Ballestas Islands Shore Excursions
4 & 5* Ballestas Islands Shore Excursions
Ballestas Islands
Lima Half-Day City Walking Tour (Small Groups)
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 24.00
Ballestas Islands
Peruvian Cooking Class, Local Market Tour & Exotic Fruit Tasting
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 65.00
Ballestas Islands
Visit the Sea Lions in Palomino Islands, in Lima Peru
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 72.00
Ballestas Islands
All-Inclusive Highlights of Lima Tour
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 110.00
Ballestas Islands
Caral, The Oldest Civilization in the Americas:Day Trip from Lima
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 12 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 139.00
Ballestas Islands
Private Full-Day Best of Lima Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 199.00
Ballestas Islands
City Tour of Lima from the Airport
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 76.76
Ballestas Islands
The Original Highlights of Lima - Private Half Day Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 129.00
Ballestas Islands
Sandboarding Experiance in Lima
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 - 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 145.00
Ballestas Islands
Full day PRIVATE to Paracas, Ica and Huacachina from Lima All Inclusive and Lunch
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 16 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 370.00
Ballestas Islands
Lima City tour and Catacombs Museum (04 hours) Private Tour with guide in Lima
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 130.00
Ballestas Islands
Private Tour: Pachacamac Archaeological Site Including Barranco District
Duration: 3 - 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 66.00
Ballestas Islands
All-Inclusive Highlights of Lima Tour From Callao Port
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 125.00
Ballestas Islands
Shore Excursion: 2-Day The Best of Lima from Callao Port
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 48 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 225.00
Ballestas Islands
Luxury Private Transfer from Lima Airport -Hotel by Aludi Travel
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 25.00
Ballestas Islands
The Best of Lima in One Day — Perfect for Cruise Passengers!
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 10 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 155.00
Ballestas Islands
For Cruisers! The Best Choice to Experience Lima in Just 11⁄2 Days
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 48 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 175.00
Ballestas Islands
Premium Paracas & Huacachina Day Trip from Lima with Sunset Toast
Duration: 16 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 99.00
Ballestas Islands
Full Day Tour From Lima: Paracas and Huacachina Oasis
Duration: 18 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 56.05
Ballestas Islands
Lima Ultimate Peruvian Food Tour
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 105.00
Ballestas Islands
Paracas and Huacachina Sunset Picnic Tour
Duration: 17 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 129.00
Ballestas Islands
Unmissable Visit To Paracas, Huacachina And Sunset In The Oasis
Duration: 17 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 70.00
Ballestas Islands
Paracas, Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Guided Tour
Duration: 17 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 75.00
Ballestas Islands
Epic Paracas & Huacachina - Day Trip From Lima
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 17 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 57.00
Ballestas Islands
#1 Reviewed Lima Cooking Class
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Unknown
Free cancellation
From USD 48.97
Ballestas Islands
Lima Highlights All-Inclusive
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 110.00
Ballestas Islands
City Tour Panoramic Bus Departure From Larcomar
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 35.00
Ballestas Islands
Discover Lima: Love Park, Historic Center, and its Catacombs.
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 35.00
Ballestas Islands
Skip the Line: Larco Museum Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 - 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 20.52
Ballestas Islands
Lima: Paracas Reserve, Slave Tunnels & Ballestas Islands Full Day
Duration: 18 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 98.10
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What should I expect on my first visit to the Ballestas Islands from Paracas?
If you are visiting Paracas for the first time, expect a short, comfortable boat ride that showcases dense wildlife, seabird colonies and striking coastal rock formations. Ballestas Islands shore excursions usually depart early to take advantage of calmer seas and increased animal activity, so mornings are common. Trips are generally two to three hours from harbour departure to return, with close but non-intrusive approaches to wildlife. Operators brief passengers on safety and respectful viewing; bring layered clothing, sun protection and a camera to capture seals, birds and the coastal scenery.
What are the top attractions and wildlife to look for?
The archipelago's main draws include large colonies of guanay and Peruvian boobies, abundant South American sea lions, and the famous Candelabro geoglyph visible from the water. Ballestas Islands tours provide close-up viewing of these species and dramatic cliffs while maintaining a respectful distance. Photographers will find varied subjects from aerial seabirds to seal pups and heat-shaped rock textures. Naturalists often note the diversity of pelicans and Humboldt penguins in nearby areas. Remember that wildlife sightings vary by season and weather, and a quiet, observant approach improves the chance of memorable encounters.
