Sea lions under a rock arch on the Ballestas Islands tour
MARINE WILDLIFE 2-HOUR BOAT RIDE

Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve Tour

  • 2 Hours
  • Paracas · Pisco · Ica, Peru
  • From $30 USD ≈ S/ 104
Coastline of the Paracas National Reserve

The “Peruvian Galápagos”: cruise past rock arches teeming with sea lions, Humboldt penguins and thousands of seabirds, passing the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph.

DURATION 2 Hours
MAX ALTITUDE 0 m (sea level)
DIFFICULTY Easy
GROUP SIZE Shared group
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Experience Overview

The Ballestas Islands, nicknamed the “poor man’s Galápagos” or the “Peruvian Galápagos,” are a cluster of rocky islands off Paracas Bay that belong to the Guano Islands, Islets and Capes National Reserve System. Their natural arches and caves are home to large colonies of sea lions and Humboldt penguins, as well as pelicans, boobies, guanay cormorants and, in season, dolphins.

The boat tour departs from El Chaco pier and lasts about 2 hours. Along the way you’ll pass the Candelabra geoglyph, a 180-meter figure etched into the side of a dune whose origin remains a mystery.

What you’ll see

  • The Candelabra geoglyph from the sea.
  • Sea lion colonies lounging on the rocks and beaches.
  • Humboldt penguins, a vulnerable species.
  • Thousands of guano birds and old guano-harvesting facilities.

Good to know

  • Morning departures (8:00 and 10:00 a.m.); the sea is usually calmer early in the day.
  • To protect wildlife, landing on the islands is not allowed.
  • Bring a jacket, cap, sunscreen and sunglasses; you may get splashed.
  • Pair your visit with the Paracas National Reserve and its red-sand beaches.

Signature Highlights

Spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins and guano birds.
Sail past the Candelabra geoglyph.
The natural arches and caves of the Ballestas Islands.
Onboard guide explaining the wildlife and the reserve.
Easy to combine with the Paracas National Reserve and Huacachina.
STEP BY STEP

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Each day has been carefully planned to optimize acclimatization and avoid peak tourist hours.

DAY 01

El Chaco Pier – Candelabra – Ballestas Islands – El Chaco Pier

⛰ Sea level ⏱ Approx. 2 hours ⛺ Return to Paracas

We pick you up at your hotel in Paracas and take you to El Chaco pier. We board the boat and sail toward the Candelabra, where the guide explains the theories about its origin. We continue to the Ballestas Islands to cruise through their arches and watch sea lions, penguins and seabirds. Back at the pier, you’ll have free time on the Paracas waterfront.

FULL TRANSPARENCY

What's Included in the Expedition

✓

Included Luxury Services

  • Pickup from your hotel in Paracas.
  • Boat tour to the Ballestas Islands (approx. 2 hours).
  • Onboard guide.
  • Life jacket.
✕

Not Included

  • Pier boarding fee and reserve fee (paid locally in soles).
  • Food and drinks.
  • Tips.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRIP

Optional Upgrades & Perks

Complement your journey with exclusive comfort experiences and panoramic summits.

Paracas National Reserve Tour

Tour the reserve’s viewpoints and beaches after the Ballestas Islands.

+ $20 USD ≈ S/ 69
WE ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions about Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve Tour

Can I get off the boat at the Ballestas Islands?

No. To protect the wildlife, the tour is done entirely from the boat.

Will I get seasick?

The ride can be moderately choppy. If you’re prone to seasickness, take a pill before boarding and choose the earliest departure.

What happens if it’s canceled due to bad weather?

The Port Authority may suspend departures due to high swells. If that happens, we’ll reschedule the tour or refund the cost of the service.