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Candelabro en la reserva nacional de Paracas

Ballestas Islands

h Tour: Ecotourism Min: 2 persons

DESCRIPTION

Description Tour to the Ballestas Islands in Ica

With the Tour to the Ballestas Islands in Ica, you can visit the Candelabra, which is 180 meters long. It is not known if the pirates who ravaged the American coasts buried some treasure there or the ancient Peruvians and some pirates who traveled the sea, drew this candelabrum in order to orient themselves in their fishing or conquest voyages or it is the work of aliens or a giant space port for extraterrestrial ships. What is certain is that we will approach to see it closely and then we will visit a part of the Peruvian National Reserve.

THE BALLESTAS ISLANDS are a group of islands near the city of Pisco, Peru. They are composed of rocky formations where there is an important marine fauna, with guano birds such as the guanay, the piquero and the zarcillo, mainly the North, Central and South Ballestas Islands; they are part of the National Reserve System of Islands, Islets and Puntas Guaneras.

There are two main economic activities in the area: fishing and tourism. The place is known for having an ecosystem where a large number of birds and marine species nest. One of the most outstanding animals are the Humboldt Penguins, ambassadors of Peruvian culture since they are unique in their genre and are still in danger of extinction.

THE HUMBOLDT’S PENGUIN is a marine bird that does not fly, its fin-like wings are adapted for swimming and it is an excellent swimmer at great speed, thanks to its powerful pectoral muscles. It feeds on fish such as sardines and anchovies near the shore. It can stay submerged for up to 2 minutes. In their natural habitat they live between 12 and 15 years, in captivity they can live up to 25 years.

The Peruvian Pelican is a bird easy to identify due to its extremely long beak and the bluish sac of bare skin underneath it. When flying in groups they fly in a diagonal straight line formation and is the third most important guano bird.

The most common sea lion that can be found in the reserve, it differs from the sea lion in that it has a short and square nose. The Peruvian booby is different from the blue-footed booby in that its head is completely white. They are sociable, they hunt, rest and nest in more or less numerous groups and are present all year round in the Ballestas Islands.

These islands are a privileged place to closely observe concentrations of marine fauna, such as marine and guano birds, Humboldt penguins and sea lions. In addition, it is a must for birdwatchers from all over the world, since many species use the Ballestas Islands as an obligatory stopping point to rest and feed during their migrations. Efforts to encourage sustainable tourism are one of the characteristics of the tour. The boats keep a prudent distance that allows observing the marine species and the curious rock formations.

THE CANDELABRO DE PARACAS, is a famous geoglyph, its large dimensions and its design on the sand allow to distinguish a relationship with the lines, geoglyphs of Nazca and pampas of Jumana. The Candelabro is 180 meters long and is estimated to be 2500 years old. Its meaning remains a mystery.

MAIN POINTS OF VISIT

  • Ica (406 masl)
  • Paracas (7 masl)

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Paracas – El Chaco Bay – Ballestas Islands

  • Beginning of the Paracas Tour: 07.45 hrs We arrive at the Paracas Bay, we will have assistance at the terminal and transfer to the pier El Chaco.
  • Start of the Ballestas Islands Paracas Tour: 08.00 hrs At the pier we will board the boat, we will appreciate El Candelabro, a large geoglyph that serves as a lighthouse for sailors. The Ballestas Islands are composed of rock formations where you can find an important marine fauna with guano birds, you can also see Peruvian penguins, varieties of sea lions: sea lions and sea lions and other mammals. The entire visit will last approximately 2 hours.
  • 10.30 hrs Return to El Chaco pier and then to the hotel.

BREAKFAST – HOTEL / LUNCH and DINNER – PASSENGER

INCLUDES

INCLUDES:

  • Transfers station/port/station
  • Boat and life jackets
  • Bilingual guide (Spanish – English)
  • Ballestas Islands excursion

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Entrance to the Tourist Pier S/18.00
  • International and domestic flights
  • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Wear sneakers
  • Comfortable pants or shorts
  • Light clothing for the day
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Small backpack: Snacks and mineral water

PRICES

GROUP SERVICE TOUR

Ballestas Islands

PRICE PER PERSON

Minimum 02 people

GROUP SERVICE TOUR

  • Transfers station/port/station
  • Boat and life jackets
  • Bilingual guide (Spanish – English)
  • Ballestas Islands excursion

Photo Gallery The best of the Tour!

  • Tour a las Islas Ballestas en Ica-1
  • Tour a las Islas Ballestas en Ica-2
  • Tour a las Islas Ballestas en Ica-3
  • Tour a las Islas Ballestas en Ica-4
  • Tour a las Islas Ballestas en Ica-5
  • Tour a las Islas Ballestas en Ica-6

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ballestas Islands Tour

The best time of year to visit the Ballestas Islands is generally from May to August. During this period, the marine fauna is at its peak as it is the breeding season for many of the species inhabiting the islands, including Humboldt penguins and guano birds. Additionally, the weather conditions are usually more stable and favorable for navigation during these months, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for visitors. However, the Ballestas Islands can be visited year-round, and each season has its own charm and wildlife observation opportunities.

The Ballestas Islands are a group of islands located near the city of Pisco on the coast of Peru. They are famous for their impressive biodiversity and natural beauty, making them a highly popular tourist destination in the Ica region. These islands are home to a wide variety of seabirds, including guanay cormorants, Peruvian boobies, pelicans, and especially Humboldt penguins, a unique and endangered species. In addition to birds, the Ballestas Islands are inhabited by sea lions and other marine species.

The approximate duration of the Ballestas Islands Tour is 2 hours. During this time, visitors have the opportunity to explore the islands and observe marine wildlife, including guano birds, Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and other species, as well as the famous Candelabra geoglyph. It is an exciting tour that allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.

The Candelabra geoglyph is an impressive figure etched into the surface of the earth, located in the Paracas area of Peru. Although its exact meaning remains a mystery, the following features can be observed:

  • Candelabra shape: As the name suggests, the geoglyph takes the form of a stylized candlestick, with a long vertical stroke representing the candle and three horizontal strokes resembling arms or supports.
  • Impressive dimensions: The Candelabra is very large, with an approximate length of 180 meters (590 feet), and it is engraved on the coastal sand, making it visible from the sea.
  • Deep engraving: The stroke forming the geoglyph is deep and etched into the surface of the earth, making it visible even from a distance.
  • Unknown purpose: While various theories about its purpose, such as a navigational beacon, a religious symbol, or a directional marker, have been proposed, its true function has not been conclusively determined.

Yes, Humboldt penguins can be seen on the Ballestas Islands year-round. These penguins are permanent residents of the area and can be observed on the islands in any season. However, it is important to note that the best time to see a higher concentration of penguins and other seabirds, as well as to witness their breeding activities, is generally from May to August.

On the Ballestas Islands, you can observe a wide variety of marine fauna. Some of the most prominent species include:

  • Humboldt Penguins: These penguins are one of the main attractions of the Ballestas Islands. They are unique in their genus and are endangered. Observing them is an exciting experience.
  • Guanay Birds: The islands are home to large colonies of guano birds, including species like the guanay cormorant, Peruvian booby, and pelican. These birds often nest on the rocks and cliffs of the islands.
  • Sea Lions: Both fur seals and sea lions can be observed on the Ballestas Islands. These marine mammals are common in the area and often rest on the rocky beaches.
  • Peruvian Pelicans: These birds are easily recognizable by their extremely long bills and blue-skinned pouches beneath them. They can be seen in groups flying in characteristic formations.
  • Fur Seals: Fur seals are the most common type of seal in the reserve and are distinguished from sea lions by their short, square noses.
  • Peruvian Boobies: These birds differ from blue-footed boobies by having completely white heads. They are sociable and often hunt, rest, and nest in groups on the Ballestas Islands.
  • Other Marine Species: In addition to these iconic species, it is also possible to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and various fish species in the waters surrounding the islands.

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