Paracas: where the desert meets the ocean
This small beach town is made up of wonderful landscapes and diverse wildlife. A day in Paracas is more than time to see what it has to offer. Often overshadowed by its renowned neighbors like Lima and Cusco, Paracas holds its own charm and allure. Read on to discover the hidden treasures of Paracas, from the awe-inspiring Paracas National Reserve to the mystical Ballestas Islands.
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Things to do in Paracas
Visit the Ballestas Islands
Often referred to as the poor mans Galapagos, the Ballestas Islands are home to millions of birds, and a variety of marine life. We were lucky enough to see penguins, seal lions and dolphins when we went!
Boat tours depart at 8am and 10am daily. However, if you don’t mind the early start I would recommend going at 8am as that that is the time the birds go fishing and the water is calmer.
It takes about 45 minutes to reach the islands, but, on the way you will also get the opportunity to visit El Candelabro, a geoglyph (like the Nazca lines). Dating back to around 200 BCE, it’s origins are unknown, however is it surprising to see that they have stayed intact with minimal erosion for hundreds of years.
Top tip: try to sit on the left side of the boat for the better views.
Complete the Golden Shadows Trek
Priced at $26 I did doubt whether this tour would really be worth it. However, it truly was an unforgettable experience, and the time to take in the stunning views made it my highlight of Paracas.
Starting mid-afternoon the tour involves hiking an hour and a half along the coastline into the sunset. We stopped at a variety of different view points to take in the scenery and get those insta worthy photos.
I will say there is a reason the tour is called a trek and not a walk, there are a couple of steep assents and descents along the way, do not let this put you off, just make sure you’re wearing a sturdy pair of shoes!
I would 10/10 recommend the following tour when in Paracas: https://www.findlocaltrips.com/tour-details/golden-shadows-trek-with-paracas-es-aventura
Visit the Paracas Nature Reserve
While I loved the trek through the reserve, you are limited by how far you can go when walking. There are many other great ways to see the different landscapes that make up the reserve.
With the Peru Hop bus pass you get a bus tour of the reserve included. The tour took us to the famous red beach and Catedral view point. However, if I am being honest, I think there are better ways to take in the reserve than a bus tour which gives you five minutes to jump out and take a picture before moving on.
For the adrenaline seekers, you can go Paragliding, giving you a true birds eye view of the coastline.
There is also the option to rent bikes in Paracas town for the day, giving you a much better opportunity to take in the wonderful scenery and colours that make up the reserve.
How to get to Paracas
From Lima
There is only really one way to get to Paracas from Lima and that is via bus. The bus takes about 4 hours to get there.
I would recommend both PeruHop and Cruz del Sur which both operate on this route.
From Huacachina
Peru Hop is the only bus company that runs a bus service directly from Huacachina to Paracas.
Alternatively you need to get a taxi from Huacachina to the town of Ica and then take a bus to Paracas.
Where to Eat in Paracas
- Chalana: located on the pier, this is the go to place for ceviche in Paracas with views of the ocean.
- Waiki Pizza Bar: not just pizza, you’ll find excellent Mexican food here along with lots of locals.
- Fruzion: good breakfast and burgers with a terrace good for people watching.
Where to Stay in Paracas
- For couples: Paracas Guest House, located in a quiet a safe zone with a lovely pool and terrance.
- For solo travelers: Kokopelli Hostel, hosts daily activites and is located right next to the beach.
Paracas FAQs
How long to spend in Paracas?
If you’re short on time or just want to see the main attractions, you can take a day trip from nearby cities like Lima. In one day, you can visit the Paracas National Reserve, take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, and enjoy some seafood by the beach.
A weekend getaway allows you to experience more of what Paracas has to offer. You can visit the Paracas National Reserve, where you’ll find striking desert landscapes, cliffs, and wildlife. Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands to see penguins, sea lions, and various bird species. You will also have time to relax on the beaches, enjoying the local cuisine, and perhaps even trying some water sports like kayaking or paddle boarding.
When is the best time to visit Paracas?
Winter (May to September):
Winter is the peak tourist season in Paracas. During this time, the weather is generally dry and mild, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 24°C). There’s very little rainfall, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is the best time for birdwatching and wildlife observation, as you can see numerous seabirds and sea lions along the coastline.
Spring (October to November):
- Spring is a good time to visit Paracas if you want to avoid the crowds of the high season but still enjoy pleasant weather. Temperatures are similar to those in winter, making outdoor activities doable. The wildlife and natural beauty are still abundant during this time, so you can expect great opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the Paracas National Reserve.
3. Summer (December to April):
Summer in Paracas is characterized by warmer temperatures, with daytime highs reaching up to 80°F (27°C) or more. This is also the wet season, with occasional rain showers, especially in January and February. While summer can be a bit warmer and more humid, it’s still a popular time to visit because of the summer vacation season. The beaches become busier, and water sports are popular.
Keep in mind that some tours may have limited availability during the wetter months, but you can still enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
4. Autumn (March and April):
Autumn is similar to spring in terms of weather and crowd levels. It’s a good time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings and comfortable temperatures. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will still find plenty to see in terms of wildlife and natural beauty.
In summary, the winter and spring months offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and great opportunities for wildlife observation. If you enjoy warm temperatures and don’t mind the occasional bit of rain, the summer season can also be a great time to visit, especially if you plan to spend time on the beach.
