Palomino Islands Yacht Tour and swim alongside the sea lions

Palomino Islands Yacht Tour and Swim Alongside the Sea Lions: An Authentic Marine Adventure near Lima

Imagine setting out from Lima’s coast early in the morning, stepping aboard a modern yacht, and heading towards the Palomino Islands — a wildlife haven right in the Peruvian Pacific. For around $125 per person, this five-hour tour offers a chance to swim alongside friendly sea lions, explore the diverse marine fauna, and learn about the area’s history and ecology. Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience is designed to give you a close-up look at some of Peru’s most fascinating marine creatures.

What we really love about this trip is the opportunity to get in the water and interact directly with sea lions in their natural habitat — a rare and delightful experience. Plus, the stops at San Lorenzo Island and the Frontón and Cabinzas Islands provide a mix of wildlife viewing and scenic island landscapes. On the flip side, you should consider that the weather can be quite changeable, and the presence of strong odors from the wildlife might not be for everyone.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy marine life and outdoor activities, especially those keen to swim with sea lions and see Peru’s marine ecosystems firsthand. It’s well-suited for active adults and older children, but not recommended for children under 3 years or pregnant women due to safety and comfort considerations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Swim close to playful sea lions and see Humboldt penguins and guano birds.
• Scenic Islands: Discover San Lorenzo Island, El Frontón, and Cabinzas Islands with historical and ecological significance.
• Expert Guidance: Led by English and Spanish-speaking guides with marine crew and instructors in the water.
• Authentic Experience: Respectful of nature; visitors are advised to minimize impact and avoid touching animals.
• Comfort & Practicalities: Includes lifejackets, round-trip transport, and bathrooms aboard the yacht.
• Weather & Odors: Be prepared for variable weather and a strong animal odor that might take some getting used to.

A Deep Dive into the Palomino Islands Yacht Tour

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Journey to Callao

The adventure begins early, with hotel pickups between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. from hotels in San Isidro, Barranco, and Miraflores. This transport arrangement is a big plus, ensuring a hassle-free start to your marine day. We appreciated that the tour includes round-trip transportation, meaning you won’t need to worry about organizing your own transfer to the pier in Plaza Grau, Callao.

The drive itself is scenic, giving you a glimpse of Lima’s bustling neighborhoods and coastal scenery as you head toward the pier. It’s a good time to review the tour’s itinerary and get excited about the day ahead.

Boarding the Yacht and the Voyage Out

Once at the pier, you’ll board a modern yacht that’s comfortable and well-equipped. The boat ride to the islands takes approximately 45 minutes, which offers a relaxing way to enjoy the ocean views and chat with fellow travelers. During the trip, your guide will share insights about La Punta, Chucuito, El Camotal, and the islands — not just geography, but a bit of local history and ecology.

We loved the informative commentary that made the journey educational as well as scenic. It helps set the tone for what’s to come, especially when you see the islands approaching on the horizon.

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Exploring San Lorenzo and the Callao Islands

The main highlight is the swim with sea lions, which lasts around 15 to 20 minutes. This is the core reason many sign up — to experience the playful, friendly nature of these animals up close. The guides are attentive and instructive, emphasizing safety, respecting wildlife, and making sure everyone knows how to behave around the animals.

Sea lions in these waters are harmless and friendly, often approaching curious swimmers. Several reviewers mention how “those sea lions are so friendly and harmless — it’s completely different from seeing them from afar.” It’s worth noting that the odor of the animals and the sea can be strong, but most find it part of the authentic experience, and it usually fades after a few minutes.

Apart from the sea lions, the islands are home to Humboldt penguins and guano birds, which passengers can observe from the boat or on short walks. The islands themselves are rugged, with some historical remains, adding a layer of curiosity about their past uses.

Why the Wildlife Viewing Matters

The diversity of marine fauna is a big plus. Seeing penguins, guano birds, and sea lions in their natural environment offers a perspective that’s both educational and entertaining. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, explaining animal behaviors and ecosystems, which enhances appreciation and respect for the environment.

Practical Aspects & Comforts

The tour includes lifejackets, a guide in English and Spanish, and the boat crew, ensuring safety and comfort. There are bathrooms onboard, which is a thoughtful touch for a five-hour trip. The round-trip transport simplifies logistics, especially after a busy morning in Lima.

What to bring? A passport or ID, sun protection, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. It’s also wise to have a light breakfast beforehand, as some travelers report feeling a bit queasy due to boat movement, especially if they’re prone to motion sickness.

The Return Journey and Reflection

The tour wraps up around 12:30 p.m., after which you’ll head back to the pier and be transported back to your hotel. Many reviewers comment on how well-organized and smooth the process is, allowing you to relax and process the incredible morning you just experienced.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if marine wildlife sparks your interest and you’re looking for a unique, hands-on experience. For about $125, you gain more than just sightseeing — you get to interact with playful sea lions and learn about the local marine ecosystem from passionate guides. The tour’s length and inclusions make it a good value, especially given the rarity of swimming with these animals in their natural habitat.

However, be prepared for the odors and variable weather, and remember that children under 3 and pregnant women are not recommended to participate. It’s best suited for active, outdoor-loving travelers who don’t mind a bit of adventure and nature’s quirks.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and anyone curious about marine ecosystems. It’s especially suitable for families with older children who can safely enjoy swimming and outdoor activities. The guides’ knowledgeability adds value for those wanting to learn more about Peru’s coastal nature.

If you appreciate authentic experiences with local wildlife and are prepared for a bit of a boat ride and outdoor elements, this tour will deliver a memorable day.

The Sum Up

The Palomino Islands Yacht Tour offers a rare chance to get in the water with sea lions in their natural environment while exploring some of Peru’s most interesting islands. The combination of marine life encounters, scenic islands, and informative guides makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a hands-on, wildlife-focused adventure. It balances excitement with education, offering genuine moments of connection with nature that are hard to find elsewhere.

While it requires some physical activity and an openness to marine odors and weather variability, those willing to embrace the adventure will find this tour a worthwhile highlight of their Lima trip. It’s a chance to step outside typical city sightseeing and experience the biodiversity of Peru’s coast firsthand.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own life jacket?
No, the tour provides lifejackets for all participants.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the yacht excursion, entrance to SERNANP, a lifejacket, a guide in English and Spanish, boat crew, instructor in the water, and round-trip transportation.

Are meals provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s recommended to bring snacks or plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including transport, boat trip, and swimming time.

Can I swim with the sea lions?
Yes, you will have around 15-20 minutes to swim close to the sea lions in their habitat.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for children over age 3 who can handle some outdoor activity. Pregnant women are advised not to participate.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and perhaps a light breakfast.

What is the weather like?
Weather can be quite changeable; water temperatures range from 7 to 19°C depending on the season.

Are there bathrooms onboard?
Yes, the yacht is equipped with bathrooms for your convenience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
This detail isn’t specified, so it’s best to contact the provider to confirm accessibility.

This marine adventure combines fun, education, and a touch of wild nature. If you’re eager to see Peru’s coast from a different perspective, swimming with sea lions in the Callao Islands could be just the highlight you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: