The Ballestas Islands are part of the Paracas National Reserve. They are composed of rocky formations where important marine animals and guano producing birds, such as the guanay, booby and the tern, live and thrive. One can also observe the Peruvian penguins which are in danger of extinction. The Ballestas Islands are also a refuge for two types of sea lions (lobos finos and lobos chuscos) and other mammals. These sea lions are very friendly, they love to come up close to tour boats and jump around them. This is a show that more than justifies a visit. In the same way, they are also interesting when they are close to the islands as you can hear the shouts of the sea lion groups. It gives the impression that you are almost surrounded by sea lions. This audio show is special, singular and impressive. These sea lions are harmless.
To get to the Islands from the Paracas Resort area, close to Pisco, you take a boat tour. This allows for the safe observation of species in their natural environment. The circuit takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Another feature that can be observed on the ride out to the Ballestas Islands is the CANDELABRA, a huge geoglyph which was used for maritime navigation. The Candelabra is related to the Nasca Lines and geoglyphs from the Jumana Pampa.
