Lima : Islas Palomino – Swim with the Sea Lions

Lima: Islas Palomino – Swim with the Sea Lions is a lively adventure that invites you to see Lima from a whole new perspective, just a short boat ride away from the bustling port city. For $89 per person, we’re talking about a 3-hour journey packed with excitement, natural beauty, and some unforgettable animal encounters. Your guides—who speak both Spanish and English—take you on a high-speed boat ride through the Callao Bay, passing by San Lorenzo Island and observing fascinating seabird colonies and Humboldt penguins along the way. Then, the highlight: swimming freely in wetsuits among a large colony of sea lions on Palomino Island, all in their natural habitat.

Two things really stand out about this experience. First, the speedboat thrill is a real adrenaline rush and makes the entire trip feel like a quick adventure rather than just a sightseeing tour. Second, the chance to swim among wild sea lions—an encounter that feels both wild and intimate—offers a rare peek into marine life that’s usually hidden beneath the waves. A possible consideration: weather conditions can impact the tour, and if the sea is too rough, the boat ride or swimming might be canceled for safety reasons. However, the tour’s flexibility and the guide’s professionalism help ensure you get the best experience possible.

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts who want to combine a scenic boat ride with close animal encounters. It’s a great pick for travelers eager for authentic wildlife experiences and willing to handle some unpredictability linked to weather or sea conditions.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Swim among a large colony of sea lions in their natural environment.
• Speedboat Ride: Enjoy an exhilarating, fast-paced boat trip with stunning coastlines and seabird colonies.
• Eco-Friendly: The activity is conducted with the support of Sernanp, emphasizing conservation and minimal ecological impact.
• Duration & Flexibility: The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with options to check different start times.
• Practical & Accessible: Includes bilingual guides, life jackets, and wheelchair access, making it accessible for a wider range of travelers.
• Additional Activities: After the tour, you can explore local sites in Callao or nearby neighborhoods, though these are not included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Palomino Islands Swim Tour

What Makes This Tour Special?

This tour offers a rare chance to swim with wild sea lions in their natural habitat, which is a big draw for marine life lovers. Unlike typical zoo or aquarium visits, this experience places you directly in the animals’ environment, allowing for a more authentic connection with Peru’s coast. The fact that the activity is certified with the seal “Allies of Conservation” reassures visitors that their encounter won’t harm the ecosystem—something increasingly important in today’s eco-conscious travel scene.

The speedboat ride itself is a highlight. It’s not just transportation; it’s part of the adventure. We loved the way the boat swiftly cut through the water, offering adrenaline-pumping views of Callao’s busy port, San Lorenzo Island, and the cliffs and islets that shape the coastline. This combination of scenery and speed makes the trip more immersive and exciting.

What to Expect During the Tour

The adventure begins at the Callao District, a bustling port area that’s often overlooked by travelers. After a quick briefing and safety gear distribution—mainly life jackets—you’ll board a speedboat that zips across the bay. The guides are bilingual, which makes navigation and explanations easy for non-Spanish speakers.

During the roughly 30-minute boat ride, you’ll pass by San Lorenzo Island, a place steeped in history with pre-Columbian roots. You’ll see fishing boats, guano bird colonies, and even Humboldt penguins—a reminder of the diverse marine ecosystem around Lima.

When you reach Palomino Island, the setting transforms into a lively scene of sea lions basking on rocks and swimming in the water. With wetsuits provided, you can freely jump in to swim among these playful creatures. The absence of predators makes it safe for visitors, but it’s still an encounter that feels wild and genuine.

The guides encourage respectful interaction—no chasing or disturbing the animals. Many travelers, including one reviewer, described the moment of swimming with the sea lions as “unforgettable” and “full of emotions.” It’s an experience that can truly resonate and create stories to tell for years.

After the swim, the boat takes you along the cliffs and islets of the coast, offering breathtaking views. A snack is served onboard, and then you head back to Callao, completing your 3-hour journey.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour lasts around 2.5 hours of actual activity, with about 30 minutes for transportation each way. The cost is quite reasonable considering the unique wildlife encounter, especially when you factor in the eco-focused approach and inclusion of bilingual guides.

What to bring? Pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, breathable clothing, and don’t forget your camera. While wetsuits and life jackets are provided, you might want to bring warm clothes for after swimming, especially if the breeze picks up.

Weather and sea conditions can influence the schedule. If the seas are too rough or stormy, parts of the tour could be canceled for safety. This unpredictability is worth considering, especially if you’re traveling during the off-season or in the rainy months.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind getting a little wet and are eager to see wildlife up close. It’s also great for families with older children and marine enthusiasts. Those with mobility issues will appreciate the wheelchair accessibility, but always check in advance to ensure specific needs are met.

Post-Tour Recommendations

Once back on land, consider exploring Chucuito or La Punta for local cuisine and a bit of sightseeing. Visiting the naval museum, the Abtao Submarine, or the Real Felipe fortress can extend your maritime adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $89, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. It’s a compelling choice if you’re looking to add a memorable wildlife experience to your Lima trip. The unique opportunity to swim with wild sea lions is a highlight that few other tours can match, and the eco-conscious approach makes it a responsible choice.

While weather conditions are a factor, the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the experience help ensure you’ll get your money’s worth. If you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or curious traveler, this tour will likely leave you with stories worth sharing—and memories that last.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including boat rides, wildlife viewing, and swimming.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the boat trip, bilingual guides, life jackets, and a protection fee to the islands (Sernanp).

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits are included, allowing you to swim comfortably among the sea lions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the boat has wheelchair access, making it accessible for travelers with special needs.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, breathable clothes, and possibly a camera.

What if the sea is too rough?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour or parts of it may be canceled for safety reasons.

Are there any additional costs?
Transport from your hotel to the pier and from the pier afterward are not included. Optional activities or meals are also extra.

Is there a group size limit?
While not explicitly stated, guided tours typically have a manageable group size to ensure safety and comfort.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Check availability as the schedule can vary; weather and sea conditions influence the timing more than season.

This tour strikes a fine balance between thrilling boat rides, wildlife encounters, and scenic coastal views. It’s a well-rounded choice for anyone wanting an active, authentic experience in Lima’s stunning maritime environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby