Ballestas, Paracas and Tambo

Full Tour Ballestas Islands, Paracas Reserve & Tambo Colorado | Nature and History in One Day

Embark on a captivating full-day tour from Paracas that perfectly blends wildlife, desert landscapes, and ancient history. Begin with a scenic boat ride to the iconic Ballestas Islands, often called the “Galapagos of Peru,” where you’ll spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and flocks of guano birds, along with the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph. Then, continue to the awe-inspiring Paracas National Reserve, known for its dramatic cliffs, fossil-rich formations, and stunning beaches like Playa Roja and Lagunillas. After soaking in the natural beauty, travel inland to discover Tambo Colorado, a remarkably preserved Inca site where you’ll witness colourful adobe structures and learn about pre-Columbian life far from tourist crowds. This tour is ideal for travellers seeking an enriching, private experience that showcases Peru’s ecological wonders and rich cultural heritage in just one unforgettable day.

Top Highlights

Tour level: Easy – Suitable for all ages.
Departure: From Paracas, 8:00 a.m. (hotel pick-up or agreed meeting point).
Duration: Approximately 7 to 8 hours.
Tour type: Combo – Nature, culture and archaeology.
Service type: Group and Private, with certified guide in English or Spanish.

Your adventure begins with pick-up from your hotel or designated meeting point at the scheduled time. Today will be a full day of exploration, nature and culture as we take you through the very best of Paracas and beyond. We start with a scenic boat ride to the Ballestas Islands, where you’ll spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, guano birds and the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph etched into the desert hillside. Next, we’ll journey into the heart of the Paracas National Reserve, visiting the iconic viewpoints of La Catedral and Supay, the striking Red Beach (Playa Roja), and the peaceful shores of Lagunillas Beach, surrounded by spectacular desert landscapes and ancient marine fossils. After a short break, we travel inland (approx. 1.5 hours) through valleys and coastal scenery to reach Tambo Colorado, one of the best-preserved Inca adobe complexes, where you’ll walk among colourful walls and learn about life during the Inca Empire in a less-touristic setting. The tour ends with a comfortable return to your hotel, completing an unforgettable day filled with wildlife, archaeology, and breathtaking views along the Peruvian coast.

Included:

  • Private transport throughout the tour.
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Paracas.
  • Boat tour to Ballestas Islands (shared service).
  • Guided visit to Paracas National Reserve (private).
  • Guided visit to Tambo Colorado (private).
  • Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish).
  • Bottled water on board.
  • All logistical coordination and personalised service.

Not Included:

  • Entrance fee (S/.28 soles or USD $8.00 – cash only).
  • Food and drinks.
  • Tips (optional).

Note:
The entrance fees is not included in the tour price and must be paid directly in cash or card at the control point, in Peruvian soles.

✅ Allowed:

  • Taking photos and videos (without flash inside the museum).
  • Bringing water bottles.
  • Wearing comfortable clothing and sun protection.
  • Asking questions to the guide during the tour.
  • Accessing both upper and inner areas of the site under supervision.

❌ Not Allowed:

  • Climbing or touching archaeological walls and structures.
  • Entering restricted or closed-off areas.
  • Consuming food or drinks inside the archaeological zone.
  • Littering or removing stones or artefacts.
  • Use of drones without prior official permission.

🎒 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 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 private tour is the perfect way to explore the highlights of Paracas in just one day—combining marine wildlife, desert landscapes and ancient Inca history. You’ll visit the world-famous Ballestas Islands, the stunning Paracas National Reserve, and the hidden archaeological gem of Tambo Colorado, all with the comfort of private transport and a certified local guide. Unlike standard tours, this experience is fully personalised, avoids large crowds, and allows you to travel at your own pace. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast or first-time visitor, this tour offers a well-balanced itinerary filled with unforgettable views, authentic encounters and expert insights. Ideal for couples, families or solo travellers looking for a genuine and enriching travel experience in southern Peru.

Why Book With Us?

We are a trusted local operator based in Paracas, dedicated to providing personalised, high-quality travel experiences. When you book this tour with us, you’re choosing more than just a standard itinerary — you’re choosing flexibility, expert guidance and genuine local insight. All our tours are operated in small private groups, ensuring comfort, safety and personal attention at every stage. Our certified bilingual guides are passionate about sharing the region’s nature, culture and history, offering meaningful storytelling rather than scripted explanations. We handle every detail, from hotel pick-up to entrance coordination, so you can focus on enjoying the journey. With excellent reviews and years of experience in the area, we are your best choice for a Ballestas Islands, Paracas Reserve and Tambo Colorado private tour.

Ballestas, Paracas & Tambo

$ 95
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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