Tour: Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve

The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore Peru’s stunning coastal landscapes and diverse marine life. Travelers can expect a full-day adventure packed with picturesque boat rides, fascinating wildlife encounters, and breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. With a range of inclusions and important information to consider, the journey ahead offers a captivating glimpse into the wonders of Peru’s Pacific coast.

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Good To Know

A full-day excursion from Ica to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, priced at $65 per person.
Includes hotel pickup, boat rides, guided exploration, and all food and drinks, as well as entrance fees.
Offers the opportunity to observe marine wildlife, such as Humboldt penguins, sea lions, pelicans, and boobies.
Explores the stunning landscapes of the Paracas National Reserve, including scenic viewpoints like Cathedral rock formation and Playa Roja.
Not suitable for wheelchair users and has certain prohibited items, such as weapons, sharp objects, and alcohol.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers an opportunity to explore the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, which are renowned for their diverse marine life and stunning natural landscapes.

Priced from $65 per person, the full-day excursion includes hotel pickup, boat rides, and guided exploration of the region’s highlights. The tour is available in both Spanish and English, and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment, making it convenient to plan their visit. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and certain items are prohibited for safety reasons.

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

Itinerary

Beginning the tour, guests are picked up from their hotel in Ica, near the Plaza de Armas, between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Guests are picked up from their hotel in Ica, near the Plaza de Armas, between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. to begin the tour.

They’ll then transfer to the El Chaco pier in Paracas. From there, they’ll embark on a 2-hour boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, viewing the Candelabro and observing local wildlife like Humboldt penguins, sea lions, pelicans, and boobies.

After returning to the dock, guests can enjoy breakfast or take a walk before visiting Paracas National Reserve.

There, they’ll see viewpoints like the cathedral, Punta Santa Maria, Playa Roja, Playa Lagunilla, and Playa La Mina for lunch.

The tour ends with a return to Ica at 4:30 p.m.

Inclusions

This tour includes several key elements.

First, hotel pickup and transfer to the main square are provided, ensuring a seamless start to the day.

The tour also includes transportation by either minibus or bus, as well as an English and Spanish-speaking guide to enhance the experience.

Notably, the boat trip around the Ballestas Islands comes with a life jacket, and all food and drinks are included.

Entrance fees to the Paracas National Reserve are also covered, with discounted rates for children aged 5-17 and free admission for those under 5.

Important Information

Not suitable for wheelchair users, this tour requires a certain level of mobility. Guests should come prepared with the following essentials:

| Item | Recommendation |

|——|—————-|

| Passport | Bring it |

| Sunglasses | Wear them |

| Camera | Capture memories |

| Snacks | Pack some |

| Sunscreen | Apply liberally |

| Water | Stay hydrated |

| Cash | For incidentals |

Plus, weapons, sharp objects, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and baby carriages are prohibited. Following these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour.

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Highlights of the Tour

The tour offers thrilling opportunities to observe the marine fauna of the Ballestas Islands. Visitors can spot Humboldt penguins, sea lions, pelicans, and boobies on a scenic boat ride around the islands.

The tour also includes exploring the stunning natural landscapes of the Paracas National Reserve. Visitors can marvel at the picturesque Cathedral rock formation, the vibrant Playa Roja, and enjoy a relaxing lunch at Playa La Mina.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing guests to enjoy the diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery of this remarkable region.

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Getting to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve

How does one get to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve?

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Ica, near the Plaza de Armas, between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.

You’ll then transfer to the El Chaco pier in Paracas. From there, you’ll board a boat for the approximately 2-hour trip to the Ballestas Islands.

After exploring the wildlife-rich islands, you’ll return to the El Chaco dock for breakfast or a stroll.

The tour then continues with a visit to the Paracas National Reserve, where you’ll see various scenic viewpoints before returning to Ica around 4:30 p.m.

Marine Life and Wildlife

One of the main draws of the Ballestas Islands is the diverse marine life that inhabits the area. Visitors can spot Humboldt penguins, sea lions, pelicans, and boobies during the boat tour.

These charismatic creatures thrive in the nutrient-rich waters, making the islands an important ecological hotspot. The experience offers a chance to observe these species in their natural environment, learning about their behaviors and adaptations.

The Ballestas Islands are an ecological hotspot where charismatic marine species thrive, offering visitors a chance to observe their natural behaviors and adaptations.

The Paracas National Reserve also boasts a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds and unique desert landscapes.

Exploring both the islands and the reserve provides a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Exploring the Paracas National Reserve

After exploring the marine life of the Ballestas Islands, the tour then ventures into the Paracas National Reserve, a stunning natural wonder that showcases the diversity of Peru’s coastal ecosystem. Visitors can marvel at the dramatic landscapes, including the cathedral-like rock formations, the vibrant red sand beaches, and the serene lagoons. The reserve is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, from the elusive Pampas cat to the graceful flamingos wading in the shallows. A journey through this protected area is a truly immersive experience, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of Peru.

| Paracas National Reserve Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Punta Santa Maria | Playa Roja | Playa Lagunilla |

| Cathedral-like rock formations | Vibrant red sand beaches | Serene lagoons |

| Pampas cat | Graceful flamingos | Diverse flora and fauna |

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour itinerary notes that you’ll need to provide your own snacks and water during the day.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

There are restroom facilities available during the tour. Participants can use the restrooms at the El Chaco pier and in the Paracas National Reserve. However, it’s recommended to use the facilities before and after the tour to minimize disruptions.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes hotel pickup, transportation, guide, boat trip, entrance fees, and food/drinks. There are no additional costs, though visitors may want to bring extra money for souvenirs or personal expenses.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration to Spend More Time in Paracas?

Yes, you can likely extend the tour duration to spend more time in Paracas. Contact the tour operator to inquire about options and associated costs for extending the visit at Paracas National Reserve.

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 November when the weather’s milder and the wildlife is most active. Visitors can spot a variety of seabirds and marine mammals during this period.

The Sum Up

The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour offers an unforgettable adventure. Guests can marvel at diverse marine wildlife, including Humboldt penguins and sea lions, before exploring the stunning landscapes of Paracas National Reserve. With a price of $65 per person, this full-day tour is a great way to discover Peru’s rich coastal biodiversity.