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Ballestas Islands: Private Wildlife Boat Expedition

Glide through the 'Peruvian Galápagos' on a private boat to witness tens of thousands of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds in raw, protected waters. A once-in-a-lifetime wildlife spectacle that rivals any nature reserve on earth.

What to expect

Board at El Chaco pier just 20 minutes from port and motor out to three rocky islets teeming with life. Sea lions bark from every ledge, Humboldt penguins shuffle at the waterline, and red-footed boobies wheel overhead. En route, your guide pauses at the enigmatic Candelabro geoglyph etched into the cliff face — a mysterious 180-metre figure visible only from the sea. The round trip takes roughly 2.5 hours, leaving ample time back ashore.

Book it with
Paracas Expeditions (official local operator)
USD 85–120 per person (private group boat, min. 2 pax)
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Good to know

Book the earliest possible morning departure (8–9 am) for calmest seas and best light. The Candelabro geoglyph is included on the boat route at no extra cost. Bring a light windbreaker — it's breezy on the water year-round. All-aboard is typically early evening, so timing is very comfortable.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at General San Martin — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Seabourn · Seabourn Quest
23 nights · calls at General San Martin
from $13,598
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Holland America · Oosterdam
16 nights · calls at General San Martin
from $2,099
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Holland America · Nieuw Amsterdam
17 nights · calls at General San Martin
from $2,794
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Holland America · Zaandam
70 nights · calls at General San Martin
from $15,614
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