Full Day Tour to Visit Ballestas Islands and Paracas Reserve
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a Day of Discovery: Ballestas Islands & Paracas Reserve
Unveil the beauty of Peru's coastal treasures with our Ballestas Islands and Paracas Reserve adventure. Explore pristine beaches, witness diverse marine life, and soak in breathtaking landscapes. An unforgettable journey awaits!
Available options
Full Day Tour to Visit Ballestas Islands and Paracas Reserve
Pickup included
What's included
Spanish/English guide
Transfer in/out from Paracas
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to the new tourist dock in Paracas.
• We will board the glider to begin the almost two-hour excursion to the Ballestas Islands. These beautiful islands serve as home to thousands of migratory birds, who share their habitat with colonies of restless sea lions. We will also observe a diversity of marine fauna, such as Humboldt penguins.
We return to the dock, you have free time to walk around the bay, take photos, buy crafts or breakfast.
2
Stop 2
• After, we will take the tour to the Paracas National Reserve, which is the largest natural sanctuary on the Peruvian coast. As a first point we will visit the RNP interpretation center. Then we will head towards the natural rock formation known as THE CATHEDRAL, due to the whimsical shape it has and the spectacular panoramic view.
We continue with the panoramic visit to the Red and Yumaque beaches. There will be a short walk to the Flamencos viewpoint and the Fusilera Zone where we will observe migratory birds, marine fossils, tirítelas and more. Finally, we will move to Lagunillas Beach where you have the option of lunch and swimming (optional).
Finally, we will return to the hotel at approximately 3:00 PM.
What's not included
Tourist Taxes to the Ministry of the Environment
National park entrance ticket
Food
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.0
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Paracas
Paracas is a coastal resort town in Peru known for its beautiful beaches, rich marine life, and the stunning Paracas National Reserve. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination on Peru's South Coast.
Top Attractions
Paracas National Reserve
A protected area known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique geological formations.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Ballestas Islands
Often referred to as the 'poor man's Galápagos', these islands are home to a rich variety of marine birds and sea lions.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Red Sand Beach (Playa Roja)
A beautiful beach with unique red sand and clear waters, perfect for relaxation and photography.
Beach
2-3 hours
Free
Paracas Museum
A small museum showcasing the history, culture, and wildlife of the Paracas region.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
Raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and shellfish, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Arroz con Mariscos
Rice cooked with mixed seafood, including shrimp, mussels, and squid.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Chicharrón de Pescado
Fried fish, often served with rice, plantains, and salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Pisco Sour
A cocktail made with Pisco, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters.
Drink
Contains alcohol, not suitable for non-drinkers.
Popular Activities
Sandboarding
Dune buggy rides
Hiking
Boat tours
Beach lounging
Sunbathing
Spas
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the summer season in Paracas, with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's the perfect time for beach activities and exploring the national reserve.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paracas is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to take standard precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Rodríguez Ballón International Airport • 200 km from Paracas
By bus
Paracas Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable and frequent. They are a convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Paracas
Beach Area
Day trips
Huacachina
200 km from Paracas • Full day
A small oasis town known for its sand dunes and adventure activities.
Nazca Lines
250 km from Paracas • Full day
Ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert sand, best viewed from the air.
Festivals
Fiesta de la Candelaria • February 2nd
Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen • July 16th
Pro tips
- Visit the Paracas National Reserve early in the morning to avoid crowds and see more wildlife.
- Book a guided tour for the Ballestas Islands to learn more about the marine life and habitats.
- Try the local seafood dishes, especially ceviche and arroz con mariscos.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water when exploring the national reserve.
- Respect the environment and wildlife, and follow the principles of sustainable tourism.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
