Paracas National Reserve, Peru

A Desert Oasis Where Wildlife Thrives.

A large group of sea lions sunbathing on a rocky outcrop in the sea, a common sight at the Paracas National Reserve in Peru.

Overview

Paracas National Reserve, Peru Cruise Port

The Paracas National Reserve, located on Peru's southern coast, is an extraordinary protected area where the vast, arid desert dramatically meets the vibrant Pacific Ocean. While it's not a cruise port itself, it is the primary attraction for cruise ships docking at Puerto General San Martín (Pisco). This unique ecological sanctuary, established in 1975, safeguards an incredible diversity of marine wildlife, striking landscapes, and important archaeological sites of the ancient Paracas culture.

A visit to the reserve offers a stunning contrast of scenery: from expansive sandy plains and towering cliffs to vibrant red beaches and calm, azure bays. It's a vital habitat for countless species of birds, including flamingos and Humboldt penguins, as well as sea lions and dolphins. Exploring the Paracas National Reserve provides a profound connection to Peru's natural beauty and its ancient past, making it an unmissable experience for any cruise traveler.

Top Things to Do in Paracas National Reserve, Peru

Take a Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas)

Often called the "Poor Man's Galapagos," a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands is a must-do. From the boat, you'll get incredibly close to teeming colonies of sea lions, various species of guano birds (like Peruvian boobies and cormorants), and even the rare Humboldt penguins resting on the rocky outcrops.

Tip: Take the earliest possible tour for calmer waters and more active wildlife. The boat ride can be bumpy, so if you're prone to seasickness, take precautions. You cannot disembark on the islands to protect the wildlife.

Marvel at the El Candelabro Geoglyph

As your boat approaches or departs the Ballestas Islands, look for El Candelabro, a massive prehistoric geoglyph etched into the sand on a hillside overlooking the Bay of Paracas. Its origin and purpose remain a mystery, adding to the allure of the region.

Tip: Have your camera ready as the boat will usually slow down to allow for good viewing and photography of this intriguing landmark.

Explore the Paracas National Reserve's Desert Landscape

Take a guided tour (usually by vehicle) through the terrestrial part of the Paracas National Reserve. You'll witness the incredible juxtaposition of the desert and the sea, with unique geological formations, vast stretches of sand, and dramatic coastal cliffs.

Tip: The roads within the reserve are unpaved and can be quite bumpy. If motion sickness is an issue, consider a larger, more stable vehicle or consult with your tour operator.

Witness the Unique Red Beach (Playa Roja)

Visit the viewpoint overlooking Playa Roja (Red Beach), one of only a few red sand beaches in the world. Its striking color comes from the erosion of volcanic rock, creating a dramatic and beautiful contrast against the blue ocean and yellow desert. While walking on the beach itself is generally not permitted to protect the fragile ecosystem, the views from the designated viewpoints are spectacular.

Tip: The red color is most vibrant under direct sunlight, making midday a great time for photography of this unique natural phenomenon.

Discover the Interpretation Center and Local Museum

Stop at the Interpretation Center at the entrance to the reserve. This modern facility provides valuable insights into the ecology, geology, and history of the Paracas National Reserve, as well as information on the ancient Paracas culture. Some tours also include a visit to the Julio C. Tello Site Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Paracas civilization.

Tip: Visiting the Interpretation Center early in your tour can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the natural and cultural significance of the entire reserve.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood in Lagunillas Bay (Caleta Lagunillas)

If your tour allows, enjoy a meal at one of the small, rustic restaurants in Lagunillas Bay (Caleta Lagunillas). This charming fishing cove within the reserve offers fresh, locally caught seafood, including ceviche, against a scenic backdrop of fishing boats and the bay.

Tip: Bring cash (Peruvian Soles or USD) as smaller, local eateries might not accept credit cards.

Cruises to Paracas National Reserve

FREE Guided Tours, Drinks, Fine Dining, Wi-Fi & More*

19-night From The Inca Empire To The Peruvian Amazon With The Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise/Land Package

Lima

Pisco

Paracas National Reserve

Ballestas Island

Lima

Sacred Valley

Machu Picchu

Cuzco

Lima

Iquitos / Nauta

Amazon River (Peru)

Iquitos

Lima

Quito

Isla Baltra

Isla Santa Cruz

Isla Bartolome

North Seymour

South Plaza

Galapagos Islands

+21 more

Aboard

Delfin III

From

Lima, Peru

8 Sailings

Jan 2 - Nov 6, 2026

Cruise Details

View All Paracas National Reserve, Peru Cruises

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Paracas National Reserve, Peru Cruise Port

Top Things to Do in Paracas National Reserve, Peru

Take a Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas)

Marvel at the El Candelabro Geoglyph

Tip: Have your camera ready as the boat will usually slow down to allow for good viewing and photography of this intriguing landmark.

Explore the Paracas National Reserve's Desert Landscape

Tip: The roads within the reserve are unpaved and can be quite bumpy. If motion sickness is an issue, consider a larger, more stable vehicle or consult with your tour operator.

Witness the Unique Red Beach (Playa Roja)

Tip: The red color is most vibrant under direct sunlight, making midday a great time for photography of this unique natural phenomenon.

Discover the Interpretation Center and Local Museum

Tip: Visiting the Interpretation Center early in your tour can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the natural and cultural significance of the entire reserve.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood in Lagunillas Bay (Caleta Lagunillas)

Tip: Bring cash (Peruvian Soles or USD) as smaller, local eateries might not accept credit cards.

Paracas National Reserve, Peru

Paracas National Reserve, Peru Cruise Port

Top Things to Do in Paracas National Reserve, Peru

Take a Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas)

Marvel at the El Candelabro Geoglyph

Explore the Paracas National Reserve's Desert Landscape

Witness the Unique Red Beach (Playa Roja)

Discover the Interpretation Center and Local Museum

Enjoy Fresh Seafood in Lagunillas Bay (Caleta Lagunillas)

Cruises to Paracas National Reserve

19-night From The Inca Empire To The Peruvian Amazon With The Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise/Land Package

Paracas National Reserve Cruise Lines

The reviews are in

Paracas National Reserve, Peru Cruise Port

Top Things to Do in Paracas National Reserve, Peru

Take a Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas)

Marvel at the El Candelabro Geoglyph

Explore the Paracas National Reserve's Desert Landscape

Witness the Unique Red Beach (Playa Roja)

Discover the Interpretation Center and Local Museum

Enjoy Fresh Seafood in Lagunillas Bay (Caleta Lagunillas)

Cruises to Paracas National Reserve

19-night From The Inca Empire To The Peruvian Amazon With The Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise/Land Package

Paracas National Reserve Cruise Lines

The reviews are in