Paracas Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Paracas, Peru. From hiking and biking routes to must-try dishes, hotels, and local customs, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan your trip to Paracas.


Introduction to Paracas

Located in the Southern Coast of Peru, Paracas is a magical destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the Paracas National Reserve, one of the most bio-diverse areas in the country and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Paracas is also known for its vibrant food and drink scene, with seafood being a popular specialty. In this guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit, activities to do, must-try dishes, local culture and customs, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Paracas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

There are several historic and cultural landmarks in Paracas that are worth exploring:

1. Julio C. Tello Museum

Named after the famous Peruvian archaeologist, Julio C. Tello, this museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the Paracas people. The exhibits include artefacts, ceramics, and textiles from pre-Inca times.

2. Candelabra Geoglyph

The Candelabra geoglyph is a mysterious figure etched into the hillside of a peninsula near Paracas. It is believed to have been created around 200 BCE and has been designated a National Heritage site.

3. Cathedral of Paracas

The Cathedral of Paracas is a beautiful church located in the centre of the town. It was rebuilt in the 20th century after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1687.

Natural Attractions of Paracas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Paracas is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities:

1. Ballestas Islands

Ballestas Islands are a group of rocky islands off the coast of Paracas, known for their abundant wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and dolphins. Boat tours are available to explore the islands.

2. Paracas National Reserve

The Paracas National Reserve is a protected area covering a vast desert, beautiful beaches, and coastline. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot, bike, or car and see unique rock formations, coastal cliffs, and diverse wildlife.

3. Playa Roja

Playa Roja is a beautiful secluded beach with red sand, towering dunes and crystal clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paracas

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are several excellent hiking and biking trails within Paracas

1. El Faro Trail

El Faro Trail is a popular hiking trail that takes visitors from the town of Paracas to the top of a cliff overlooking the ocean. The trail is steep, but the views are worth the effort.

2. Laguna Grande Trail

The Laguna Grande Trail is a scenic route that takes visitors around the largest saltwater lake in South America. It’s a beautiful spot for bird watching, picnicking, and enjoying the natural scenery.

3. Paracas to Pisco Bike Trail

The Paracas to Pisco Bike Trail is a 23 km route that takes cyclists through beautiful desert landscapes, traditional villages, and coastal cliffs. It’s a challenging but rewarding ride that offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Paracas: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Paracas:

1. Boat Tours

Boat tours to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve are a must-do activity in Paracas. Visitors can see wildlife, sea caves, and unique rock formations up close.

2. Sandboarding

Paracas is surrounded by large sand dunes that are perfect for sandboarding. Visitors can rent boards and explore the dunes on their own or join a guided tour.

3. Wine Tasting

The nearby town of Ica is known for its wine production. Visitors can join tours of local vineyards and wineries, sample the local wines, and learn about the winemaking process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paracas

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary to make the most of your trip to Paracas:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Paracas and take a guided boat tour of the Ballestas Islands.
Day 2 Explore the Paracas Town, visit the Julio C. Tello Museum, and dine at one of the seafood restaurants.
Day 3 Visit the Paracas National Reserve, take a hike or bike ride along the Laguna Grande Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Day 4 Visit the Candelabra Geoglyph and take a sandboarding tour of the nearby dunes.
Day 5 Take a wine tasting tour of the nearby vineyards in Ica.
Day 6 Visit Playa Roja and enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach.
Day 7 Depart for your next destination or spend an extra day exploring Paracas at your leisure.

Food and Drink Scene of Paracas

Paracas is known for its seafood and traditional dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some of the must-try dishes in Paracas:

1. Ceviche

Ceviche is a traditional Peruvian dish made with marinated raw fish, lime juice, onions, and spices. It’s a popular dish in Paracas and can be found in many restaurants.

2. Arroz con Mariscos

Arroz con Mariscos is a rice and seafood dish that’s commonly eaten in Paracas. It’s made with shrimp, octopus, squid, and other seafood.

3. Causa Rellena

Causa Rellena is a popular Peruvian dish made with mashed potatoes, avocado, and a variety of fillings such as chicken, tuna, or seafood.

Local Beverages

Peru is known for its Pisco, a grape brandy that’s commonly used in cocktails. Visitors to Paracas can try several Pisco-based drinks such as Pisco Sour, Chilcano, and Algarrobina.

Where to Stay in Paracas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Paracas offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

Luxury Accommodation

  • Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Paracas

Mid-Range Accommodation

  • La Hacienda Bahia Paracas
  • Hotel Emancipator

Budget Accommodation

  • Hostal Paracas Backpacker
  • Peru Hotel & Suites

What to Buy in Paracas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Paracas can pick up several souvenirs and traditional products:

  • Alpaca wool products such as sweaters, hats, and scarves
  • Handmade jewellery made from local stones and shells
  • Pisco and other local Peruvian spirits

Local Culture and Customs of Paracas

Paracas has a rich cultural heritage and unique customs. Visitors should show respect and be mindful of the local customs such as:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious landmarks
  • Try to learn a few basic Spanish phrases to communicate with the locals
  • Respect the environment and wildlife when visiting natural areas

Best Time to Visit Paracas

The best time to visit Paracas is between December and April when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so visitors should expect higher prices and crowds. May to November is the off-season in Paracas and offers cooler temperatures but can be rainy at times.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paracas

Do:

  • Try the local seafood dishes
  • Take a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve
  • Respect the environment and wildlife

Don’t:

  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious landmarks
  • Leave trash or waste in natural areas
  • Drive recklessly on the roads

Safety and Health

Safety in Paracas

Paracas is a relatively safe destination for tourists, but visitors should still take precautions such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night or in unlit areas
  • Keep valuables out of sight
  • Use a reputable taxi service

Health in Paracas

Visitors to Paracas should be aware of the risks of food and water-borne illnesses. It’s important to drink bottled or boiled water and eat at reputable restaurants. Visitors should also consider getting vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B before travelling.

Getting to Paracas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paracas

The nearest airport to Paracas is the Pisco International Airport, located approximately 14 km away. Alternatively, visitors can fly into the Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, which is approximately a 4-hour drive from Paracas.

Bus Stations Near Paracas

The Cruz Del Sur and Oltursa bus companies operate routes to and from Paracas. There are several bus stations in nearby towns such as Pisco, Ica, and Lima.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi to Paracas from nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Paracas

Paracas is a small town that can be easily explored on foot. Visitors can also rent bicycles, scooters, or cars to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Paracas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can add to their itinerary:

  • Huacachina Oasis, a beautiful desert oasis town located just an hour’s drive from Paracas
  • Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs located in the desert near the town of Nazca
  • Arequipa, a charming colonial city located approximately 7 hours’ drive from Paracas

Conclusion

Paracas is a stunning destination that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. From hiking and biking routes to boat tours and traditional cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful town. Plan your trip to Paracas today and experience the magic for yourself.