From Paraacas ||Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve

The "From Paracas || Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve" excursion promises an unforgettable adventure along Peru’s stunning coastline. Guests can expect to witness the captivating wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, including sea lions and penguins, followed by an exploration of the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity within the Paracas National Reserve. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this 5-hour tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to nature enthusiasts and sightseers alike. But what else can one expect from this captivating coastal discovery?

Key Points

• The Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve excursion from Paracas lasts approximately 5 hours and costs $60.00 per person.
• The excursion includes a 1-hour guided tour of the Ballestas Islands, showcasing sea lions and penguins, and a 2-hour guided tour of the Paracas National Reserve.
• Transportation is provided via minibuses or buses, and speedboats are used for the Ballestas Islands tour, with bilingual guides.
• Entrance fees for the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, as well as dock taxes, are included in the excursion cost.
• Cancellations made 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, but no refunds are available for no-shows or weather-related cancellations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

This excursion from Paracas to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve costs $60.00 per person and lasts approximately 5 hours.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can book their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup at 7:20 am and drop-off by 1:30 pm.

Visitors will explore the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, birds, and Humboldt penguins, and the Paracas National Reserve, where they’ll visit the Interpretation Center, Cathedral remains, and beaches.

Transportation is provided via minibus or bus and speedboat, with English and Spanish-speaking guides.

Itinerary and Experience

The excursion begins with hotel pickup at 7:20 am, where guests board a minibus or bus and embark on their journey.

The first stop is the Ballestas Islands, where they’ll enjoy a 1-hour guided tour and take photos of the stunning landscape, home to sea lions, birds, and Humboldt penguins.

Next, they’ll visit the Paracas National Reserve for a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the Interpretation Center, Cathedral remains, and the beaches of Roja and Yumaque.

Along the way, they’ll witness the iconic Candelabro de Paracas.

The excursion concludes with hotel drop-off around 1:30 pm, subject to changes due to weather or other events.

Transportation and Guides

Minibuses or buses transport guests from their hotels in Paracas to the starting points of the excursion.

Once there, speedboats take visitors on a 1-hour guided tour of the Ballestas Islands. During this part of the trip, a bilingual English and Spanish-speaking guide provides commentary.

The tour then moves to the Paracas National Reserve, where the guide leads a 2-hour exploration of the interpretive center, cathedral ruins, and beaches.

Pickup and drop-off locations are flexible, with options at the Plaza de Paracas.

The excursion offers a comprehensive and informative experience, allowing visitors to discover the natural wonders of the Paracas region.

Entrance Fees

Visitors to the Ballestas Islands must pay an entrance fee of 11 S/ ($2.90) as well as a 5 S/ ($1.30) dock tax.

Meanwhile, entry to the Paracas National Reserve requires an 11 S/ ($2.90) fee.

These fees cover the following:

1. Access to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.
2. Guided tours in both locations.
3. Use of the dock and transportation via speedboat.

It’s important to have the correct cash on hand to pay these fees, as credit card payments may not be accepted.

Advance planning can help ensure a seamless experience exploring these stunning natural wonders.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What to Bring

Preparing for the excursion, visitors should bring their passport or ID card, any necessary personal medications, and a pen.

These items are essential for the day’s activities. The passport or ID card is required for the National Reserve entrance. Any medications you may need should be on hand in case of any personal health concerns. Bringing a pen can be useful for filling out any paperwork or taking notes during the guided tours.

Plus, it’s recommended to dress comfortably and wear suitable footwear for walking during the tour.

With these items packed, you’ll be well-prepared to fully enjoy the Paracas and Ballestas Islands experience.

Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy for this excursion stipulates that no refunds will be provided for service cancellations due to weather or other unforeseen events.

Attendees should also be aware of the following:

1. No claims or refunds will be honored for no-shows on the service day.
2. Refunds are only available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
3. Customers are encouraged to review the policy carefully before booking to ensure they understand the terms and conditions.

Attendance Policy

Attendees must be present on the service day to participate in the excursion. No refunds or claims will be accepted for no-shows on the scheduled tour date.

This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can accommodate all confirmed participants and provide the best possible experience. Guests who fail to show up without prior notice may forfeit their spot, as the tour can’t be held for latecomers.

Timely arrival is essential for smooth coordination and to maximize the time spent exploring the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. Adherence to the attendance policy helps maintain the reliability and efficiency of the tour.

Additional Information

Travelers should dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities. Sturdy shoes, a hat, and lightweight clothing are recommended.

Plus, it’s advisable to bring sun protection, such as sunscreen and sunglasses, as the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve can be quite exposed to the sun.

Here are a few other important considerations:

1. All participants must have a valid passport or ID card to enter the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.
2. Refunds aren’t provided for no-shows or service cancellations due to weather or other unforeseen events.
3. Guests are responsible for their own personal medication and any necessary items during the excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Large Group?

Yes, you can book this excursion for a large group. The tour operator accommodates group sizes and offers group discounts. It’s best to contact them directly to discuss your group size and make the necessary arrangements.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there are discounts available. Children under 5 years old can join the tour for free, and seniors aged 65 and above receive a 10% discount on the ticket price.

Are There Any Additional Fees Not Mentioned?

There don’t appear to be any additional fees mentioned besides the entrance tickets and dock tax. The tour price covers transportation, guided tours, and hotel pickup/drop-off. Discounts for children or seniors aren’t specified in the details provided.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

No, the tour itinerary cannot be customized. It’s a pre-set excursion from Paracas to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. The schedule and activities are fixed, though the itinerary may be subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen events.

How Reliable Is the Transportation Provided?

The transportation provided is reliable. The minibus or bus and speedboat service are well-maintained, and the guides have extensive experience navigating the area. Guests can expect a smooth and punctual journey to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve.

Recap

The "From Paracas || Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve" excursion offers a captivating exploration of Peru’s stunning coastal scenery and wildlife. This 5-hour tour includes a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands and a guided tour of the Paracas National Reserve, providing an unforgettable opportunity to witness the region’s natural beauty and diverse marine life. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this experience is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Peru.

You can check if your dates are available here: