Paracas and Ballestas Islands Holidays
Paracas, Ica and the Ballestas Islands are situated beyond the arid coastland of southern Peru. This rugged stretch of Pacific coastline is spanned by the mighty Pan-American Highway which trails through the sweeping sand dunes of Ica province to Chile; a desolate wilderness studded with cacti and the occasional palmed oasis.
The principle town of Ica is nestled four hours south of Lima, between the towns of Paracas and Nasca. Visitors arrive here to explore the independent vineyards that dot the eastern slopes of the Andes and to savour the nation’s favourite tipple Pisco Sour, at one of the local and traditional bodegas.
Southwest of Ica is the small oasis resort of Huacachina set around a palm-fringed lagoon noted for its so-called healing properties. The enormous sand dunes that surround Huacachina have attracted worldwide recognition for there excellent sandboard opportunities.
Just north of Ica is the Paracas Peninsula, one of the world's greatest marine reserves. From here, boats sail out to the Ballestas Islands, where visitors can mingle with penguins, watch seals and sealions frolicking in the surf and dolphins swimming in the bay. The islands are also a haven for bird species including pelicans and guano. Beyond the entrance to the reserve is the gigantic Candelabra etched into the sands on Pisco Bay. Many theories have been hypothesized about the purpose and origin of the drawing since its discovery in 1820; although many seem satisfied it is linked to Nazca and Inca astronomy.
This cluster of charming towns successfully combines with visits to Nasca located further south.