Ballestas & Paracas: The Only Day Tour Review You’ll Need

Thinking about heading out to the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve for just a single day? Well, that can sound like a whole lot to fit into a short amount of time, and honestly, you know, you might just be wondering if it’s really worth it. Well, having gone on that trip not too long ago, let me, you know, share all of the things that I found out. That way, it’s almost like, hopefully, you’ll be able to decide whether to take a quick trip, so you get the most enjoyment possible.

What to Expect on the Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands

Alright, so the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands? In fact, that’s likely going to be where things get started. First of all, like your boat is very much prone to some serious spray, so dressing accordingly is, honestly, really critical, even though the weather seems lovely. Getting soaking wet isn’t ideal. The islands themselves? Oh my goodness, they are absolutely teeming with life! You will very, very quickly see a bunch of different bird species, including, like, the famous Humboldt penguins. They’re adorable! The smell, even so? A little bit much, admittedly. It’s a really potent guano smell that gets absolutely everywhere, so if you happen to be sensitive, like your nose will thank you if you bring something with you. And in case you are wondering? You basically just view the animals from the boat, so you’re not getting off on the islands. I think that is probably so that you disturb the animals less.

Exploring Paracas National Reserve

You’re almost sure to find that the Paracas National Reserve presents something very different, since you go from island wildlife to, well, these sweeping desert views. It’s actually kind of surprising. Usually, your trip involves things like a bus or van ride to check out different spots in the reserve. It has spots such as La Catedral (The Cathedral), which, tragically, was unfortunately damaged in a quake a number of years ago. Still, the views? Breathtaking. Then, so many trips, anyway, tend to make their way down to Playa Roja, which means Red Beach. I found that it was absolutely awesome, because the vibrant red sand is really super striking, just beside the ocean. As I was saying, that area could very well be a photographer’s dream.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Picking the best tour operator can actually create a massive difference in just how much enjoyment you get from the experience, is that correct? So I feel it’s important that you, like, check reviews, paying real close attention to just what other travelers say when it comes to things like tour guide skill, how well organized it all is, that kind of stuff, right? See, some tour companies usually really put an emphasis on just how fast the boat goes and the size of the group, anyway. That is generally the vibe I got. Like you might prefer an option with a smaller group to maybe make the whole experience more personable, you know? Cost, obviously, tends to be a thing to consider, very true, but also just be aware that sometimes cheapest is very seldom best. I also found it really useful to basically check what’s included in that price. Like is it only just transport? Or are there entrance fees included in it, very very potentially food, so on? You do not want surprise costs popping up.

Tips for an Amazing Day Tour

Here are some recommendations for a wonderful day out, as a matter of fact: Layers, my friend. Definitely layers are recommended. The weather, too, could possibly change really rapidly. Sunscreen, sunhat, glasses… they’re honestly all super necessary in order to keep safe from that very unforgiving sun. As I was saying earlier, maybe consider some motion sickness medication in order to stave off that nausea from the boat ride. Basically, you need to, like, stay hydrated. Bring some water. Especially, too, like when walking through the reserve. Lastly, of course? Charge your camera fully. You do not wish to not have charge available for photos. There are just way too many awesome views to not take advantage of.

Is One Day Enough?

Can you squeeze both of these things into a day, basically, at the end of the day? Oh yeah, basically you actually can. Having said that, in case you find that your time permits, you know, it might well be better to spend just a little bit more time in Paracas itself, anyway. Spending a bit longer, it’s almost as if you’ll have time to maybe experience additional attractions in the region. Plus, anyway, that gives you that chance of enjoying things a bit more leisurely, without so much pressure of needing to rush things, I feel. You should perhaps enjoy other things in the area too!