LITTLE GALAPAGOS OR BALLESTAS ISLANDS

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BALLESTAS ISLANDS OR LITTLE GALAPAGOS , PARACAS RESERVE AND NAZCA LINES 2D/1N

The Ballestas Islands were added (1966) to the Paracas National Reserve (340,000 hectares), established in 1975, just south of Pisco. The Reserve and Islands are home to a multitude of species. Flights of birds look like the approach of a dark storm cloud, but these clouds have white rain. Tourists can take boat tours around the islands but are not allowed on shore.

These spectacular islands, eroded into many caves and arches, provide shelter for thousands of seabirds and hundreds of sea-lions. The islands are home to over 150 species of marine bird including the Humboldt penguin, cormorants, boobies and pelicans. Even condors have been known to visit. On the shores can be seen large numbers of sea-lions and in the sea it is possible to encounter dolphins and even whales.

The Ballestas Islands are sometimes described as Peru's mini-Galapagos and although they don't match the splendour or variety of their northern cousins, they are quite spectacular in their own right. The islands have been eroded to form countless natural caves and arches. In fact, this is where the islands' name comes from - the word Ballesta means 'bow' (as in archery). There are colonies of thousands of seabirds such as pelicans and penguins, and you will also see hundreds of sealions and often schools of dolphins. It is probably a good thing because the place is covered with processed fish that has been through the digestive tracks of countless and diverse birds, sea lions, and turtles. Much of it is still accumulating as you can see in the photos, look for the white streaks whenever there is a dark background. Do remember to bring a hat!

The only way to get to the island is by taking an organised tour (there are many agencies in Pisco and Paracas). Tours are comprise a speedboat trip accompanied by a guide for about 2 hours. Boats depart between 08:00 and 10:30 from the fishing jetty at El Chaco port by the village of Paracas. Check that the company provides life-jackets and take warm clothing and sun protection. Also ask what is the maximum group size since some boats can become very overcrowded.

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Litle Galapagos or Ballestas Islands

Little Galapgos or Ballestas Islands - Paracas Reserve - Nazca Lines Trip Itinerary

DAY 1: Early morning departure with private transportation from Lima to Paracas. Along the way, your guide will explain to you the traditions of the different sites we will visit such as the Pantanos de Villa, Pachacamac, Lagunas of Chillca, towns like Cañete and Chincha with a high population of afro-Peruvian people.
A visit to the castle of Unanue will sow you an impressive Moorish architecture. Upon arrival to Paracas, we board a boat for a visit to the Ballestas Islands, known also as the little Galápagos. This is where we can have close encounters with hundreds of sea lions, cormorans and abundant sea birds.
Lunch will be on your own and then we continue to the town of Nazca, where you will spend the night at the Hotel in Paracas.

DAY 2: Early morning, transfer from the hotel to the Marie Reich airport, where we will watch a video about the mysterious Nazca Lines and then take a flight in a small plane over the lines.
Later we will visit the pre -Incas tombs at Chauchillas, plus a visit to a ceramic factory and the healing waters of Laguna Huacachina.
Lunch will be on your own and afternoon return to Lima.

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