From Ica to Huacachina: Ballestas Islands and National Reserve
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the singular beauty of two of Peru's natural treasures in one day. Float alongside one of the largest sea lion colonies in the world. Explore deserts and rugged cliffs, all next to the ocean.
Available options
Full day Paracas Private
Paracas Private: 2 participants are required for this tour.<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Car: Air-conditioning<br/>Pickup included
From Ica or Huacachina: Ballestas Island and Paracas National Reserve
Pickup included
What's included
Life Jackets
Excursion to the Paracas National Reserve.
Boat ride to Ballestas Island.
Detailed itinerary
1
First stop at: Malecon El Chaco, Paracas Peru
We begin this activity when we arrive at the district of El Chaco, in Paracas. Here, we prepare and order, with time for you to have breakfast and explore the place. During this time we also took advantage of buying our tourist tax tickets S/17.00 soles for the right to the state and S/5.00 soles for the right to the dock to board our boats, total of S/22.00 soles. We will cross a dock until we board our boat, where the instructions will follow and we will put on our life jacket to begin this excursion. These boats have shade, vests and a professional bilingual guide.
2
Stop 2
Second Stop at: Ballestas Islands, Paracas 11660 Peru
We begin this experience towards the open sea of the Pacific, you will see an immense geoglyph, "El Candelabro". We will know its legend, because no matter how many natural phenomena have passed over it, it remains intact. You will see dolphins and whales welcoming you along the way. Then you will arrive at the Ballestas Islands, you will find a variety of marine fauna, such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, crustaceans and varieties of guano birds. The professional guide will tell you about the species in each part that you will visit.
Grab your camera and capture these moments.
This experience lasts 2 hours. 1 hour journey to the open sea and return to the coast, and 1 hour excursion to the Ballestas Islands.
3
Third stop at: Malecon El Chaco, Paracas Peru
Once this experience is over, we return to the port of El Chaco, where we prepare to continue with the excursion. Here you will have a little time to use the toilets and prepare to continue to the next destination. The time to the Paracas National Reserve lasts 30 minutes.
4
Stop 4
Fourth Stop: 4P63+RCX, Via Punta Arquillo
Travel along the coast to the highest mountain on the Paracas Peninsula (Itsmos de la Península de Paracas).
A scenic walk to the Mirador Istmo and a short walk to the viewpoint overlooking Playa Rojo. This route is located in the Paracas National Reserve and offers beautiful views of the ocean and the Playa Roja landscape. There are also archaeological remains of the Paracas culture within the reserve.
5
Fifth Stop at: Playa Roja, Route to Playa Yumaque, Paracas 11550 Peru
We will arrive at Playa Roja, known for the intense red color of the sand on this beach, whose investigations record volcanic material. We will have a space for photos in front of this natural landscape for approximately 20 minutes.
6
Stop 6
Sixth Stop at: La Mina Pisco Beach, Paracas 11550 Peru
We arrived at the Paracas National Reserve, precisely at La Mina beach, a tourist beach well known for its geographical formation and its beaches. In this place, you will have approximately 30 minutes so you can enjoy this beach, take photos and enjoy the Paracas sun.
7
Seventh Stop at: Lagunillas, 4M3P+2XM, Paracas 11550, Peru
Here, all travelers usually have lunch and enjoy seafood while breathing in the sea breeze of the Paracas National Reserve. You will have a good time to enjoy your lunch.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
What's not included
Lunch
Tourist tax S/22.00 soles per person.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Next to the Wild Rover Hotel in Huacachina.
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
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Free cancellation available
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