If you’re in Paracas and don’t visit the Ballestas Islands Peru, you’re missing out on the best part.
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This boat tour is short, but it offers a front-row view of a natural spectacle: marine wildlife, coastal landscapes, and an experience that always surprises. Make it part of your trip and enjoy an experience that is truly worth it.
What Are the Ballestas Islands and Where Are They Located?
Part of the Paracas National Reserve: Location and Map
The Ballestas Islands Peru are part of the Paracas National Reserve, one of the country’s most important protected natural areas. They are located on the southern coast, in the Ica region, within the province of Pisco.
Although landing on the islands is not allowed, boat tours offer a close-up view of their wildlife and unique rock formations.
Why They Are Known as the Peruvian “Mini Galapagos”
People call the Ballestas Islands the “mini-Galápagos” for a good reason. They have many types of marine wildlife in one area. You can see Humboldt penguins, sea lions, guano birds, and dolphins freely in a protected natural environment.
How to Get to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve?
Getting to the Ballestas Islands Peru is very easy.
From Lima, you only need to travel about 4 hours along the Southern Pan-American Highway to reach Paracas. You can do this:
- By bus (several companies depart daily)
- By private car or interprovincial taxi
Once in Paracas, you’ll find tours to the islands every morning and options to explore the National Reserve on the same day. Everything is nearby, well-organized, and ready for travelers.
Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands: Two Destinations That Go Hand in Hand
Where Are They and Why Are They Part of the Same Experience?
They are in the same location and complement each other perfectly. The Ballestas Islands are part of the marine ecosystem protected by the Paracas National Reserve.
You can explore both on the same day, and together they provide a complete experience: sea, desert, and nature in its purest form.
What Awaits You at the Ballestas Islands Peru?
Flora, Fauna, and Coastal Scenery You Won’t Forget
The Ballestas Islands Peru offer an intense visual experience. During the boat tour, you will see:
- Sea lions resting on the rocks or swimming near the boat
- Humboldt penguins walking between cliffs and rocky areas
- Thousands of guano birds such as boobies, pelicans, and cormorants flying in large groups
- Natural formations that stand out for their size and shapes carved by the wind and the sea
The Candelabra: The Mysterious Figure That Greets You on the Way
Before reaching the Ballestas Islands Peru, you’ll see something unexpected: a giant figure drawn in the desert sand. It’s the Paracas Candelabra. No one really knows who made it or why, but there it is, visible only from the sea.
It’s the first moment of the tour that leaves you with questions… and wanting to see more. Are you ready for this adventure?
Useful Tips for Your Visit to the Ballestas Islands
What to Bring and What to Avoid for the Boat Tour
- Wear a windbreaker or waterproof jacket
- Use sunscreen and well-fitting sunglasses
- Don’t forget your camera or phone with a fully charged battery
- Avoid carrying large backpacks or items that could get wet
- Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to dry
Best Time for the Tour (and When to Book)
Between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. is the best time to visit the Ballestas Islands. The sea is calmer, the light is better for photos, and it’s when you’ll see the most birds, sea lions, and penguins.
And when should you book? Make your reservation in advance if you’re traveling during high season, especially between June and September. Spots fill up quickly, and the best times are the first to sell out.
What to Do if You Get Seasick or Are Traveling with Kids
If you often get seasick, take a motion sickness pill before you board the boat. Also, avoid heavy meals before the tour. Bring a water bottle and try to sit in the center of the boat, where the movement is less noticeable.
If you’re going with children, choose the first time slot (8:00 a.m.). The sun isn’t as strong, the sea is calmer, and there’s less waiting. Bring:
- A windbreaker (it can get cold when you depart)
- A hat with a chin strap or a hood
- Sunscreen
- Light snacks in case they get hungry on the way back
- Small binoculars or a camera to keep them entertained while watching animals
This way, the trip will be more comfortable and fun for them.
Not just the Ballestas Islands: other places you can visit nearby
In the city of Ica, there’s much more than just the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve. You can visit the famous Huacachina oasis, enjoy a buggy ride through the dunes, or try sandboarding. And if you have an extra day, take a flight over the Nazca Lines in the Nazca desert. These are unique experiences that many travelers add to their itinerary.
With good planning, you can visit these four destinations in a short amount of time. You just need to plan your transfers well to make sure you don’t miss anything that Ica has to offer.
Let the Sea and Wildlife Surprise You at the Ballestas Islands Peru
Including the Ballestas Islands in your trip along the southern coast is a great decision. It’s a short, but fun and educational tour, featuring sea lions, birds, and landscapes that are worth photographing.
If you travel between June and September, book early. You can also add Paracas, Huacachina, and Nazca to your trip. Book with us and experience something different at sea!
Traveling is about discovering, learning, and creating unforgettable memories, and Peru is the perfect destination for all of that. Its landscapes, history, and culture make every experience unique, filled with moments that will change your life.
We invite you to explore our Peru packages Your experience in Peru is just one step away. Contact us now and start living the unique adventure you’ve always dreamed of.
More information:
- Visit our English website: Peru Grand Travel
- Visit our Spanish website: Viajes Machu Picchu Tours
- Visit our Portuguese website: Machu Picchu Pacotes
