Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas)

Overview

The Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the 'Poor Man's Galapagos,' are a group of small rocky islands located off the coast of Paracas, Peru. They are renowned for their abundant wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds.

The islands are a crucial habitat for numerous marine species and offer stunning views of the Pacific coast. They are a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wildlife Sanctuary Scenic Landscape

Location

Address

Coordinates: -13.73170126, -76.3973858

Neighborhood: Paracas National Reserve

Coordinates

-13.731701, -76.397386

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$20

Children

$10

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and more active wildlife

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

pleasant

• breeding season for seabirds

summer

warm

• clear skies

autumn

pleasant

• migratory birds

winter

cooler

• cooler temperatures

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book a guided tour
Bring sunscreen
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water camera

seasonal

jacket sunglasses

not allowed

large bags food

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• sun exposure

Medical facilities: first aid available on tours

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Peruvian Sol

Typical Costs

tour $20

parking $5

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• local tour operators
• 48 hours
• available with guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Paracas Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Tour schedule, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rodríguez Ballón International Airport

Distance: 200 km

Travel Time: 4 hours

taxi

$80 4 hours

public_transport

$20 5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

taxi

$10 15 min

bus

$2 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich biodiversity and stunning views

Historical Significance: Important for local fishing communities

Insider Tips

Best views from the boat
Local seafood is a must-try

Local Recommendations

• Try local seafood
• Ask for guide Carlos

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main boat tour

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Wide shots for landscapes, close-ups for wildlife

Result: Stunning wildlife and scenic shots

#BallestasIslands #PeruWildlife

Photography Rules

allowed areas boat tours, viewpoints

prohibited areas restricted wildlife zones

flash photography not allowed near wildlife

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted during tours

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Paracas National Reserve

Distance: 10km

Walking: N/A

Type: National Park

Paracas Beach

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Beach

Reviews

4.6

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book a guided tour"
"Visit early"
"Bring binoculars"

Contact Information

+51 56 237000

info@paracasreservas.com

www.paracasreservas.com

Social Media

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