Paracas Shore Excursions
4 & 5* Paracas Shore Excursions
Paracas
2-Hour Tour to the Ballestas Islands from Puerto San Martín
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 49.00
Paracas
Ballestas island & Paracas reserve from PISCO CRUISESHIP TERMINAL
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 100.00
Paracas
Ballestas Islands from San Martin Port CRUISESHIP TERMINAL
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 50.00
Paracas
Tambo Colorado from PISCO CRUISE SHIP TERMINAL
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 85.00
Paracas
Boat Tour of the Ballestas Islands in Paracas
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 20.00
Paracas
4 Hrs GOLDEN SHADOWS TREK in Paracas National Reserve
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 34.00
Paracas
ATV Tour Adventure in Reserva Nacional de Paracas
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 35.00
Paracas
Paragliding Flight at Paracas National Reservation
Duration: 1 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 107.70
Paracas
Visit the Paracas National Reserve on a SCOOTER
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 1 - 10 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 35.00
Paracas
Premium Trekking Golden Shades
Duration: 5 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 40.00
Paracas
7-Hours Tour in Paracas National Reserve with Pickup
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 38.00
Paracas
Ballestas Islands tour from Pisco CRUISESHIP TERMINAL
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 50.00
Paracas
Ballestas Islands Group Tour from Paracas
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 15.00
Paracas
Buggy ride in Paracas National Reserve
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 55.00
Paracas
Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve Day Trip from Paracas
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 34.00
Paracas
Private Paracas National Reserve + Pink Lagoon Experience
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 - 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 45.00
Paracas
Paracas National Reserve Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 60.00
Paracas
Paracas National Reserve by Tourist Bus
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 21.00
Paracas
Excursion in Minibuggys in Paracas National Reserve
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 45.00
Paracas
Ballestas Island Tour Sightseeing Boat
Duration: 1 - 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 24.00
Paracas
From TPP Pisco: Islands Tours & Paracas Reserve all Inclusive
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 6 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 95.00
Paracas
Paracas National Reserve Private Tour from Paracas or Pisco
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 58.65
Paracas
Ballestas Islands excursion from Paracas
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 20.00
Paracas
Tour the Paracas National Reserve in a MiniBuggy
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 42.00
Paracas
Ballestas Islands Tour Boat with roof
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 20.00
Paracas
Paracas: Ballestas Islands tour all Inclusive
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 18.00
Paracas
Paracas Desert Bike Adventure
Duration: 9 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 15.00
Paracas
Ballestas Islands Sightseeing Boat Ride from Paracas
Duration: 2 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 24.00
Paracas
Full Day Tour to Visit Ballestas Islands and Paracas Reserve
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 59.00
Paracas
Private Tour to Huacachina from Paracas
Duration: 7 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 121.80
Related destinations to Paracas
What should a first-time visitor know about Paracas shore excursions?
If you are visiting Paracas for the first time, expect a compact coastal town that serves as the gateway to marine wildlife, dramatic cliffs and desert landscapes. Morning boat trips to the Ballestas Islands are usually the focal activity for new visitors, while the Paracas National Reserve offers short walks and viewpoints. Consider arriving with light layers, sun protection and modest luggage for quick transfers from the pier. This overview helps set realistic timings, transport options and simple safety notes so you know what to expect from Paracas shore excursions.
Which top attractions are included on shore excursions around Paracas?
Top sights near the harbour include the Ballestas Islands for seabird and sea lion colonies, the Paracas National Reserve with its red cliffs and fossil beaches, and the coastal viewpoints along the Peninsula. Boat trips, short guided walks and viewpoint stops make for compact itineraries that suit most visitors. Wear sturdy footwear for uneven paths and carry binoculars for wildlife viewing. Practical descriptions of each attraction help prioritise time and energy when choosing between tightly scheduled Paracas tours.
How do half-day and full-day Paracas trips differ?