Is a half-day trip enough or should I choose a full-day excursion?
Half-day and longer options differ mainly in time ashore and additional activities such as nearby nature reserves or visiting Paracas itself. Ballestas Islands shore excursions are most commonly offered as morning half-day trips that focus on a boat circuit around the islands, lasting about two to three hours. Full-day itineraries combine the boat ride with visits to the Paracas National Reserve, beaches, museums or local viewpoints, extending the schedule and requiring more walking. Choose based on energy, interest in extra sites, and how much time you have in port; both formats offer excellent wildlife viewing.
Are there cultural or historical aspects to learn about during the visit?
Local human history around Paracas combines pre-Columbian cultures, colonial shipping routes and the historical guano trade that once harvested seabird droppings for fertiliser. Ballestas Islands tours often include interpretive commentary about the Paracas culture, archaeological finds on nearby shores, and how guano extraction shaped Peru's economy and coastal communities. Many shore narratives explain the symbolic Candelabro geoglyph and maritime navigation of the area. Visitors benefit from a brief cultural primer before or after the boat trip to connect wildlife viewing with the region's long human relationship to the sea.
What kind of nature and scenery will I see on the islands?
Visitors will see dramatic coastal cliffs, sea caves and a rich mosaic of marine life that defines this protected area, with stark rock formations carved by wind and waves. Ballestas Islands shore excursions highlight the interplay of ocean currents and nutrient-rich waters that support seabirds, seals and other marine species, creating dynamic feeding scenes. Expect close approaches to bird colonies and lounging sea lions while keeping respectful distance to avoid disturbance. Bring binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens for better views, and dress in layers to cope with sea spray and wind.
Can I enjoy local food and where should I eat before or after the trip?
Many visitors pair a morning boat trip with a late breakfast or lunch in Paracas, where seafood is the culinary focus and fresh ceviche is a regional speciality. Ballestas Islands tours do not include meals, so plan to sample local dishes at harbour cafés or nearby restaurants offering fish stews, grilled shellfish and causa. Keep in mind that opening hours vary by season and some small eateries accept cash only. Choosing simple, well-reviewed venues and asking about sustainable seafood choices supports local producers while providing a satisfying end to the marine excursion.
What is the activity level and what should I prepare for physically?
Activities aboard are generally low impact: boat rides involve sitting and brief periods of standing or moving to different viewing sides, and minimal walking is required since landing on the islands is restricted. Ballestas Islands shore excursions suit travellers comfortable with a short boat transfer, possible motion from swell and the need to climb modest gangways at the harbour. People with limited mobility should consult operators in advance about boarding assistance and seating options. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and motion-sickness remedies if you are prone to seasickness to ensure a comfortable experience.
How accessible are the excursions for passengers with mobility needs?
Most shore operations use small boats that require stepping down or up when boarding, and ramps or lifts are not always available, so full wheelchair access is often limited. Ballestas Islands tours vary by operator in the level of assistance they can provide; some harbours offer portable ramps or crew help, while others do not. Passengers who need extra support should contact the cruise line or excursion provider before arrival to discuss bespoke arrangements, transfer logistics and the physical requirements of the trip, including safe boarding, seating and any alternative viewpoints from the harbour.
When is the best time of day or year to visit for wildlife viewing?
Best wildlife encounters usually occur in the calm morning hours when sea conditions are gentler and birds are actively feeding, which is why most departures leave early from Paracas. Ballestas Islands shore excursions are commonly scheduled at first light to maximise visibility, avoid afternoon winds and increase chances of spotting seal pups and dense bird activity. Seasonal patterns influence which species are present, with breeding cycles and migratory movements changing numbers; check predicted weather and consult local guides for up-to-date information to align your port call with favourable viewing conditions.
Should I join a guided boat or try to visit independently from the harbour?
Choosing between a guided boat and independent options depends on time in port, comfort with local logistics and desire for interpretive commentary during the ride. Ballestas Islands tours typically include a knowledgeable guide or onboard narration, safety briefings and arranged harbour transfers, offering context about species, geology and history. Independent travellers can often book harbour launches directly but should verify schedules, safety standards and permit rules beforehand. Prioritise operators with clear safety practices and ask about group size, language of commentary and contingency plans for weather disruptions to make an informed choice.