Visit the Sea Lions in Palomino Islands, in Lima Peru

Visiting the Palomino Islands in Lima, Peru offers a unique opportunity to encounter the captivating sea lions that call this area home. This tour provides an up-close experience, allowing adventurous travelers to swim alongside these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat. With stunning views of the Guanera Islands as a backdrop, this excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with the natural wonders of Peru’s coastal region. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an adrenaline-fueled experience, this tour has much to offer.

Key Points

• Set out on a 2-hour boat tour to the Palomino Islands near Lima, Peru to swim with wild sea lions in their natural habitat.
• Explore the Guanera Islands, home to Humboldt penguins, guano birds, and sea lions, during the tour.
• Enjoy an organized experience with a professional guide, bottled water, snacks, and transportation via speed boat.
• Wear appropriate attire, including a swimsuit, towel, and warm clothing, as wetsuits are provided for swimming with sea lions.
• Prepare for potential guano smell and sea sickness during the tour, which is consistently recommended by 95% of travelers.

Tour Overview

The tour offers visitors a chance to swim with wild sea lions in their natural habitat at the Palomino Islands, located off the coast of Lima, Peru.

The tour includes a boat trip to the Guanera Islands, home to Humboldt penguins, guano birds, and sea lions.

The Guanera Islands, home to Humboldt penguins, guano birds, and sea lions, are the destination for a boat trip on this tour.

Recommended by 95% of travelers, the tour lasts approximately 2 hours and costs from $72.00 per person, with a maximum of 22 travelers.

The tour includes bottled water, snacks, a professional guide, transport by speed boat, wetsuits, and bathroom facilities.

A protection and conservation fee of 11 Soles (4 USD) per person is also included.

What’s Included

The tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience.

Travelers will receive bottled water and snacks, as well as the services of a professional guide. Transportation by speed boat and wetsuits are provided, ensuring a comfortable and safe swim with the sea lions.

Plus, there’s access to bathrooms during the tour. Visitors must pay a protection and conservation fee of 11 Soles (4 USD) per person.

The meeting point is at El Nakary in Callao, with optional pickup available upon request.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing from Lima at 10:00 am, the tour whisks visitors on a boat journey to Guanera Islands.

Explore Callao Bay, San Lorenzo Island, and Palomino Island, home to Humboldt penguins, guano birds, and sea lions.

The highlight is swimming alongside the sea lions in neoprene suits for 15-20 minutes, experiencing their natural habitat.

The return trip includes views of cliffs, islets, and wildlife, with refreshments provided.

This itinerary offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe Peru’s unique marine life and natural wonders.

Important Information

Minimum age for the tour is 3 years, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Visitors should dress appropriately in a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunblock, and warm clothing like a raincoat.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so moderate physical fitness is required.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour takes place in a natural environment, so travelers may encounter the smell from guano and potentially experience sea sickness.

However, the opportunity to swim with sea lions in their natural habitat is an unforgettable and well-organized experience, as noted by previous travelers.

Traveler Reviews

Reviews from previous travelers highlight the thrill and unforgettable nature of the Palomino Islands experience.

Travelers praise the well-organized tour and the incredible opportunity to swim with sea lions in their natural habitat.

While some note the brief swimming time and the smell from the guano, the overall experience is deemed remarkable.

Visitors recommend bringing warm clothing due to the cold water and being prepared for potential seasickness.

Despite these minor considerations, travelers consistently recommend the Palomino Islands tour as a must-do activity when visiting Lima, giving it an impressive 4.8 average rating.

Getting to the Palomino Islands

The tour departs from El Nakary, located at Calle La Mar 229 in Callao, just a short distance from central Lima.

The boat journey to the Palomino Islands takes approximately 30 minutes.

• Pickup from the meeting point is available upon request, making the trip convenient for travelers.

• The tour includes transportation by speed boat, ensuring a swift and comfortable journey to the islands.

• Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife along the way, including Humboldt penguins, guano birds, and sea lions.

What to Expect During the Tour

Once visitors reach the Palomino Islands, they’ll have the chance to explore the area’s diverse wildlife.

The tour includes a boat trip to the Guanera Islands, home to Humboldt penguins, guano birds, and sea lions. After arriving, guests can swim alongside the sea lions for 15-20 minutes while wearing neoprene suits.

The return trip offers views of the cliffs, islets, and wildlife, with refreshments provided.

Travelers should dress appropriately, as the water can be cold, and bring warm clothing. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Preparing for the Tour

Before embarking on the tour, visitors should prepare accordingly.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, consider the following:

• Dress in layers and bring a warm jacket, as the boat ride and wildlife viewing can be chilly, especially when wet.

• Pack a small backpack or bag to keep hands free and carry personal items like a towel, sunscreen, and extra clothing.

• Bring motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness, as the boat ride can be choppy.

With proper preparation, travelers can maximize their time swimming with the captivating sea lions and exploring the Palomino Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkel and Mask?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkel and mask. The tour provides wetsuits, but you’re welcome to use your own personal snorkeling gear if you prefer. This can help you get closer to the sea lions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Swimming Time?

While the standard tour includes 15-20 minutes of swimming time, some providers may offer an option to extend the duration for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire about this when booking to ensure they have enough time to fully enjoy the experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows photography throughout the experience, though participants are advised to be mindful of the wildlife and environment. Guests can take photos during the boat ride and while swimming with the sea lions.

What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Sea Lions?

The best time to see the sea lions is year-round, as they are present in the Palomino Islands throughout the year. However, the weather is generally milder and more pleasant during the dry season from May to October.

Can I Request a Private or Group-Only Tour?

Yes, private or group-only tours can be requested. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate small groups or private bookings upon request, subject to availability. Pricing may vary for these customized experiences.

The Sum Up

The Palomino Islands tour in Lima, Peru, is a must-do for nature enthusiasts. With breathtaking views, playful sea lions, and professional guidance, it provides an unforgettable experience. The tour’s high ratings and recommendation rate make it a popular choice, and with comfortable transportation and all necessary equipment, it ensures a safe and enjoyable outing for visitors to the capital city.