From Ica: Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve

Nestled along Peru’s southern coast, the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offer a captivating glimpse into the country’s natural wonders. This 9-hour tour from Ica provides a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of these destinations, with the opportunity to spot Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and stunning rock formations. Whether you’re seeking an adventure or simply a chance to learn about the serene beauty of the Peruvian coastline, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• A 9-hour tour from Ica that includes visits to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, starting at $60.00 per person.
• The tour includes transportation, guides, entrance fees, and snacks, with pickup from the hotel or bus terminal in Ica.
• The Ballestas Islands tour allows for wildlife spotting, such as Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and various seabirds, and exploration of the "El Candelabro" geoglyph.
• The Paracas National Reserve tour provides free time for personal activities, with a Spanish-speaking driver-guide.
• The tour offers live guide services in both English and Spanish, ensuring a personalized and accessible experience for all visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This tour from Ica includes visits to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

The price starts at $60.00 per person and lasts 9 hours. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can book their spot without upfront payment.

Priced at $60.00 per person for a 9-hour tour, with flexible cancellation and booking policies.

The itinerary includes a maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands, a land tour of Paracas National Reserve, and free time for activities.

Inclusions cover transportation, guides, entrance fees, and snacks. Last-minute reservations require email confirmation of availability.

English and Spanish live tour guides are available, and the tour offers flexible travel plans.

Itinerary

The tour begins at 6:30 AM with pickup from the hotel or bus terminal in Ica. After a transfer to the tourist pier, the maritime tour to the Ballestas Islands starts at 8:00 AM. Passengers will visit the geoglyph "El Candelabro", explore rock formations and sea lion maternity wards, and spot wildlife like Humboldt penguins, boobies, terns, pelicans, guanayes, and red-headed vultures. At 10:00 AM, the tour returns to the pier, allowing free time for breakfast, crafts, or photos before the land tour of Paracas National Reserve at 11:00 AM.

| Ballestas Islands Tour | Paracas National Reserve Tour |

| — | — |

| 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM |

| Visit geoglyph "El Candelabro" | Ruins of "La Catedral" |

| Explore rock formations and sea lion maternity wards | Supay Beach, Roja Beach, Lagunillas Beach |

| Wildlife spotting: Humboldt penguins, boobies, terns, pelicans, guanayes, red-headed vultures | – |

What’s Included

The tour package includes pickup from the hotel or bus terminal in Ica.

It provides a motorboat, life jacket, and Spanish-speaking guide for the Ballestas Islands tour.

For the Paracas National Reserve tour, transportation and a Spanish-speaking driver-guide are included.

The fees for entering the Ballestas Islands (S/.17.00) and Paracas Reserve (S/.5.00) are covered.

Snacks and drinks are provided during the tour.

Transfer to the bus station or hotel in Ica is also part of the package.

Tipping the service providers is optional.

Important Considerations

Ensuring the correct contact number with country code is crucial, as it allows the tour operator to reach participants effectively.

WhatsApp is the recommended form of communication, as it enables seamless coordination and updates.

WhatsApp is the recommended form of communication, enabling seamless coordination and updates.

For last-minute reservations, it’s advised to check availability via email before booking to ensure the tour can accommodate the request.

The tour offers flexibility, allowing participants to enjoy personal activities during the free time.

Whether you prefer English or Spanish, the live tour guide can accommodate your language preferences, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience.

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Language and Accessibility

How flexible is the tour in terms of language and accessibility?

The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour offers live guide services in both English and Spanish. This ensures visitors can fully engage with the experience regardless of their language preference.

The tour also caters to flexible travel plans, providing options for personal activities during free time. This allows participants to customize their day and explore at their own pace.

Whether you’re a Spanish or English speaker, the tour accommodates your needs, making it an accessible and personalized experience.

Exploring the Ballestas Islands

What makes the Ballestas Islands so captivating? The breathtaking rock formations, bustling wildlife, and unspoiled natural beauty create an unforgettable experience.

Passengers board motorboats and explore the rugged coastline, marveling at the "El Candelabro" geoglyph carved into the cliffs. Thousands of seabirds, including Humboldt penguins, boobies, and pelicans, nest and roam the islands.

Massive sea lion colonies dot the shores, offering a glimpse into their vibrant maternity wards. With knowledgeable guides providing insights, visitors enjoy the islands’ captivating ecosystem, leaving with lasting memories of this natural wonder.

Discovering Paracas National Reserve

After the captivating maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands, the journey continues into the Paracas National Reserve, a coastal sanctuary teeming with diverse landscapes and wildlife. Here, visitors explore the ruins of "La Catedral" and stroll along the stunning beaches of Supay, Roja, and Lagunillas. The reserve’s tranquil beauty and abundance of natural wonders make it a must-visit destination.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Ruins of "La Catedral" | Intriguing archaeological site with stunning coastal views |

| Supay Beach | Pristine sand and turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation |

| Roja Beach | Vibrant red sand, a unique natural wonder |

| Lagunillas Beach | Serene beach with a tranquil lagoon |

Planning Your Adventure

With the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve tour, travelers can easily plan their adventure from Ica. The package includes pickup from the hotel or bus terminal, making transportation hassle-free.

The itinerary covers the highlights, from the Ballestas Islands’ wildlife viewing to exploring the Paracas National Reserve. Flexibility is built-in, with free time for personal activities.

The itinerary covers the highlights, from the Ballestas Islands’ wildlife viewing to exploring the Paracas National Reserve, with built-in flexibility for personal activities.

The tour is led by a live guide in English and Spanish, catering to diverse language needs. With a competitive price and free cancellation, it’s a convenient way to discover these natural wonders.

Booking in advance secures a spot without upfront payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages and caters to families, providing a flexible itinerary with opportunities for personal activities during free time.

Are There Any Age or Physical Requirements?

The tour is open to all ages, but children under 3 may ride for free. There are no physical requirements, though guests should be able to board and disembark the boats. Families are welcome to participate in the activities.

What Should We Bring for the Tour?

Guests should bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and cash for any optional purchases. Dress in layers as the weather can be cooler on the water. Snacks and drinks are provided during the tour.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options?

The tour doesn’t provide specific dietary options, but you can bring your own snacks and drinks. Let the tour provider know if you have any dietary restrictions, and they’ll try to accommodate your needs.

Can We Customize the Tour to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The tour operator offers flexible travel plans, allowing you to spend more time on activities or sights that interest you during the free time.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the stunning natural wonders of Peru’s Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. From spotting diverse marine life to exploring captivating rock formations, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible booking, it’s the perfect way to discover the breathtaking beauty of this remarkable region.

You can check availability for your dates here: