Full Day Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve

The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve provide an unparalleled opportunity to take in Peru’s captivating coastal landscapes and diverse wildlife. This full-day tour offers a seamless blend of adventure, education, and scenic exploration, captivating visitors with the region’s natural wonders. From observing sea lions and seabirds on the Ballestas Islands to marveling at the striking geological formations of Paracas, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to discover the hidden gems of Peru’s Pacific coast.

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Key Points

A full-day tour that combines a boat ride to the Ballestas Islands and exploration of the Paracas National Reserve, priced at $50 per person with limited availability.
The tour includes wildlife observation, sightseeing of the Candelabro geoglyph, and transportation with a flexible booking process and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary covers hotel pickups in Ica, a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, time for breakfast and strolling, and visits to key sites within the Paracas National Reserve.
The tour package includes all necessary inclusions such as transportation, tour guide, life jackets, and admission fees, providing a hassle-free experience.
The highlights of the tour focus on the iconic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and informative commentary on the history, ecology, and conservation of the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The full-day Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour offers visitors an exciting opportunity to explore the natural wonders of this region.

Priced from $50 per person, the small-group tour lasts one day and is available in English and Spanish. Limited to just 10 participants, the tour provides a more intimate and personalized experience.

Highlights include a motorboat ride to the Ballestas Islands, observation of native wildlife, and visits to picturesque viewpoints within the Paracas National Reserve.

With a flexible booking process and free cancellation, this tour is a convenient and hassle-free way to discover the natural beauty of this area.

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Booking Information

Visitors can reserve their spot on the tour and pay nothing today. The booking process is free and flexible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To check availability, interested travelers can:

Check availability by booking your desired starting time, confirming tour date and participants, and providing hotel info for pickup.

Book their desired starting time.
Confirm the tour date and number of participants.
Provide their hotel information for pickup.
Await confirmation and look forward to their Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve adventure.

This hassle-free booking experience allows guests to plan their trip with confidence and ease.

Itinerary

Pickup for the tour starts between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m. from hotels in Ica.

Participants then depart from El Chaco dock in Paracas for the Ballestas Islands boat tour, which lasts approximately 2 hours.

On the motorboat ride, visitors will see the iconic Candelabro geoglyph and observe native fauna like tendrils, boobies, seagulls, pelicans, red-headed gallinules, Humboldt penguins, and sea lions.

After returning to the dock, there’s time for breakfast and a stroll before visiting Paracas National Reserve sites like La Catedral, Punta Santa María, and Playa Roja.

Lunch is on your own at Lagunilla or La Mina beach before the return to Ica around 16:30.

Inclusions

The tour includes pickup from hotels in Cercado de Ica, private transport, and a tour guide.

Travelers will also enjoy the following:

Travelers will also enjoy the following: an excursion to the Ballestas Islands, admission to the Paracas National Reserve, and a flexible travel plan.

An excursion to the Ballestas Islands by glider boat, complete with life jackets.
Admission to the Ballestas Islands, with adult tickets costing S/ 16.00 and children’s tickets costing S/ 8.00.
Exploration of the Paracas National Reserve, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
A flexible travel plan that allows for easy booking and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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Highlights

Though the tour covers several highlights, the primary focus is the experience of the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve.

Travelers will observe the islands’ iconic wildlife, including tendrils, boobies, seagulls, pelicans, red-headed gallinules, Humboldt penguins, and sea lions. The tour also visits the Candelabro, a 170-meter geoglyph visible from the boat.

In the Paracas National Reserve, guests can take in stunning landscapes, including the viewpoints of La Catedral, Punta Santa María, and Playa Roja.

The flexible itinerary and easy booking process make this a convenient and enjoyable day trip.

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Experiencing the Ballestas Islands

Motorboats depart from the El Chaco dock in Paracas, beginning the journey to the Ballestas Islands. The 2-hour tour provides an up-close view of this wildlife haven.

Motorboats depart from the El Chaco dock in Paracas, beginning the journey to the Ballestas Islands. The 2-hour tour provides an up-close view of this wildlife haven.

Visitors can expect to see:

Tendrils, boobies, and seagulls soaring overhead.
Pelicans and red-headed gallinules perched on rocky outcrops.
Humboldt penguins and sea lions lounging on the islands.
The iconic 170-meter Candelabro geoglyph carved into the cliffs.

The boat glides past the dramatic landscapes, offering a window into the vibrant ecosystem of the Ballestas Islands.

Exploring the Paracas National Reserve

After exploring the Ballestas Islands, the tour continues to the Paracas National Reserve.

Visitors will discover stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic La Catedral, Punta Santa María, and Playa Roja viewpoints.

Explore the diverse flora and fauna of this protected coastal reserve.

Stop for lunch at the picturesque Lagunilla and La Mina beaches.

Throughout the journey, the guide provides commentary on the region’s history, ecology, and conservation efforts.

The tour then returns to Ica in the late afternoon, capping off a day of unforgettable experiences in Peru’s coastal wilderness.

Logistical Details

The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Cercado de Ica between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m.

Guests then depart for the El Chaco dock in Paracas to embark on the Ballestas Islands tour via motorboat. The excursion lasts approximately 2 hours and includes:

Viewing the 170-meter Candelabro geoglyph.
Observing native wildlife like tendrils, boobies, seagulls, pelicans, red-headed gallinules, Humboldt penguins, and sea lions.
Returning to El Chaco dock for breakfast and a stroll.
Visiting Paracas National Reserve viewpoints and beaches for lunch.

The tour concludes with a return to Ica around 4:30 pm.

Since You Asked

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 doesn’t include meals, so you’re welcome to pack a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy during the day.

Is the Boat Ride Suitable for People With Motion Sickness?

The boat ride may not be suitable for people prone to motion sickness. It’s recommended to bring medication or remedies if you’re susceptible to seasickness, as the ride can be rough at times due to the ocean conditions.

Is There an Option to Extend My Stay in Paracas?

Yes, there is an option to extend your stay in Paracas. The tour provider can arrange additional accommodations and activities in the area if you’d like to explore the region further after the excursion.

Can I Make Special Requests for the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, guests can make special requests for the tour itinerary. The tour company aims to accommodate personalized needs whenever possible, though some adjustments may be subject to availability and guide recommendations to ensure the best experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The price includes all fees and taxes, except for the Ballestas Islands tourist ticket which is an additional cost of S/ 16.00 for adults and S/ 8.00 for children. There are no other hidden fees or taxes.

The Sum Up

The Full-Day Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse in Peru’s coastal wonders. Travelers can expect to witness the vibrant marine life of the Ballestas Islands and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Paracas National Reserve, all while receiving insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides. This excursion promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.