Minimum age: 1 year old – Must have parents permission

The small, coastal beach town of Paracas is where the tour to the Ballestas Islands commences. The amazing rock groups that form the Ballestas Islands provide a sanctuary for animals living in these parts, and their surroundings are a true testament to the beauty of Mother Nature.

The tour begins with early morning pickups from your hotel or hostel, followed by a 20-minute ride out by speed boat from the sleepy bay of Paracas to the giant, mystifying geoglyph of El Candelabro. The theories surrounding this pre-Incan wonder will be put to rest as your guide explains the history behind this famous impression.

15 minutes from El Candelabro looms the famous Ballestas Islands. The unique formation of these Islands is due largely in part to the strong winds and waves that erode the rocks. The results of this natural erosion are underwater caves and rock outcrops. These outcrops provide the perfect spot for nesting birds, as well as lazy sea lions catching the early morning rays of the sun. As you slowly cruise around the islands in the speedboat, you will get to partake in the wonders of nature and the abundance of wildlife that can be found: sea lions, thousands of different bird species, and the lovable, endangered Humboldt Penguins that live in these parts. Your guide will provide interesting facts about the animals and species of birds that have made the Islands their home. After approximately 1 hour, the speed boat will depart the Islands and will return to the Port of Paracas.

Departures:
08:00 hrs
10:00 hrs

Note: Setting foot on the Islands themselves is forbidden as it is a protected, ecological area. This tour takes place on a speed boat.

07:45 / 09:45

Pick up from hotel or hostel

08:00 / 10:00

Leave Paracas Port by speedboat

08:15 / 10:15

First stop to see "The Candelabro"

08:30 / 10:30

Arrive to the Islands

09:30 / 11:30

Depart Islands

10:00 / 12:00

Arrive back to Paracas Port

- Boat trip
- Life jacket
- Tour guide Spanish/English
- Tourist taxes
- Entrance ticket

- Tips (optional)

- Bring a jumper or rain jacket as the wind at sea can be cold
- Sunglasses
- Camera

Cancellation or changes of this tour:

CHANGES: Any changes to the tour date need to be done before 5:00 pm the day before the tour begins.

NO SHOWS & CANCELLATIONS: If you cancel the day prior to the tour before 5:00 pm (Lima time) or earlier, a 10% administration fee (+ the card fee) will apply. After this time, there is a 100% no-show or cancellation fee.

You must email bookings@findlocaltrips.com (include the name of the tour and the reservation number) to cancel this tour or to make any changes.

1. I can’t find my accommodation listed in the operator pick up locations as I’m making my booking. What should I select?

   This operator only offers pick-ups from the hotel and hostel accommodation listed. This list covers over 90% of the accommodation providers in the area. They do not provide pick-ups or drop-offs at private residences, Airbnbs, bus terminals etc. If you cannot find your hotel on the list, please select an alternative pick up location close by, and be ready for pick-up at the time shown on your booking confirmation.

2. Is it possible to walk on the islands or to go swimming?

   The islands are protected, meaning you cannot swim with the animals or walk on the islands themselves, but you will get very close to them by boat. A unique experience for those who have never been to the Galapagos.

3. Why does the tour start so early?

   Due to increasing winds during the course of the day, the tours only depart in the mornings at 8am and 10am, and are available every day of the week. The advised schedule is the 8am tour, for the best weather conditions and wildlife spotting.

4. Can weather conditions affect the tour?

   Yes. This is something beyond our control. Winds and waves tend to get stronger later in the day, and for this reason the tours only leave in the morning when the sea conditions are calmer. Occasionally, the seas can also be too rough in the morning. In such instances, the Navy closes the port of Paracas for safety reasons, and NO operators are permitted to leave. Unfortunately, this is not easily predicted and the decision is made at the port early each morning. If the tour gets cancelled, a full refund will be given.

5. Is it safe to do the tour?

   Absolutely! Life jackets are provided for every passenger on board the speedboat, and the boats have regular maintenance checks to make sure everything is perfect for the tours.

6. What should I bring to the tour?

   It can get chilly on the boat with the sea breeze. It is recommended to bring a wind jacket or jumper to protect yourself from wind/ocean spray. It can also be very sunny, so do not forget your sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen. You should also bring a camera or cell phone to take pictures..

7. Why book with FindLocalTrips.com?

   Apart from our low-price guarantee, with us you are 100% assured that your booking is made. We provide an instant email confirmation, and have live spaces and availability for each tour. If you have any queries, you are in the hands of our team of 20 local experts here on the ground, who speak perfect Spanish and English. We guarantee quick responses to any questions or queries. Tour operators are experts at operating their tours... We are the experts at reservations, organisation and assistance with your plans for these tours.