Paracas

Peru, South America

Paracas is a stunning coastal destination in Peru, famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. Home to the Paracas National Reserve, visitors can explore the unique wildlife, including sea lions and a variety of birds, and discover the enigmatic Nazca Lines nearby. The area also boasts beautiful beaches and opportunities for water sports like kayaking and kite surfing. Its vibrant marine ecosystem and serene beaches make it an ideal spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Pisco

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Paracas

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Ballestas Islands

Marvel at sea lions and diverse wildlife on a boat tour.

Booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Paracas National Reserve

Discover stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems in this reserve.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a Sand Dune Tour

Experience thrilling sandboarding and dune buggies.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Paracas Candelabra

See this mysterious geoglyph carved into the hillside.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local seafood cuisine

Savor fresh ceviche at local eateries and restaurants.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the town of Paracas

Stroll the boardwalk and visit local shops and cafes.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Interpretation Center

Learn about the ecosystem and culture of Paracas.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Nuevo Sol

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice. (National dish)

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with vegetables and rice.

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy sauce.

Anticuchos

Grilled skewered beef heart with spices.

Pisco Sour

VE

Cocktail made with Pisco and lime juice.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)