Ballestas Islands
The Incas & Conquistadors + Nazca Lines holiday visits the Ballestas Islands.
Situated 240km south of Lima, The Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands are among the most popular tourist destinations on the south coast, and offer the chance to see some of the best wildlife anywhere in Peru. The area is also of archaeological importance and includes the famous Candelabro etched into the desert hills.
The area was central to the Peruvian economy in the mid-nineteenth century, due to the vast quantities of guano produced by the sea birds. This was exported to Europe for use as fertiliser, and guano became the most important source of revenue for Peru in this period. Guano is still collected, although its importance for the economy is now far less than before. The area is also of historical importance, as the South American liberator General San Martín landed here with his army before securing Peru 's independence from Spain. British troops also landed here to aid San Martín in his struggle.
The Ballestas Islands is an important wildlife reserve, with over 160 species of marine birds, including Humboldt penguins, cormorants, boobies and pelicans. There is also animal life, including vast numbers of sea lions. Condors can sometimes be seen flying overhead, especially in February and March, as they feed on the carcasses of dead sea lions. Dolphins and even whales can also be seen at times. The Islands do not actually form part of the Paracas National Reserve, and are protected by separate legislation.
The only way to see the wildlife around the Islas Ballestas is to take a boat trip to the islands organised by one of the many agencies in Pisco or Paracas. These last about two hours, and although visitors are not allowed on to the islands for conservation reasons, views of the wildlife from the boats are excellent. Sea lions frolic in the water around the boat, jumping and playing, and there are fantastic photo opportunities. The islands also have some impressive rock formations, which can be very beautiful with the sea crashing against the rocks. The tours of the Ballestas Islands also pass the Candelabro, which is best seen from the sea.