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Ballestas Islands Cruise Port

Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas), Peru
The Ballestas Islands, or Islas Ballestas, are a group of small islands located off the coast of Peru in the Pacific Ocean.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#94
of 189 ports in the South America
Today · high / low
78° / 52°
September normals
Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas), Peru cruise port
South America
Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas), Peru
// Ballestas Islands cruise port overview

The cruise port in Ballestas Islands,
explained

Lat: 13.7°SLong: 76.4°WINTN code: ISPPE

The Ballestas Islands, or Islas Ballestas, are a group of small islands located off the coast of Peru in the Pacific Ocean. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of seabirds.

The islands are a popular tourist destination, and visitors can take boat tours to view the wildlife and the islands' unique rock formations. The islands are also home to the Candelabro, a mysterious geoglyph carved into the side of one of the islands.

The origin of the Candelabro is unknown, but it is believed to be thousands of years old. The islands are also home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

The islands are a protected area, and visitors are asked to respect the wildlife and the environment. The Ballestas Islands are a unique and beautiful destination, and a must-see for anyone visiting Peru.

// Ballestas Islands Cruise Port location

Where is Ballestas Islands Cruise Port?

The Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) are located off the coast of Peru, about 20 miles south of the city of Paracas. The islands are part of the Paracas National Reserve and are a popular destination for boat tours and cruises. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various species of birds. The islands are also known for their unique rock formations, which are said to resemble a candelabra. The islands are accessible by boat from the nearby port of Paracas.

General location
South America
Coordinates
13.74°S, 76.39°W
Cruise port · 13.74°S, 76.39°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Ballestas Islands cruise port guide

What to do in Ballestas Islands

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the Ballestas Islands. Visitors can paddle around the islands and get up close to the wildlife that inhabits them. Kayakers can also explore the many caves and crevices that dot the islands' shoreline. The waters around the islands are also home to a variety of marine life, making it a great spot for wildlife watching. Kayaking is a great way to get a unique perspective of the islands and the wildlife that inhabits them.

Theme 2

Snorkeling

The waters around Ballestas Islands are teeming with marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. Visitors can explore the vibrant coral reefs and observe the colorful fish that inhabit them. The waters are also home to sea turtles, sea lions, and dolphins, making it a great place to spot some of the area's most iconic wildlife. Snorkelers can also explore the many caves and crevices that dot the islands' shoreline.

Theme 3

Wildlife Watching

Ballestas Islands is a great place to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The islands are home to a variety of seabirds, including Humboldt penguins, Peruvian boobies, and Inca terns. Visitors can also spot sea lions, dolphins, and even whales from the shore. The islands are also a great place to observe the local marine life, such as sea urchins, starfish, and crabs.

Ballestas Islands cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
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Playa El Chaco

Playa El Chaco is a stunning beach located near the Ballestas Islands in Peru. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and has a beautiful view of the ocean. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and the sound of the waves.

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Playa El Paraiso

Playa El Paraiso is a stunning beach located near the Ballestas Islands in Peru. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and has a breathtaking view of the ocean. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and the sound of the waves.

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Playa La Mina

Playa La Mina is a beautiful beach located near the Ballestas Islands in Peru. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and has a stunning view of the ocean. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and the sound of the waves.

// Ballestas Islands fun facts

Home to a Variety of Wildlife

The Ballestas Islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, Peruvian boobies, and many other species of birds. The islands are also home to a large colony of guano birds, which produce the guano that is harvested for fertilizer. The islands are also a popular spot for whale watching, as they are located in the Humboldt Current, which is known for its abundance of marine life.

Popular Tourist Destination

The Ballestas Islands are a popular tourist destination, and are easily accessible from the nearby city of Paracas. Tourists can take boat tours around the islands, which offer the opportunity to observe the wildlife and archaeological sites up close. The islands are also a popular spot for fishing, and the waters around the islands are known for their abundance of fish. The islands are also a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Protected by the Peruvian Government

The Ballestas Islands are protected by the Peruvian government, and are part of the Paracas National Reserve. The islands are also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and are home to a variety of archaeological sites, including the Candelabro, a mysterious geoglyph that is believed to be of pre-Incan origin. The islands are also home to a variety of marine life, and are a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Ballestas Islands cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
P

Paracas Gift Shop

Paracas Gift Shop is a great place to find souvenirs from the Ballestas Islands. Located in the nearby town of Paracas, this shop offers a wide selection of items, including handmade jewelry, traditional clothing, and local artwork. The shop also has a variety of items related to the islands, such as postcards, books, and even replicas of the famous Candelabra geoglyph. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the items they sell.

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Paracas Market

The Paracas Market is a great place to find souvenirs from the Ballestas Islands. Located in the nearby town of Paracas, this market offers a wide selection of items, including handmade jewelry, traditional clothing, and local artwork. The market also has a variety of items related to the islands, such as postcards, books, and even replicas of the famous Candelabra geoglyph. Prices are reasonable and the vendors are friendly and helpful.

