Ballestas Islands and Tambo Colorado From San Martin Port

The Ballestas Islands and Tambo Colorado tour from San Martin Port offers travelers an unparalleled blend of natural wonders and historical intrigue. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant marine life and striking geological formations of the Ballestas Islands before delving into the well-preserved Inca ruins of Tambo Colorado. With knowledgeable guides and a small group setting, this excursion promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. But what secrets might these ancient sites hold, and what insights can they provide into Peru’s rich cultural heritage?

About Your Stay

• This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Ballestas Islands and the historical significance of Tambo Colorado.
• Visitors can expect to spot sea lions, seabirds, and marine life while exploring caves and observing the Paracas Candelabra during the boat cruise.
• The tour includes a visit to the Inca archaeological site of Tambo Colorado, where well-preserved architecture can be explored.
• Transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, bottled water, and personal travel insurance are included in the tour.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions or infants.

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience both the natural wonders of the Ballestas Islands and the historical significance of Tambo Colorado.

Cruise the Ballestas Islands and spot sea lions, seabirds, and other marine life. Explore caves and observe the famous Paracas Candelabra geoglyph.

Then, travel to the ruins of Tambo Colorado, an Inca archaeological site, and marvel at its well-preserved architecture.

This combination of natural and historical attractions provides a well-rounded experience for travelers seeking to enjoy Peru’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from the Terminal Portuario General San Martín in Punta Pejerrey, Peru, at 9:15 am.

It’s a combination of natural and historical attractions, with activities and transportation included. The group size is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers.

Along with an English and Spanish-speaking guide, the tour provides a bottle of water and personal travel insurance.

A knowledgeable bilingual guide, complimentary bottled water, and personal travel insurance are provided throughout the tour experience.

The duration of the experience covers the group activities and transportation.

Travelers should note the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or infants.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from the San Martin Port, along with all activities and transportation.

Travelers will also receive an English and Spanish-speaking guide, a bottle of water, and personal travel insurance. The entrance fees of approximately 7 USD per person are included.

However, the tour doesn’t cover:

• Food and drinks unless specified

• Anything not mentioned in the "Included" section

Traveler Information

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it can still be enjoyed by most travelers.

The boat cruise and land activities may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

The tour operator advises travelers to carefully consider their physical abilities before booking. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours before the start of the experience with no penalty.

Reviews and Feedback

How do the reviews and feedback for this tour fare? Based on 7 reviews, the overall rating sits at a modest 3.3 out of 5.

On the positive side, the guides received praise for their knowledge and engagement, and the diverse wildlife of the Ballestas Islands was a highlight.

Guides were praised for their knowledge and engagement, and the diverse wildlife of the Ballestas Islands was a highlight.

However, some travelers expressed disappointment over the condition of Tambo Colorado and the lack of English-speaking guides.

Plus, mentions of cold weather on the boat section and a desire for meal breaks suggest areas for improvement.

Additional Notes

Upon booking, travelers will receive confirmation for this tour. The confirmation will outline essential details like pickup location and time.

Travelers are advised to notify the tour operator of any delays and to check their emails for updates on the pickup time. Before boarding, travelers must present a printed or electronic travel voucher along with a valid ID. This is to ensure a smooth check-in process.

The tour operators recommend that travelers bring appropriate clothing and sun protection, as the boat ride can be cold. Following these simple guidelines will help make the Ballestas Islands and Tambo Colorado tour a memorable experience.

Exploring the Ballestas Islands

The Ballestas Islands are a true natural wonder, teeming with diverse wildlife that captivates visitors.

As you cruise through the islands, you’ll have the chance to:

• Spot sea lions basking on the rocky shores

• Observe an array of seabirds, including Peruvian boobies and Humboldt penguins

• Explore the intricate network of caves and tunnels carved by the relentless waves

• Marvel at the iconic Paracas Candelabra, a massive geoglyph etched into the cliffs

• Bask in the tranquility of this protected marine reserve, a haven for a remarkable array of marine life.

Discovering Tambo Colorado

After exploring the captivating Ballestas Islands, travelers can now shift their focus to Tambo Colorado, a well-preserved Inca archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

The ruined structures and remnants of the once-thriving settlement provide a fascinating contrast to the natural wonders experienced earlier. Visitors can wander through the site, marveling at the impressive Inca architecture and imagining the daily lives of the inhabitants centuries ago.

While the site may not be as polished as some other Inca ruins, its authenticity and connection to the past make it a compelling stop on this tour.

Questions About Your Stay

Is Food Provided During the Boat Tour?

The overview mentions that food and drinks are not included, unless specified. So, it appears that food is not provided during the boat tour. Travelers would need to bring their own food and drinks for the excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks for the tour. The inclusions only cover a bottle of water, so bringing additional food and beverages is allowed and recommended, especially for longer excursions.

Are There Restroom Facilities on the Boat?

The tour includes a boat ride, so there are restroom facilities on board for passengers’ convenience. However, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and use the restroom before the tour departs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are advised as the boat ride can be chilly. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are also recommended for exploring the Ballestas Islands.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Yes, taking photos and videos is allowed during the tour. Travelers can capture the diverse wildlife, landscapes, and attractions at their own discretion. However, they should be mindful of others and avoid disrupting the group’s experience.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The tour of Ballestas Islands and Tambo Colorado from San Martin Port offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and historical insights. Travelers can witness vibrant marine life, explore stunning geological formations, and discover the well-preserved Inca ruins, all guided by knowledgeable experts in a small group setting. This unforgettable experience provides a deeper understanding of Peru’s diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty.