To reach the Ballestas Islands—home to a fascinating variety of exotic marine life and a sky full of birds that are a spectacle in themselves—you’ll need to head south. The journey is about 261 kilometers from Lima to the scenic bay of Paracas, which takes roughly three and a half hours by car.
Looking for ocean adventure, fresh sea breeze, a catamaran ride, and a close-up view of island wildlife? Then the rich, exotic, and magical waters of the Pacific Ocean are calling your name.
If you’re coming from Lima, you might assume that exploring these coastal wonders means hours and hours of endless roads and travel. But is that always the case?
Actually, if you head just 15 kilometers west from Lima—about a 30-minute drive—you’ll find the protected bay of Callao. Now fully integrated into the capital’s urban sprawl, this coastal gem offers a biodiversity experience that rivals even the famous Paracas resort.
Thanks to its rich marine life, nearby islets, and a growing ecotourism scene, Callao has become an exciting destination for both families and adventure lovers eager for a deeper connection with the sea.
Time won’t be an issue—you’re only 30 minutes from home. So why not take a half-day to explore the area around El Callao Island and enjoy a bit of social time at sea?
Once aboard the catamaran, the journey begins. As you cruise along, you’ll take in views of San Lorenzo Island and the haunting silhouette of the former prison on Frontón Island. Later in the tour, you’ll pass by Cabinzas and Palomino, each one offering its own unique views and wildlife.
This isn’t exactly a new tour—but the experience has been upgraded. What used to be just a quick glimpse of the islands has now become a full-on immersive adventure, putting visitors face to face with Peru’s stunning coastal nature and its vibrant marine wildlife.
It’s worth noting that this new and more engaging version of the tour is carefully regulated. It follows strict guidelines to ensure the area’s protected status is respected at all times.
Suddenly, the water turns a dark, swirling color—and then you see them: sea lions. These playful giants put on a show beneath the waves, then climb onto the rocks to rest and groom themselves. Above, birds fill the sky in synchronized flight, showing off their acrobatics (and hunting for fish, of course).
All of this is possible thanks to an important agreement between SERNANP (Peru’s National Service of Natural Protected Areas) and tour operators committed to revitalizing this route. Strict laws are in place to protect the animals, plants, and environment—and every catamaran tour must comply from start to finish.
