Paracas Travel Guide

2024 Update

paracas Brief Summary:

  • Paracas is a beautiful small town by the sea.
  • How to get to Paracas: By bus, no Airport. Peru Hop #1 rated bus company in Peru on Tripadvisor.
  • What to do in Paracas: Ballestas Islands, also known as the “Peruvian Galapagos”, Visit stunning Paracas National Reserve and maybe do a Golden Shadows Trek (top rated on Tripadvisor)
  • You can visit Paracas on a Day Trip from Lima with Peru Hop or stop off on your way from Lima to Cusco or Cusco to Lima
  • Official Information Website: www.paracasperu.com

Complete Guide to Huacachina

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How to get to paracas

Paracas is approximately a 4-hour drive away from Lima. Head south for the day, spend the night or stay on board to experience Huacachina, only a short distance away.

You have 2 options to get to Paracas:

Public bus

There are many public bus companies operating the Lima to Paracas route. The only problem is the headache you will have trying to compare prices and after you choose one, having to find the companies terminal since there is no central bus terminal.

Peru Hop bus

Peru Hop buses offer a comfortable and safe trip, with free pickups and drop-offs being included for free. There are also free additional stops and tours on the way to Paracas which will make your trip much better! Make sure to check out the bus passes and decide which adventure best suits you.

Find The Perfect Pass To Get To paracas

Must do in paracas

Paracas is perfect for all types of travelers. With its relaxed vibes, this beach town has a surprising variety of activities to choose from. The Paracas National Reserve is one of the main attractions here in Paracas. It is the oldest marine reserve in Peru and consists of almost 335,000 hectares of area, with its main function to preserve the marine life ecosystem. You will find many different species of birds here, most sitting on the shore’s edge basking in the sunshine that reflects of the water. This offers some excellent photo opportunities as the desert lands and endless ocean waters provide the perfect scenery to capture that treasured memory on film.

Just 45 minutes away on a boat from the Pacific Coast lies the Ballestas Islands, also referred to as the “Peruvian Galapagos”. With a tour of these islands, you’ll get to see a lot of animals in their natural habitat at just a fraction of the cost! The Ballestas are a must-do for all wildlife lovers as they’re home to thousands of birds and mammals including penguins, sea lions, Inca terns, and pelicans. 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.

You can also relax on the beach while watching the sunset along the Pacific coast. Just grab a couple of beers and enjoy the view!

paracas Safety Tips

  • Bring sunblock and a hat, it is sunny all year round
  • Never carry your passport/credit card unless 100% necessary
  • Avoid using ATM machines at night
  • If moving on to Huacachina after Paracas make sure you take cash out from the ATM while you can. While there are two ATM machines in Paracas there are NONE in Huacachina

Where to stay in paracas

Excellent for:

  • Couples
  • Older Travelers
  • Families

Why guests love it:

  • Best Value
  • Swimming pool
  • Great wi-fi
Room TypeNormal PricePeru Hop Price
6 bed dorm* N/A15 USD PP
Double/Twin85 USD PR43 USD PR
Double/Superior (inc. balcony & bath)100 USD PR49 USD PR
Triple100 USD PR49 USD PR
Quadruple120 USD PR64 USD PR
PP: per person | PR: per room | *Towel hire 5 soles

Facilities: Breakfast included. Swimming pool, wi-fi, secure rooms ALL with private bathroom.

Peru Hop Deal: Up to 46% OFF for Peru Hop passengers.

Excellent for:

  • Backpackers
  • Solo travelers
  • Couples

Why guests love it:

  • Bar
  • Swimming pool
  • Entrance to beach
Room Type Normal PricePeru Hop Price
Double P/B62 USD PR59 USD PR
Twin P/B64 USD PR61 USD PR
Large Dorm P/B15 USD PP13 USD PP
Medium Dorm P/B18 USD PP16 USD PP
Small Dorm P/B22 USD PP19 USD PP
PR: per room | PP: per person P/B: private bathroom

Facilities: Swimming pool, small bar, Wi-Fi. Breakfast not included.

Peru Hop Deal: Up to 10% OFF.