From Ica: Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve

Situated along Peru’s southern coast, the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offer a captivating natural getaway. From Ica, visitors can embark on a full-day tour showcasing the region’s breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife. With prices starting at just $65 per person, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience, complete with knowledgeable guides, stunning maritime vistas, and opportunities to explore the reserve’s magnificent landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique day trip, this tour provides a compelling reason to discover the wonders of this remarkable destination.

Contents show

Good To Know

A full-day tour from Ica includes visits to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, lasting 9 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes hotel/bus terminal pickup, motorboat transportation, life jackets, Spanish-speaking guides, and all entrance fees for both attractions.
Highlights of the Ballestas Islands tour include observing the "El Candelabro" geoglyph, rock formations, and wildlife such as Humboldt penguins, boobies, and sea lions.
The Paracas National Reserve tour explores dramatic landscapes, including the "La Catedral" rock formation, and offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and visit local beaches.
The tour concludes with a transfer to the bus station or hotel in Ica, and souvenir shopping is available with handcrafted items from local artisans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour is available from Ica, with prices starting from $65.00 per person.

The full-day tour lasts 9 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The full-day tour lasts 9 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour includes visits to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, where travelers can see wildlife such as Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and birds.

Transportation from Ica, entrance fees, and snacks are provided. This small-group tour with a Spanish-speaking guide is an excellent way to explore these natural wonders.

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

Itinerary and Schedule

The tour begins with a 6:30 AM pickup from the hotel or bus terminal in Ica.

At 7:45 AM, the group transfers to the tourist pier. The maritime tour starts at 8 AM, exploring the Ballestas Islands.

Highlights include seeing the "El Candelabro" geoglyph, rock formations, and sea lion maternity wards. Diverse wildlife like Humboldt penguins, boobies, terns, pelicans, guanayes, and red-headed vultures are spotted.

The group returns to the pier at 10 AM for free time.

At 11 AM, the land tour of Paracas National Reserve begins, visiting the "La Catedral" ruins, Supay Beach, Roja Beach, and Lagunillas Beach.

The tour ends at 4 PM.

Ballestas Islands Tour

What makes the Ballestas Islands tour such a captivating experience? The tour takes visitors on a motorboat journey to witness the natural splendor of the Ballestas Islands.

Travelers will spot the iconic "El Candelabro" geoglyph and observe the impressive rock formations and sea lion maternity wards. The wildlife sightings are truly remarkable, with the chance to see Humboldt penguins, boobies, terns, pelicans, guanayes, and red-headed vultures in their natural habitat.

The knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide provides insightful commentary throughout the 2-hour maritime excursion, making it an educational and unforgettable outing.

Paracas National Reserve Tour

After the exhilarating maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands, the Paracas National Reserve tour offers a captivating land-based experience.

The Paracas National Reserve tour offers a captivating land-based experience after the exhilarating maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands.

The tour takes visitors to explore the dramatic landscapes of the reserve, including:

The ruins of the "La Catedral" rock formation
The serene Supay, Roja, and Lagunillas beaches
Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, such as seabirds and marine mammals
Free time for breakfast, crafts, or photography before the tour’s end at 4:00 PM.

This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into the natural wonders of Peru’s Paracas region.

More Great Tours Nearby

Group Size and Language

Small group tours to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve are offered, limited to just 10 participants.

This intimate group setting ensures a personalized experience with your Spanish-speaking live tour guide. You’ll enjoy the flexibility and attentive service that comes with a small group.

Whether you’re exploring the remarkable rock formations, spotting wildlife, or wandering the beaches, you’ll have the guide’s undivided attention to make the most of your day.

The small group size allows for easy communication and a seamless flow throughout the tour’s activities.

There's plenty more to explore in Paracas

Inclusions

The tour package includes a pick-up from your hotel or bus terminal in Ica, along with the motorboat transportation, life jackets, and a Spanish-speaking guide for the Ballestas Islands portion.

The tour also provides:

Transportation and a driver-guide (Spanish) for the Paracas National Reserve segment
Transfer to the bus station or your hotel in Ica at the end of the tour
Bus tickets
Entrance fees for the Ballestas Islands (S/.17.00) and Paracas Reserve (S/.5.00)
Snacks and drinks during the tour

Gifts and Souvenirs

Along With the comprehensive tour package, visitors can browse a variety of gifts and souvenirs at the end of their excursion.

Local artisans offer handcrafted items like paintings, ceramics, and textiles inspired by the stunning Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Travelers can find unique mementos to commemorate their experience, from decorative trinkets to functional pieces like bags and mugs.

The diversity of offerings allows each visitor to find the perfect souvenir to bring home and share the memories of this unforgettable adventure.

Booking and Availability

Travelers can easily book the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour through the provided website or by contacting the tour operator directly.

Availability is subject to change, so it’s best to check the schedule and select the desired date and number of participants. The tour operates with small groups, limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Tour availability may change, so check the schedule and group size to ensure a personalized Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve experience.

Booking options include:

Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot without upfront payment
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Check current availability and pricing on the website

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Ballestas Islands?

The best time to visit the Ballestas Islands is during the dry season, from May to October. This is when the weather is mild, and the wildlife is most active, offering the optimal viewing experience.

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

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides snacks and drinks during the excursion. Bringing outside food and drinks is not allowed.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours are available upon request and may incur an additional fee. Guests can inquire about private tour availability and pricing when booking.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Paracas Reserve?

No special equipment is needed for the Paracas National Reserve tour. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the scenic landscapes and wildlife spotting. The tour provides all necessary transportation and access.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities or Sites?

Yes, you can extend the tour to include additional activities or sites. The tour operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Just check with them about the availability and any additional costs.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Ica provides an unforgettable experience, combining the breathtaking beauty of the Ballestas Islands and the stunning landscapes of Paracas National Reserve. With knowledgeable guides, opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, and the chance to explore iconic landmarks, it’s an adventure not to be missed. At just $65 per person, it’s a fantastic value for an exceptional day of discovery.