PARACAS: BALLESTAS ISLANDS AND NATIONAL RESERVE

Discover the wonders of Paracas, a coastal gem in Peru. The Ballestas Islands and National Reserve tour offers a captivating journey, showcasing the region’s diverse marine life and breathtaking landscapes. Set out on a boat ride to observe Humboldt penguins, playful sea lions, and more, then explore the stunning national reserve. With expert guides and awe-inspiring sights, this adventure promises an enriching encounter with nature. Uncover the hidden gems that make Paracas a must-visit destination.

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Key Points

The Ballestas Islands tour offers a 2-hour boat ride to observe over 215 species of birds, including Humboldt penguins, dolphins, and sea lions.
The Paracas National Reserve tour includes a 4-hour bus exploration of scenic landscapes, wildlife, and visits to various viewpoints and beaches.
The tour package is priced at $40.00 per person, with a duration of approximately 6 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Live tour guides are available in English and Spanish, and the tour includes life jackets, a modern boat, and hotel/bus station pick-up.
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year old, and food and drinks are not included in the package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour is priced from $40.00 per person and lasts approximately 6 hours.

The tour is priced from $40.00 per person and lasts approximately 6 hours.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve now and pay later.

English and Spanish-speaking live tour guides are available. The tour includes life jackets, an official bilingual guide, a modern boat, and hotel/bus station pick-up.

Entrance fees to the Ballestas Islands, dock, and Paracas National Reserve are also covered. Food, drinks, and tips are excluded.

The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year old.

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

Ballestas Islands Tour

Starting at 8:00 AM, the Ballestas Islands tour is a 2-hour boat ride that offers a glimpse into the diverse marine life and ancient geoglyphs of the region.

Guests will view the enigmatic El Candelabro geoglyph, over 2,500 years old and spanning 170 meters.

The boat tour also provides opportunities to observe over 215 species of birds, including Humboldt penguins, as well as dolphins and sea lions.

After the boat tour, there’s a 45-minute break for drinks and walking before continuing the journey to the Paracas National Reserve.

Marine Life Observation

During the boat tour, visitors are treated to an up-close glimpse of the vibrant marine life inhabiting the Ballestas Islands.

The tour offers the opportunity to observe:

Over 215 species of birds, including the iconic Humboldt penguins.
Playful sea lions basking on the rocky shores and diving into the waters.
Graceful dolphins swimming alongside the boat, occasionally breaching the surface.
An array of other marine creatures, such as cormorants, pelicans, and a variety of seabirds.

This unique wildlife experience is a highlight of the Paracas tour, leaving visitors in awe of the region’s natural splendor.

Paracas National Reserve Tour

Following the boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, the tour continues with a 4-hour bus exploration of Paracas National Reserve.

Travelers will visit a flamingo viewpoint, Yumaque Beach, the Red Beach, and Mirador Itmos Peninsula for a spectacular bay view.

The tour also includes a stop at La Mina Beach, known for its turquoise waters and cliffs.

Throughout the reserve, guests can expect to see diverse landscapes, wildlife, and photo opportunities.

The tour includes entrance fees and a bilingual guide, but food, drinks, and tips aren’t covered.

More Great Tours Nearby

Flamingo Viewpoint

One of the first stops on the Paracas National Reserve tour is the Flamingo Viewpoint. This scenic lookout offers a chance to spot the vibrant pink-feathered birds in their natural habitat.

The viewpoint features:

Panoramic vistas of the Paracas coastline and nearby lagoons.
Observation platforms and binoculars for better viewing.
Educational signage about the Andean flamingos and their importance to the ecosystem.
Opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the flamingos against the backdrop of the rugged desert landscape.

The Flamingo Viewpoint is a must-see for nature enthusiasts and photography buffs alike.

There's plenty more to explore in Paracas

Beaches of Paracas

After visiting the Flamingo Viewpoint, the Paracas National Reserve tour continues to explore the region’s stunning beaches. First up is Yumaque Beach, a 2 km long stretch of pristine sands. Then it’s on to the iconic Red Beach, known for its unique pink granodiorite. Next, the tour stops at the Mirador Itmos Peninsula, offering spectacular bay vistas. The final beach is La Mina, boasting turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. These diverse beach experiences showcase Paracas’ natural beauty and diversity.

| — | — | — | — |

| Yumaque | 2 km | – | Pristine sands |

| Red | – | Pink granodiorite | Iconic appearance |

| Mirador Itmos | – | – | Spectacular bay views |

Scenic Vistas

The Paracas National Reserve is renowned for its breathtaking scenic vistas that captivate visitors.

The Paracas National Reserve is renowned for its breathtaking scenic vistas that captivate visitors.

The tour includes several must-see viewpoints:

Flamingo Viewpoint: Witness the stunning pink hues of the flamingos against the arid landscape.
Yumaque Beach: Marvel at the 2 km stretch of pristine golden sands.
Red Beach: Admire the striking pink granodiorite that gives the beach its distinctive color.
Mirador Itmos Peninsula: Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the picturesque bay.

These scenic wonders seamlessly blend rugged natural beauty with diverse wildlife, offering a truly remarkable experience for visitors.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Important Information

The tour package includes several key inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

Guests will receive life jackets, a bilingual official tour guide, and access to a modern boat.

Pickup service from the hotel or bus station is provided, along with entrance fees to the SERNANP Tourist Entrance, Dock, and National Reserve.

While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour excludes nothing essential for a fulfilling day exploring the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Guests should note the meeting point and ensure they’ve the tour guide’s WhatsApp number for easy communication.

The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year.

Since You Asked

How Do I Get to the Starting Location of the Tour?

The tour starts at Playa Roja Tours, which is next to the Aquamarine hostel on the corner of Chaco square. The tour guide, identifiable by the company name and logo, can be met at the meeting point.

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Date/Time?

Yes, you can book the tour for a different date and time. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later to secure your preferred date.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Guests can choose longer tours that include additional activities or destinations within the Paracas National Reserve. Prices may vary based on the extended itinerary.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?

The tour provides life jackets, but visitors don’t need any special equipment or gear. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended to fully enjoy the boat ride and sightseeing in the national reserve.

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

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but they’re not included in the price. The tour provides life jackets, transportation, and entrance fees, but snacks and beverages are your responsibility.

The Sum Up

The Paracas: Ballestas Islands and National Reserve tour offers an unparalleled adventure, allowing visitors to explore Peru’s captivating marine life and breathtaking natural landscapes. From observing diverse seabirds and playful sea lions to marveling at the flamingo-dotted viewpoints and scenic beaches, this 6-hour excursion promises an enriching and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. With knowledgeable guides and a seamless itinerary, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the wonders of the Paracas region.

You can check availability for your dates here: