All Best Things to Do in Paracas (Peru): Ballestas Islands & More

How to visit Paracas: Ballestas Islands, Desert Tours & Hidden Gems

Paracas is a quiet coastal town that serves as the perfect gateway for exploring the stunning Ballestas Islands and the vast Paracas National Reserve.

The town itself is fairly low-key—especially outside of peak tourist season. Many restaurants operate on limited schedules, and there isn’t much going on in Paracas.

However, the surrounding landscapes more than make up for it, offering a wide variety of experiences and adventures.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to plan your trip to Paracas, including must-see attractions, essential travel tips, and my top hotel and restaurant recommendations.

So, what are the top things to see and do in Paracas? Let’s dive in.

Things to Do in Paracas

1. The Ballestas Islands

The Ballestas Islands—composed of Ballesta Norte, Ballesta Centro, and Ballesta Sur—are a true paradise for wildlife lovers in Peru.

These islands are home to over 4,000 sea lions, around 60 bird species, 180 types of fish, and 10 different kinds of dolphins. It’s one of the best places in Peru to observe marine life in its natural environment.

Most boat tours to the islands also include a stop to admire the mysterious El Candelabro, a giant geoglyph carved into the hillside facing the sea. Shaped like a trident or candelabra, it measures approximately 490 feet long and 165 feet wide.

Thanks to constant coastal winds, the geoglyph has remained impressively well-preserved, with its lines remarkably free of sand. Its origin, however, is still unknown. Some believe it’s connected to the Nazca Lines; others think it was a navigation guide—or even a message from extraterrestrials. The truth? No one knows for sure.

How to visit the Ballestas Islands:

• The boat tour lasts around 2 hours (30 minutes each way, with about 1 hour spent near the islands), departing from the Paracas pier.
• There are two daily departures: one at 8:00 am and another at 10:00 am. If you can, choose the 8:00 am tour—the sea is usually calmer in the morning.

You can book your Ballestas Islands boat tour here:

2. Paracas National Reserve

Created in 1975, the Paracas National Reserve protects a unique ecosystem within the Peruvian coastal desert.

Covering an area that is 65% marine and 35% terrestrial, it serves as an essential natural sanctuary for a wide variety of species, including over 200 bird species, 193 types of fish, and numerous mammals, reptiles, and plant species.

The reserve is also of great cultural importance, preserving several archaeological sites from the Paracas civilization and other pre-Columbian cultures that once inhabited the region.

These are the main attractions of the Paracas National Reserve:

2.1 The interpretation center

This is a small space that first shows a video -not necessarily very interesting-, and then presents what the Paracas Reserve has to offer: the local fauna and flora, archaeological remains, geological structure, etc.

From the 2nd floor, you have a beautiful view of the Paracas Bay, one of the most important of the Peruvian coast for its rich biodiversity. If you are lucky, you might even see a flamingo.

To be clear, it is a fairly simple space and not necessarily a must-see, but it is often included in organized tours, so don’t hesitate to stop by for an introduction.

2.2 Julio C. Tello Museum

Inaugurated in 1964, completely rebuilt in 2012 and reopened in 2016, the Julio C. Tello Museum is now a beautiful structure that exhibits artifacts from the Paracas culture, recovered by archaeologist Frederic Engel.

Its permanent collection includes 120 pieces dating from the beginnings of the Paracas civilization to the year 200, as well as a video about the Paracas, their arid environment, their cosmovision and daily life.

2.3 The Cathedral

This rock formation on a cliff facing the sea was named after its imposing arch. Unfortunately, the great earthquake of 2007 (which greatly affected the region) largely destroyed it and it is now just a rock.

Today it is not worth a detour, but it is usually one of the organized visits in the Paracas reserve. In any case, you will hear about it at some point.

2.4 The beaches of the Paracas reserve

As the reserve is on the coast, there are inevitably several miles of beaches, which always offer a beautiful view, but are not always suitable for swimming.

Playa Roja is a nice place to take photos, but as it is next to Lagunillas – a fishing port – the water is not particularly clean, so it is not the best place to swim.

El Raspón beach is smaller and the water is cleaner and calmer – it’s a great place to swim!

Along with El Raspón, La Mina beach is the best place to lie on the sand and swim. In recent years it has become more popular, so on weekends and holidays it is very frequented by Peruvian tourists, but during the week it is very calm. The day I visited La Mina, when it was most crowded, there were about 12 of us on the entire beach.

Practical info: there are even toilets right at the entrance, next to the garbage and recycling bins.

Two other worthwhile stops in the Paracas National Reserve are Yumaque Beach and Supay Beach. While their waters are too harsh for swimming, they’re perfect for soaking in dramatic coastal views and snapping stunning panoramic photos.

That being said, keep expectations in check—this is southern Peru, not Máncora or the Caribbean. The water in the Paracas Reserve is cold year-round and gets even chillier during the Peruvian winter (from May to September).

2.5 Lagunillas Bay

This tranquil bay is anchored by a small fishing port and, for food lovers, it’s truly a must-visit in Paracas.

There’s nothing quite like savoring a plate of fresh ceviche, a tangy leche de tigre, or perfectly grilled conchitas while gazing out at colorful fishing boats gently swaying on the water.

Boat rentals are available if you’re in the mood to cruise the bay or try a hand at fishing. For panoramic views, don’t miss the short climb up the nearby natural promontory—an ideal spot for capturing that perfect photo.

On my last visit, I stopped at La Tía Fela. Ceviche was priced at 35 soles, and the grilled conchitas were listed at 40 soles for ten—but with a smile and some friendly words, we ended up with twelve. It’s often the final stop on tours through the reserve—and a delicious one at that.

How to visit the Paracas National Reserve:

• Unless you have your own car, the best option is to join a tour, as there’s no public transportation (bus or colectivo) to the reserve. You can also rent an ATV (about 2 hours) or a bicycle. Many agencies offer a combined tour with the Ballestas Islands.
• If you prefer—as I did on my last trip to Paracas—to visit only La Mina Beach and Lagunillas port for lunch, the agency can arrange a private taxi, so transportation is included. It’s very practical!
• The entrance fee to the reserve is 11 soles. Even if you take a tour, note that this fee is usually not included in the price.

3. Dune buggy and sandboarding

Although it is mainly the famous Huacachina Oasis that stands out for these activities, it is also possible to practice them near Paracas.

Much less known and touristic than Huacachina, the Moron Oasis is, for me, a real gem. Here you will not find constructions around that pollute the water (nor the unique atmosphere of the desert), only vegetation and sand dunes.

After climbing the sand dunes and sweating a bit, you can take a bath in its clean and fresh water, a real pleasure!

But keep in mind that if you prefer to visit Huacachina, there are also excursions from Paracas that will take you there.

How to get to the Moron Oasis

• To dune buggy and sandboard, it is necessary to go with an agency, but if you just want to swim in the water of the oasis, you can do it by yourself.
• Going on your own: not the easiest option. Personally, I would recommend an agency, but if you prefer it, you must first get to the entrance of the town of Bernales. From there, take a combi (15 minutes) to the end of the dirt road and walk 30 minutes to the oasis.

4. Time Machine

This is an unusual activity in the city of Paracas that I was not expecting at all.

It is a small show that traces the history of the region over 2,500 years, from the pre-Inca culture of Paracas (with its different facets: daily life, weaving, warfare, mummification, surgery, etc.) to the present day, passing through the time of colonization.

But it is also the concept that is quite attractive.

You enter through a metal door, sit on a bench and find yourself on a sort of removable platform that leads to different scenes on three floors. The narration, lighting and sound effects add a touch of drama.

It may not be a must-see in Paracas, but I really enjoyed it because I was looking for something to distract me before going to lunch.

It is definitely an activity to do with the whole family in Paracas!

The show costs 15 soles for 20 minutes. Facebook page

5. Tambo Colorado

Inca vestige of the 15th century, previously occupied by the Chincha culture that was conquered, this site owes its name to the ancient red color of its adobe walls.

It is one of the best preserved sites on the southern coast of Peru.

It is believed to have been a control point for the routes between Ayacucho and the coast, as well as an administrative center.

Around the main square there are several buildings, both ceremonial and housing and warehouses.

There is also a small museum on site to complete the visit. One thing is for sure: it is a must-see for history buffs, and very few tourists bother to visit!

How to get to Tambo Colorado

The site is located 1 hour from Paracas. Once again, I would say that it is better to go with an agency to take advantage of the driver and the guided tour.

