Excursion: Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve

Embark on an unforgettable day exploring the stunning natural wonders of Peru’s Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. This thrilling excursion offers an up-close look at a diverse array of captivating wildlife, from playful sea lions to the iconic Humboldt penguins. With convenient hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide, you’ll dive into the region’s breathtaking landscapes and uncover the captivating secrets that make this destination truly remarkable. Get ready to be amazed as you learn about this incredible adventure.

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Key Points

Full-day excursion to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, priced from $35 per person.
Tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide.
Highlights include a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands to observe Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and seabirds.
Visit the iconic sites of Paracas National Reserve, such as the cathedral and beaches.
Excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to book now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The excursion to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offers an opportunity to explore Peru’s stunning coastal landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Explore Peru’s stunning coastal landscapes and diverse wildlife on an excursion to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Priced from $35 per person, the full-day tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide.

Highlights include a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands to observe Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and other marine life, as well as a visit to the Paracas National Reserve to see its iconic cathedral and vibrant red sand beaches.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to book now and pay later, this excursion is a must-do for nature enthusiasts.

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

Tour Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Ica, near the main square, between 6:00-7:00 am.

You’ll transfer to the El Chaco pier in Paracas and embark on a 2-hour boat trip to the Ballestas Islands. Along the way, marvel at the diverse wildlife, including Humboldt penguins, sea lions, tendrils, boobies, seagulls, and pelicans.

Pass by the iconic 170-meter Candelabro as well. After returning to the dock, you’ll have free time to explore or enjoy breakfast.

Next, visit the Paracas National Reserve, stopping at the cathedral, viewpoints, and beaches for lunch before heading back to Ica around 4:30 pm.

Inclusions

This excursion includes hotel pickup and transfer, transportation by minibus or bus, and a bilingual guide who can provide commentary in both Spanish and English. The boat ride to the Ballestas Islands also comes with a complimentary life jacket, ensuring your safety and comfort. To complete the experience, entrance tickets, food, and drinks are all included in the package.

| Inclusions | Cost |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and transfer | Included |

| Transportation by minibus or bus | Included |

| Bilingual guide (Spanish/English) | Included |

| Boat ride on Ballestas Islands (life jacket provided) | Included |

| Food and drinks | Included |

| Entrance tickets (22 S/ adults, 11 S/ children, free for under 5) | Included |

Preparation and Requirements

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and cash to fully enjoy the excursion.

It’s also important to provide the correct contact number with country code and have WhatsApp installed, as the tour operator may need to reach you.

The tour has a few restrictions – littering isn’t allowed.

By coming prepared, travelers can focus on experiencing the incredible wildlife and landscapes of the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

The excursion promises an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery.

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Booking Information

Checking availability before booking, especially for last-minute reservations, is crucial.

The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy to find the starting location.

Littering is strictly prohibited, so visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and dispose of trash properly.

When booking, guests should ensure they provide the correct contact number, including the country code, and have WhatsApp installed for easy communication.

This excursion offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the stunning Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, so don’t miss out on this incredible experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Paracas

Wildlife Sightings at Ballestas Islands

Visitors to the Ballestas Islands are treated to a stunning display of diverse wildlife. The boat tour provides up-close encounters with Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and boobies. Guests marvel at the graceful movements of the penguins as they dive into the water, the playful antics of the sea lions, and the majestic presence of the boobies soaring overhead.

Other species spotted include:

Tendrils, with their long, slender necks and elegant profiles.
Vibrant seagulls, their calls echoing across the islands.
Impressive pelicans, their large beaks and impressive wingspans commanding attention.

This wildlife extravaganza makes the Ballestas Islands a must-see destination.

Exploring Paracas National Reserve

After the thrilling boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, the excursion continues with a visit to the stunning Paracas National Reserve.

Travelers explore the reserve’s highlights, including the iconic cathedral and breathtaking viewpoints of Punta Santa Maria and Playa Roja. The vibrant hues of the red sand beaches and the dramatic coastal landscapes captivate visitors.

Lunch is served at the serene Lagunilla and La Mina beaches, providing a chance to savor local cuisine and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

This comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience in the natural wonders of Peru’s Paracas region.

Logistical Details

To ensure a seamless experience, the excursion includes hotel pickup and transfer to the El Chaco pier in Paracas.

Aboard a boat, visitors will spend approximately two hours exploring the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Poor Man’s Galapagos". The tour allows guests to observe an array of captivating wildlife, including:

Humboldt penguins
Sea lions
Boobies, seagulls, and pelicans

After the boat tour, guests can enjoy free time for breakfast or exploration before visiting the stunning Paracas National Reserve.

After the boat tour, guests can explore the stunning Paracas National Reserve during their free time.

The full-day adventure concludes with a delightful lunch on the beach.

Things To Know

What Is the Approximate Group Size for This Excursion?

The group size for this excursion varies, but participants can expect a small, intimate group setting. The tour company give you a personalized experience with ample opportunities to observe the unique wildlife and landscapes.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

Children under 5 years old can join the excursion for free, while those aged 5-17 pay a discounted rate. There are no age restrictions, making it a family-friendly adventure for all ages to enjoy the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Ride?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the boat ride. The tour includes all food and drinks during the excursion, providing a convenient and worry-free experience. Sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife sightings without the hassle of packing a lunch.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Excursion?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the excursion’s duration. Guests can choose to spend more time exploring the Ballestas Islands or Paracas National Reserve, allowing them to fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Gear or Equipment for the Activities?

Travelers should bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and light clothing to enjoy the outdoor activities. A change of clothes is recommended in case you get wet during the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands.

Sum Up

The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve excursion offers a captivating full-day adventure at an unbeatable price. Guests can observe incredible wildlife, explore stunning landscapes, and enjoy convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide – making this the perfect way to discover the natural wonders of Peru’s southern coast. It’s an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: