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A brisk two-hour fast-boat from Puerto San Martín that visits the Candelabro geoglyph and the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands. Expect close views of sea lions, guanay and Peruvian booby with practical guidance for seas, sun, and photography.
A brisk two-hour fast-boat from Puerto San Martín that visits the Candelabro geoglyph and the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands. Expect close views of sea lions, guanay and Peruvian booby with practical guidance for seas, sun, and photography.
The hull cuts through a glassy bay and the wind pushes a spray of salt across your jacket: within minutes the Candelabro geoglyph rises on the sand like a signal from the coast, then the boat noses toward a scatter of jagged rock where seabirds roar and sea lions warm themselves on sun-baked ledges.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Like Xplorer Peru · Paracas, Ica
The hull cuts through a glassy bay and the wind pushes a spray of salt across your jacket: within minutes the Candelabro geoglyph rises on the sand like a signal from the coast, then the boat noses toward a scatter of jagged rock where seabirds roar and sea lions warm themselves on sun-baked ledges.
This two-hour fast-boat run from Puerto San Martín (Paracas) pairs a short coastal history lesson with close-up wildlife viewing. The Candelabro is a large prehistoric geoglyph on the Paracas Peninsula; archaeologists link the area to the Paracas culture and maritime traditions that predate Spanish arrival. The Ballestas Islands are eroded sandstone and volcanic outcrops sculpted by strong Pacific swell and the cold Humboldt Current, which upwells rich nutrients and supports dense guano-producing bird colonies.
On the water, the ocean takes on character—the current pushes, the gulls argue, and colonies of Peruvian booby, guanay and occasionally Humboldt penguins crowd the rocks. Guides narrate the ecology and guano history that shaped Peru’s coastal economy while skirting the protected islands.
Practical note: tours depart from the shuttle bus terminal at Puerto San Martín; a lifejacket and an official guide are included. Boats carry up to ~40 passengers—expect some spray and brief binocular-worthy detours around rock pinnacles. Bring sunscreen, a windproof layer, motion-sickness meds if you’re susceptible, and a zoom lens for wildlife shots. Morning departures tend to be calmer and offer cleaner light for photography. The experience is short, focused, and ideal for travelers staying in Paracas or Pisco who want a fast, wildlife-rich introduction to Peru’s Pacific coast.
Tours meet at the Puerto San Martín (Paracas) shuttle terminal and last about 2 hours round-trip, including viewing stops at the Candelabro and Ballestas Islands.
Yes—Humboldt penguins and sea lions are commonly seen on the Ballestas Islands, but sightings depend on season and sea conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions due to boat movement and limited access to medical facilities.
There is no wheelchair access on the fast boat; boarding involves steps and movement on a small craft, so it's not suitable for wheelchair users.
Like Xplorer Peru operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The hull cuts through a glassy bay and the wind pushes a spray of salt across your jacket: within minutes the Candelabro geoglyph rises on the sand like a signal from the coast, then the boat noses toward a scatter of jagged rock where seabirds roar and sea lions warm themselves on sun-baked ledges.
The hull cuts through a glassy bay and the wind pushes a spray of salt across your jacket: within minutes the Candelabro geoglyph rises on the sand like a signal from the coast, then the boat noses toward a scatter of jagged rock where seabirds roar and sea lions warm themselves on sun-baked ledges.
This two-hour fast-boat run from Puerto San Martín (Paracas) pairs a short coastal history lesson with close-up wildlife viewing. The Candelabro is a large prehistoric geoglyph on the Paracas Peninsula; archaeologists link the area to the Paracas culture and maritime traditions that predate Spanish arrival. The Ballestas Islands are eroded sandstone and volcanic outcrops sculpted by strong Pacific swell and the cold Humboldt Current, which upwells rich nutrients and supports dense guano-producing bird colonies.
On the water, the ocean takes on character—the current pushes, the gulls argue, and colonies of Peruvian booby, guanay and occasionally Humboldt penguins crowd the rocks. Guides narrate the ecology and guano history that shaped Peru’s coastal economy while skirting the protected islands.
Practical note: tours depart from the shuttle bus terminal at Puerto San Martín; a lifejacket and an official guide are included. Boats carry up to ~40 passengers—expect some spray and brief binocular-worthy detours around rock pinnacles. Bring sunscreen, a windproof layer, motion-sickness meds if you’re susceptible, and a zoom lens for wildlife shots. Morning departures tend to be calmer and offer cleaner light for photography. The experience is short, focused, and ideal for travelers staying in Paracas or Pisco who want a fast, wildlife-rich introduction to Peru’s Pacific coast.