P

Paracas Souvenir Shop

Paracas Souvenir Shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs from the Ballestas Islands. Located in the nearby town of Paracas, this shop offers a wide selection of items, including handmade jewelry, traditional clothing, and local artwork. The shop also has a variety of items related to the islands, such as postcards, books, and even replicas of the famous Candelabra geoglyph. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.

// Ballestas Islands Cruise Port Terminals

Which Ballestas Islands cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Ballestas Islands
Pier 1 of 3

Chincha Port

Chincha, Peru

Chincha Port is the third major cruise ship terminal for Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas). It is located in the city of Chincha, Peru, and is a great option for those looking for a more traditional port experience. The port has a variety of restaurants, shops, and other services, as well as a beautiful view of the islands.

Pier 2 of 3

Paracas Port

Paracas, Peru

Paracas Port is the main cruise ship terminal for Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas). It is located in the city of Paracas, Peru, and is the most popular port for cruise ships to dock. It is a modern port with a wide range of facilities, including a shopping center, restaurants, and a variety of other services.

Pier 3 of 3

Pisco Port

Pisco, Peru

Pisco Port is another popular cruise ship terminal for Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas). It is located in the city of Pisco, Peru, and is a great option for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The port has a variety of restaurants, shops, and other services, as well as a beautiful view of the islands.

Wi-Fi

Unfortunately, there is no wifi access available in Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas), Peru cruise port.

Safety

The Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) cruise port is generally considered to be a safe destination for travelers. The islands are located in a protected marine reserve and are monitored by the Peruvian Navy, so there is a strong presence of security personnel in the area. Additionally, the islands are a popular tourist destination, so there are usually plenty of other people around.

Port address

the Paracas National Reserve, Paracas, Peru

Ballestas Islands cruise port car rental
Ballestas Islands Car RentalParacas Car RentalRent a Car ParacasPeru Car RentalParacas Rent a Car

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

Ballestas Islands Cruise Port Weather

South America·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Ballestas Islands
64°
Avg · °F
Warm, mostly dry
High
78°F
Low
52°F
Rain
0.0 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Ballestas Islands

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Ballestas Islands cruise ship schedule

Ballestas Islands Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Ballestas Islands today, Thursday, September 3, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

// Keep exploring

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// Questions

Ballestas Islands cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Ballestas Islands.

Where is Ballestas Islands cruise port located?

Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas), Peru cruise port is located in South America. The Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) are located off the coast of Peru, about 20 miles south of the city of Paracas. The islands are part of the Paracas National Reserve and are a popular destination for boat tours and cruises. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various species of birds. The islands are also known for their unique rock formations, which are said to resemble a candelabra. The islands are accessible by boat from the nearby port of Paracas.

Is Ballestas Islands a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) is a popular cruise port in Peru. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and birds, and offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can take boat tours around the islands to get up close and personal with the wildlife.

How safe is Ballestas Islands cruise port for passengers?

Ballestas Islands cruise port has a safety score of 7.4 out of 10, ranking #94 of 189 ports in South America. The Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) cruise port is generally considered to be a safe destination for travelers. The islands are located in a protected marine reserve and are monitored by the Peruvian Navy, so there is a strong presence of security personnel in the area. Additionally, the islands are a popular tourist destination, so there are usually plenty of other people around.

What is the weather like at Ballestas Islands cruise port in September?

In September, Ballestas Islands cruise port has average high temperatures of 78°F (26°C) and average lows of 52°F (11°C).

How many excursions are available at Ballestas Islands cruise port?

There are currently 1 excursions and tours available at Ballestas Islands cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Ballestas Islands cruise port?

Ballestas Islands cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Kayaking, Snorkeling, Wildlife Watching. Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) is a popular destination for tourists in Peru. Located off the coast of Paracas, the islands are known for their incredible wildlife and stunning scenery. Visitors can take a boat tour around the islands to observe the diverse array of birds, sea lions, and other marine life that inhabit the area. The islands are also home to the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph, a large figure carved into the side of a hill. The islands are a great place to explore and observe the natural beauty of the area.

Can I rent a car at Ballestas Islands cruise port?

1. Ballestas Islands Car Rental: Located in the port of Paracas, this car rental company offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer a variety of packages, such as full-day and half-day rentals, as well as special packages for cruise passengers.2. Paracas Car Rental: Located in the port of Paracas, this car rental company offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer a variety of packages, such as full-day and half-day rentals, as well as special packages for cruise passengers.3. Rent a Car Paracas: Located in the port of Paracas, this car rental company offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer a variety of packages, such as full-day and half-day rentals, as well as special packages for cruise passengers.4. Peru Car Rental: Located in the port of Paracas, this car rental company offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer a variety of packages, such as full-day and half-day rentals, as well as special packages for cruise passengers.5. Paracas Rent a Car: Located in the port of Paracas, this car rental company offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer a variety of packages, such as full-day and half-day rentals, as well as special packages for cruise passengers.

What is the WiFi situation at Ballestas Islands cruise port?

Unfortunately, there is no wifi access available in Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas), Peru cruise port.

Where is the cruise terminal at Ballestas Islands cruise port?

The Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) cruise port is located in the Paracas National Reserve, Paracas, Peru.

What is the Ballestas Islands Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Ballestas Islands today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Ballestas Islands on any past or future date.

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