From San Martin Port: 2-Hour Ballestas Island

Embark on an unforgettable 2-hour excursion from San Martin Port to the captivating Ballestas Islands. This tour promises a unique glimpse into Peru’s rich marine ecosystem and cultural heritage. Hop aboard a scenic speedboat and witness the iconic Candelabro figure before encountering playful sea lions and diverse seabirds, including the elusive Humboldt penguins. With private guides and wheelchair-accessible options, this adventure caters to all travelers, ensuring an immersive and memorable experience. Discover the wonders of the Paracas Peninsula and uncover the stories that lie within this remarkable natural haven.

Key Points

• Depart from San Martin Port for a 2-hour excursion to the Ballestas Islands, known for their diverse wildlife including Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and seabirds.
• Enjoy a speedboat ride to the islands, with a stop at the Candelabro figure, an ancient geoglyph on the Paracas Peninsula.
• Observe the wildlife up close, including the opportunity to see natural behaviors of the animals in their natural habitat.
• Tour is led by private English and Spanish-speaking guides, with entrance fees and transportation included.
• Wheelchair-accessible options available, ensuring suitability for travelers of all abilities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Ballestas Island Tour is a 2-hour excursion that takes visitors to explore the natural wonders of this protected marine sanctuary.

Priced from $56 per person, the tour lasts 3 hours and is available in English and Spanish. Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

The experience includes a visit to the Paracas Peninsula to view the enigmatic Candelabro figure, followed by a boat trip to Ballestas Island to observe diverse wildlife like birds and sea lions.

Private guides for other languages can be arranged for a minimum group size.

Wheelchair accessibility is available, making this tour suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Booking Information

Booking the Ballestas Island Tour is straightforward. Reservations can be made with no upfront payment required.

The meeting point is the San Martin Port, where participants should look for the sign for "shore excursion Las Adventure." At least two people are required for the tour, making it a popular choice for families.

Wheelchair-accessible options are available. Tour you will be picked up and dropped off at the San Martin Port, with all activities, entrance fees, and a private English and Spanish-speaking guide included.

Food and drinks beyond those specified aren’t provided.

Itinerary

At 9:15 AM, participants meet their guide at the San Martin Port. From there, they’ll transfer to Paracas town and board a speedboat to Ballestas Island. Along the way, they’ll stop at the Paracas Peninsula to see the enigmatic Candelabro figure.

Once on Ballestas Island, the tour will:

1. Visit the island to observe its diverse wildlife, including birds and sea lions.
2. Navigate through caves, depending on sea conditions.
3. Return to San Martin Port via vehicle.

Throughout the tour, you will benefit from the local guides’ knowledge and expertise, ensuring a memorable and informative experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from the San Martin Port, as well as all the scheduled activities.

You’ll be accompanied by a private English and Spanish-speaking guide who’ll share their knowledge about the area.

Entrance fees to Ballestas Island and the Paracas Peninsula are covered.

For your group’s transportation, private vehicles will be provided.

However, food and drinks beyond what’s specified aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour is designed to provide a comprehensive Ballestas Island experience, allowing you to get close to the diverse wildlife while also seeing the Candelabro figure.

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Experience Highlights

Close encounters with Ballestas Island’s diverse wildlife await visitors on this tour. Witness the captivating Candelabro figure, an ancient geoglyph carved into the Paracas Peninsula. Benefit from the expertise of local guides who’ll share insights into the island’s fascinating history and ecosystem.

The tour offers:

1. Opportunities to spot a variety of seabirds, including boobies, pelicans, and Humboldt penguins, as well as playful sea lions.

2. Exploration of the island’s caves, subject to sea conditions, for a unique perspective of the coastal landscape.

3. Wheelchair-accessible options, ensuring accessibility for all visitors to experience the natural wonders of Ballestas Island.

Wildlife Encounters

Visitors to Ballestas Island can expect up-close encounters with the island’s diverse wildlife. The island is home to a thriving population of Humboldt penguins, Inca terns, pelicans, and boobies, which can be observed at close range.

Visitors will also have the chance to see colonies of sea lions lounging on the rocks and swimming in the waters surrounding the island. The tour provides an opportunity to witness the natural behaviors of these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

With the guidance of knowledgeable local tour guides, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich marine ecosystem and the importance of its conservation.

Candelabro Figure

Along the rugged Paracas Peninsula, an enigmatic figure etched into the desert sand captivates visitors. Known as the Candelabro, this mysterious geoglyph stands as a silent witness to Peru’s ancient past.

Some key facts about the Candelabro:

1. The giant figure measures over 600 feet long and is believed to have been created by the Paracas culture over 2,000 years ago.

2. Its precise purpose remains a subject of intense debate, with theories ranging from a navigational marker to a religious symbol.

3. Viewing the Candelabro is a highlight of the Ballestas Islands tour, offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

As you explore the Paracas Peninsula, the Candelabro’s timeless presence will leave you captivated and intrigued.

Accessible Options

The Ballestas Islands tour caters to travelers of all abilities, ensuring an inclusive experience.

Wheelchair-accessible options are available, allowing mobility-impaired guests to fully enjoy the wildlife sightings and natural wonders. The tour’s boats are equipped with ramps for easy boarding, and the guides are trained to assist passengers as needed.

On top of that, the walking paths on the islands provide ample space for those using mobility aids. This commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can appreciate the remarkable marine life and stunning landscapes that make the Ballestas Islands a must-visit destination.

Travelers with special needs can embark on this tour with confidence, knowing their comfort and safety are prioritized.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Early Should We Arrive at the Meeting Point?

The tour advises meeting the guide at the San Martin Port at 9:15 AM. It’s recommended to arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a prompt departure and make the most of the 2-hour Ballestas Island tour.

What Should We Bring for the Boat Tour?

Travelers should bring sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as well as comfortable shoes and light clothing to stay cool during the boat tour. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the island’s wildlife and scenery.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Ballestas Island tour. Families with children are welcome to participate, and the tour is a popular choice for those traveling with kids. The tour is wheelchair accessible as well.

Can We Stay Longer Than 2 Hours on Ballestas Island?

The tour typically lasts 2 hours on Ballestas Island, but guests can’t stay longer. The itinerary is fixed, though it may vary slightly depending on sea conditions. Extended stays aren’t possible within the tour’s duration.

Is There an Option to Visit Paracas National Reserve?

The Ballestas Island tour doesn’t include a visit to Paracas National Reserve, but visitors can explore the reserve independently. Several tour operators offer day trips to the reserve, which features diverse wildlife and stunning desert landscapes.

Recap

Set out on a captivating journey to Ballestas Island, where you’ll witness the stunning wildlife of the Paracas Peninsula. Experience a scenic speedboat ride, close encounters with playful sea lions and diverse seabirds, and explore the iconic Candelabro figure. With private guides and wheelchair-accessible options, this tour ensures an unforgettable experience that highlights Peru’s rich marine ecosystem and cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: