The Ballestas Islands, located on the southern coast of Peru near Paracas, are an ideal destination for nature and marine life enthusiasts, with a great diversity of animal species and stunning landscapes. These islands offer a unique experience; this guide will provide all the necessary information to make the most of your visit, from how to get there to what you should bring.
The Ballestas Islands are located on the southern coast of Peru, near Paracas in the Ica region; about 20 km west of Paracas, they are part of the Paracas National Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity, with a large number of birds, sea lions, and other marine animals.
The islands' proximity to Paracas makes access by boat easy, allowing for a quick view of the local wildlife. Additionally, their location allows you to combine the visit with other nearby attractions such as the Paracas National Reserve, flamingo watching, or the enigmatic Candelabra geoglyph.
The wildlife of the Ballestas Islands is one of its main attractions, highlighting the great biodiversity of species, with over 200 types of birds, such as guanay birds, pelicans, and cormorants; the island is a paradise for nature lovers. Additionally, you can observe sea lions and Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat.
Sea lions are easily seen resting on the rocks or playing in the sea, while penguins are less numerous but a great surprise for visitors; this place is also important for the nesting of seabirds, especially during certain seasons.
In addition to the wildlife, the Ballestas Islands are known for the accumulation of guano, a natural fertilizer harvested from birds, which has been commercially exploited for years.
The islands are made up of three main islands: North Ballestas, South Ballestas, and the Island of Candelaria; despite their size, they are ecologically crucial due to their biodiversity and rocky formations, sculpted by wind and sea, creating impressive cliffs.
The Candelabra is a prominent figure on one of the islands, a pre-Hispanic geoglyph of uncertain origin, which some believe was used by navigators or as a religious symbol. During the boat tour, guides provide more information about this mysterious figure.
The landscape of the islands combines imposing rocks and crystal-clear waters, offering an excellent spot for photography. Although disembarking is not allowed, the boat tour allows you to enjoy spectacular views, with an impressive mix of colors between the golden rocks and the blue waters.
Getting to the Ballestas Islands from Paracas is easy and quick, with boat tours lasting approximately one hour. Boats depart from the Paracas port, located near the city center, and there are several tour operators offering this route.
For a better experience, it is recommended to take the tour early in the morning when the waters are calmer and visibility is better. The boats are designed for panoramic views, allowing you to enjoy all the details of the tour.
The Ballestas Islands tours are available daily, between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., with prices ranging from $30 to $50 per person. It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during high season, as tours tend to fill up quickly.
All tours include a boat ride, a specialized guide, and in some cases, a stop to see the Candelabra geoglyph. Some operators also offer additional activities.
The Ballestas Islands are home to over 60,000 birds, making it a key destination for bird watching in South America. Additionally, they were an important source of guano in the 19th and 20th centuries, which impacted the local economy.
Located in one of the richest marine biodiversity zones in the world, the islands offer a unique wildlife watching experience.
Although the tours are quite easy to do, here are some tips to help you make the most of the experience:
Can I disembark on the Ballestas Islands?
No, tourists cannot disembark on the islands. Due to their status as a protected natural area, the tours on the islands are conducted by boat, allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views.
How long does the Ballestas Islands tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the operator and sea conditions.
Can I see penguins on the Ballestas Islands?
Yes, the Ballestas Islands are one of the few places where you can see Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat. Although they are not as abundant as other bird species, they can be observed during certain months of the year.
Don't miss this great opportunity to discover new places! Contact us at +51 944 714 563 or by email at info@illapa.com. Paracas is waiting for you.