• The visit usually takes half a day from Paracas
• The other option, if you have a little time, is to take a colectivo to Pisco for a few soles. From the main square in Pisco, take a guided tour to Tambo Colorado, which will be cheaper than from Paracas!
• The solo option: if you really want to do it alone, go to Pisco by colectivo, and then take another colectivo from the Pisco market to Humay. From there you will have to walk about a mile and a half, but maybe you can make an agreement with the driver to get there for a few soles more. In any case, ask the colectivo before you get on so you know what to expect.

Other visits

From Paracas there are also several excursions to other places of interest in the region, such as Huacachina, mentioned above, but also Nazca and the wineries of Pisco.

Where to stay in Paracas

• Paracas Backpackers House: a perfectly located hostel in the center of Paracas, clean, with nice common areas, good Wi-Fi, rooftop terrace, and hammocks. Probably the best value for money in its category. From just $9 USD in a dormitory.

• Hotel Residencial Los Frayles: a small and charming hotel near the beach and Paracas restaurants. Simple but comfortable rooms, with good Wi-Fi and a small outdoor pool to relax after a day of sightseeing. From $87 USD per night.

• Casa Andina Select Paracas: a modern and comfortable hotel facing the sea, with spacious rooms and ocean views. It offers an outdoor pool, gym, and a restaurant serving Peruvian and international dishes. From $137 USD per night.

• Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection: the most luxurious hotel in Paracas. It has two pools, a lounge bar, one of the best spas in Peru, a kids’ club, and even a private pier for boat tours to the Ballestas Islands. Excellent buffet breakfast included. From $234 USD per night.

Where to eat in Paracas

• Fruzion: This laid-back spot has a covered terrace on the second floor and serves breakfast from 7 am to 1 pm, as well as burgers, vegan dishes, and delicious smoothies—fruit, chocolate, and more—for around 15 soles. There’s also wifi, making it a nice place to chill or get a bit of work done. Fair warning: the smoothies are generous! I ordered one for myself and couldn’t even finish it. Fruzion Facebook page
• Misk’i: Open only in the evenings, this is probably the most atmospheric spot in Paracas. With its cozy and relaxed vibe, it’s perfect for a laid-back night out. Pizzas go for about 35 soles, cocktails range between 10 and 15 soles, but skip the house wine. Misk’i Facebook page
• Il Covo: Craving Italian cuisine and willing to splurge a little? Il Covo is the top restaurant in Paracas, and arguably the most romantic. With wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, creamy risottos, and hearty meat dishes, it’s a safe—and satisfying—choice. Il Covo Facebook page

What to take to Paracas

From December to March (the Peruvian summer) it is very hot, so remember to wear light clothes. The rest of the year, remember to bring a jacket or sweater, as the wind is quite constant and fresh.

In August and September, the “paracas” wind blows in the afternoon. In fact, the region takes its name from the Quechua word for “para” rain and “acca” arena, which means sand rain. These are strong winds, blowing at speeds of up to 30 mi/h! Needless to say, they kick up a lot of sand, so keep your mouth shut 😉

Throughout the year, don’t forget a good sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap: the sun hits hard even when there are clouds. Of course, don’t forget your sandals for the beach and your camera.

How long should I stay in Paracas?

Ideally you should stay 1 day, or at most two days and one night, as the Ballestas and the national reserve can be visited in one day.

How do I get to Paracas?

From Lima

• The trip from Lima takes 3h-4h (depending on the traffic in Lima, which can be very heavy)
• There are many departures per day with different airlines: Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Soyuz, ExcluCiva, etc.
• Which bus company to choose to go to Paracas: there is no single correct answer. It is true that Cruz del Sur is the safest company but it is also the most expensive. For a short trip like Lima-Paracas, this is not as much of a problem as for other destinations, so it all depends on how comfortable you want to go.
• Ticket prices vary according to comfort, whether meals are included in the price, stops en route, etc.
• Having already done the low cost trip with Soyuz, I preferred to indulge myself this time with Southern Cross and I did not regret it. Trip was roughly 3 hours (60 soles), meals included, very comfortable seat, personal screen with several movies and series.

From Nazca

• The trip between Nazca and Paracas takes between 3h and 3h30
• There are several buses a day with Cruz del Sur, or alternatively one trip a day with Oltursa
• It is also possible to go via Ica, where you can find more buses and you can take advantage of an extension to Huacachina

Book Your Flight at the Best Price

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Rent a Car in Peru

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