Callao: Swimming With Sea Lions Palomino Islands Boat Tour

The Palomino Islands Boat Tour from Callao promises an unforgettable underwater adventure. Travelers can don neoprene suits and life vests to swim alongside playful sea lions in their natural habitat. The 2.5-hour tour also includes a scenic boat ride where guests may spot Humboldt penguins and various seabirds. With an engaging crew and rave reviews, this tour is a must for thrill-seeking nature enthusiasts. However, the real excitement lies in the chance to interact with these captivating marine creatures up close – an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Lima.

Key Points

• A 2.5-hour boat tour from Lima that offers the opportunity to swim with wild sea lions in the Palomino Islands near Callao.
• Tour includes use of neoprene suits and life vests, as well as the potential to spot Humboldt penguins and other seabirds.
• Pricing starts at $76 per person and the tour is available in both Spanish and English.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Overall customer satisfaction is high, with positive reviews highlighting the engaging crew and unique marine wildlife interactions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The "Swimming with Sea Lions at Palomino Islands" tour offers a unique opportunity for visitors to interact with these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Lasting 2.5 hours, the tour departs from Lima and takes guests by boat to the Palomino Islands. Along the way, participants may spot Humboldt penguins and various bird species.

Upon arrival, swimmers don neoprene suits and get up close with wild sea lions in the water. Priced from $76 per person, the tour is available in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can reserve their spot on the "Swimming with Sea Lions at Palomino Islands" tour without requiring upfront payment.

The tour operator offers a free cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. This provides flexibility for travelers in case their plans change.

To check availability and book your preferred start time, simply inquire with the tour provider.

With these convenient booking and cancellation terms, you can secure your place on this unique sea lion swimming experience with confidence.

Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with participants meeting the crew at the designated meeting point.

From there, the group sets sail towards the Callao Islands, passing by San Lorenzo Island along the way.

Upon arrival at the Palomino Islands, guests don neoprene suits and life vests before entering the water to swim alongside the wild sea lions.

After the swim, the boat returns through the cliffs and islets, offering a light snack on board.

The tour concludes back at the Callao port around 1:00 PM, providing an unforgettable opportunity to interact with these captivating marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Inclusions and Requirements

This tour includes a nautical guide, neoprene suit, life vest, light snacks, insurance, natural reserve fees, binoculars, outerwear, sunscreen, masks, fins, and a towel.

However, it’s not suitable for individuals with heart problems, colds, or pre-existing medical conditions. Guests are advised to bring a towel and a change of clothes.

Pets and drones aren’t allowed. The tour operator emphasizes the importance of following these requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

According to the information provided, the tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 80 customer reviews.

The guide receives a 4.9/5 rating, while the transportation and service are rated 4.7/5 and 4.8/5, respectively. The organization of the tour is rated 4.5/5.

Customers have provided positive feedback about their experiences with the sea lions and the crew. Some have reported feeling cold in the water and experiencing sea sickness.

The tour’s meeting point is at La Mar 229, and customers are advised to arrive 30 minutes early to confirm their spot.

Meeting Point and Arrival

Customers meet for the "Swimming with Sea Lions" tour at La Mar 229, a designated meeting point in Lima.

They’re advised to arrive 30 minutes early to confirm their spot and meet the crew. From there, the group will depart by boat to the Palomino Islands, located just off the coast.

The journey takes approximately 45 minutes each way. Upon arrival at the islands, you will have the opportunity to don neoprene suits and enter the water to swim alongside the curious and playful sea lions.

At the end of the 2.5-hour excursion, the boat will return the group to the original meeting point in Callao.

What to Expect During the Tour

Embarking on the "Swimming with Sea Lions" tour, participants can expect an exhilarating encounter with these charismatic marine mammals.

The experience begins with a boat ride to Palomino Island, passing by the impressive San Lorenzo Island along the way. Once at the Palomino Islands, guests don neoprene suits and life vests before entering the water to swim alongside the curious and playful sea lions.

The tour also offers opportunities to spot Humboldt penguins and a variety of seabirds. Upon returning, guests can enjoy a light snack on board before disembarking back in Callao at 1:00 PM.

The tour includes:

1. Guided swimming with sea lions
2. Sightings of Humboldt penguins and seabirds
3. Return to Callao by 1:00 PM

Additional Information and Tips

When preparing for the "Swimming with Sea Lions" tour, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind. The tour is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, so it’s important to disclose any concerns upfront. Guests should come prepared with a towel and a change of clothes, as the water can be quite chilly. Plus, pets and drones are not allowed on the tour, so it’s best to leave those at home. To ensure a smooth experience, participants should arrive 30 minutes early to confirm their spot. Refer to the table below for a quick overview of what’s included and what’s not.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Nautical guide	Heart problems
Neoprene suit	Colds
Life vest	Pre-existing medical conditions
Snacks	Pets
Insurance	Drones
Natural reserve fee

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

According to the tour details, guests can bring their own snorkeling gear. However, the tour provides snorkeling equipment, including masks and fins, as part of the included amenities for the swimming with sea lions experience.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

The tour does not have a minimum number of participants required. Travelers can book their spot without any group size restrictions, allowing for a flexible and personalized experience.

Are Photos or Videos Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photos and videos are allowed during the tour. Participants are encouraged to capture their swimming with sea lions experience, though drones are not permitted for safety reasons.

How Deep Can We Swim With the Sea Lions?

Participants can typically swim within 3-5 feet of the sea lions in shallow waters around the Palomino Islands. The depth depends on the sea lions’ comfort level, but swimming isn’t in deep, open waters. Guests are advised to follow the guide’s instructions for a safe experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Snacks?

The tour’s snacks do not have any specific dietary restrictions. They are light refreshments suitable for most dietary needs. Passengers should inform the crew of any special dietary requirements they may have prior to the tour.

Recap

The Palomino Islands Boat Tour from Callao offers a thrilling opportunity to swim with playful sea lions in their natural habitat. With a highly-rated crew and unforgettable marine encounters, this 2.5-hour adventure is a must-do for adventure seekers. Participants will enjoy a scenic boat ride, spot Humboldt penguins and seabirds, and interact with the friendly sea lions while donning neoprene suits and life vests.

You can check if your dates are available here: