Paracas , Peru

Ballestas Islands from San Martin Port

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About this experience

Live an amazing adventure during your cruise to Paracas and discover the astonishing paradise of the Ballestas Islands! This tour is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in an intact ecosystem and marvel at the wildlife in its natural habitat.

From majestic seabirds to playful sea lions, you will find yourself surrounded by an incredible variety of fascinating species. Departing from Puerto San Martin, this tour guarantees you a unique and discovery-filled experience.

The Ballestas Islands await you to leave you breathless and create priceless memories on your cruise journey.

Available options

Ballestas Islands from San Martin Port

Pickup included

What's included

Group service Speedboat

Round trip transfers to and from San Martin Port

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our team will greet you at San Martín Port, just in time for you to board our exclusive tourist transportation. Prepare your senses for an exciting journey that will take you to El Chaco Dock, where we will meet other passionate travelers like yourself. Together, we will board a speedboat and embark on a fascinating experience that will lead you to discover the Ballestas Islands.

Located just 30 minutes off the coast of Paracas in the province of Pisco, Ica department, these islands are an essential tourist treasure in Peru. Get ready to immerse yourself in a unique ecosystem and marvel at the abundant wildlife that inhabits them.

As we navigate, you will be amazed by the mysterious Candelabro, a geoglyph that defies logic and still puzzles experts. This enigmatic figure, traced over 2500 years ago on the dune of the Paracas National Reserve, resembles the famous Nazca Lines, leaving behind an aura of mystery and intrigue.

The Ballestas Islands and the Paracas Reserve will surprise you with their stunning natural beauty. You will be captivated by the unique geological formations and have the opportunity to admire up close an astonishing variety of wildlife, including boobies, pelicans, sea lions, and the adorable Humboldt penguins.

These islands harbor an incredible number of birds, both resident and migratory, and thanks to that, they possess guano, the world`s richest natural fertilizer. Here, you can observe the guano birds, such as the Peruvian booby, the Peruvian pelican, and the guanay cormorant, whose presence has historically been so valuable that for years, guano was the foundation of the Peruvian economy, providing stability and prosperity to the country.

After exploring this natural paradise, we will return to the dock, where we will accompany you back to San Martín Port, so you can continue with your cruise adventure. Do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this amazing experience and discover the marine richness that lies just 260 kilometers from the city of Lima.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Ballestas Islands

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

You should bring comfortable shoes and clothes, camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat

A minimum of 2 people are required to start the tour

Transfers from and to San Martin Port are with only driver in Spanish

Important notes

If you have any question, do not hesitate to contact us!
OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Mon to Sun from 09 to 18 Hs)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (After office hours)

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.