Things to do in Paracas

No. 17 of Best Things to Do in Peru

Reserva Nacional de Paracas

Reserva Nacional de Paracas is located in the Pisco Province of Ica, Peru, and can be reached by driving south from Lima along the Pan-American Highway for approx. 3 hours. More than 300,000 hectares of the protected area consist largely of Pacific Ocean waters, while the land portion covers the entire Paracas Peninsula. The ochre-red arid desert plunges directly into the deep blue sea, and this seamless connection between desert and ocean is its signature view. There are many worthwhile stops along the peninsula loop: Red Beach features brick-red sand created by the weathering of porphyry cliffs, creating a striking color contrast with the adjacent azure bay, making it a highly photogenic spot within the reserve; the sea cliff observation deck near the Cathedral rock formation is perfect for overlooking the coastline; and a giant geoglyph known as the Candelabra is carved into the cliff on the northern end of the peninsula, which can only be viewed from the sea when taking a boat trip. The nutrient-rich nearshore cold currents often attract flocks of Chilean flamingos to forage in the shallows of Paracas Bay. The observation deck next to the site museum, named after Peruvian archaeologist Tello, is a popular spot for birdwatching, and the museum displays artifacts from the Paracas culture, which is famous for its exquisite textiles. Boat trips offer the opportunity to see groups of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds covering the reefs up close.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Peru

Las Ballestas

Las Ballestas are often called the "Galápagos of Peru." The desert coast, steep cliffs, and rugged rocky islands create a desolate yet unique natural landscape. The islands are home to tens of thousands of seabirds, including Humboldt penguins, Peruvian pelicans, cormorants, and Peruvian boobies. The Humboldt Current, which flows along the coast of Peru, is responsible for this ecological wonder. The current brings nutrient-rich deep-sea water to the surface, nourishing vast amounts of plankton and fish, providing an abundant food source for seabirds and marine mammals. Birds have nested on the cliffs for years, and the accumulated guano covers the entire rock face—historically, these guano layers were once dozens of m thick and were once an important source of natural fertilizer for Peru. Today, when touring the islands by boat, in addition to the dense flocks of birds, you can also see South American sea lions basking on the rocks, and occasionally dolphins appearing in the nearby waters.

Paracas

Embarcadero Islas Ballestas

La Catedral

Playa de la Mina

Museo De Sitio Julio C Tello De Paracas

Mirador Playa Roja

Candelabro de Paracas

Plaza de Armas