History

The Paracas Peninsula dates back to 900 BC and is named after the Paracas culture. The people were fishermen and farmers who cultivated beans, maize and red peppers. From excavations at the Paracas Necropolis, we know that the Paracas were exceptionally skilled craftsmen. Obsidian knives, fine pottery, shell and bone necklaces, gold ornaments, and finely woven textiles have been found in subterranean tombs. The dry climate and the lack of light in the underground burial chambers ensured the preservation of these artifacts.

On September 8, 1820 AD, the “Freedom Expedition” headed by the Argentine general Jose de San Martin landed on Paracas Bay with more than 4,000 soldiers. He is said to have drawn up ideas for the Peruvian flag during this stay and that the pink flamingo, a resident of the Paracas peninsula, inspired the flag’s red-and-white colors. The liberation force later marched to Lima in the effort to free the South American colonies from Spanish imperial rule.

In 1925, a team of archaeologists led by Julio C. Tello began excavating the Paracas Cavernas, a communal burial site dating to 300-200 BC. Tello began to excavate the Wari Kayan site. The team found mummy bundles wrapped in cloths, feathered costumes, fine jewelry, and food offerings. Textiles from Nazca culture were also found in Paracas site. The two sites together are known as Paracas Necropolis. In 1975, the Peruvian government created the Paracas National Reserve.

Activities

Ballestas Islands Tour

Paracas Bay is the point of departure for boat tours to the Ballestas Islands. Tours typically depart in the morning, either at 8 or 10 o’clock. The outward journey passes by the El Candelabro geoglyph etched on the Paracas Peninsula. You’ll cruise past caves and arches and the rocky isles where giant colonies of seabirds and sea lions make their home. If you’re lucky, you might also spot dolphins, orcas, turtles, and other rare creatures. Keep in mind that boats are not covered. Expect cold and windy conditions and the occasional bird dropping from above. Dress accordingly — wind jacket, poncho, and/or hat recommended.

Rent a Bike

Grab a rental bicycle and venture out to the coastal desert expanses of the Paracas Peninsula. Riding on two wheels (as opposed to a car) gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The challenge, though, is that winds kick up in the afternoon and you might be in for some extra work if you find a strong headwind.

Rent an ATV

Quads (ATVs) are an excellent option for those who want a bit of a thrill as they traverse the peaceful Peruvian desert. These guided tours are especially good at taking you to hidden spots on the peninsula that you wouldn’t have otherwise seen.

Ride the Dunes

If the sight of sand dunes tempts you to hurl yourself down a slippery slope with a board strapped to your feet, take a dune tour from Paracas or Pisco. Dune buggy drivers take passengers out into the Ica Desert. Stops include low dunes where beginners can learn basic skills and safety techniques, and then higher dunes where the brave of heart can gain more speed on steep descents.

Splurge & Relax Poolside

If you’ve got a packed itinerary, your Paracas hotel is a great place to relax and renew your energy before tackling your next adventure. Paracas boasts a wide choice of reasonably priced beach resorts with gorgeous swimming pools overlooking Paracas Bay. Enjoy the beauty of the landscape, sip on a pisco cocktail, and bask in the warmth of the sun arching its course overhead.

Water Sports

Paracas Bay’s flat water and strong winds make it ideal grounds for the practice of a variety of water sports. If you’re game, check with your Paracas resort to borrow the equipment you need to kayak, windsurf, and kitesurf. Paragliding tours are also available.

Nazca Lines Tour

The Pisco Airport is located at the southern end of Pisco town, about 6 mi (10 km) from Paracas. It is not usually open for commercial flights, however charter aircraft do provide Nazca Lines flyover tours. Check out our Nazca guide for more information about seeing these enigmatic lines.

Huacachina Oasis

While nature lovers flock to Paracas, thrill seekers are drawn like bees to honey to Huacachina and its blue-green lagoon. Located about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Paracas, and just outside of Ica, the oasis town is surrounded by 100-foot sand dunes.

Travel Tips

Getting Around Paracas

Everything in El Chaco, the small touristic and fisherman town on the Paracas bay, is within walking distance. Mototaxis are available to get you around quicker, while regular taxis cover longer distances to nearby towns.

Safety Tips

As with many places in South America, tourists are advised to take some precautions, including:

• Keep your valuables secure and on your person.
• Travel in groups. The national reserve is large and stretches far out into the desert peninsula so it’s best to go with some travel buddies.
• Stick to marked trails in the reserve. Deserts can be disorienting and easy to get lost in.
• Carry food and water to make it through the hot desert in good health.
• In El Chaco, avoid going to ATMs at night.
• Though quite tranquil, it is best to keep to the main, well-lit areas in El Chaco at night.

Packing List

For Paracas, you’ll want to make sure you have:

• Sun protection.
  • The sun in Paracas is strong so be sure to have your sunblock and sunglasses.
• Clothing.
  • Bathing suit, sun dresses, shorts, loose-fitting pants and t-shirts. Since it’s a desert climate, temperatures can drop at night so a sweater is a good idea regardless of the season
• Ear protection.
  • If you are prone to ear aches, you’ll want to bring something to cover your ears, like a light headscarf, as it can get quite windy.
• Footwear
  • Sandals and light, comfortable walking shoes.
• Electronics.
  • Of course, be sure you have your mobile phone, Peru adapter and portable charger. A waterproof camera is a good idea as well, especially for the Ballestas Islands tour or water sports.