Excursion to Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve

The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offer a unique opportunity for travelers to enjoy Peru’s natural wonders. This one-day excursion provides an exciting itinerary that caters to wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From spotting diverse marine life to exploring scenic viewpoints, the day promises a memorable experience that leaves visitors eager to uncover more of the region’s captivating attractions.

Key Points

• A one-day excursion to explore the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, including a boat tour and visits to various viewpoints.
• Costs start at $50 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
• Includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide, with admission tickets for the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.
• The itinerary features a 2-hour boat tour, free time for breakfast or a stroll, and visits to Lagunilla and La Mina beaches.
• Preparation required includes bringing a passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, personal medication, and a pen, and wearing comfortable attire.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

This excursion offers visitors a chance to explore the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, located along Peru’s southern coast.

The tour lasts one day and costs from $50 per person. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. The reserve now and pay later option is also available.

One-day excursion to Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, with free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options, starting at $50 per person.

The excursion includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands.

Travelers can observe diverse wildlife, such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and pelicans, as well as the iconic Candelabro geoglyph.

Itinerary Details

The excursion begins with pickup between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. from hotels in Ica.

Guests then depart for the El Chaco dock in Paracas. The boat tour of the Ballestas Islands lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing visitors to observe iconic sites like the Candelabro geoglyph and wildlife such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and pelicans.

Following the tour, there’s free time for breakfast or a stroll.

The itinerary continues with visits to Paracas National Reserve viewpoints, a lunch stop at Lagunilla and La Mina beaches, before returning to Ica by 4:30 p.m.

Inclusions

The excursion package includes hotel pickup and return transfer, as well as transportation by minibus or bus.

Travelers will also have the services of an English and Spanish-speaking guide.

The boat ride on the Ballestas Islands includes life jackets.

Admission tickets are 22 soles for adults, 11 soles for children aged 5-17, and free for children under 5.

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, personal medication, and a pen.

Availability and start times should be checked in advance.

The total package offers a comprehensive experience to explore the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Important Information

Visitors should come prepared for the excursion with important items like their passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, and personal medication.

Be sure to bring your passport, biodegradable sunscreen, and any necessary personal medications for the upcoming excursion.

They’ll also want to bring a pen for any necessary paperwork. The tour operator advises checking availability for starting times, as the excursion departs between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. from hotels in Ica.

Guests should dress comfortably and be ready for a full day of exploring the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

With the excursion including a boat ride, life jackets are provided for safety.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Reviews

Customers offered mixed feedback on the excursion, with an overall rating of 3 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.

Some enjoyed the trip, while others felt it didn’t match the description, particularly regarding its duration. Reviewers noted the guide’s friendliness, but also highlighted a lack of information about swimming opportunities.

Exploring the Ballestas Islands

One of the main highlights of the excursion is the boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the "Poor Man’s Galápagos."

Passengers embark on a journey lasting approximately 2 hours, witnessing an abundance of marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

A 2-hour boat tour offers the chance to witness an abundance of marine life in their natural setting.

The tour offers the opportunity to observe:

1. Colonies of sea lions resting on the islands’ rocky outcrops

2. Hundreds of Humboldt penguins, a species found only in Peru and Chile

3. Pelicans, cormorants, and other seabirds soaring overhead

4. The iconic Candelabro geoglyph, a giant prehistoric design etched into the cliffs.

Discovering Paracas National Reserve

After exploring the Ballestas Islands, the excursion continues into the breathtaking Paracas National Reserve.

Visitors explore the reserve’s iconic viewpoints, like La Catedral, Punta Santa María, and Playa Roja. These scenic overlooks offer stunning vistas of the rugged coastal landscape.

The group also stops for lunch at Lagunilla beach and La Mina beach.

Throughout the visit, the knowledgeable guide provides insight into the reserve’s unique geology, flora, and fauna.

Choosing the Right Option

When considering this excursion, travelers should evaluate their interests and preferences.

Travelers should consider their interests and preferences when evaluating this diverse excursion.

This trip offers a diverse array of activities, from wildlife observation to scenic viewpoints. To choose the right option, consider the following:

1. Duration: The excursion lasts approximately 1 day, which may suit some travelers but not others.

2. Price: The cost per person starts at $50, which could fit various budgets.

3. Flexibility: The option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides convenience.

4. Inclusions: The package includes transportation, a guided boat tour, and admission fees, which simplifies planning.

Since You Asked

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 April to November. This is when the weather is mild, and visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and seabirds.

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

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the boat tour. The excursion information notes that there’s free time for breakfast or a stroll after the boat ride, so packing a snack or beverage is allowed.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Paracas National Reserve Activities?

There are no age restrictions for Paracas National Reserve activities. Children of all ages can participate, though the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands has a minimum age requirement of 5 years old.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Excursion?

Yes, the excursion duration can be extended. According to the information provided, the standard tour lasts 1 day, but customers can likely arrange for a longer experience by contacting the tour operator and paying an additional fee.

Do I Need to Purchase Additional Tickets for Any Optional Activities?

The excursion includes the boat ride and entrance tickets to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. No additional tickets are required for optional activities, though participants may want to bring extra money for meals or souvenirs.

The Sum Up

The excursion to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offers a unique opportunity to witness Peru’s diverse wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. With a boat tour, breakfast, scenic viewpoints, and lunch, this daylong adventure provides an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in the Candelabro geoglyph or the abundance of marine life, this excursion won’t disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: