Ballestas & Tambo Colorado

Ballestas Islands & Tambo Colorado: From Ocean Wonders to Inca Secrets

Embark on a thrilling full-day adventure that blends nature, history, and culture! Start your journey with a boat tour to the breathtaking Ballestas Islands, home to playful sea lions, curious Humboldt penguins, and stunning rock formations. Witness the enigmatic Candelabra geoglyph from the sea, then continue inland to explore Tambo Colorado, one of the best-preserved Inca archaeological sites along the Peruvian coast. This unique tour offers an unforgettable contrast between the rich marine wildlife of the Pacific Ocean and the architectural genius of the Inca Empire. Perfect for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travellers seeking authentic Peruvian experiences.

Top Highlights

Tour Level: Easy – suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Service: Mix Tour service, group and private tour.
Departure: From Paracas at 8:00am | 9:00am | 10:00am
Duration: 6 hours.
Tour Type: Cultural & Nature Expedition.

Your adventure begins with a hotel pick-up at the scheduled time, followed by a shared boat tour to the stunning Ballestas Islands, where you’ll admire the iconic Candelabra geoglyph, colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, marine birds, and dramatic coastal rock formations during a two-hour guided excursion. Upon returning, enjoy 30 minutes of free time to relax or explore the Paracas waterfront. The journey then continues to Tambo Colorado in private vehicle, located around 1 hour away, through scenic desert landscapes. Along the way, we’ll make short stops at viewpoints and local sites. At Tambo Colorado, one of the most preserved Inca archaeological complexes on the Peruvian coast, you’ll explore ceremonial plazas, ancient adobe structures, Inca murals, and learn about the region’s cultural legacy. The tour ends with a comfortable return to your hotel, making this a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture in one unforgettable day.

Book now for an eco-tourism experience you won’t forget!

Included:

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Paracas.
  • Shared boat tour to the Ballestas Islands.
  • Professional bilingual tour guide (English/Spanish).
  • Private transport to Tambo Colorado.
  • Guided visit to Tambo Colorado.
  • Scenic stops along the route.
  • Bottled water on board.
  • Travel assistance during the tour.

Not Included:

  • Meals and personal snacks.
  • Entrance fees to the Ballestas Islands and Tambo Colorado (22 soles or 7 USD per person)
  • Tips for guides and drivers.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Optional entrance to other nearby attractions.

Note:
The entrance fee to Ballestas Islands and Tambo Colorado is not included in the tour price and must be paid directly in cash or card at the control point, in Peruvian soles.

Allowed:

  • Photography and video for personal use.
  • Bringing reusable water bottles and snacks.
  • Wearing hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals.
  • Eco-friendly behaviour and respect for nature.

❌ Not Allowed:

  • Littering or removing natural elements (e.g. shells, rocks).
  • Drones (without prior permit).
  • Loud music or disruptive behaviour.
  • Smoking in protected areas.
  • Feeding or disturbing wildlife.

🎒 What to Bring:

  • Cash in soles for entrance fee.
  • Sunglasses, hat, and high-SPF sunscreen.
  • Comfortable clothes for warm and windy conditions.
  • Refillable water bottle.
  • Camera or smartphone.
  • Light snacks (optional).
  • Windbreaker or light jacket (optional – coastal breeze).

Pick up will be at your hotel, where our staff will welcome you and assist you. Please be ready at your hotel lobby at least 20 minutes before your selected departure time to ensure a smooth and timely start.

Please note that the Ballestas Islands boat tour is subject to weather and sea conditions. In the event of cancellation due to bad weather or port closure (as determined by the local harbour authorities), we will offer you the following options:

  1. Reschedule the tour for another available day

  2. Take an alternative land-based tour

  3. Continue only with the Tambo Colorado land tour and receive a partial refund

  4. Cancel the full tour and receive a full refund

Your safety is our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding.

All travellers must provide a valid WhatsApp number during booking or confirmation so we can stay in touch for any last-minute updates, meeting instructions, or emergencies.

This tour is not suitable for cruise ship passengers arriving at San Martín Port, as the timings and logistics do not match cruise schedules. Please note that this is a land-based tour with fixed departure times and we are unable to offer custom pickups from the port.

For the best experience, we recommend this tour for visitors who are staying overnight or arriving independently in Paracas.

Your tour is confirmed immediately upon booking, and you will receive an official confirmation by email or WhatsApp. We accept all major credit and debit cards and offer secure online payment options for your convenience.

You may cancel or reschedule your tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time at no additional cost. If you fail to show up on the day of the tour (No Show), no refunds or rescheduling will be offered.

We are committed to providing flexibility and transparency, ensuring your experience in Paracas is enjoyable, safe, and fair under all circumstances.

Why Book This Tour

This full-day tour is the perfect combination of natural wonders and ancient culture. You’ll sail to the Ballestas Islands, where sea lions, penguins, and marine birds create a wildlife spectacle, and admire the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph carved into the desert hillside. Then, travel inland to explore Tambo Colorado, one of the most well-preserved Inca ruins on Peru’s coast. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and flexible options in case of weather changes, this tour offers an unforgettable experience filled with history, nature, and breathtaking scenery — ideal for curious travellers, families, and culture lovers alike.

Why Book With Us?

We are local experts passionate about delivering authentic Peruvian experiences. By booking with us, you benefit from personalised service, small groups or private options, certified bilingual guides, and constant travel assistance. We prioritise your safety, comfort, and satisfaction, offering flexible itineraries, secure payment methods, and full support in case of changes due to weather or other factors. With hundreds of happy travellers and local partnerships, we ensure you enjoy the most complete and worry-free tour in Paracas. Travel responsibly with a team that truly knows the land and loves what we do.

Ballestas & Tambo

$ 70
00
  • Price per person | Minimun 2 people

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What Our Customers Say

Our clients consistently praise our tours for their professionalism, punctuality, and exceptional service. Many highlight the knowledgeable bilingual guides, the comfort and safety of our boats, and the unforgettable wildlife sightings. With thousands of positive reviews, travellers recommend us as the top choice for Paracas tours, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free experience every time.

Still Not Ready to Book?

Not ready to book yet? Need more time or want to personalise this tour? No problem! We’re here to help, contact us today via WhatsApp or email and let’s tailor your perfect Paracas Reserve experience. Your adventure is just one message away!

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