Paracas

The Paracas nature reserve is located to the south of Lima (Km 262 of the Panamericana Sur), approximately 4 hours drive away, in the Province of Pisco, department of Ica and has an extension of 335,000 hectares. You can arrive by bus, which leaves you very close to the main port or by private transport. Paracas has a climate that varies between 28° and 14° Celsius, being the hottest months from November to May. However, in the afternoon, there is a strong wind that cools the high temperatures.
The reserve was created for the conservation and quiet reproduction of numerous species of resident and migratory birds. As well as marine species, mammals such as sea lions and some species of reptiles such as sea turtles, and lizards, among others.
In the reserve, you can carry out recreational activities such as beach tourism in the large number of hotel options it offers. Activities such as surfing, fishing, kite surfing (ideal for its winds), paddleboarding in its calm sea, ATVs, museums, bird watching and the main visit to the Ballestas Islands.
The Ballestas Islands are 30 minutes from the coast by fast boat. These islands are the refuge for colonies of sea lions, some species of guano birds, sea otters and penguins. They can be visited by taking a tour of approximately 3 hours in total and learn how these species live and are found in their natural habitat. You can also see the «Candelabra» which is believed to be a symbol left as a sign for navigators or perhaps a masonic symbol.
We recommend visiting the reserve in 2 days, arriving early in the morning to visit the Ballestas Islands, then having an exquisite seafood meal for lunch with fresh products of the day and then taking an ATV tour of one of its beaches. The second is to enjoy the sun, practise some sport or simply relax under the sea breeze.
We recommend not to miss tasting the scallops, which are very delicious in different presentations.
Paracas is also known for the pre-Inca culture that takes its name. This culture has stood out from the rest due to the elongated skulls that have been found and its colourful textiles which remain to this day.
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, a hat, and a windbreaker in the afternoon.
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