The Islas Ballestas are a cluster of rocky islands off the coast of Paracas, home to an incredible variety of wildlife. On a boat tour, you’ll cruise around the islands to see colonies of barking sea lions, waddling Humboldt penguins, and thousands of seabirds, from pelicans to cormorants.

It’s often called the “Mini Galápagos” because of the abundance of wildlife, and while you can’t set foot on the islands, the close-up views from the boat are unforgettable. The sheer noise, smell, and spectacle of so many animals in one place is wild to experience.

For us, the highlight was spotting penguins diving into the water right beside our boat, while sea lions sprawled out lazily on the rocks. It felt like a front-row seat to nature’s show.

Pro Tip: Tours leave in the morning (seas are calmer then). Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket. The sun can be strong, but the wind on the boat can be chilly. For an even better viewing experience, hire a private boat (available through Hotel Paracas).