Table of Contents
Paracas, a charming coastal town in Peru, offers a unique mix of desert landscapes, wildlife, and history. Known for the stunning Paracas National Reserve, where dramatic desert cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean, it’s a top spot for nature lovers and photographers. Just offshore, the Islas Ballestas—often called the “Poor Man’s Galapagos”—is a must-see for its colonies of sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. The mysterious Candelabra Geoglyph and the ancient Inca site Tambo Colorado add a historical dimension, while local beaches are perfect for kitesurfing, sandboarding, or simply relaxing with fresh seafood. Just a few hours from Lima, Paracas is ideal for a memorable blend of adventure and relaxation on Peru’s coast.
Getting to Paracas
From Lima
The best way to get from Lima to Huaraz is by bus. The most recommended company is Cruz Del Sur, which is the flagship long-haul bus company in Peru. To understand all your options, look at BusBud for all your Peru bus travel needs. The travel time is approximately 3-4 hours in length and costs 45-60 Peruvian Soles.
From Ica
The best way to get from Lima to Huaraz is by bus. The most recommended company is Cruz Del Sur, which is the flagship long-haul bus company in Peru. To understand all your options, look at BusBud for all your Peru bus travel needs. The travel time is approximately 1 hour in length and costs 25 Peruvian Soles.
Best time to go to Paracas
The best time to visit Paracas is from December to April, when the weather is warm, sunny, and generally less windy, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like visiting the Paracas National Reserve or taking a boat tour to the Islas Ballestas. During these months, temperatures are comfortable for both sightseeing and relaxing on the beach. May to November is cooler, with stronger winds—great if you’re into kitesurfing or don’t mind the breeze. While Paracas is a year-round destination, December to April offers the most pleasant conditions for most travelers.
Where to stay in Paracas
Hostel
There are a variety of hostels you can choose from depending on your tastes. There are two we can recommend:
Young/Party Vibe: Viajero Hostel
Family owned chill vibe: Paracas Backpackers House
Our recommendation is to book through HostelWorld. HostelWorld is the most popular platform for backpackers to book hostels on, with a comprehensive list and hundreds of thousands of reviews, you will find a community that fits with you easier than anywhere else.
Hotel
Paracas is not just a backpackers destination, there are also plenty of hotels that you can book for yourselves or your family.
If you’re looking to book a hotel, you will find the most comprehensive list of hotels on booking.com
Where to eat in Paracas
The best place to find food in Paracas is Malecon el Chaco, the main beachfront of Paracas. You can find a wide variety of food along the Malecon, we like to split the food into two areas: to the north-east are the main bars and restaurants for a variety of food from modern peruvian to chinese, and the south-east which is the local hangout for a more authentic and cheaper meal. Please note in any case, due to Paracas being a tourist town the prices here will generally be more expensive than what you might find in other Peruvian cities.
Things to do in Paracas
Drive through the Paracas National Reserve
This vast desert reserve is filled with dramatic cliffs, sandy dunes, and beautiful, secluded beaches. You can drive or bike through its scenic landscapes and experience a surreal combination of desert and ocean views. The reserve is home to a rich variety of wildlife and a must-see spot for photographers.
Take a tour to the Islas Ballestas
Known as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” these islands are just a short boat ride from Paracas. Here, you’ll spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and countless seabirds, including Peruvian boobies and pelicans. It’s a great way to get close to Peru’s vibrant marine life without needing to venture as far as the Galapagos Islands.
As part of this tour, you will also get a chance to glimpse the Candelabra Geoglyph. This Geoglyph is a mysterious and ancient geoglyph etched into a hillside, visible only from the sea. The Candelabra resembles a trident and remains one of Paracas’ most enigmatic attractions, with theories suggesting it may have been a navigational marker for ancient sailors.
Top Tip: When you get off the bus, don’t buy your tour tickets from the sellers at the bus station that try and pressure you. Wait until you want to go to the Islas Ballestas and buy the tickets at the jetty with everyone else.
Get your Adrenaline hit with these adventure activities
Paracas is known for exciting activities like kitesurfing, sandboarding, and even dune buggy rides. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to soak up the scenery, there’s something for everyone.
Explore Tambo Colorado
For history enthusiasts, a visit to this well-preserved Inca archaeological site nearby is a must. Built in the 15th century, the adobe complex showcases Inca engineering and architecture with its vibrantly colored walls and intricate layout.
We hope you enjoyed our article about Peru’s most stunning Oasis and gained some ideas for your own itinerary. If you’re travelling to Peru, make sure you check out some of our other articles below:
The Hard Truth About the Salkantay Trek
Our Essential Guide to the Colca Canyon
Ultimate Guide to Huaraz: The Latin America’s Hiking Capital