Things to do in Paracas (2025 updated guide)

Quick answer: The best things to do in Paracas are a Ballestas Islands boat tour, the Golden Shadows trek at sunset, driving the Paracas National Reserve (don’t miss Playa Roja), visiting the Julio C. Tello Museum, and eating super-fresh seafood in town or at Lagunillas inside the reserve.

Ballestas Islands boat tour

Why go: It’s Peru’s “mini-Galápagos” just offshore—think barking sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and clouds of seabirds. Boats also pause at the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph etched into the sand bluffs.

Tips that matter: Go on the earliest departure for calmer seas and better wildlife action. Bring a windbreaker, hat with strap, and dry bag. You won’t land on the islands—boats get close enough for great photos.

Local plug: Getting here from Lima is simple with Peru Hop’s flexible bus route (hotel pickup in Lima, English-speaking onboard hosts, handy discounts). See our step-by-step Lima to Paracas bus guide.

Paracas National Reserve highlights

This stark, gorgeous desert where sand meets sea is the area’s crown jewel. Stop by the gate to pick up your park ticket, then follow the loop to wave-carved cliffs, ochre dunes, and empty beaches. For rules, closures, and conservation updates, check the official SERNANP page.

Playa Roja

The Instagram star. Deep red sand pops against teal water and yellow headlands—best color under midday light. Keep well back from the crumbly cliff edge and expect strong winds. Easy viewpoints line the rim; no lifeguards and currents can be rough. For a simple map-based stroll between viewpoints, see the short Lagunillas–Playa Roja path on hiking apps.

Golden Shadows trek (Sombras Doradas)

A light 1.5–2-hour sunset hike over coastal dunes and cliffs to viewpoints like Dos Cruces and Kori-Apu (the “golden mountain”). Golden hour lights up the rock faces and the sea—bring closed shoes, a layer, and water. Most tours time it so you summit right as the sun hits the Pacific. The Golden Shadows trek is quickly becoming a traveler-favorite and must be added to any Paracas itinerary.

Museo de Sitio Julio C. Tello

Small but excellent, this museum explains the Paracas culture through textiles, fardos funerarios, and those famous trepanned skulls. It sits beside the reserve’s visitor center, so it pairs well with a driving loop. Typical hours are Tue–Sun, 9:00–17:00 with a small entrance fee; check for official museum updates before you go.

Eat seafood in Paracas

In town, stroll the malecón for casual marisquerías. Two reliable picks travelers love:

Puerto Ballestas – classic plates (ceviche, conchas a la parmesana) and friendly service.

Chalana – on the pier at Hotel Paracas; ultra-fresh, minimalist prep, sea views.

Getting there and around

Things to do in Paracas are easy to stack in one or two days. Lima to Paracas is about 4 hours by bus or car. Peru Hop is the stress-free pick with hotel pickup, English-speaking hosts, and flexible dates. In Paracas, taxis work for short hops. For the reserve, a tour or self-drive is best. You can also rent bikes for the town and bayfront, then join a guided Golden Shadows trek for the dunes and cliffs.

Best time to visit

Paracas is year-round. Summer (December to March) feels warmer and is great for beaches. Winter mornings (June to September) can be misty with garúa. Afternoons are windy any month, which is perfect for kitesurfing but chilly on boats. Plan Ballestas early morning and Golden Shadows at sunset. Pack a light jacket even in summer.

FAQ (People Also Ask)

Q1: What are the absolute must-sees in Paracas? Ballestas Islands, Paracas National Reserve (especially Playa Roja), the Golden Shadows trek, and the Julio C. Tello Museum.

Q2: Can you swim at Playa Roja? It’s more a viewpoint than a swimming beach—powerful currents and no lifeguards. Enjoy the scenery from the cliffs and choose a sheltered cove elsewhere if you want a dip.

Q3: How do I get from Lima to Paracas without stress? Buses take ~4 hours. See our Lima to Paracas bus guide for schedules and safe options, including Peru Hop with hotel pickup.

Q4: What time is best for Ballestas and the Golden Shadows trek? Ballestas is best early morning for calmer seas; Golden Shadows is designed for sunset.

Q5: Is the museum worth it if I’m short on time? Yes—plan ~60–90 minutes for a focused intro to Paracas culture and incredible textiles. Check current hours before visiting.

Q6: Can I do Paracas and Huacachina in one day from Lima?

Yes, many travelers actually do a day trip from Lima. But if you want a more relaxed pace, stay one night in Paracas or Huacachina.

Q7: Which side of the boat is best for Ballestas?

Boats turn so both sides get views. Sit near the front if you can. Wear your life jacket tight and keep cameras ready for penguins and sea lions.