2-Hour Ballestas Islands Wildlife Tour from Paracas with Candelabra

2 Hours Round trip from Marina Turistica Paracas Shipping Patio Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 See the Candelabra geoglyph and hear about its links to the Nazca Lines
02 Cruise through the Ballestas Islands' striking rock formations and coastal cliffs
03 Spot Humboldt penguins, sea lions, cormorants, pelicans, and Inca terns
04 Learn about Guano de Islas and the marine bird guano collection tradition
05 Observe wildlife shaped by the cold Humboldt Current

Discover the Ballestas Islands, often called the "Galápagos of Peru," on a shared speedboat tour from Paracas. Cruise past the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph and explore one of Peru's most spectacular marine reserves, known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, striking rock formations, and rich wildlife. Depending on the season, you may spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, cormorants, pelicans, Inca terns, and other marine birds shaped by the cold Humboldt Current. An early departure offers calmer waters, a more comfortable ride, better wildlife visibility, and a quieter experience.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Ballestas Islands, Paracas

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Ballestas Islands Wildlife Cruise and Candelabra Geoglyph

Islas Ballestas is often called the "Galápagos of Peru," and for good reason. Located just off the Paracas Peninsula, these uninhabited islands are home to hundreds of sea lions, depending on the season, as well as Humboldt penguins, cormorants, pelicans, Inca terns, and more. On the way to the islands, you will also see the famous Candelabra geoglyph. Experience untouched nature, breathtaking coastal cliffs, spectacular rock formations, and one of Peru's most spectacular marine reserves.

Conditions in the Pacific Ocean typically become rougher as the day progresses, with increasing wave height and stronger movement. By choosing an early departure, you'll enjoy:

Calmer, smoother waters
A more comfortable ride
Better visibility for wildlife spotting
A quieter, less crowded experience

Make the most of your visit - go early!

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Marina Turistica Paracas Shipping Patio 2 cities · 2 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All entrance fees.
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish - English).
Fully equipped speedboat with emergency equipment.
Safety equipment (life vests).
Guided commentary.

What's Not Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off.
Food and drinks.
Gratuities.
Personal expenses.

What to bring

Sunscreen and sunglasses - strong coastal sun!
Light windbreaker or jacket
Comfortable shoes
Camera or phone with extra battery
Hat or cap
Motion sickness pills (if you are sensitive to boat movement - especially for later departures)

Know before you go

Duration: from 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
Speedboat capacity: 35 to 50 passengers.
Restrictions: not recommended for guests with severe back or neck problems, pregnant women, or those with recent surgeries.
Weather policy: tours operate in most conditions and may be rescheduled or refunded if sea conditions are unsafe.
In red-flag conditions caused by choppy seas, the tour may be redirected to islands with better conditions. We will inform you, and you can decide whether to take this option.

Logistics