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Take a boat tour to see the impressive Ballestas Islands archipelago. Visit the pristine Paracas Natural Reserve in the afternoon to see La Catedral rock formation from a breathtaking scenic overlook.

Highlights

• See beautiful flamingos from a breathtaking scenic overlook
• Get a glimpse of skeletons of whales, sea lions, and penguins
• Enjoy the view and go for a swim in stunning Lagunillas Beach

Description

Part 1: Wildlife Encounter at the Ballestas Islands (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM) Your adventure begins at the Paracas dock, where you'll board a speedboat and cruise into the shimmering Pacific. As you glide along the coast, one of Peru’s most mysterious landmarks will come into view—the Candelabra geoglyph, an enormous 150m-tall figure etched into the desert hillside. Its origin is still debated, some say it's a beacon for ancient sailors, others link it to the Nazca Lines. Either way, it's a perfect photo opportunity. As you reach the Ballestas Islands, known as “the poor man’s Galapagos,” prepare to be surrounded by life. Watch hundreds of sea lions sprawled on the rocks, barking, playing, and sunbathing. Scan the skies and cliffs for the Peruvian booby, cormorants, pelicans, and the elusive Humboldt penguin—a rare sight in its natural habitat. And if you're lucky, dolphins may join your journey! You’ll also hear about the island's surprising history with guano, once Peru’s most valuable export, now a protected natural resource. Your guide will share fascinating stories of this once-booming 'white gold' industry. After your immersive wildlife cruise, return to Paracas around 10:00 AM, don’t forget to snap a few photos of the curious pelicans that lounge along the shore near the dock. Part 2: Desert & Ocean Views in the Paracas National Reserve (11:00 AM – 3:30 PM) At 11:00 AM, switch gears from sea to desert with a guided journey into the breathtaking Paracas National Reserve. Begin at the Flamingo Viewpoint, where—with a little luck—you’ll see these elegant pink birds feeding along the shoreline. Next, stop at the Interpretation Centre, a small but impressive museum showcasing the area's rich biodiversity. See whale skeletons, sea lion skulls, and penguin exhibits as your guide shares stories of life in this unique coastal ecosystem. But the real thrill awaits as your vehicle heads off-road across surreal desert landscapes, winding through rust-colored dunes and salt-crusted valleys until you reach Lagunillas Beach—a dramatic stretch of coastline framed by cliffs and turquoise water. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the sea at a local beachfront restaurant (optional, not included), take in the sweeping views, or dive into the cool ocean if you're up for a swim. After a rejuvenating afternoon, return to Paracas by late afternoon with your senses filled and your camera full.

Includes

Ballestas Islands boat ride Paracas national reserve tour English-speaking guides Transportation

Important Information

• Suggestions for Ballestas Islands Boat Tour: Make sure you bring adequate clothing to keep you protected from the cool ocean air, the sun and spray from the sea. Bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the birds and sea lions. If you are prone to motion sickness, you should take medication about a half-hour before you board. Suggestions for Paracas National Reserve Tour: If you are taking this day tour during summer (December to March), please bring an extra set of fresh clothing due to high temperatures, especially during January and February. For the rest of the year, please bring a jacket to protect you from cold winds. Sun block, hat and sunglasses are highly recommended.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund