Nazca, Paracas and Ballestas Islands Tour – 3-day Ica Tour

Explore the captivating landscapes of Ica, Peru, on a 3-day adventure that showcases the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. This comprehensive tour whisks visitors over the mysterious Nazca Lines, immerses them in the scenic beauty of Paracas National Reserve, and treats them to a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands. With a focus on both adventure and culture, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that delves into the heart of Peru’s treasures. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, this Ica tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders that lie within.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best 3 Day Tours In Paracas.

Key Points

• This 3-day tour covers the highlights of Ica, Nazca, and Paracas, including aerial views of the Nazca Lines, a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, and exploration of Paracas National Reserve.
• The tour includes transportation, 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, and guided excursions, with a starting price of $519 per person for up to 15 participants.
• The itinerary features activities such as a city tour of Ica, a visit to Huacachina Lagoon, a local winery tour, a buggy ride, and sandboarding.
• The second day includes a 35-minute Nazca Lines overflight at 1,500 ft altitude, followed by free time in Nasca and a bus journey to Paracas.
• On the final day, the tour includes a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands and exploration of the Paracas National Reserve before returning to Lima.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Nazca, Paracas, and Ballestas Islands regions, spanning three captivating days.

Priced from $519 per person, it accommodates up to 15 participants in English and Spanish. Travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and they can reserve their spot without paying today.

The tour includes bus transportation, two nights’ accommodation, two breakfasts, the Nazca Lines overflight, the Ballestas Islands maritime tour, and guided excursions in the Paracas National Reserve.

Highlights encompass the Candelabra figure, the Nazca Lines, sea lion sightings, and scenic coastal vistas.

Itinerary Details

The tour kicks off with a bus trip from Lima to Ica, departing at 8:00 AM and arriving at the bus station around 12:20 PM.

Participants will then be picked up and transferred to the tour’s starting point.

The first day includes a city tour of Ica, visiting the Huacachina Lagoon, a local winery, and the Plaza de Armas.

Guests can also enjoy a buggy ride and sandboarding in Huacachina.

The day ends with a bus trip from Ica to Nasca, where travelers will be transferred to their hotel.

On the second day, the group will take an overflight of the Nazca Lines, followed by free time in Nasca.

Later, they’ll travel by bus to Paracas, where they’ll check into their hotel.

The final day features a maritime tour to the Ballestas Islands and a visit to the Paracas National Reserve.

Day 1 Highlights

Kicking off the tour, visitors explore the charming city of Ica, where they marvel at the stunning Huacachina Lagoon, a natural oasis nestled amidst towering sand dunes.

The group tours a local winery, strolls through the Plaza de Armas, and then embarks on an exhilarating buggy ride and sandboarding adventure in the Huacachina desert.

After a full day of sightseeing, they transfer to the bus terminal and depart for Nasca, arriving at their hotel late in the evening.

Throughout the day, the tour showcases Ica’s diverse attractions, from its historical landmarks to its unique natural landscapes and adrenaline-filled activities.

Day 2 Highlights

On day two, travelers rise early for the highlight of the tour – an overflight of the enigmatic Nazca Lines. From the aircraft, passengers marvel at the geometric shapes, animals, and other figures etched into the desert landscape below. The aerial views offer an unparalleled perspective on the mysterious lines and the theories surrounding their creation. After the flight, the group enjoys free time to explore Nasca before boarding a bus bound for Paracas.

Nazca Lines Overflight
Duration	35 min
Altitude	1,500 ft
Viewpoints	13
Photo Opportunities	Unlimited
Guide Commentary	English/Spanish

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Day 3 Highlights

Travelers wake up to a hearty breakfast at their Paracas hotel, prepping for the day’s maritime adventure.

At 8 AM, they board a boat for a 2-hour tour of the Ballestas Islands, nicknamed the "Poor Man’s Galapagos." They’ll witness seabirds, sea lions, and the mysterious Candelabra – a giant geoglyph carved into the hillside.

After returning to shore, they’ve time to explore Paracas National Reserve, taking in scenic coastal vistas and visiting the beaches.

At 3 PM, they depart Paracas for the bus ride back to Lima, wrapping up an incredible 3-day tour of Ica’s natural wonders.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a range of transportation and accommodation services. This includes bus transportation from Lima to Ica, Ica to Nasca, Nasca to Paracas, and Paracas back to Lima.

Travelers will also receive one night of accommodation in both Ica and Paracas, with two breakfasts included.

The tour offers an overflight of the famous Nazca Lines, a tour of the Ballestas Islands and Candelabro Islands, as well as a guided tour of the Paracas Sea Lion Reserve.

All tours and transportation are provided with guides available in both English and Spanish.

Highlights of the Tour

Among the highlights of this tour is the chance to see the Candelabra, a gigantic figure engraved in the desert.

Soar over the mysterious Nazca Lines, an array of massive geoglyphs best appreciated from the air.

Explore the diverse Paracas National Reserve, marveling at the scenic views of the Paracas Peninsula and its picturesque beaches.

Cap off the journey with a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, where you’ll observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat.

This comprehensive 3-day itinerary offers an exceptional opportunity to discover the renowned natural wonders and cultural treasures of Ica.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided mixed reviews for this tour, with an overall rating of 1 out of 5 based on a single verified booking.

The lone review indicates a positive experience, with the traveler finding the tour "helpful."

However, without additional feedback, it’s difficult to draw any definitive conclusions about the tour’s quality or value.

Factors like the tour’s itinerary, guides, accommodations, and activities aren’t clearly reflected in the limited customer data available.

Further reviews from a broader range of travelers would be needed to gain a more comprehensive understanding of this tour’s strengths and weaknesses from a customer perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Meals Included in the Tour Price Besides Breakfast?

The tour price includes 2 breakfasts, but it doesn’t mention any other meals being included. Travelers will need to cover the cost of their own lunches and dinners during the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Cancel?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows customers flexibility in their travel plans and the ability to cancel without penalty if their plans change.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour operators offer this option for an additional fee, allowing you to have a more personalized experience with just your traveling party.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not currently offer discounts for students or seniors. However, the operator may provide special discounts or offers from time to time, so it’s best to check with them directly for the latest promotions.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Specific Interests?

While the tour offers a set itinerary, the operator may be able to accommodate customization requests to fit traveler’s specific interests. It’s best to contact them directly to discuss any changes or additions to the program.

Recap

The Nazca, Paracas, and Ballestas Islands Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Ica, Peru. From the captivating Nazca Lines to the serene beauty of Paracas National Reserve, this 3-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience for nature and history enthusiasts. With its comprehensive itinerary, inclusive pricing, and positive customer feedback, this tour is a must-consider for those seeking an immersive adventure in Peru.

You can check if your dates are available here: