Paracas Peru: 9 Best and Fun Things to Do
A comprehensive guide to things to do in Paracas, Peru.
In the heart of Paracas, Peru, rugged desert landscapes contrast with the soothing sounds of the sea. Amidst this captivating vista there are opportunities to see penguins, sea lions and maybe even a dolphin or two.
Paracas is a no-frills kind of town that mirrors the untamed spirit of its wildlife, the key attraction for many visitors. Along with the animals, there are also the stunning surroundings of the Paracas National Reserve to explore and a whole load of fun ways to do so.
After Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, a trip to visit Paracas and the Islas Ballestas is top of many people’s list of things to do in Peru. As a seasoned traveller, especially in Latin America, with a passion for independent travel planning, I’ll be your guide to unlocking the wonders of Paracas. I’ve included the best things to do in Paracas, how to get there and an important update for 2023, so you can easily add a trip to Paracas to your own Peru itinerary.
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Top Things to Do in Paracas Peru
Wondering what to do in Paracas or is Paracas worth visiting? As a recent visitor, here are the best and most fun things to do in Paracas, in order of priority.
1. Paracas Boat Tour of Islas Ballestas Wildlife
The Islas Ballestas (Ballestas Islands) are located just off the Paracas peninsula and are sometimes referred to as the ‘poor man’s Galapagos’. Don’t let that put you off though. A boat trip to see the seals and penguins is the top thing to do in Paracas. Having taken the trip myself, it’s easy to see why.
As well as hundreds of noisy sea lions basking in the sun and flopping excitedly into the sea, there is the exciting prospect of glimpsing Humboldt penguins in the wild on a trip to Paracas.
Update for 2024
Shortly before my trip in May 2023, there was an outbreak of avian flu which decimated the animals on the main Ballestas Island, resulting in hardly any animals living there. This was a sad tale to hear and also meant that the famous Paracas penguins were in short supply.
What is the Islas Ballestas Tour Like?
Due to the avian flu outbreak, our guide explained what had happened and took us over to a nearby island where there were sea lions and birds as far as the eye could see.
Sailing around this wild part of Paracas, it struck me how nature’s resilience shines even in the face of challenges, much like the majestic sea lions basking in the sun despite the avian flu setback.
On seeing so many vibrant sea lions the anticipation built as the Paracas boat tour floated nearer to the island, hoping to catch a glimpse of the playful Humboldt penguins.
To my surprise, I only spotted two elusive penguins and you had to be eagle-eyed to pick them out. Thankfully the experienced guide helped with this, so I didn’t miss out on the penguins altogether.
I felt a touch of disappointment at not seeing more penguins but the uproarious sea lions more than compensated for it, as did the unexpected delight of spotting dolphins alongside the boat during the return journey.
Note that the boat tour does not stop for you to walk around the islands, not that you’d want to – those sea lions may look fun but they can be fierce.
Will the Animals Return?
The hope is that the animals, including the Paracas penguins, will return in the future to the main Ballestas island and, if not, the Islas Ballestas boat tour is still an excellent trip, with lots of wildlife to see and an entertaining guide in English and Spanish.
If you’re a seal lover and are in the UK I recommend a trip to see the seals in Norfolk, where you’ll see hundreds of these cute creatures.
Key Details for the Paracas Peru Islas Ballestas Boat Tour
If you’ve come here just to see the Paracas penguins, realistically you might need to adjust your expectations. The wildlife and landscape in Paracas is incredible but it’s not a penguin parade, these cute creatures are currently few and far between.
Ballestas Island tours are offered year-round but inclement or windy weather could impact whether or not the boats can run. If this is a special trip for you and the tour is top of your list of things to do in Paracas, plan to stay overnight, as that at least gives you two days’ worth of chances of it running. You don’t want to miss out on your dream trip just because of the weather.
Speaking of weather, in this part of Peru it can be hot, windy and chilly all in the space of the same boat tour. You might also get wet from the sea spray, so bring layers, a waterproof and some water.
Multiple boats leave from the Paracas harbour, you’ll be asked to queue up in a line and then will be placed onto the next departure.
2. Mini-buggy Tour of Paracas National Reserve
The Reserva Nacional de Paracas, Paracas National Reserve, on the west coast of Peru, is a protected area of archaeological and ecological significance. Established in 1975 the Paracas National Reserve is a fascinating place to visit as it’s made up of both desert and coastal and ocean terrain. It’s also huge, at over 335,000 hectares.
A Paracas mini-buggy tour is one of the best Paracas tours you can do. It’s a brilliant way to experience the reserve. Getting out in a mini-buggy is one of the very best things to do in Paracas.
What is a Mini-Buggy Tour of Paracas National Reserve Like?
You set off from Paracas centre, and have to drive the buggy on an actual road for a short stretch. Thankfully there was hardly any traffic when I did it.
The fun really kicks up a level when you enter the reserve and get to drive the mini-buggy across the off-road terrain. Accelerating through the twists and turns as you speed across the desert makes you feel like you’re in the movie ‘Mad Max’. The wind whips and swirls the sand around as you race onward across the terrain. I was very glad I’d taken a scarf so I didn’t end up with a mouth full of sand as I sped through the Peruvian desert.
On my tour, there was only one other buggy, so it was an even more unique experience, allowing me to feel the solitude and overwhelming power of the natural world within such a vast landscape.
The scenery in the reserve is stunning, it has an other-worldly quality and you’ll want to take plenty of photos. Thankfully, the mini-buggy ride includes multiple photo stops, of 15 minutes each, to take in the views at Yumaque and Playa Roja, the Red Beach. Enjoy stepping away from the buggy and striding across this golden landscape, with heat radiating on your face.
Once you’ve got your incredible photos, save yourself the time of having to think up captions with my helpful list of one word captions for travel photos.
Pro tip
You’ll need to pay the Paracas National Reserve entrance fee on the day in cash, which is 11 soles per person (£2.50 / $3), so make sure you have this ready.
3. View the Paracas Candelabra
Beyond its natural wonders, a trip to Paracas also offers a window into Peru’s rich history. The Pre-Inca Paracas cultures, known for textiles and ceramics, left their mark on this land centuries ago.
One feature that some attribute to the Paracas culture is a gigantic Candelabra geoglyph etched in the sand on the side of the Paracas cliffs. Not a lot is known for certain about how the Candelabra came into existence but viewing this mysterious feature is one of the most unique things to do in Paracas.
The Candelabra has some similarities to the nearby and more well-known Nazca lines, which are also a great addition to any Peru itinerary.
You can get great views of the Candelabra by taking one of the Ballestas Islands boat tours, which pass by and give you plenty of time to stare in wonder at how on earth this sand outline has survived earthquakes and other climatic events throughout the centuries.
4. Visit Playa Roja, Red Beach, and Other Paracas Beaches
One of the Peru National Reserve’s most attractive features is its collection of hidden beaches. Accessible through a guided tour, or by setting out on an independent bike or taxi journey, these secluded shores provide a tranquil escape. Stroll on the soft sands, where permitted, take in the views of the mighty Pacific Ocean and soak in the natural serenity of Paracas.
Playa Roja, Red Beach
Don’t miss one of the best beaches in the Paracas National Reserve, Playa Roja, Red Beach. This protected beach with its ever-changing hues throughout the day, not only captivates the eye but also provides a moment to consider the delicate balance of nature and what’s required for its preservation. To play your part in this, you’re not permitted to walk on the beach itself, as the precious sand doesn’t naturally renew.
Having visited the Red Beach in both the late afternoon and in the morning I found the deeper red colours appear strongest in the morning light.
Don’t just go the Red Beach itself, head up to the viewpoint above at Mirador Istmo, from where the huge uninhabited desert sprawls endlessly in front of you and the heady smell of salt hangs in the air.
More Paracas Beaches
Other beaches in Paracas National Reserve to visit include:
- Lagunillas, a small fishing village
- La Mina
- El Raspón
- Yumaque
For those looking to explore more of Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, consider an adventure to the captivating Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, near Cusco.
5. Go on a Golden Shadows Trek to See the Sunset in Paracas
One of the more recent additions to Paracas tours is the Golden Shadows Trek. This hike across the reserve in the late afternoon’s golden light gives the landscape a different character.
The Golden Shadows Trek is one of the best things to do if you enjoy slow travel. It enables you to witness the transformation of the Paracas Reserve into a surreal canvas, and with each step view the creation of a unique Paracas sunset masterpiece.
The tour lasts for three hours in total, starting out with transport to the reserve from the centre of Paracas. Don’t forget to take water and something with sleeves for when the evening temperature drops or when the wind gets up.
I’d also recommend taking a face covering or light scarf with you, to keep the sand out of your mouth. You might not notice it at first but if you’re talking during the trek your mouth will soon start to feel dry from the sand.
Pro Tip: You’ll have to pay the Paracas National Reserve entrance fee in cash, which is 11 soles per person (£2.50 / $3), so make sure you take this with you.
6. Self-guided Bike Tour of Paracas National Reserve
For a fun alternative idea for what to do in Paracas, why not explore the Paracas National Reserve by bike? You can rent a bike from one of the rental shops in town. Follow your own timetable and see the places you’re most interested in. Don’t forget to take a lot of water and sunscreen if you’re going to attempt this.
On the way out of Paracas, stop at the Museo de Sitio Julio C. Tello de Paracas if you’d like to learn some of the history of this culturally significant part of Peru.
Other top sights to visit on a bike tour include:
Mirador La Catedral, Catherdral Viewpoint
Sadly the rock formation known as La Catedral is no longer in existence, as it was partially destroyed by an earthquake, not dissimilar to the fate of the infamous Blue Window rock formation in Malta, which also sadly crashed into the sea. It’s still worth visiting the viewpoint for the wild landscape surrounding the area.
Playa Roja, Red Beach
A beautifully wild beach with sand in tones of red. The beach is protected due to the non-renewable sand.
Lagunillas
A small fishing village and beach to relax on.
Three Beaches at the Paracas National Reserve
- La Mina
- El Raspón
- Yumaque
7. Paragliding, Kitesurfing and Quad Biking in Paracas
If thrill-seeking is your thing then Paracas has got you covered. As well as the brilliant mini-buggy tours there is also paragliding, kitesurfing and quad biking on offer in Paracas.
If you’re going to paraglide anywhere in Peru you want it to be somewhere with a view and wow what a view you’ll get above Paracas National Reserve, looking out across the ocean.
8. Take a Stroll on Paracas Beach
The tiny town of Paracas has its own beach and whilst it’s nothing compared to the beaches in the Paracas National Reserve, it’s still a beach at the end of the day. Who doesn’t love grabbing an ice cream and heading out for a beach walk?
Paracas beach has a laid-back atmosphere, with souvenir shops and bars on the beachfront and the Kokopelli backpackers hostel at the other end.
You can even hire a catamaran, rent a kayak or put your muscles to the test with the inflatable floating obstacle course at Paracas beach. I did one of these in Sardinia and it was loads of fun, if a little challenging.
9. Best Day Trips from Paracas
Nazca Lines Flight
Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Peru that is home to the fascinating ancient Nazca lines, many of which can still be seen today. These giant geoglyphs take a range of shapes from a spider to an astronaut and are best appreciated from a 30-minute Nazca lines flight.
Gliding over the land from above you’ll get a real sense of just how much terrain these mysterious outlines, believed to have formed an important ceremonial role in Nazca culture, cover.
If you don’t have time or budget for a flight, you can see three of the shapes from the viewing tower on the way towards Nazca. Having climbed the tower and been on a Nazca lines flight I can tell you that the flight is a much better experience. On a flight, you get to see so many more interesting forms, including the cat and the condor.
Nazca lines flights leave daily from Nazca airport and you need to book in advance. Alternatively, you can save yourself the four-hour bus journey to Nazca airport by booking a Nazca lines flight from Pisco airport, which is right next to Paracas, but this is a more expensive option.
Huacachina Oasis
Spend time at an oasis in the Peruvian desert at nearby Huacachina. Not only can you see this incredible natural phenomenon but you can also race around the desert on an adrenaline-fuelled Huacachina buggy tour and have a go at sandboarding down the massive dunes. Two of the most ridiculously terrifying and fun things I’ve ever done.
Pisco Vineyard Tour, Ica
Ica is a large town located only an hour from Paracas and it’s a great place to discover all about the Peruvian national alcoholic drink of Pisco. Find out all about how it’s made and even sample some on a Pisco Vineyard Tour.
If you’re interested in more day trips in Peru, on the opposite side of Peru to Paracas, visit Pisac Market and Ruins on a day trip from Cusco.
How to Get Around Paracas and the Main Sights
Once you’ve arrived in Paracas, the town itself is small enough to cover on foot. Taxis will offer to take you to visit the sights that can’t be reached on foot, including the Paracas National Reserve.
Alternatively, you could book a Paracas National Reserve quad bike tour, an Islas Ballestas boat tour or a mini-buggy tour to explore the best of Paracas. There’s also the option of renting a bicycle from one of the bike shops in town.
Where is Paracas Located in Peru?
Paracas is located in the only desert in Peru, South America. This small beach town can be found on the southwest coast of Peru, a matter of only a few hours south of Peru’s capital, Lima.
Map of Paracas Peru
Paracas can be found on the map of Peru, south of Lima, on the west coast. See the map below to view where Paracas is located. I’ve also marked where the Paracas National Reserve is, along with the departure point for the Islas Ballestas boat tours and the beachside cevicherias.
Distance from Lima to Paracas, Peru
The distance from Lima to Paracas, Peru is approximately 245 km on the Pan-American Highway. This coastal trip offers views of the Pacific Ocean and takes around 3 to 4 hours by car, depending on traffic.
How to Get to Paracas Peru
The natural wonders of Paracas are easy to visit from Lima, or you can add them to an itinerary that includes Huacachina and the Nazca lines. Here’s how to get to Paracas.
How to Get from Lima to Paracas
Public Bus from Lima to Paracas
Taking a public bus from Lima to Paracas is an easy option. With comfortable buses and frequent daily departures, the public bus offers a good balance between affordability and convenience.
The main operators are Cruz del Sur and Peru Bus. Their vehicles are large coach-style buses with mod cons like toilets and reclining seats.
Tickets for the Lima to Paracas bus cost £12 to £16 one way, depending on the specific time, date and bus company you choose. The fastest journey time from Lima to Paracas is 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Pro Tip: There are a lot of buses which depart from Lima and they don’t all depart from the same place. Check your ticket carefully for your specific departure point. For example, the Cruz del Sur buses to Paracas usually depart from Av. Javier Prado Este # 1109 Urb. El Palomar, Lima 13.
Peru Hop Bus from Lima to Paracas
Peru Hop provides an alternative option for getting from Lima to Paracas by bus. With the added perk of accommodation pickup and drop-off in Lima, this travel option offers great convenience for your journey to Paracas.
Operating as a hop-on-hop-off bus service, Peru Hop has multi-day packages that give you the flexibility to explore not only Paracas but also Nazca and the nearby gem of Huacachina. Yet, it’s worth noting that this level of convenience comes with a heftier price tag compared to the combination of public buses and taxis to the bus terminal in Lima.
Ultimately, your choice of transportation from Lima to Paracas depends on your individual timeline and budget considerations. My personal experience involved going from Lima to Paracas on a multi-day ticket with Peru Hop. Despite a minor setback involving an initial bus substitution for a less spacious mini-bus, the overall ease of the hop-on-hop-off schedule proved useful. I also enjoyed getting to know my fellow Peru-hoppers on route.
Day Trip from Lima to Paracas
It is possible to visit Paracas on a day trip from Lima but it may feel a little rushed, as it means getting an early bus, for example 6.55 am, and two long bus journeys in one day. It also means you might not be able to explore all of the fun things to see and do in Paracas.
However, if you haven’t got a lot of time and want to see the wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, Islas Ballestas in Spanish, then a day trip is an option for visiting Paracas from Lima.
You can also book the Peru Hop Paracas and Huacachina full-day tour and it will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel in Lima. With this ticket, there is also the option to visit the Huacahina oasis and have a go at the adrenaline-fuelled activities on offer.
Find out how to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu with my comprehensive travel guide.
How to Get from Ica to Paracas
If you’re staying in Ica, the regional capital, it’s only a one-hour drive to reach Paracas. Taxis will take you from Ica to Paracas or you can book one of the public buses at a cost of £4 to £8 one way. Buses leave multiple times a day.
How to Get from Arequipa to Paracas
Paracas, Huacachina and the Nazca lines are all close enough to do in a two to three-day itinerary from Lima. However, you might also be considering arriving in Paracas after visiting Arequipa. The good news is that there are public buses which cover the route from Arequipa to Paracas. The bus runs daily and you can book your ticket online in advance.
Journey time from Arequipa to Paracas is approximately 14 hours and tickets cost around £30.
Hotels in Paracas – Where to Stay
A word of warning about choosing where to stay in Paracas. At night there are a few very noisy bars on the main street, which is where most accommodation is based. If sound is an issue, ask for the hotel’s quietest room, pack earplugs or stay at the Hilton which is away from the noise.
Budget: Kokopelli Hostel
If you’re backpacking around Peru the Kokopelli Hostel is a popular place to stay in Paracas. The hostel has a swimming pool, a beachside location and dorm beds with privacy curtains. In addition, you can enjoy the on-site games room and free kayaks.
Mid-range: Hotel Residencial Los Frayles
Popular with Peru Hop clients, the Hotel Residencial Los Frayles is a convenient choice if you’re using their buses to get around as you’re at the main Peru Hop meeting point. After a long day in the desert, cool off with a splash in the hotel swimming pool.
Luxury: Double Tree Hilton Peru Resort
If the budget stretches, treat yourself to a stay at the Double Tree Hilton Peru Resort in Paracas. This luxury hotel is slightly out of town and away from the noise of the main drag, which is a bonus as Paracas can be loud at night. The Hilton has the typical Hilton focus on a high standard of customer service, a beautiful pool and an on-site spa.
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Is it Worth Staying in Paracas?
The town of Paracas itself is a means to an end, not the main attraction itself. The range of activities, landscapes and incredible wildlife you can experience from Paracas are definitely worth visiting Paracas for.
However, being located so close to Lima, with frequent buses, means you can visit Paracas on a day trip if you don’t want to stay overnight. So is it worth staying in Paracas?
If you want to explore the reserve, see the Islas Ballestas and do some of the other activities available, like paragliding, it makes sense to stay in Paracas so that you don’t have to rush. Staying overnight also means you’ll have the opportunity to reschedule the boat tour if it’s cancelled due to bad weather.
However, Huacachina is a more picturesque place to stay and has the option of camping out in the desert, so if you only want to spend a day in Paracas, I would stay in Huacachina instead rather than overnight in Paracas, if it fits with your itinerary.
Where to Eat in Paracas
Peru has a reputation for exquisite food and whilst you won’t find the up-market dining of Lima in Paracas, what you will find is delicious, locally made, great value meals.
To find the best places to eat in Paracas forget the restaurants and head to the row of beach-side cevicherias, on Malecon el Chaco, where I enjoyed the best chicha morada drink that I had in the whole of Peru. The food was equally delicious and the dried salted maize snacks were dangerously addictive and regularly replenished by the generous owner.
If you’re not keen on the cevicherias, check out Restaurant Paracas which has a great vegan menu, friendly staff and does a mean Pisco sour.
Remember to ask if the restaurant does a ‘menú’ also known as ‘menú del dia’ – a set price menu, common in Peru. This is usually good value and not displayed on the actual menu.
Weather in Paracas Peru
The weather in Paracas is most often warm and arid due to its desert location. According to the official Paracas National Reserve website, the average temperature in Paracas is 18º C, with a minimum of 15º C in August and a maximum of 22º C in February.
Rain is unusual and typically only occurs in the winter months, which are June to September in Paracas. However, it can get pretty windy in Paracas so remember to pack appropriately, whatever time of year you visit.
FAQs – Paracas Peru: Tour the Incredible Islas Ballestas
What is Paracas Peru Known for?
Paracas Peru is known for amazing wildlife, including Humboldt penguins and sea lions, which can be viewed on a tour of the nearby Islas Ballestas. It’s also known for the Paracas National Reserve, a huge protected reserve incorporating both desert and coastal areas.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Paracas?
You can visit Paracas in one day and either head back to Lime or on to Huacachina. However, to really make the most of all the things to do in Paracas it’s more convenient to spend a couple of days in Paracas.
Are There Penguins in Paracas Peru?
There are Humboldt penguins in Paracas Peru. You should hopefully be able to spot them on a boat tour of the Islas Ballestas. However, there is no guarantee that you will and on my trip to Paracas, I only saw two penguins.
Is it Better to Visit Paracas or Huacachina?
Paracas is better to visit than Huacachina if you’re a wildlife lover and are seeking a sight of the elusive Peru penguins.
Huacachina is a better option to visit if you’re an adrenaline seeker and want to do some unique desert activities. Although you can paraglide, kitesurf and drive a quad bike or mini-buggy in Paracas, so there is plenty to keep you entertained in Paracas too. If you have the time, it’s worth visiting both Paracas and Huacachina.
What is the Closest Airport to Paracas Peru?
Paracas, in Peru, doesn’t have its own airport. Instead, you will need to fly into Lima airport which is the nearest large international airport to Paracas. There is a small local airport at nearby Pisco but scheduled flights do not run from here, instead, it is used for flights over the Nazca lines.
Summary – Paracas Peru: Tour the Incredible Islas Ballestas
If you started off wondering is Paracas worth visiting, I hope I’ve shown that it is. There are plenty of things to do in Paracas. A visit to the peninsula provides the chance to experience a different side of Peru compared to the more famous Machu Picchu. The desert landscape, Islas Ballestas wildlife and range of fun activities are all experiences to treasure.