Ballestas Islands Tour + Paracas National Reserve
DESCRIPTION
The Paracas National Reserve is one of the most breathtaking natural treasures on Peru’s southern coast. This unique landscape combines the vastness of the desert with imposing reddish cliffs and extraordinary marine biodiversity. Along the route, viewing platforms allow you to get a close-up look at flamingos, pelicans, and other coastal species, creating the perfect setting for lovers of photography, ecotourism, and peaceful moments by the sea.
Just a short distance away, the famous Ballestas Islands—often called the Peruvian Galápagos—offer an unparalleled natural spectacle. During the motorboat ride, you’ll sail past the enigmatic Candelabro geoglyph and venture into a marine sanctuary inhabited by colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and thousands of guano birds in their protected natural habitat.
Combining the Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands on a full-day tour is the best way to experience adventure, contrasting landscapes, and marine life all in one trip from Ica or Lima. It’s an unforgettable and sustainable experience, designed for travelers looking to discover the best of the Peruvian coast in a single day.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
Day 1: Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve Tour: Marine Life and the Desert
Pickup in Ica (approx. 6:30–7:00 a.m.)
The tour begins with a prompt pickup from your hotel or bus terminal in Ica. During the transfer by tour bus to Paracas, the guide will share details about the route and the marine and desert attractions we’ll discover throughout the day.
Arrival at the Paracas Tourist Pier
Upon arrival at the Paracas pier, you’ll receive safety instructions and life jackets for boarding. While we wait to set sail, you can admire the bay, watch coastal birds, and get ready for the boat trip.
Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands and El Candelabro
INCLUDED
What’s included?
Pickup from your hotel in Cajamarca
Punctual pickup service from hotels located in the city of Cajamarca, ensuring comfort and a smooth start to the tour.
Official Tour Guide
A certified professional guide with extensive knowledge of local culture, history, and traditions will accompany you throughout the entire tour.
Tourist Transportation
Transfers in a licensed, modern, and safe tourist vehicle that strictly complies with the quality standards established for the service.
Admission to Tourist Attractions
Includes admission tickets to Huambocancha and Granja Porcón, as well as access to all attractions and activities scheduled in the itinerary.
NOT INCLUDED
What is not included?
Bus Tickets Between Ica and Paracas
Bus tickets between Ica and Paracas are not included. Passengers must purchase them directly, according to their preferred schedule.
Meals during the tour
Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are not included during the tour. Each traveler may choose and purchase their own meals in Paracas.
Entrance Fee to the Ballestas Islands
Admission requires an additional fee administered by SERNANP, which goes toward access to and conservation of the natural area.
Cost: S/ 17.00
Admission to the Paracas National Reserve
The admission ticket to the Paracas National Reserve, which is required to visit its main viewpoints and beaches, is not included.
Cost: S/ 5.00
Souvenirs and personal expenses
Expenses related to the purchase of handicrafts, souvenirs, or other items acquired during the tour are not included.
Additional Snacks and Beverages
Additional beverages and snacks are not included. We recommend bringing water and light snacks to comfortably enjoy the tour.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations
Clothing and Sun Protection
Wear light clothing and a windbreaker to protect yourself from the morning sea breeze, as well as comfortable walking shoes.
Use sunscreen, a hat or cap, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun in Paracas.
Food and Hydration
Bring a bottle of water and light snacks to stay hydrated, as the tour does not include meals.
Avoid eating heavy meals before boarding if you are prone to seasickness.
Safety and Tour Rules
Follow the guide’s and crew’s instructions at all times, especially while on the boat.
Respect protected areas and wildlife: avoid making loud noises, do not litter, and do not attempt to feed or touch the animals.
Luggage and Personal Belongings
Bring a camera or cell phone with enough battery life and storage to capture the scenery and marine life.
Keep your belongings in a small backpack or secure bag to prevent loss or splashes during the boat ride.
Logistics and Organization
Be sure to arrive at the tourist pier on time, as departures for the Ballestas Islands are subject to schedules and inspections by the harbor master’s office.
Bring cash in local currency to pay for tickets, souvenirs, or snacks, as many vendors do not accept credit cards.
Health and Well-being
Take a motion sickness pill before boarding if you tend to get seasick.
Stay hydrated and seek shade at the overlooks in the Paracas National Reserve to prevent dehydration and heatstroke.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour to the Ballestas Islands from Ica start?
The tour begins between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m. with pickup from your hotel or the bus terminal in Ica. Leaving early ensures you arrive on time at the Paracas pier to board the first departures, taking advantage of calm seas and optimal visibility.
How long does the full tour to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve last?
The excursion lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours in total. It includes transportation from Ica, the boat trip to the islands, free time on the Paracas boardwalk, the land tour of the reserve, and the return trip in the afternoon.
What marine wildlife can be seen on the Ballestas Islands?
You’ll be able to observe up close colonies of sea lions (slender and chusco), Humboldt penguins, and various seabirds such as boobies, pelicans, cormorants, and the colorful zarcillo, all in their natural habitat.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, it is a safe and suitable activity for all ages. The motorboats are equipped with regulation life jackets and have trained staff; we simply recommend taking basic precautions if you are prone to seasickness.
What does the tour to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve include?
It includes round-trip transportation from Ica, a guided motorboat tour to the islands, life jackets, a land tour of the reserve’s viewpoints, and the assistance of an official Spanish-speaking guide. It does not include meals or admission tickets to the natural areas.
Is it necessary to buy tickets in advance?
It is not mandatory, as admission tickets can be purchased on the same day at the pier and at the reserve’s checkpoints. However, we recommend bringing cash in local currency to ensure a quick and hassle-free payment process.
What kind of weather can you expect in Paracas during the tour?
The weather is predominantly sunny, dry, and windy. In the morning, during the boat ride, there is usually a cool breeze, while in the reserve’s desert, the sun’s rays and heat are more intense; therefore, it’s essential to dress in layers and protect yourself from the sun.
Is it common to get seasick during the boat ride to the islands?
Although tourist boats are stable and travel at a moderate speed, people who are sensitive to waves may experience seasickness. In such cases, it is recommended to take an antihistamine or seasickness medication half an hour before departure.
How long does the boat tour of the Ballestas Islands take?
The boat trip takes between 1 hour and 45 minutes and 2 hours. During this time, you’ll see the El Candelabro geoglyph, natural rock formations, and the main colonies of birds and marine wildlife.
What essentials should you bring on the tour?
We recommend wearing light clothing, a windbreaker, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap or hat, water to stay hydrated, snacks, and a camera or phone with a fully charged battery.
What happens if adverse weather conditions arise?
Boat trips are subject to authorizations issued by the Harbor Master’s Office. If the pier is closed due to strong winds or unusually high waves, the boat tour will be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons; however, the land tour through the reserve will still take place.
Is there free time to have breakfast or lunch in Paracas?
Yes, after the boat tour ends, you’ll have free time at the El Chaco boardwalk to have breakfast, rest, walk along the shore, or buy handicrafts before continuing on to the Paracas Desert.
What are the entrance fees for the Ballestas Islands and the National Reserve?
The maritime entrance fee for the Ballestas Islands is S/ 17.00, and the entrance fee for the Paracas National Reserve is S/ 5.00. These fees are regulated by SERNANP and are used for the conservation and maintenance of both protected natural areas.
Why is this tour recommended for photography and nature enthusiasts?
It combines the visual contrast of the coastal desert, reddish-sand beaches, and imposing cliffs with an abundant concentration of marine wildlife in a protected natural environment, offering unique photo opportunities at every stop.