From Paracas: Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve

Exploring the natural wonders of Peru’s Paracas region promises an unforgettable adventure. This guided tour takes visitors on a journey to the Ballestas Islands, a haven for diverse marine life, and the breathtaking Paracas National Reserve, renowned for its striking landscapes. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, travelers can enjoy the region’s extraordinary beauty. What secrets might these stunning locations reveal? Discover the enchanting sights and encounters that await on this captivating Peruvian odyssey.

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Key Points

A 5-hour tour that includes a guided visit to the Ballestas Islands and exploration of the Paracas National Reserve, departing from Paracas.
The tour offers close encounters with sea lions, penguins, and diverse seabirds in the Ballestas Islands, a thriving marine sanctuary.
Paracas National Reserve features striking crimson cliffs, pristine white-sand beaches, and unique rock formations, providing panoramic desert vistas.
The tour price is €34.02 per person, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
While the tour has received positive feedback on the breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters, some customers have raised concerns about overcrowding and value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This tour from Paracas to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve is priced at €34.02 per person and lasts around 5 hours.

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you don’t have to pay anything now – just reserve your spot.

The tour includes a guided visit to the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Galapagos of Peru", where you’ll see sea lions and penguins, followed by a tour of the Paracas National Reserve’s unique landscapes.

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

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at Paracas Overland, where travelers board a sightseeing glider for a 2-hour guided visit to the Ballestas Islands. Known as the "Galapagos of Peru," the islands are home to captivating wildlife, including groups of sea lions and penguins. After the island visit, the tour transfers for one hour to the Paracas National Reserve, where a 4-hour guided exploration awaits. Highlights include:

| Ballestas Islands | Paracas National Reserve |

|——|—–|

| Sea lions | Imposing rock formations |

| Penguins | Desert landscapes |

| Guanay, guanera, and pelicans | Birdwatching |

| Candelabrum geoglyph | Red beach |

| Marine sanctuary | Lagunillas beach |

Tour Description

Travelers begin the tour with pickup from their Paracas hotel to the tourist pier.

They board a sightseeing glider with a bilingual guide and set out to explore the Ballestas marine sanctuary. This close-up look at the islands reveals abundant colonies of seals, penguins, and other marine life.

The tour then continues to the Paracas National Reserve, where visitors can admire the striking red beach and Lagunillas beach, set against the backdrop of the region’s unique desert landscapes.

Throughout the journey, the guide provides informative commentary, ensuring travelers gain an in-depth understanding of the natural wonders they witness.

Ballestas Islands: A Thriving Marine Sanctuary

Nestled off the coast of Paracas, the Ballestas Islands form a thriving marine sanctuary teeming with an abundance of wildlife.

These rugged islands provide a home for thousands of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a diverse array of seabirds.

Visitors can marvel at the captivating sight of these creatures in their natural habitat, whether it’s the playful sea lions basking on the rocks or the stately penguins waddling along the shoreline.

The Ballestas Islands offer a glimpse into the vibrant marine ecosystem, showcasing the remarkable diversity of Peru’s coastal wonders.

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Paracas National Reserve: Exploring Unique Landscapes

Beyond the vibrant marine life of the Ballestas Islands, the Paracas National Reserve beckons visitors to explore its unique, otherworldly landscapes. Shaped by the relentless forces of wind and sea, the reserve’s arid terrain gives way to striking crimson-hued cliffs, pristine white-sand beaches, and stark desert vistas. Prepare to be awed by the sheer natural beauty of this protected area.

| Landscape | Highlights | Wildlife |

| — | — | — |

| Red Beach | Dramatic crimson cliffs | Guanay cormorants |

| Lagunillas Beach | Expansive white sand dunes | Pelicans |

| Mirador La Catedral | Panoramic desert vistas | Vicuñas |

| Playa El Raspón | Unique rock formations | Foxes |

| Julio C. Tello Museum | Archeological artifacts | Diverse birdlife |

There's plenty more to explore in Paracas

Wildlife Encounters: Seals, Penguins, and Birdwatching

The Ballestas Islands, often dubbed the "Galapagos of Peru," teem with an abundance of captivating marine life.

Visitors are awestruck by the groups of playful sea lions basking on the rocky shores and the distinctive Humboldt penguins waddling along the cliffs.

The island’s skies are also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with sightings of guanay, guanera, and pelicans soaring effortlessly.

The sheer scale and diversity of the wildlife make the Ballestas Islands a truly unforgettable experience.

Exploring these natural wonders is a highlight of the Paracas tour, allowing travelers to witness Peru’s incredible biodiversity up close.

Logistical Details and Meeting Point

Travelers meet at the Paracas Overland pickup location, where they’ll board a sightseeing glider with a bilingual guide to embark on their island adventure.

The group will cruise over the Paracas Peninsula, spotting the iconic Candelabrum geoglyph before reaching the Ballestas Islands marine sanctuary. Here, they’ll observe colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and diverse seabirds.

After the island tour, the group will transfer to the Paracas National Reserve, exploring its dramatic landscapes and wildlife.

To make the most of the experience, travelers should arrive 30 minutes early, bring a camera, sunscreen, and cash for any additional expenses.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

According to the reviews, this tour of the Paracas and Ballestas Islands has received mixed feedback. While some praised the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, others cited issues with organization and value for money.

| Pros | Neutral | Cons |

|——|———|——|

| Breathtaking scenery | Informative guide | Overcrowded boats |

| Close encounters with wildlife | Tour length | Entrance fees not included |

| Convenient pickup/drop-off | – | Poor value for money |

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour details, guests can’t bring their own food and drinks. The tour doesn’t include them, so you’ll need to purchase whatever you’d like during the trip or beforehand. The tour focuses on the sightseeing, not meal provision.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

There’s no age limit for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for very young kids. Guests should check with the tour operator if they have any specific concerns about age requirements.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration. The tour operators offer flexible options to customize the experience, allowing you to spend more time exploring the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve based on your interests and schedule.

Do You Offer Pickup and Drop-Off Services?

Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Paracas hotel and drop-off at the end of the tour. You’ll be transported to the tourist pier to board the sightseeing glider and then back to your hotel after exploring the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Is There an Additional Fee for Taking Photos?

No, there’s no additional fee for taking photos on this tour. The tour package includes a bilingual guide, transportation, and access to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve – so you’re free to snap away without any extra charges.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the natural wonders of Peru. From the captivating Ballestas Islands to the striking landscapes of Paracas National Reserve, you’ll witness an abundance of wildlife and breathtaking scenery. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, it’s the perfect way to explore this remarkable region. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour is not to be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: