From Paracas or Pisco: Ballestas Islands Private Boat Trip

The Ballestas Islands off the Paracas or Pisco coastline offer a unique opportunity to witness Peru’s diverse marine wildlife up close. Setting out on a private boat trip allows visitors to customize their experience and explore the islands’ hidden coves and caves at their own pace. With knowledgeable guides and safety precautions in place, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking to spot playful sea lions, curious penguins, or the iconic Candelabra geoglyph, this tour provides an intimate glimpse into the wonders of the Peruvian Pacific.

Contents show

Key Points

Private boat tour of the Ballestas Islands from Paracas or Pisco, with the opportunity to spot wildlife like penguins, sea lions, and Inca terns.
2.5-hour excursion with hotel pickup and drop-off, and a guided experience led by a knowledgeable guide in multiple languages.
Pricing starts at $350.00 per group (up to 6 people), with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Wheelchair accessible, but not suitable for infants under 1 year, with life jackets provided for all guests.
Includes entry fee, but excludes food, drinks, tips, pets, and large bags, so guests should pack light and bring necessary items.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This Ballestas Islands Private Boat Trip departs from either Paracas or Pisco, with pricing starting at $350.00 per group of up to 6 people.

The 2.5-hour excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Visitors have the flexibility to reserve their spot now and pay later.

The private boat tour explores the Candelabra geoglyph, Ballestas Islands, and diverse marine life like penguins, sea lions, Inca terns, and dolphins.

With a live guide, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users but not suitable for babies under 1 year.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Paracas

Itinerary and Highlights

The excursion begins with a pickup from the hotel in either Paracas or Pisco.

The first stop is the Candelabra geoglyph at Paracas Peninsula.

The Candelabra geoglyph, an enigmatic ancient figure, stands proudly on the Paracas Peninsula, beckoning visitors to unravel its mysteries.

Then, guests board a speedboat for a tour around the Ballestas Islands. Along the way, they’ll spot wildlife like penguins, sea lions, Inca terns, and possibly dolphins.

The boat explores the islands’ caves and arches, allowing visitors to observe the diverse marine life up close.

Throughout the 2.5-hour adventure, a knowledgeable guide provides detailed explanations in multiple languages, enhancing the overall experience.

Tour Details and Accessibility

A live tour guide is available for the private boat trip, offering explanations in Spanish, English, French, and Italian. The experience is designed for private groups, making it an ideal option for families or friends. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, though it is not suitable for babies under 1 year old.

| :— | :— | :— | :— |

| | English | |

| | French | |

| | Italian | |

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the private boat trip are hotel pickup and drop-off, the private boat tour, life jackets, a guide, and the entry fee to the Ballestas Islands (16 Peruvian Soles).

The tour excludes food, drinks, and tips. Pets, luggage, or large bags are also not allowed on the tour.

Food and drinks
Tips (optional)
Pets, luggage or large bags

More Great Tours Nearby

Recommendations for Visitors

What to bring on this private boat trip? Wear comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and pack a camera to capture the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.

Don’t forget sunscreen to protect against the strong Peruvian sun. Bring some cash as well, as the entry fee to the Ballestas Islands must be paid in local currency.

Don’t forget the sunscreen – the Peruvian sun is strong. Bring cash too, as the Ballestas Islands entry fee requires local currency.

Luggage and large bags aren’t permitted, so pack light. Guests should also come prepared with a sense of adventure and an eagerness to explore the coastal wonders of Peru’s Paracas Peninsula.

Following these simple recommendations will ensure a smooth and memorable private boat tour.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Paracas

Customer Feedback and Testimonials

Guests who’ve experienced the Ballestas Islands Private Boat Trip have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback. The overall rating of 5/5 based on 1 review speaks to the exceptional quality of the tour.

Highlights include:

Guide Alexander’s detailed explanations and smooth experience, which have been highly praised.
The memorable sights of wildlife, including penguins, sea lions, Inca terns, and dolphins.
The seamless execution of the tour, from hotel pickup to the private boat tour.

Customers have enthusiastically recommended this tour, emphasizing the value and the remarkable opportunities it offers to explore the natural wonders of the Ballestas Islands.

Preparing for the Ballestas Islands Tour

To make the most of the Ballestas Islands Private Boat Trip, travelers will want to come prepared. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the rocky terrain. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses will protect against the strong Peruvian sun.

Bringing a camera is highly recommended to capture the diverse wildlife. Cash is advised for the entry fee and any incidentals.

Travelers should be mindful of the tour’s restrictions – no pets, large bags, or babies under one year are allowed. With a bit of planning, adventurers can ensure a smooth and memorable experience exploring the Ballestas Islands.

Exploring the Unique Paracas Peninsula

After exploring the Ballestas Islands, visitors can venture to the nearby Paracas Peninsula, a unique coastal region that offers a diverse array of natural attractions.

The highlight is the Candelabra geoglyph, a massive ancient design etched into the desert sands.

A massive ancient design etched into the desert sands, the Candelabra geoglyph stands as the highlight of the Paracas Peninsula.

Additionally:

Hike along rugged cliffs and rocky beaches to take in stunning ocean vistas.
Visit the Paracas National Reserve, home to a variety of marine life and migratory birds.
Discover hidden caves, natural bridges, and unique rock formations along the peninsula’s coastline.

This captivating area provides a perfect complement to the Ballestas Islands adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the boat. The tour includes all necessary provisions, but you can’t bring any additional items like pets, luggage, or large bags.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended, as it’s a fixed 2.5-hour experience. However, customers can book additional tours or opt for a full-day package that includes multiple activities to extend their time exploring the Ballestas Islands.

Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?

Yes, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance. The trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and guests can reserve their spot and pay later, so booking early is advised to secure the desired date and time.

Can I Request a Different Language for the Guide?

Yes, you can request a different language for the guide. The tour offers live guides available in Spanish, English, French, and Italian, so you can select the language that best suits your needs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year old. However, there are no other age restrictions, and the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for most travelers.

The Sum Up

The Ballestas Islands private boat trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of this region. With convenient pickup and drop-off, personalized attention, and safety measures in place, this excursion is an excellent choice for those seeking an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re interested in the iconic Candelabra geoglyph or the chance to see penguins and sea lions up close, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.