Exploring the Ballestas Islands from Ica in tourist mobility
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This destination is an experience for travelers who do not have much time in our city where they will enjoy the Ballestas Islands, known as the Galapagos Islands of Peru, travelers will be able to enjoy it and will be able to stay in Paracas to take their bus from Paracas to Lima or to Arequipa if required. Travelers who are in Paracas and take this service will be able to take the tour to the Ballestas Islands and can take advantage of taking tourist mobility to go to Huacachina or any hotel in Ica that they prefer or have reserved.
Available options
Exploring the Ballestas Islands from Ica in tourist mobility
Pickup included
What's included
Official Bilingual Tourism Guide
Tourist mobility in group round trip from Ica
Pickup from any Hotel, Hostel or Airbnb from Ica
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will enjoy the Ballestas Islands aboard a panoramic tourist motorboat where we will observe the enigmatic geoglyph EL Candelabro and learn about its theories, then we will visit the group of 3 Ballestas Islands where we will observe sea birds, sea lions and Humboldt penguins and if It is a day with luck that you will be able to observe dolphins and whales.
2
Stop 2
We pick up the clients from the aforementioned points and head towards Paracas, finishing the tour to the Ballestas Islands we will return to the city of Ica.
What's not included
Feeding
Tips
Tourist Tickets by the Peruvian Ministry = S/16.00
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for children under 2 years old
Meeting point
Pick-up point in the main square at the BBVA - Continental Bank
About Ica
Ica is a vibrant city located in the Ica Region of southern Peru, known for its sunny desert climate, rich history, and proximity to some of the country's most stunning natural attractions. The city is famous for its vineyards, producing some of Peru's finest wines and pisco, a popular grape brandy. Nearby, the Nazca Lines and the Paracas National Reserve offer unique and breathtaking experiences.
Top Attractions
Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are a series of ancient geoglyphs located in the Nazca Desert, about 400 km south of Ica. These massive drawings, created by the Nazca culture between 500 BC and 500 AD, depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes. The best way to see them is by taking a scenic flight from Ica.
Historical
Half-day to full-day tour
Moderate to Expensive (flight included)
Paracas National Reserve
Paracas National Reserve is a protected area known for its diverse wildlife and stunning coastal landscapes. The reserve includes the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the 'poor man's Galápagos,' where you can see sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds.
Nature
Full-day tour
Moderate
Huacachina
Huacachina is a small oasis and resort town surrounded by sand dunes, located about 5 km west of Ica. It is famous for its adventure sports, including sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The town's lagoon is a popular spot for relaxation and swimming.
Adventure
Half-day to full-day
Budget to Moderate
Ica Cathedral
The Ica Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of San Jerónimo, is a beautiful example of colonial architecture. Built in the 16th century, it features a striking facade and an impressive interior with ornate decorations and religious art.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Museum of the Wine and Grape
This museum showcases the history and importance of wine and grape production in the Ica region. Visitors can learn about the winemaking process, taste local wines, and explore the region's rich viticultural heritage.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pisco Sour
A popular grape brandy cocktail made with pisco, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. It is the national drink of Peru and a must-try in Ica, the heart of pisco production.
Drink
Contains alcohol and egg white
Ceviche
A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish cured in fresh citrus juices, typically lime, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. It is often served with sweet potato, corn on the cob, and plantain.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood and citrus
Aji de Gallina
A creamy chicken dish made with a sauce of yellow aji peppers, garlic, bread, milk, and Parmesan cheese. It is typically served with rice and potatoes.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains dairy and chicken
Anticuchos
Grilled skewers of beef heart, often marinated in vinegar, garlic, and spices. They are a popular street food in Peru and can be found in Ica as well.
Snack
Contains beef
Popular Activities
Sandboarding
Dune buggy rides
Hiking in Paracas National Reserve
Swimming in Huacachina lagoon
Wine and pisco tasting
Beach relaxation in Paracas
Visiting Ica Cathedral
Exploring local markets
Best Time to Visit
May to October
This is the dry season with clear skies and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the region's attractions. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Limited
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ica is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Exercise caution and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Getting there
By air
- Rodríguez Ballón International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Ica Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Ica. They are affordable and cover most of the city and nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ica City Center
Huacachina
Paracas
Day trips
Nazca Lines
400 km from Ica • Full-day tour
The Nazca Lines are a series of ancient geoglyphs located in the Nazca Desert. These massive drawings, created by the Nazca culture between 500 BC and 500 AD, depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes. The best way to see them is by taking a scenic flight from Ica.
Paracas National Reserve
200 km from Ica • Full-day tour
Paracas National Reserve is a protected area known for its diverse wildlife and stunning coastal landscapes. The reserve includes the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the 'poor man's Galápagos,' where you can see sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds.
Huacachina
5 km from Ica • Half-day to full-day
Huacachina is a small oasis and resort town surrounded by sand dunes, located about 5 km west of Ica. It is famous for its adventure sports, including sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The town's lagoon is a popular spot for relaxation and swimming.
Festivals
National Pisco Sour Day • First Saturday of February
Festival of the Lord of Luren • January
Ica Grape Harvest Festival • March
Pro tips
- Visit the Nazca Lines early in the morning for the best visibility and fewer crowds.
- Book your Huacachina sandboarding and dune buggy tours in advance, especially during peak season.
- Try the local pisco and wine, as Ica is the heart of Peru's wine and pisco production.
- Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle for desert adventures.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
