Below we have created our extensive guide to the Ballestas Islands based on our expert local knowledge having helped to transport over 140,000 travellers here since our formation in 2013.
The Ballestas Islands are a group of rocky islands located off the coastal town of Paracas. The only way to visit the islands is to take a speedboat tour from the town. For more information about Paracas, see their official page here.
There are many local companies who sell their tours in Paracas. These are usually at inflated prices and are not guaranteed to have safe boats or licensed drivers. Avoid the hassle and book in advance!
Paracas is a beautiful fishing town just 3 hours south of Lima. Nestled along the sandy streets are dainty cafes and restaurants serving up fresh fish and killer Pisco sours. Head south for the day, spend the night or stay on board to experience Huacachina, only a short distance away. Click here to see our bus passes and routes and decide which adventure best suits you!
Paracas is the first stop on many routes with Peru Hop. Let the Islands be the start of a trip you won't forget!
Peru Hop does not operate any tours to the Islands. To see Peru Hop’s recommended operators for this tour read below.
Ballestas Islands Tour
Times:
– First Tour: 08:00am
– Second Tour: 10:00am
Duration: 2 hours
Meeting Point: Frayles Residencial Hotel – 15 minutes before departure time
Capacity: ≈ 42 persons per boat, including a bilingual Guide and experienced driver
Suitability: 4+, those who suffer from motion sickness should take necessary medication prior to boarding
Important Note: The duration of this tour is shortened to 1 hour 30 minutes during holiday periods (e.g. Easter weekend, end of July), no change in price.
Special deal for Peru Hop Passengers: Tours booked via FindLocalTrips.com allow date changes up until the evening before your tour begins at no extra cost.
BOOK A TOUR OF THE BALLESTAS ISLANDS NOW
What to bring to the Ballestas Islands?
Due to increasing winds during the course of the day the tours only depart in the mornings at 08:00am and 10:00am, every day of the week. So be sure to wrap up if you are on the 10:00am tour and tie that hair back to avoid missing the beautiful views!
I am planning to follow your recommended minimum schedule leaving on one of the 07:00am departures from Lima. Spending the first night in Paracas do I have time to do the Ballestas Island Tour, go on the free National Reserve Tour and still catch the bus leaving for Huacachina at 13:00pm on the second day?
Yes, our buses are programmed to allow you to visit the Ballestas Islands (08:00-10:00am), the Paracas National Reserve (depart 11:00am) and still leave for Huacachina at 13:00pm to arrive in time for sandboarding at sunset!
I do not feel well and wish to cancel my tour for the next morning. Will I get a refund?
Peru Hop does not operate the Ballestas Islands trip. The tour provider allows changes up to 18:00pm the day before at no cost. Cancellations or missed tours will be charged the full fee.
I woke up late and missed my tour. Can I change it for tomorrow?
Unfortunately, the operator of the Ballestas Island will charge fully for any NO SHOW or missed tours not previously changed before 18:00pm the day before. If you would like to book the tour again for the next day then this is possible, but you will have to pay a second time.
Is there a pick up?
No, we meet at Frayles Residencial Hotel. Paracas is a tiny village, just a couple of hundred meters long and Frayles Residencial Hotel is very centrally located.
Is it possible to walk on the islands or to go swimming?
The islands are protected, meaning you cannot swim with the animals or walk on the islands themselves, but you will get very close to them by boat. A unique experience for those that will not make it to the Galapagos.
