Paracas
From Ancient Desert Sands to the Pacific Ocean
Experience the ultimate two-day coastal contrast. This curated 2-Day / 1-Night expedition blends the archaeological mysteries of the UNESCO-listed Nazca Lines with the vibrant marine biodiversity of Paracas & the Ballestas Islands. Departing from Lima with private hotel transfers, first-class cruiser coach travel, and handpicked hotel accommodations, every detail is seamlessly coordinated.
On Day 1, travel south along the Pan-American Highway to the sunny desert city of Ica, where you will take off in a high-wing aircraft with guaranteed window seats to view the colossal Nazca Lines geoglyphs—including the Hummingbird, Monkey, Condor, and Spider. After a restful evening at your chosen 3, 4, or 5-star hotel, Day 2 brings you to Paracas Bay to board a speedboat to the Ballestas Islands, observing thousands of sea lions, endangered Humboldt penguins, and the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph. Prefer 100% private vehicle transport from Lima or want to add Huacachina dune buggies? Explore our 2-Day Private Coastal Luxury Tour, our 3-Day Great Southern Expedition, or our 10-Day Nazca Lines to Machu Picchu Package.
Expedition Highlights
The Nazca Lines Flight
Take to the skies from the Ica aerodrome in a high-wing aircraft to marvel at 12 massive UNESCO geoglyphs including the Hummingbird, Spider, and Monkey.
The Ballestas Islands
Explore the rugged rock arches of Peru's premier marine sanctuary, observing thousands of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and Guanay cormorants.
The Enigmatic Candelabro
View an enormous 180-meter trident-shaped geoglyph carved into the coastal hills of the Paracas Peninsula, visible only from the sea.
Premium Coastal Lodging
Relax and recharge in the warm climate of Ica or Paracas. Choose from handpicked 3-star boutique hotels, 4-star lodges, or 5-star resorts.
Detailed 2-Day Nazca & Ballestas Itinerary
The Sky and The Sea
Overnight Elevation: 400 m / 1,312 ft (Ica) · Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
DAY 1: Lima to Ica & The Nazca Lines Overflight
First-Class Journey South
Your day begins at 6:00 AM with a private transfer from your hotel in Lima to the terminal. Board a comfortable first-class cruiser coach with wide reclining seats, enjoying the coastal desert landscapes as you travel south down the Pan-American Highway toward Ica.
The Panoramic Nazca Lines Overflight
Upon arriving in Ica around 12:00 PM, transfer directly to the Las Dunas aerodrome. Aboard a modern high-wing aircraft with guaranteed window seats, embark on an exhilarating flight over the UNESCO-listed Nazca Lines. The pilot performs gentle banked turns over each figure so you can clearly photograph the 12 iconic animal and geometric designs created over 1,500 years ago.
Traditional Lunch & Hotel Check-in
After your flight and a traditional Peruvian lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to your selected 3, 4, or 5-star hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure to relax by the pool.
Included Meals: Traditional Lunch
DAY 2: Paracas, The Ballestas Islands & Return to Lima
Navigating the Pacific & El Candelabro
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to El Chaco port in the coastal town of Paracas. Board a modern speedboat to navigate toward the Ballestas Islands, pausing along the Paracas Peninsula cliffs to view "El Candelabro"—an enormous prehistoric geoglyph overlooking the bay.
Marine Wildlife of the Ballestas Islands
Approaching the rocky arches of the Ballestas Islands, observe colonies of South American sea lions basking on the ledges, endangered Humboldt penguins, and thousands of pelicans, Peruvian boobies, and Inca terns.
First-Class Return Journey to Lima
After exploring the marine sanctuary, transfer to the Paracas station to board your first-class cruiser coach back to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, your private driver will be waiting to transfer you directly back to your hotel.
Included Meals: Hotel Breakfast
Paracas & Ica Accommodations
Personalize your 2-day expedition by exploring the desert lodges and oceanfront properties featured in this itinerary.
Ica (Desert)
Hotel Las Dunas
Ica
Villa Jazmin Hotel
Inclusions & Prices
Select Your Lodging Category
Per Person, Double Occupancy
3-Star Boutique
$537 USD
4-Star Premium
$636 USD
5-Star Luxury
$715 USD
What's Included
- Private hotel pick-up and drop-off transfers in Lima.
- Round-trip first-class cruiser bus tickets (Lima – Ica/Paracas – Lima).
- 1 Night accommodation in Ica or Paracas (Based on your selected 3, 4, or 5-Star category).
- Panoramic Nazca Lines overflight from Ica (Guaranteed window seat).
- Airport Tax (TUUA) and SERNANP marine reserve fees included.
- Guided speedboat tour of the Ballestas Islands & Candelabro in Paracas.
- Meals: 1 Traditional Lunch (Day 1) and 1 Hotel Breakfast (Day 2).
- All local transfers in Ica and Paracas.
Not Included
- Dinner on Day 1.
- Lunch on Day 2 prior to your return to Lima.
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, and pilots (optional).
Essential Recommendations
- Original Passport Required: For Peruvian aviation security regulations, you MUST bring your original, physical passport to board the Nazca Lines flight.
- Motion Sickness: Both the light aircraft flight and the ocean boat ride can cause motion sickness. Taking preventative medication 30–45 minutes prior to both activities is recommended.
- Ocean Breezes: While the desert sun in Ica is warm, morning breezes on the Ballestas Islands boat ride in Paracas are cool. Bring a warm windbreaker jacket for Day 2.