Ballestas Islands + Huacachina from Paracas
- Duration
- Full day
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Group size
- 1-12 people
- Maximum elevation
- Approx. 500 m
Ballestas Islands boat tour · Peru's Galapagos · Huacachina oasis · Full Day from Paracas
The Ballestas Islands are one of Peru’s most remarkable wildlife destinations, offering travelers the chance to observe marine life in its natural habitat just off the coast of Paracas. These rocky islands are home to large colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, Peruvian pelicans, blue footed boobies, and thousands of seabirds.
This Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Full Day Tour combines two completely different landscapes in a single journey. Begin the day exploring Peru’s rich Pacific marine ecosystem by boat, then continue inland toward the desert oasis of Huacachina, surrounded by towering golden sand dunes.
With wildlife, coastal scenery, desert landscapes, and adventure activities all included in one itinerary, this tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience more of southern Peru in just one day.
Itinerary
Full Day
7:30 AM, Departure from Paracas Port
Meet at the Paracas pier and board a speedboat for the morning excursion to the Ballestas Islands. The journey begins with impressive views of Peru’s Pacific coastline.
8:00 AM, Ballestas Islands Boat Tour
Spend approximately two hours navigating around the rocky islands while observing abundant marine wildlife. Depending on conditions, you may see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, Peruvian pelicans, blue footed boobies, and large colonies of seabirds.
Along the way, the boat passes the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph, a large figure carved into the coastal hillside. Its origin remains uncertain, although it is often associated with ancient cultures of Peru’s southern coast.
10:30 AM, Return to Paracas
Return to Paracas port after the wildlife excursion. You will have a short break before continuing the journey inland.
11:30 AM, Transfer to Huacachina
Depart Paracas by road and travel toward Huacachina, passing through the desert landscapes of the Ica region. The drive takes approximately one hour.
12:30 PM, Lunch in Ica or Huacachina
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before the afternoon activities. Depending on the selected program, the stop may be in Ica or near the Huacachina oasis.
2:00 PM, Dune Buggy and Sandboarding Adventure
Head into the massive dunes surrounding Huacachina for an exciting dune buggy ride. Experience steep climbs, fast descents, and panoramic views across the desert.
During the excursion, you will also have the opportunity to try sandboarding on selected dunes. Basic instructions are provided, making the activity suitable for beginners.
5:30 PM, Sunset Over Huacachina
Finish the afternoon at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the dunes and oasis. Watch the changing colors of the desert as the sun sets over Huacachina.
6:30 PM, Return Transfer
After sunset, begin the return journey to Paracas or Ica, according to your selected drop off arrangement.
Included
- Speedboat boat tour of Ballestas Islands
- Life jackets and safety equipment
- English speaking naturalist guide
- Transportation Paracas, Huacachina, Paracas
- Sandboarding at Huacachina
- Dune buggy ride
- Lunch
Not included
- Port departure tax (~10 soles, paid on site in soles)
- Tips( OPTIONAL)
- Travel insurance
What to bring
- Bring binoculars for the Ballestas Islands, wildlife viewing is much better up close.
- The boat ride is open air and can be cold and spray wet in the morning. Bring a wind/waterproof layer.
- Do not touch or feed the wildlife on the islands.
- The Candelabra geoglyph can be seen from the boat on the approach, point your camera before the naturalist announces it.
Pricing
Price
|
Option |
Price per Person |
|
1 people |
$90 USD |
Booking policy
Booking policy
- Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure.
- Boat tours may be cancelled due to sea conditions rescheduled or refunded in full.
FAQs
What wildlife can I see on the Ballestas Islands?
Sea lions (year round), Humboldt penguins (year round, especially May, November), Peruvian pelicans, blue footed boobies, guanay cormorants, and Inca terns.
Are the Ballestas Islands actually like the Galapagos?
They share similar wildlife types (penguins, sea lions, boobies) but on a much smaller scale. The Galapagos are a week long experience; the Ballestas are a 2-hour boat trip that gives you a genuine wildlife encounter.
Can I combine this tour with Paracas National Reserve?
Yes, contact us to add a half day jeep tour of the Paracas National Reserve, a dramatic desert coastal park with flamingos and extraordinary rock formations.