Paracas Reserve: Scenery, Wildlife & History

Explore Paracas Reserve from Paracas. Enjoy stunning landscapes, rich marine life, and discover its unique culture and history on Peru’s southern coast.
Enjoy a complete experience from Paracas, exploring the region’s natural, cultural, and historical treasures. This tour takes you to the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph, the abundant marine life of the Ballestas Islands, and the stunning landscapes of the Paracas National Reserve, complemented by cultural visits and local shopping.

The journey begins with a boat ride from the pier to the Ballestas Islands. Along the way, you’ll stop in front of the enigmatic Candelabra, a massive geoglyph etched into the sand and rock of the peninsula, estimated to be thousands of years old. Its origin and meaning remain a mystery—some link it to the Paracas culture, others to ancient nautical signals. Visible only from the sea, it has stood the test of time and become an iconic symbol of the region.

Continuing to the Ballestas Islands, you’ll witness a thriving ecosystem. Spot colonies of sea lions basking on the rocks, guano birds such as pelicans, blue-footed boobies, and Inca terns, and, with some luck, dolphins swimming nearby. This natural sanctuary is a paradise for nature and photography lovers.

Back on land, the adventure continues through the Paracas National Reserve, where the desert meets the Pacific Ocean in breathtaking scenery. You’ll visit its most spectacular viewpoints and iconic beaches like Red Beach, Lagunillas, and Yumaque, each offering unique beauty along Peru’s southern coast.

To dive deeper into history, you’ll visit the Julio C. Tello Site Museum to learn about the Paracas culture, renowned for its textile art, mummification techniques, and elongated skulls. Next, you’ll stop at the House of Culture, where you can admire local crafts and purchase authentic souvenirs, directly supporting the community.

This tour is the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. From the mystery of the Candelabra to close encounters with marine wildlife, from dreamy beaches to archaeological heritage, every moment reveals a new side of Paracas. It’s an ideal experience for travelers seeking a complete journey in one of Peru’s most fascinating destinations.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.