A brisk speedboat from Puerto San Martín puts you within arm’s reach of sea lions, Peruvian boobies, and the dramatic rock forms of the Ballestas Islands. This three‑hour wildlife cruise is a compact, accessible way to experience the marine life and coastal geology off Paracas.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The motor coughs to life at the dock and the wind off the Pacific begins to scratch your jacket—the Ballestas Islands appear as low, dark shapes on the horizon, alive with movement. From Puerto San Martín you cut across a zone where the cold Humboldt Current collides with warmer surface water; birds wheel and sea lions sun themselves on volcanic rock as the speedboat threads a channel of surf and spray.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Light physical activity; must be able to step on/off a small dock and remain seated on a moving boat.
Wildlife
History
The islands and nearby Paracas coast are historically linked to the guano industry, which shaped Peru’s 19th‑century economy and conservation policies.
Conservation
Ballestas is a protected marine ecosystem—tours must keep distance, avoid noise, and not feed wildlife; staying on authorized boats helps preserve breeding colonies.
Reserve your spot on the Ballestas Islands from San Martin Port today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Take seasickness precautions
The Pacific swell can be choppy—take an anti‑nausea tablet beforehand if you’re susceptible and choose a spot mid‑boat for less movement.
Dress in layers
Wind and spray cool quickly; a windbreaker over a warm layer keeps you comfortable during the outing.
Protect from sun and glare
The reflection off the sea intensifies UV—sunscreen, sunglasses and a brimmed hat are musts even on overcast days.
Bring a zoom lens or binoculars
Most wildlife is seen from the boat—bring optics to observe penguins, boobies and pelicans without approaching colonies.
Windproof jacket
Shields against spray and the coastal breeze on open water.
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Protects from strong UV reflected off the ocean and boat surfaces.
summer
Motion‑sickness tablets
Helpful for anyone prone to nausea on choppy seas.
Binoculars or 200mm+ lens
Improves distant wildlife viewing without disturbing colonies.