Ballestas Islands
FAQFrequently asked questions
What are the Ballestas Islands and where are they?
This is a small rocky archipelago off the Pacific coast of Peru, in the Ica region, near the resort town of Paracas. One of the most famous ecotourism spots on the Peruvian coast.
How to get there?
Only by boat from Paracas (near Pisco). The excursion by sea lasts about two hours - they do not disembark on land, they watch everything from the ship.
Who can be seen here?
Sea lions and seals, Humboldt penguins, and a whole bird market - cormorants, Peruvian gannets, pelicans, Inca terns. Sea lions sometimes swim up to the boats themselves, so a photo is guaranteed.
What is interesting on the way?
On the way to the islands, you can see El Candelabro - a huge geoglyph on the Paracas Peninsula. There is a version that it served as a guide for sailors.
Is this a protected area?
Yes, the islands are part of the Peruvian National Reserve System of the Guano Islands. Colonies of birds are not simply admired here - it was because of them that guano accumulated.
