From Paracas: Explore the Natural Wonder of the Ballestas Islands

Paracas, a coastal town in Peru, serves as the gateway to the captivating Ballestas Islands. This two-hour boat tour promises an unforgettable encounter with the region’s remarkable wildlife and natural wonders. Visitors can witness sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and even dolphins as they explore stunning rock formations and spot migratory birds. With a knowledgeable guide providing insights in both Spanish and English, this adventure offers a comprehensive experience for nature enthusiasts. Exploring the "Galapagos of Peru" is an essential activity for those visiting the Peruvian coast.

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Key Points

Take a 2-hour boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Galapagos of Peru" for its diverse marine wildlife.
Spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and dolphins, and visit the sea lion maternity ward.
Enjoy included boarding ticket, life jacket, and live guide in Spanish and English.
Explore impressive rock formations, migratory birds, and scenic coastal panoramas.
Plan ahead as advance booking is recommended due to limited spaces.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview and Pricing

The Ballestas Islands tour is priced at $35.30 per person and lasts approximately 2 hours.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. No payment is required to reserve a spot – simply book now and pay later.

The tour explores the "Galapagos of Peru," offering sightings of diverse marine life, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and dolphins.

Visitors will also observe the sea lion maternity ward and the enigmatic Candelabro, a giant figure of unknown origin.

The tour includes a boarding ticket, life jacket, and a live guide available in Spanish and English.

Looking for more options in Paracas? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Wildlife and Sightseeing Highlights

Explore the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Galapagos of Peru," where visitors can observe diverse marine species such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and cormorants. Witness the sea lion maternity ward and the enigmatic Candelabro, a giant figure of unknown origin. The tour also provides the opportunity to sail to the most outstanding wildlife sanctuary on the Peruvian coast, marveling at impressive rock formations and various migratory birds.

| Wildlife Sightings | Geological Formations | Scenic Highlights |

|——————-|——————–|——————-|

| Sea Lions | Candelabro | Rock Formations |

| Humboldt Penguins | Impressive Cliffs | Migratory Birds |

| Cormorants | Sea Caves | Maternity Ward |

| Dolphins | Arches | Coast Panorama |

| Seabirds | Islets | Sanctuary Views |

Tour Details

A live tour guide is available on the excursion, providing commentary in both Spanish and English.

The tour sails to the most outstanding wildlife sanctuary on the Peruvian coast, allowing visitors to admire impressive rock formations and various migratory birds.

Throughout the journey, guests can observe diverse marine species, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, cormorants, and dolphins.

The tour also includes a visit to the sea lion maternity ward, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of these fascinating creatures.

With the included boarding ticket, life jacket, and tour guide, the excursion provides a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Inclusions and Requirements

The tour includes a boarding ticket, life jacket, and tour guide to provide a comprehensive experience.

Travelers should bring along recommended items like sunglasses, sun hat, sandals, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and drinks to fully enjoy the excursion.

Prepare for an unforgettable wildlife adventure by packing essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, sandals, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and drinks.

Plus, a tourism tax of S/. 16 per person is payable at the port.

Booking well in advance is advised, as spaces are limited.

Cancellations can be made up to 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure for a full refund.

With these inclusions and requirements met, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable wildlife encounter in the Ballestas Islands.

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Logistics and Meeting Information

To explore the Ballestas Islands, visitors can check availability for various starting times. The meeting point is provided in Google Maps for easy access. Cancellation is possible up to 48 hours in advance.

| Logistics | Details |

|———–|———|

| Check Availability | Multiple start times available |

| Meeting Point | Open in Google Maps |

| Cancellation Period | 48 hours |

Visitors can look forward to an unforgettable adventure exploring the diverse wildlife and stunning natural landscapes of the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the "Galapagos of Peru."

There's plenty more to explore in Paracas

Exploring the Ballestas Islands

Visitors soar across the tranquil waters surrounding the Ballestas Islands, catching glimpses of the diverse marine life that earned this region the moniker "Galapagos of Peru."

From sea lions lounging on rocky outcrops to Humboldt penguins gracefully diving into the waves, the islands teem with an abundance of wildlife.

Travelers explore impressive rock formations and spot a variety of migratory birds, including cormorants and pelicans.

The highlight is the sea lion maternity ward, where visitors observe these charismatic marine mammals in their natural habitat.

The Ballestas Islands offer a window into Peru’s captivating coastal ecosystems.

Discovering the Galapagos of Peru

Situated along Peru’s southern coast, the Ballestas Islands have rightfully earned the moniker "Galapagos of Peru."

Offering a glimpse into the country’s captivating coastal ecosystems, these islands teem with an abundance of marine life. Visitors can observe diverse species like sea lions, Humboldt penguins, cormorants, and dolphins.

The highlight is the sea lion maternity ward, where newborns can be seen nursing. Plus, the mysterious Candelabro, a gigantic geoglyph of unknown origin, can be spotted from the boat.

This wildlife-rich sanctuary showcases Peru’s natural wonders, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Capturing the Wonders of the Peruvian Coast

Although the Ballestas Islands may lack the fame of their Ecuadorian counterparts, their wildlife-rich landscapes and captivating natural features make them a must-visit destination for those seeking to enjoy Peru’s coastal wonders.

The Ballestas Islands, while lesser-known, offer a wildlife-rich landscape and captivating natural features for immersive coastal exploration in Peru.

From the towering rock formations that frame the islands to the diverse array of seabirds and marine life that call this region home, the Ballestas offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Highlights include:

Observing Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and a variety of cormorants up close
Marveling at the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph carved into the cliffs
Exploring the strikingly beautiful sea caves and rock arches that dot the coastline

Things To Know

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

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a life jacket, but you’ll need to provide other recommended items like sunscreen and sun hat.

Is There an Option for a Private or Group Tour?

Yes, the tour offers private and group options. Private tours allow you to customize the experience, while group tours provide a more budget-friendly option. Both include the same wildlife and sightseeing highlights with a live tour guide.

Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age or health restrictions for this activity. However, it’s recommended that participants have good mobility and be able to climb in and out of the boat. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Items During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase souvenirs and additional items during the tour. The tour includes the boat ride and guide, but you’re free to buy any souvenirs or snacks you’d like from the vendors at the port before or after the excursion.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions or Tips for the Best Shots?

Photography is generally allowed, but visitors should avoid flash to prevent disturbing the wildlife. For the best shots, bring a zoom lens and be prepared to capture the animals in their natural habitats.

Sum Up

The Ballestas Islands offer a captivating glimpse into Peru’s natural wonders. This excursion from Paracas promises an unforgettable adventure, allowing visitors to witness the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes that have earned the region its "Galapagos of Peru" moniker. From sea lions and penguins to towering rock formations, the Ballestas Islands deliver an immersive experience that’s not to be missed by nature enthusiasts exploring the Peruvian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: