Ballestas Islands and Paracas Reserve Expedition from Ica group

A Practical and Enjoyable Day at Paracas and the Ballestas Islands

This tour from Ica to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve offers an engaging mix of wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural history, all for just $26 per person. With a duration of about 9 hours, starting early at 6:30 am, it’s an ideal way to explore some of Peru’s most iconic landscapes without breaking the bank. The tour is led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, and includes transportation, making the logistics smooth for visitors.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines wildlife viewing—with glimpses of sea lions, penguins, and a variety of bird species—with the chance to see the mysterious geoglyph of El Candelabro. Plus, the stops at beautiful beaches with fresh seafood for lunch add a relaxing, authentic touch. On the downside, the pier fee (S/ 5) and tourist ticket (S/ 17) are extras to keep in mind, but overall, the price feels quite reasonable considering the included activities.

This tour suits anyone interested in nature, wildlife, and archaeology who wants a well-rounded day with minimal hassle. Families, solo travelers, and groups alike find it to be a good value, especially given the positive reviews highlighting friendly guides and well-organized logistics.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $26, the tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Diverse Experiences: From wildlife on the islands to stunning beaches and geoglyphs, there’s a lot packed into the 9 hours.
• Professional Guides: Visitors consistently praise the friendly, informative guides who make the day more engaging.
• Flexible Itinerary: The stops are well-paced, with free time for photos and lunch.
• Nature & Culture: The tour combines natural beauty with cultural sights like the El Candelabro geoglyph.
• Optional Extras: Remember to budget for pier and entrance fees, which are separate from the tour price.

Starting the Adventure: Ica to Paracas and the Islands

The tour begins early in Ica with a convenient pickup from your hotel, setting the tone for a day of discovery. We’re typically picked up around 6:30 am, weather permitting, which helps us beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler part of the day. The first leg is a short drive to Paracas, where the adventure truly begins.

What makes this part so appealing is how smoothly the logistics are handled—your transport is a comfortable, group-friendly vehicle, and the process of boarding the boat for the islands is streamlined thanks to the assistance from friendly staff. This means you can focus on soaking in the landscape rather than worrying about arrangements.

Exploring the Ballestas Islands: Wildlife Galore

The highlight for many travelers is the boat trip around the Ballestas Islands, a protected marine reserve teeming with life. The boat ride lasts about two hours, during which you’ll see sea lions, sea birds, and perhaps even penguins—especially if your timing aligns with their seasonal visits, as some reviews mention penguins and seals.

Our guide, Jota, (mentioned in reviews as very attentive and friendly) enriches the experience with details about the wildlife and the formation of the Candelabro geoglyph—a mysterious figure carved into the hillside, visible from the sea. This geoglyph, linked to Paracas and Nazca cultures, remains a fascinating enigma that sparks everyone’s curiosity.

Many visitors note how close and approachable the animals are, making for fantastic photo opportunities. As one reviewer put it, “This was an amazing tour. The island part was fun, and we saw a lot of birds and other wildlife.” The boat trip’s value is heightened by the fact that admission to the pier is included in the tour price, though there is a small S/ 5 fee for the pier itself.

Beaches and the Paracas National Reserve: Nature and Relaxation

After the boat ride, we head to the Paracas National Reserve, a vast natural area with stunning beaches like Playa Roja and Lagunilla. The stops here are laid out with enough time for us to admire the scenery, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The vibrant red sands of Playa Roja contrast beautifully with the blue sea—a real treat for photography lovers.

Lunch is usually at a local spot right in front of the ocean, where you can indulge in fresh fish and seafood, often highlighted as the best part of the day. Several reviews mention the quality of the seafood and the chance to enjoy it in a natural setting, which adds a memorable culinary dimension to the trip.

The guide provides insight into the geology and ecology of the reserve, helping us appreciate the importance of preserving these landscapes. This part of the tour lasts about three hours, giving us a relaxed yet enriching experience.

Returning to Ica: Wrap-up and Reflection

After a full day of exploring, the group heads back to Ica, arriving roughly two hours after the last stop. The return journey is a good time to chat with fellow travelers or reflect on the day’s highlights. The guides are attentive and ensure everyone is comfortably transported back, making the end of the day just as smooth as the start.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, the boat trip, and the guided visits to the islands and beaches. The official tourist guide is known to be knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience with local stories and insights.

However, travelers should budget for entrance fees (S/ 17 for the tourist ticket) and pier fee (S/ 5). Food is not included, but you’ll have plenty of opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood for lunch, which many find to be a highlight. Tips are optional but appreciated for guides and boat crew.

Why This Tour Works Well

Based on the glowing reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides, well-organized logistics, and beautiful scenery make this tour stand out. You’ll love the way the guides share stories about the wildlife and geoglyphs, making them more than just sights — they become stories you carry home.

The flexible stops and free time give you a chance to capture photos or simply soak in the natural beauty. Travelers especially enjoy the variety of experiences packed into a single day — wildlife, beaches, cultural sights, and delicious seafood.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, the benefit is avoiding crowds and enjoying cooler temperatures. The group size is limited to about 20, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see wildlife and natural beauty without complicated arrangements. It suits families, solo visitors, and groups who value authentic sights and easy logistics. If your interest lies in nature, archaeology, and local cuisine, this tour hits all those marks comfortably.

If you prefer to explore at your own pace or want a more in-depth cultural experience, you might prefer to extend your time in Paracas or add extra tours. But for a well-rounded snapshot of the region, this is hard to beat.

The Sum Up

This Ballestas Islands and Paracas Reserve expedition offers an excellent balance of wildlife, scenery, and cultural sights—all at an affordable price. The professionalism of the guides, combined with the stunning natural landscapes, makes it a strong choice for travelers seeking a day filled with authentic experiences and memorable views.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate close-up wildlife encounters, want to see the mysterious geoglyph of El Candelabro, and enjoy relaxing beach stops with fresh seafood. The tour’s organized nature and attentive guiding make it a hassle-free way to experience some of Peru’s most captivating natural wonders.

For travelers who want a balanced, value-packed day that combines nature, culture, and cuisine, this tour from Ica is a solid pick.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing and helping avoid the crowds.

How long is the boat trip to the islands?
The boat ride lasts approximately two hours, during which you’ll see wildlife like sea lions, birds, and possibly penguins.

Are food and tips included?
Food is not included, but there are opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood during the day. Tips are optional but appreciated.

What extra fees should I expect?
You’ll need to budget for a S/ 5 pier fee and a S/ 17 tourist ticket, paid separately from the tour price.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Ica are included, in a comfortable group vehicle.

Can I participate if I’m traveling alone?
Absolutely, solo travelers are welcomed and often find the tour to be a great way to meet others.

How much free time is there for photos or lunch?
You’ll have enough free time at beaches and during lunch to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see sea lions, seabirds, and, depending on the season, penguins and seals.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, families who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife will find this tour engaging and manageable.

How do I book?
Bookings are typically made 6 days in advance, and you can reserve via the provided link or contact the supplier directly.

This tour offers a well-balanced taste of Peru’s coastal wonders. Whether you’re eager to see wildlife, marvel at ancient geoglyphs, or simply enjoy fantastic seafood, it’s a day that won’t disappoint.