From Paracas ||Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve

The "From Paracas || Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve" tour offers a thrilling adventure to explore Peru’s stunning coastal region. For just $60 per person, travelers can enjoy the natural wonders of the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. With hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, this 5-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience within one of the world’s richest ecosystems. But what exactly awaits those who embark on this captivating journey?

Good To Know

• The tour package from Paracas includes a boat trip to Ballestas Islands to observe sea lions, penguins, and the Candelabro de Paracas.
• The tour also includes a visit to Paracas National Reserve, one of the richest ecosystems globally, featuring beaches, rock formations, and an Interpretation Center.
• The tour lasts 5 hours and is priced at $60.00 per person, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English and Spanish-speaking guide, with entrance fees to Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve included.
• Paracas is located approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) south of Lima and can be accessed by bus or flight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Paracas National Reserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of the richest ecosystems globally, with a range of activities and experiences available.

The tour package starts from $60.00 per person and lasts for 5 hours. Visitors can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can also reserve their spot without paying upfront.

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English and Spanish-speaking guide, as well as the entrance fees to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Highlights and Experience

Visitors can explore Paracas National Reserve, one of the richest ecosystems globally, and admire thousands of sea lions and penguins at the Ballestas Islands.

The tour includes a visit to the Candelabro de Paracas, a 2000-year-old hillside figure. Travelers will also stop at the Interpretation Center to learn about the fauna and flora.

The Cathedral rock formation, an emblem of Peru, is another highlight. The itinerary provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of the region.

Itinerary

After hotel pickup at 7:20 am, visitors embark on a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands to observe the abundant wildlife.

During the boat ride, they’ll approach the Candelabro de Paracas, a 2000-year-old hillside figure.

The tour continues with a dry land visit to Paracas National Reserve, including the beaches of Roja and Yumaque.

The itinerary allows visitors to explore this rich ecosystem and see the Cathedral rock formation, an emblem of Peru.

The tour concludes with a return to the hotel by 13:30.

Inclusions and Fees

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation by minibus or bus and speedboat, and an English and Spanish speaking guide.

A tour that offers hotel pickup, minibus or bus and speedboat transportation, and an English and Spanish speaking guide.

Visitors must pay the entrance fee to the Ballestas Islands, which is 11 S/ (2.90 US$) plus a 5 S/ (1.30 US$) dock tax.

Entry to the Paracas National Reserve also costs 11 S/ (2.90 US$). This covers access to the reserve’s beaches, wildlife, and interpretive center.

Please note that the itinerary may vary for safety and service quality. Refunds aren’t provided for cancellations due to weather, strikes, or other events beyond the tour operator’s control.

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Important Information

Service is subject to variation due to weather conditions, strikes, or other events beyond the tour operator’s control. Cancellations due to these reasons don’t qualify for refunds.

The itinerary may vary for traveler safety and service quality. No-show is considered as done without claims, postponements, or refunds.

Travelers should bring the following:

• Passport or ID

• Personal medication

• Pen

• Comfortable clothing and footwear

• Sunscreen and hat

Getting to Paracas

Paracas is located on the southern coast of Peru, approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) south of Lima.

The town is well-connected to other major cities in Peru, making it easily accessible for travelers. Visitors can reach Paracas by bus, with several companies offering daily services from Lima and other destinations. The journey typically takes around 4-5 hours.

Alternatively, travelers can fly to the nearby Pisco airport, which is just a short drive from Paracas.

Once in the town, getting around is convenient, with taxis and local transportation options available to explore the Paracas National Reserve and Ballestas Islands.

What to Expect at Ballestas Islands

After a scenic boat ride, visitors to the Ballestas Islands are greeted by a vibrant display of wildlife.

Thousands of sea lions bask on the rocky shores, while Humboldt penguins dart in and out of the water. The islands are also home to a diversity of seabirds, including pelicans, cormorants, and Peruvian boobies.

Visitors can observe:

• Hundreds of Peruvian boobies nesting on the cliffs

• Colonies of Humboldt penguins huddled together

• Playful sea lion pups frolicking in the waves

• The Candelabra, a massive geoglyph etched into the hillside

• The dramatic rock formations and sea caves of the islands

Exploring Paracas National Reserve

Though the Ballestas Islands showcase an abundant marine ecosystem, the true biodiversity of the region lies within Paracas National Reserve.

This 335,000-hectare protected area is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including over 200 species of birds. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and sand dunes, all while learning about the area’s rich ecological and cultural heritage at the Interpretation Center.

Paracas National Reserve, a 335,000-hectare protected area, boasts a diverse array of flora, fauna, and stunning natural landscapes.

From spotting Humboldt penguins and sea lions to hiking through the dramatic landscapes, Paracas National Reserve offers an immersive glimpse into Peru’s natural wonders.

The reserve’s diversity makes it a must-visit destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Though the tour provider doesn’t provide meals, travelers can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the 5-hour excursion. However, it’s advised to avoid bringing items that could attract wildlife on the islands.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. Restrooms can be found at the Paracas National Reserve Interpretation Center and on the boats used for the Ballestas Islands portion of the excursion.

Is the Boat Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The boat tour is suitable for young children, though parental supervision is advised. The tour offers an engaging wildlife viewing experience, but the open boat ride may not be suitable for very young or restless children.

Can I Take Photographs During the Boat Ride?

Yes, visitors can take photographs during the boat ride. The tour includes opportunities to capture the stunning natural scenery and abundant wildlife found in the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can choose a longer tour package that provides more time to explore the Paracas National Reserve and Ballestas Islands. Customized options are available for an additional cost.

The Sum Up

The "From Paracas || Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve" tour is an excellent way to experience Peru’s natural wonders. At just $60 per person, it offers hotel pickup, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees, making it a great value. Visitors can expect to see diverse wildlife, ancient landmarks, and stunning landscapes, providing an unforgettable glimpse into one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems.

You can check availability for your dates here: