Ballestas Islands

Islas Ballestas

A protected archipelago off Paracas housing thousands of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds accessible only by guided boat tour. These islands are often called the 'poor man's Galápagos' and provide extraordinary wildlife viewing.

Things to do

• Guided Boat Tour Around the Archipelago — The only way to visit the islands is by joining a 2-hour motorboat tour departing from Paracas port, where you'll circle the islands and observe wildlife from the water.
• Sea Lion Colony Viewing — Witness hundreds of Peruvian sea lions lounging on rocks and swimming around the island outcrops, often playfully interacting with one another.
• Humboldt Penguin Spotting — Look for the distinctive black-and-white Humboldt penguins perched on rocky ledges, a species found only along the cold Pacific currents of Peru and Chile.
• Seabird Photography — Capture images of Peruvian boobies, cormorants, frigatebirds, and other seabirds in their natural breeding and nesting habitats across the islands.
• Candelabra Geoglyph Viewing — Observe the large pre-Columbian geoglyph carved into the hillside of the Paracas Peninsula visible from boat tours, possibly depicting a ritual or astronomical symbol.
• Marine Ecosystem Education — Learn from knowledgeable tour guides about the rich Humboldt Current that brings cold nutrient-dense waters supporting the extraordinary marine biodiversity.
• Sunset Boat Return — Experience the golden hour as your boat returns to Paracas port, with favorable lighting for wildlife photography and a contemplative end to the tour.

Food to try

• Ceviche de Caballa — Fresh mackerel marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers, a signature dish of the Paracas fishing region.
• Arroz con Mariscos — A saffron-infused rice dish loaded with fresh squid, shrimp, clams, and other local seafood reflecting the abundance of the Pacific coast.
• Chupe de Camarones — A creamy shrimp chowder with potatoes, corn, and milk that warms visitors after morning boat tours in the cool ocean air.
• Grilled Fish (Pescado a la Sal) — Whole fresh fish from the day's catch, either grilled or baked in a salt crust, served at waterfront restaurants in Paracas town.
• Causa Limeña with Local Fish — A layered potato terrine topped with fresh local fish salad and avocado, representing Peru's coastal culinary tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Tours Early — Reserve your boat tour at least one day in advance through your hotel or directly at the Paracas port, as tours fill quickly during high season (June-August).
• Bring Sun Protection — The reflection off the ocean intensifies UV exposure, so wear strong sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses even on cloudy days to avoid severe sunburn.
• Respect Wildlife Distance — Follow your guide's instructions strictly—do not attempt to touch, feed, or approach animals, as the islands are a protected reserve and wildlife easily becomes stressed by human contact.
• Cash for Local Vendors — While Paracas town accepts cards, bring extra soles for tips, small purchases, and informal food vendors along the port who may only accept cash.