Half-day options focus on the Ballestas Islands boat trip plus a quick visit to local viewpoints, delivering wildlife sightings and coastal scenery within a few hours. Full-day outings add more time in the Paracas National Reserve, longer drives to panoramic points and optional stops for photography, beaches or archaeology. Transportation time, your energy levels and how much you want to explore off the scheduled pier stop determine which option suits you. Read itineraries carefully to compare timings and included transfers when selecting between Paracas shore excursions.
What cultural and historical elements can I expect to see?
Local history around Paracas blends indigenous cultures, colonial contact and maritime livelihoods, reflected in museum displays, dried fish processing sites and coastal cemeteries. The nearby Candelabra geoglyph and archaeological finds within the Paracas National Reserve reveal pre-Hispanic practices and trade routes. Visitors can learn about traditional boat building, guano extraction and fishing that shaped the town's economy. Look for interpretive panels and small regional museums offering context rather than assuming all sites are explained on standard Paracas tours.
What is the nature and scenery like around Paracas?
Spectacular coastal contrasts define the area: sheer red cliffs, wind-blown deserts and the rich marine life around the Ballestas Islands produce strong photographic opportunities. Tidal currents and upwelling create nutrient-rich waters that attract seabirds, sea lions and migratory species, while the reserve's dunes and salt flats provide stark landforms. Weather is often windy and light changes quickly, so plan for changing conditions and use a good camera or binoculars to make the most of short wildlife encounters during Paracas shore excursions.
What food and local cuisine should I try while on a shore excursion?
You can expect simple coastal specialities based on fresh seafood, such as cebiche, tiradito and seafood stews that highlight local fish and shellfish. Small restaurants near the port serve plates suited to morning or midday meals while markets offer snacks and juices; carry cash for smaller stalls. Hygienic standards vary, so choose busy popular venues and avoid raw items if you have a sensitive stomach. Brief tasting notes, customs around meal times and where to try typical dishes are often included in local Paracas tours.
What level of physical activity is involved on these excursions?
Active travellers should expect light to moderate physical demands: short boat rides, brief walks on uneven terrain and occasional steps at viewpoints or docks. Activities rarely involve prolonged hiking, but windy conditions and loose sand can make short distances more tiring than they appear. Bring supportive footwear, layered clothing and water, and allow extra time for transfers along unsealed roads. If you have mobility concerns, check the exact boarding procedures and on-land walking requirements before committing to specific Paracas shore excursions, rather than assuming all options are low-effort.
How accessible are Paracas shore excursion sites for travellers with reduced mobility?
Access varies by operator and pier facilities: some boats have sturdy ramps and assistance, while others require stepping down ladders or onto small craft. The pier areas and reserve viewpoints include uneven surfaces, steps and sandy stretches that limit wheelchair access without substantial assistance. Confirm transfer vehicles, ramp availability and assistance services in advance, and ask for photos or specific descriptions of boarding procedures. Providing medical or mobility details before travel helps operators plan, but remember that not all sites are equipped for full accessibility on standard Paracas tours.
When is the best time of year and day to visit Paracas by shore excursion?
Best months for calm seas and good visibility are generally from late spring to early autumn, though local weather patterns can vary and strong coastal winds occur year-round. Early morning departures often offer the smoothest water and clearer wildlife sightings, while afternoons may bring more wind and choppier seas. Consider tide schedules if you are sensitive to motion and check recent sea conditions before travelling. Flexibility in your itinerary improves chances of favourable conditions for Paracas shore excursions, especially if operators can switch departure times to match calmer windows.
Should I take a guided trip or explore Paracas independently?
Choosing between guided trips and independent exploration depends on your priorities: guided options supply local commentary, organised transport and timing that reduces uncertainty, while independent plans allow more flexibility and a slower pace if you have reliable local information. Consider language support, included transfers from the pier and how comfortable you are navigating small boats and reserve paths alone. Compare safety briefings and included amenities, and weigh the value of expert interpretation versus the freedom to linger; both approaches are common among travellers booking Paracas tours.
Which cruise lines visit Paracas?
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will all visit Paracas this year.
What cruise ships will sail to Paracas in 2026?
Paracas will be visited by Borealis.