Ica paradise! Here are the attractions of the Paracas National Reserve

Peru is a country with spectacular natural destinations like the Paracas National Reserve. Located just three hours south of Lima, where the desert meets the sea, this natural paradise offers a world of fascinating experiences to its visitors: sailing its islands in the company of sea lions, bathing on its quiet beaches or admiring its great biodiversity are some of the many activities that the reserve offers.

Spending a few days in this place provides unforgettable moments knowing all the wonderful attractions that you can find and enjoy. For this reason, we will tell you which are the most valuable pearls that this place hides.

Islas Ballestas (Ballestas Islands)

One hour from the coast are these pleasant islands. From the boat you will observe a spectacle that begins with the pelicans flying over the water. Then it will be the Humboldt penguins who will gather on the shore to welcome you, and, finally, hundreds of sea lions will greet along with their young roaring from the rocks.

Some of them even swim towards the boats to be caressed by people. Do not forget to carry a good camera to immortalize the moment.

The tour of the islands has a cost of 60 soles (19 US$) approximately. It is important that you know that it is not allowed to get off the boats to walk around the islands, this as a measure of protection of the ecosystem, as well as for the tranquility of the animals.

La Mina, El Raspón and La Roja Beaches

Some of the most beautiful beaches of Peru are located in this reserve. La Mina and El Raspón are the most popular for visitors who arrive to bathe in its calm waters, enjoy the sun and rest on the sand. In addition, they are home to many birds that come to its shores.

In La Mina it is possible to practice diving and line fishing. In its surroundings, you can see a series of holes that in the past were coal mines. Very close to this beach is El Raspón. Because of its peaceful waves and its rock-free shore, it is an excellent destination to go with children.

Another important beach is La Roja, owner of a unique and dazzling landscape tinged with red due to the multiple volcanic eruptions that developed in the Pacific Ocean. While bathing is not allowed on this beach, it is a very good place to take pictures.

El Candelabro (The candelabrum)

Located on a sand cliff on the north coast of the reserve, this geoglyph is very similar to those found in the Nasca desert. It is 181 meters long, so it is possible to observe it from 20 km of distance. Its engraving is attributed to the Paracas culture and dates back to 200 years B. C.

It was declared Cultural Heritage of Peru and it is believed that it served to guide the ancient fishermen of this town during their activities, which shows the ingenuity and skill that characterized this civilization.

This geoglyph is very similar to those found in the Nasca desert. Credit: Alex Bryce / PromPerú.

Julio C. Tello museum

It is located inside the reserve. It received that name in homage to the Peruvian archaeologist who discovered the pre-Hispanic cultures Chavín and Paracas. This place exhibits more than a hundred pieces, including ceramics, textiles, tools and weapons that the Paracas culture used between the years 700 B.C. and 200 A.C. It also shows the famous 'fardos funerarios': large bundles covered by thin layers of embroidered cloth that wrapped a corpse in a fetal position.

This cultural space was recognized in 2018 as the Best New Museum in Latin America at the Leading Culture Destinations Awards, making it a mandatory stop to learn more about the history of the reserve and the ancient Peruvians.

Recommendations

The Paracas National Reserve is located 261 km south of Lima and 42 km from the city of Ica. It is recommended to visit it between December and April, the summer months, in which the temperature, typical of the desert, can exceed 86 °F.

This place has accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels to hostels and lodges with fair prices. There is also a wide variety of restaurants where you can taste all kinds of dishes based on fish and seafood.

Sources: somosperu.org.pe / Andina / Limagallery / Civitatis.com / Redbus

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