted by the friendly crew and an experienced guide who’s eager to share the wonders of the Ballestas Islands and the Candelabra of Paracas.

The tour begins with a stop at the iconic Candelabra, a massive 120-meter geoglyph carved into the cliff.

Cruising into the Paracas Bay, guests delight in spotting diverse wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and vibrant seabirds.

The guide shares captivating stories about the islands’ history and their importance to regional biodiversity.

As the boat returns to shore, travelers savor the sea breeze and cherish the unforgettable memories.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour package includes an English and Spanish-speaking guide who shares their expertise throughout the experience.

Key inclusions are:

Safety equipment and life jackets for all ages, ensuring a secure and comfortable journey.
Luggage storage service at the meeting point, allowing you to explore the area without hassle.
A team of experienced captain and crew who navigate the vessel skillfully and provide insightful commentary.

Beyond these, the tour allows you to witness the magnificent Candelabra and observe diverse wildlife at the Ballestas Islands, all while enjoying the coastal views and sea breeze on the return trip.

Recommendations and Restrictions

What to bring for the tour includes sunglasses, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Smoking is not allowed during the tour. Plus, the boat tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those prone to seasickness. To prevent seasickness, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and avoid heavy meals before the tour. The following table provides a summary of the recommendations and restrictions:

| Recommendations | Restrictions |

| — | — |

| Sunglasses | No Smoking |

| Hat | Not Suitable for Pregnant Women |

| Camera | Not Suitable for Those with Back Problems |

| Sunscreen | Not Suitable for Those Prone to Seasickness |

| Comfortable Clothes | |

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour details mention that there are no restrictions on bringing outside provisions, so you’re free to pack a snack or beverage to enjoy during the boat ride.

Are There Any Facilities or Restrooms Available During the Tour?

There are no restroom facilities available during the boat tour. However, the tour includes a luggage storage service at the meeting point, allowing you to access personal items before and after the excursion.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Children to Participate?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement for children. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or those prone to seasickness. Participants should be at least able to board the boat comfortably.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Rates Available for Groups or Seniors?

The tour offers discounted rates for groups of 4 or more and a 10% senior discount for travelers aged 65 and up. Advance reservations are recommended to secure the best available rates.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Any Additional Activities?

Customers can inquire about extending the tour duration or adding extra activities such as visiting additional islands or exploring the Paracas National Reserve. Pricing for any additions would be provided by the tour operator.

Sum Up

The Paracas Ballestas Islands and Candelabra boat tour offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and enigmatic cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Candelabra geoglyph, observe diverse wildlife, and enjoy the captivating history of this coastal wonder, all while enjoying the convenience of a well-organized and reasonably priced excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here: