Paracas offers a unique opportunity to explore the mesmerizing Ballestas Islands, a haven for diverse marine wildlife. This 3-hour excursion promises an unforgettable adventure, where you’ll witness the captivating interactions between sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and other coastal species. With flexible booking options and a comprehensive tour, this excursion unveils the region’s natural wonders, leaving you intrigued to discover more about this captivating coastal landscape.
Key Points
- 3-hour excursion from Paracas to the Ballestas Islands, a protected natural reserve with diverse marine wildlife and captivating coastal landscapes.
- Speedboat transportation provided, with the opportunity to view the El Candelabro geoglyph from the boat.
- Guided commentary by an English and Spanish-speaking guide, sharing insights on the area’s history and natural wealth.
- Entrance fees to the protected reserve are included, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the experience.
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the ability to reserve now and pay later.
Excursion Overview
The Excursion to the Ballestas Islands lasts 3 hours and costs from SEK 260 per person.
The Excursion to the Ballestas Islands lasts 3 hours and costs from SEK 260 per person.
Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking the tour is flexible, as you can reserve your spot now and pay later.
This unique excursion offers a chance to marvel at diverse marine wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and endemic birds. Visitors will also witness a spectacular bird show and explore the protected reserve’s history and natural wealth.
Pickup is provided from the meeting point in Paracas, and transportation by speedboat is included.
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Wildlife and Natural Highlights
Marvel at the diverse marine wildlife that calls the Ballestas Islands home.
Spot playful sea lions frolicking in the waves, Humboldt penguins waddling across the rocky shores, and endemic birds soaring overhead.
Witness the spectacular bird show, as guanay and guanera birds swoop and dive, showcasing their natural behaviors.
Explore the protected reserve’s rich history and natural wealth, learning about the unique customs and anecdotes of the marine fauna.
This excursion provides an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the captivating coastal landscapes and vibrant ecosystem of the Ballestas Islands.
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Sea lions
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Humboldt penguins
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Endemic birds
Itinerary Details
Your excursion to the Ballestas Islands begins with a pickup at the meeting point in Paracas. From there, you’ll board a speedboat for a tour of the coastal landscapes and Ballestas Islands. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to view the impressive geoglyph of El Candelabro from the boat. Your guide will provide engaging commentary, sharing their knowledge of the marine fauna’s customs and anecdotes.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Pickup at Paracas meeting point | – |
| Speedboat tour to Ballestas Islands | – |
| View El Candelabro geoglyph | – |
| Guided commentary on marine life | – |
Tour Inclusions
This excursion to the Ballestas Islands includes transportation by speedboat.
The tour also provides an English and Spanish speaking guide to enhance your understanding of the wildlife and natural wonders. The entrance fees to the protected reserve are covered, allowing you to fully learn about the experience.
The tour inclusions:
Transportation by speedboat, an English and Spanish speaking guide, and entrance fees covered – ensuring a comprehensive Ballestas Islands experience.
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Transportation by speedboat
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English and Spanish speaking guide
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Entrance fees covered
Food and drinks aren’t included, so you may want to pack a snack or beverage to enjoy during the tour.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Information
When booking this excursion to the Ballestas Islands, you can check the availability for the various starting times.
Once you’ve selected the participants and the date, you’ll be provided with the meeting point location, which is available on Google Maps. This makes it easy to find the starting point and begin your 3-hour adventure.
The excursion is priced from SEK 260 per person, and you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Reserve your spot now and pay later to secure your place.
Transportation and Meeting Point
The excursion begins with a pickup at the meeting point in Paracas.
The excursion begins with a pickup at the meeting point in Paracas.
Once gathered, you’ll board a speedboat for an exhilarating tour along the coastline and to the Ballestas Islands.
This mode of transportation allows for:
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Unobstructed views of the stunning landscapes and marine wildlife
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Efficient travel to the remote islands
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A thrilling ride on the open water
From the boat, you’ll have the chance to spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of endemic birds.
The speedboat also provides a unique vantage point to view the enigmatic Candelabro geoglyph.
Guanay and Guanera Birds
A spectacular bird show greets visitors as they approach the Ballestas Islands.
Thousands of guanay and guanera birds take flight, soaring above the rugged cliffs and crashing waves. These seabirds, endemic to the Peruvian coast, put on an impressive aerial display, diving and swooping in perfect synchronization.
Guests learn about the birds’ fascinating nesting and feeding habits, and how they’re crucial to the island’s delicate ecosystem. The guide shares anecdotes and insights, bringing the vibrant birdlife to life.
It’s a nature spectacle not to be missed during this unforgettable Ballestas Islands excursion.
Marine Fauna Customs and Anecdotes
As the speedboat approaches the Ballestas Islands, the guide shares captivating anecdotes and insights about the marine fauna‘s unique customs.
The tour-goers learn that:
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Sea lions have a complex social hierarchy, with dominant males guarding their harems and fiercely defending their territory.
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Humboldt penguins mate for life and take turns incubating their eggs, with the males often braving the harsh elements to protect their young.
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The endemic Inca terns, with their striking black heads and white faces, have an intricate courtship ritual involving synchronized displays and vocalizations.
These fascinating glimpses into the lives of the islands’ inhabitants enrich the overall excursion experience.
Things To Know
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Ballestas Islands?
The best time to visit the Ballestas Islands is during the summer months of December to March when the weather is mild and wildlife activity is at its peak, offering optimal viewing opportunities for visitors.
Can Children Participate in the Excursion?
Yes, children can participate in the Ballestas Islands excursion. The tour is family-friendly, and kids will enjoy seeing the marine wildlife up close. Parents should consider their children’s ages and comfort levels when deciding to book the tour.
Are There Any Onboard Restroom Facilities?
Yes, the speedboat has onboard restrooms, allowing passengers to use the facilities during the 3-hour excursion. This ensures a comfortable experience as visitors explore the Ballestas Islands and marvel at the diverse marine wildlife.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
No, visitors cannot bring their own food and drinks on the Ballestas Islands excursion. The tour includes transportation only, and any food or beverages must be purchased separately. Participants are advised to plan accordingly for the 3-hour duration of the trip.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife spotting opportunities throughout the Ballestas Islands excursion.
Sum Up
This captivating 3-hour excursion from Paracas to the Ballestas Islands promises an unforgettable encounter with diverse marine wildlife, including sea lions and Humboldt penguins. Featuring guided commentary, a view of the iconic El Candelabro geoglyph, and flexible booking options, this adventure offers an engaging and immersive exploration of Peru’s captivating coastal landscapes, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
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