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Ballestas Islands & Paracas National Reserve Adventure 2D/1N

0 nights from £0

Overview

Discover the beautiful landscapes of Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands, also known as the “Galapagos of Peru”, on this short 2-day trip from Lima. Among the animals you will have the chance to see: Andean flamingos, Humboldt penguins, Peruvian pelicans, sea lions and maybe dolphins if you are lucky!

Highlights

Take in the great scenery at Paracas National ReserveSee large families of sea lions at the Ballestas IslandsSpot colonies of flamingos, penguins & other marine species

Itinerary

Day 1: Lima - Paracas, Peru

Location: Paracas

Day 1: Lima - Paracas, Peru

Location: Paracas

Day 2: Paracas - Lima, Peru

Location: Paracas

Depart from the boat dock in Paracas at 8:00 am for your visit to the Ballestas Islands archipelago. As you cruise west from the tiny beach town of Paracas, you won't be able to miss the Candelabra geoglyph, a 150m high and 50m wide figure of a candlestick etched into the mountain, rumored to have been an ancient guide for sailors or a connection to the Nazca lines. A short description and time for photos is given before cruising on to the famous Ballestas Islands.
Ballestas islands is an excellent opportunity to see large families of over 100 sea lions sleeping on the shores, basking in the sun on the rocks or some barking loudly in efforts to protect their territory. Spot cormorants, the Peruvian booby and Peruvian pelican as well as other impressive varieties of sea bird species and Humboldt penguins nesting together in small groups. Feeling lucky? Watch the waters for dolphins.
Apart from the abundant marine and bird life found here, the Ballestas Islands are also very well known for the guano (seabird droppings) deposited on the island over thousands of years which creates a natural reserve of nitrogen-rich fertilizer over 50 meters deep in some areas. The guano came to be Peru's #1 export in the mid-19th century however today the extraction of guano has been regulated to every 10 years.
The return trip to Paracas is a quick, very windy, direct boat ride to the dock. Upon arrival at 10:00 am, your first tour comes to an end. You should have some time to take photos of the friendly pelicans that hang out on the shoreline beside the dock. Then make your way to the same departure point for your next tour.
At 11:00 am depart to the Paracas National Reserve for a guided tour through this pristine and unique natural reserve located south of the town of Pisco. Visit the Mirador de Flamencos and see flamingos eating at the shore, continue your adventure towards the Centro de Interpretacion to learn about all the fauna in the reserve. In this Centre you can see skeletons of whales, sea lions, and penguins. To finish your tour go off road in the desert towards beautiful Lagunillas Beach, where you can enjoy lunch with a view (not included). At Lagunillas, those who want to go for a swim are welcome to! Return to Paracas.

Day 2: Paracas - Lima, Peru

Location: Lima

What's Included

Included

Transport
2 Transfer
Accommodation
See full inclusions for details
Meals
Activities
1 Excursion
Guides
Some of the activities
Extras
Handy extras and accessories
Experiences

Not Included

Ballestas Islands and Paracas national reserve entrance fees
Tips for guide
Meals and drinks

Dates

Touring with Bamba Travel

Bamba has helped fellow travellers achieve their dreams since 2005, and in this time the selection of tours expanded to 80 countries and counting! Bamba started out with trips for the independent traveller, with an emphasis on flexibility and freedom. With time, they also developed heaps of amazing group tours, Voluntours, and tailor-made itineraries to help people see the world in a fun and unique way.

Bamba spent years selecting the best experiences out there so you can meet locals, immerse yourself in nature and learn about new cultures. Bamba's expert staff and dedicated customer service team are always striving to give you the security and confidence to push your limits and go where you've never been before!

The experience-driven group adventures they offer let you enjoy every destination to its fullest. Open your eyes to rich cultures and awe-inspiring places alongside a group of like-minded travellers. Learn from knowledgeable local tour guides and enjoy a set itinerary with transport, activities, accommodation and most meals included for a stress-free travel experience. Trek the famous Inca Trail to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, delve into the heart of the Amazon Jungle or cruise through the waters of Halong Bay--the sky's the limit!

Check out Bamba's Authentic Adventures to experience a new kind of trip that takes you to the heart of your destination. See the main highlights and go off the beaten path to places that the typical tourist doesn’t get to see. Join a small group of like-minded travellers to explore unique destinations and discover the best they have to offer. Find hidden gems, feel like a local, and revel in thrilling adventures! Make sushi in Japan, stay at a local homestay on Lake Titicaca and journey through the lush Mexican jungle to find majestic underground cenotes - Authentic is the tour that keeps on giving!

Bamba understands that we all share the responsibility to protect our beautiful planet and our fellow human beings. Their strong commitment to support the communities they visit and their local economies is reflected in their exceptional products and partners.

Travellers are also invited to create positive change by taking part in a Voluntour and giving back during their travels! Although the trips can be short in duration, they have a huge impact in the lives of local communities and fragile ecosystems. Teach children in Peru, protect endangered sea turtles in Costa Rica and help conserve the Amazon Jungle - travel and make a difference.