The excursion to Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the captivating wildlife and breathtaking coastal scenery of Peru. Priced at a reasonable CZK 1,147 per person, this 2-hour boat tour promises an unforgettable adventure, with hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide included. Adventurers can expect to see Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and other marine life in their natural habitat, while also enjoying scenic viewpoints and leisure time at beautiful beaches. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable outdoor experience, this excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- This excursion offers a tour to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, with a 2-hour boat ride and opportunities to observe native wildlife.
- The tour is priced at CZK 1,147 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, and the boat ride.
- The itinerary includes visiting the Candelabro geoglyph, free time for breakfast and exploration, and a return to Ica by 4:30 p.m. after a lunch stop.
- Inclusions cover entrance fees for all age groups, and the tour offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option.
- Customer feedback highlights positive feedback on the guides, but concerns over the excursion duration and lack of swimming opportunities.
Excursion Overview and Pricing
The excursion to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offers visitors an opportunity to explore Peru’s natural wonders.
The price for this one-day adventure is CZK 1,147 per person. Participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "reserve now & pay later" option is available.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and a boat ride to the Ballestas Islands.
While food and beverages aren’t included, entrance fees for adults, children aged 5-17, and those under 5 are covered.
Travelers are advised to check availability for their desired dates and group size.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Peru.
Itinerary Details
Pickup takes place between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. from hotels in Ica, allowing visitors to embark on their journey to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.
The group travels to the El Chaco dock in Paracas, where they board a boat for a 2-hour tour of the Ballestas Islands. Iconic sites like the 170-meter Candelabro geoglyph can be observed, along with native wildlife such as Humboldt penguins and sea lions.
After the boat tour, guests have free time for breakfast or a stroll before visiting viewpoints in Paracas National Reserve, including La Catedral, Punta Santa María, and Playa Roja.
Lunch is served at Lagunilla beach, followed by a stop at La Mina beach, before the group returns to Ica by 16:30.
Inclusions
The excursion includes hotel pickup and transfer back to the main square, as well as transportation by minibus or bus.
An English and Spanish speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the tour.
The boat ride on the Ballestas Islands includes the provision of life jackets.
However, food and beverage aren’t included in the excursion package.
The entrance tickets have the following pricing structure:
- 22 S/ per adult
- 11 S/ per child (5-17 years)
- Free for children under 5
Important Information
Visitors should bring their passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, personal medication, and a pen for the excursion.
It’s essential to check availability for specific dates and participant numbers, as the tour’s popularity may impact availability.
The tour includes a boat ride on the Ballestas Islands, where visitors can observe native wildlife like Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and pelicans.
Entrance tickets are required, costing 22 S/ for adults and 11 S/ for children aged 5-17, while children under 5 can enter for free.
With a mix of scenic viewpoints and beach visits, the excursion promises an immersive experience in the Paracas National Reserve.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
What do past participants think of this excursion? According to reviews, the overall rating is 3 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews.
Positive experiences include friendly guides, but some concerns have been raised:
- Excursion duration not matching the description
- Lack of swimming opportunities, which some visitors would have appreciated
- Desire for more detailed information about the itinerary and what to expect
- Mixed feelings about the value for the price paid
- Suggestions to improve the tour experience and better align expectations
The feedback indicates room for improvement in managing visitor expectations and enhancing the overall experience.
Pickup and Transportation
According to the itinerary, the excursion begins with a hotel pickup between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. from Ica.
From there, travelers will travel by minibus or bus to the El Chaco dock in Paracas. The transportation is included in the tour price. An English and Spanish speaking guide will accompany the group throughout the day.
Upon arrival at the dock, you will board a boat for the approximately 2-hour tour of the Ballestas Islands. Life jackets are provided for the boat ride.
After the Ballestas Islands, the tour continues with visits to various viewpoints in the Paracas National Reserve before returning to Ica by 4:30 pm.
Wildlife Observation
During the boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, travelers can observe an abundance of native wildlife.
The tour offers the chance to see:
- Humboldt penguins, with their distinctive black and white plumage
- Playful sea lions lounging on the rocky outcrops
- Pelicans gracefully soaring above the crashing waves
- Cormorants and boobies nesting on the cliffs
- A variety of seabirds, including gulls and terns, taking flight across the stunning scenery.
These diverse species thrive in the protected marine environment, providing visitors with an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s vibrant and well-preserved ecosystem.
Scenic Viewpoints
The Paracas National Reserve offers visitors a chance to marvel at the region’s breathtaking coastal scenery.
The tour includes stops at several viewpoints, including La Catedral, Punta Santa María, and Playa Roja. These stunning vantage points showcase the dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and vibrant red sand beaches that characterize the Paracas landscape. Guests can take in the sweeping views and snap photos to capture the natural beauty of this protected area.
After exploring the reserve’s scenic highlights, the tour also includes a stop at Lagunilla beach and La Mina beach, providing an opportunity to relax and soak in the serene coastal atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Physical Requirements for This Excursion?
The excursion does not have any specific physical requirements. It’s suitable for most participants, though visitors should be able to board and disembark the boat. Guests with mobility concerns may want to discuss their needs with the tour operator.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Ballestas Islands?
The best time to visit the Ballestas Islands is during the dry season, which runs from April to November. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions and optimal opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife in the area.
Can I Book This Excursion for a Group of 10 or More People?
Yes, you can book this excursion for a group of 10 or more people. The details mention that the pricing and availability depends on the specific number of participants, so you’ll need to check the availability for your group size.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The excursion provider offers discounts for students and seniors. Students receive an 11 S/ entrance fee, while seniors get a 10% discount on the overall package price. These special rates are available for qualifying participants.
Can I Extend My Stay in Paracas National Reserve After the Excursion?
You can’t extend your stay in Paracas National Reserve after the excursion. The tour package includes set itinerary and timing, and there’s no option to extend your visit within the program. You’d need to arrange additional time separately.
Recap
This excursion to Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offers a unique opportunity to witness stunning wildlife and breathtaking coastal scenery. Priced at CZK 1,147 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide, making it a hassle-free and memorable adventure for all ages. With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an experience not to be missed.
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