Scenic Boat Tour to Ballestas Islands in Paracas, Peru – What You Should Know

Are you considering a trip to Peru and looking for a unique way to explore the coastline near Paracas? A boat tour of the vibrant Ballestas Islands is one of the most breathtaking experiences amongst all adventurous activities in the area. Paracas National Reserve, located 200 kilometers south of Lima, provides travelers with a stunning, unspoiled landscape. You’ll get to explore the scenic beauty surrounded by various bird and sea life throughout. In this article, we’ll take a look at what you can expect from a scenic boat tour of the Ballestas Islands in Paracas, Peru.

What Does the Ballestas Islands Have to Offer?

The Ballestas Islands are mostly composed of group of three small islands and various rock formations off the Peruvian Coast, located just south of Paracas. These islands are believed to have been formed from volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The total land area of the Ballestas Islands is roughly 20 km2. This secluded place is a haven for bird-watchers and is one of Peru’s most spectacular places to explore. The terrain of the islands is mostly barren, but during the warmer months it offers travelers an exciting variety of bird species including Peruvian Boobies, Guanay Cormorants, Inca Terns, Humboldt Penguins and Pelicans. You’ll also get to witness the long stretches of expansive dunes and dramatic canyons while taking in amazing viewpoints of the powerful ocean waves.

What Can You Do in the Ballestas Islands?

Because the Ballestas Islands are located within a protected reserve, visitors must go out on a guided tour. The guided tours last approximately two hours and take you around the outline of the islands where you can catch glimpses of animals around their coastal homes or playing in the waves. This scenic boat tour takes you up close to see these animals in their natural habitats, providing amazing photo opportunities as you will pass birds that can come within several feet of your boat. The tours offer onlookers amazing chance to spot some unique bird species as well as dolphins and sea lions.

Tips for Visiting The Ballestas Islands

If this is your first time toBallestas Islands, here are some tips for a great trip:

• Bring along sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat.
• If you are prone to seasickness, make sure to take motion-sickness medication prior to embarking on your boat journey.
• Wear charcoal-colored clothing that doesn’t reflect light and make sure your camera lens is covered with a non-reflective material.
• Be mindful of wildlife – don’t feed or take advantage of the wildlife by getting too close.
• Finally, don’t forget to bring your camera!

Where Can You Find a Tour?

If you’re interested in booking a boat tour of Ballestas Islands in Paracas, Peru there are numerous establishments that offer boat tours in the area, such as GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide is a premier booking service for professional tours both near and far away from home. They have an extensive selection of activities from around the globe. All of their services are extensively vetted and verified as trustworthy both through customer feedback and rigorous review criteria.On this particular tour you get a full two hour tour with highly knowledgeable guides who will help you learn more about the area throughout your journey. With your ticket purchase you also get some snacks and drinks on board, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own refreshments.

Conclusion

All-in-all, a scenic boat tour of Ballestas Islands in Paracas, Peru offers a unique experience that will provide you with an incredible way to explore this unspoiled landscape. The majestic views combined with being able to witness some very unique wildlife make it well worth it! If you decide to take an excursion across these waters, be sure to follow advice provided above and book your tour through GetYourGuide for an unforgettable journey! Don’t wait any more, book your dream tour now!.

Insider’s Guide to Paracas, Peru

If you’re planning a trip to Peru and looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Paracas should be on your list. Known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and unique wildlife, there’s plenty to see and do here. To help you plan your Paracas adventure, we’ve put together an insider’s guide with tips for local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

While many tourists visit the Ballestas Islands for a scenic boat ride to see the sea lions, penguins, and other wildlife, there are other fascinating sites in the Paracas area that only locals know about. For example, the Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious giant hillside etching that can be seen from the boat tour is often overlooked. Visitors can also explore Paracas National Reserve, a protected natural area that is home to flamingos, sea lions, guano birds, and unique rock formations.

Dining Spots

Peruvian cuisine is well-known worldwide, but Paracas has its own unique twists on classic Peruvian dishes. For example, ceviche is a must-try here, and seafood is freshly caught from the Pacific Ocean. Make sure to check out Pukasoncco, a restaurant serving local Peruvian and Paracas cuisine, which is known for its outstanding ceviche. Another popular spot is El Coral, where you can indulge in fresh seafood with a beautiful ocean view.

Cultural Experiences

Paracas is a city steeped in cultural traditions that reflect both its indigenous and Spanish colonial roots. Be sure to attend a traditional dance performance featuring colorful costumes, and lively music. Visit the Julio C. Tello Museum, dedicated to the work of the famous Peruvian archeologist. The museum exhibits artifacts from the indigenous Paracas culture as well as other pre-Columbian cultures.

Local History

Paracas’s unique history is bound up with the history of its natural environment. In the 19th century, the guano deposits on the islands made Peru rich, but the islands themselves became nearly uninhabitable for humans due to the toxic conditions. For more on the guano trade, head to the Museum of Abancay, which is dedicated to the history of the industry. Paracas’s environs have also been the site of ancient cultures like the Paracas people, whose mummified remains and art can be seen at the Paracas History and Archeological Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Without a doubt, the most unforgettable experience one can have while in Paracas is by taking a scenic flight over the Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert ground. Another less-visited attraction worth exploring is the Hacienda San José, an abandoned Jesuit plantation, who built it there to raise and process the sugar cane that was used for the production of alcoholic beverages. Nowadays, the ruins are open to tourists who want to take a step back in time.

In conclusion, Paracas, Peru, is not a city to be overlooked when planning a trip. From its unique cuisine to its fascinating history and jaw-dropping natural surroundings, the city has something for everyone. With insider tips and firsthand knowledge, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Paracas.