Best of Paracas

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Paracas

Perched on Peru’s southern shores, the tiny fishing village of Paracas lies wedged between desert landscapes and a sun-kissed bay teeming with marine life. Offshore, you’ll find the mini-Galapagos of the Islas Ballestas, a group of rocky islands that are home to sea lions, fur seals, Humboldt penguins and blue-footed boobies. The Paracas National Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protects both the biologically rich marine ecosystems and archaeological sites in the sandy hinterland. Paracas is also a launchpad for scenic flights over the mystifying Nazca Lines, massive figurative geoglyphs carved into the desert between 500 BCE and 500 CE.

Adventures come in many forms in this extraordinary region. Previous kimkim travelers have headed off on eco-friendly excursions: sailing in a catamaran on Paracas Bay. Spread across some 174 square miles (450 sq km), the California Desert has towering dunes that are ideal for sandboarding. The refreshing Moron Oasis — a dune-fringed lagoon in the heart of the desert — is one of Peru’s most magical settings for a swim.

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Learn about Peru's pisco production while staying in a luxury estate in desert wine country in Ica

Peru's Luxurious Coastal, Desert & Vineyard Tour - 7 Days

This weeklong adventure in Peru will take you both on and off the beaten path, discovering highlights up and down the coast while staying in luxury hotels. Start with a stay in Lima's upscale Miraflores district before hitting the road to the unspoiled desert beaches around Paracas. After visiting the Ballestas Islands (the "Galápagos of Peru"), you'll learn about pisco production in Ica and cap the trip with a scenic flight over the legendary Nazca Lines—ancient geoglyphs etched into the arid landscapes.

Stay two nights in the Sacred Valley surrounded by the Andes (photo courtesy of Sol Y Luna)

Outdoor Luxury Tour of Peru's Mountains & Coastline - 10 Days

This 10-day luxury vacation takes you from the dazzling Inca highlights of its famous southern highlands to the wide and inviting beaches of its extensive Pacific coastline. The adventure begins in the capital of Lima, where you'll marvel at local art and dive into Peru's world-famous culinary scene. Then fly to the highlands to visit the most famous Inca ruins in the region, from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, before kicking back in a coastal resort with access to sand dunes and the "Galápagos of Peru."

Flavor, History & Wildlife in Peru - 8 Days

Get off the beaten path with this unique itinerary through Peru. Take an aerial tour of the famous Nazca Lines. Visit the Ballestas Islands to see endangered birds, marine mammals, and charismatic Humboldt penguins. And dive into the history, culture, and food scene of vibrant Lima, where you'll tour eclectic Miraflores, the Larco Museum of pre-Columbian art, the historic central plaza, and more.

Cathedral rock formation in Paracas National Reserve

From Lima to Nazca: Wildlife, History & Gastronomy - 5 Days

This itinerary is a great way to see the highlights in and around Lima. Get an authentic taste of Peru during your Lima city and food tour. Next, experience the beauty and wildlife of the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. Finally, get an aerial view of the famous Nazca Lines - including massive etchings of a condor, a hummingbird, and a monkey. These impressive works of art are best viewed from the skies, as some of them are up to 600 feet in size!

Spend three days exploring Peru's Amazon region on a luxury cruise (photo courtesy of Delfin Amazon Cruises)

Peru Luxury Escape: Jungles, Mountains & Coast - 14 Days

Experience the natural highlights of Peru with two weeks of adventures that will take you from the Amazon River to Machu Picchu and beyond. After marveling at street art in Lima, fly north for a three-day luxury jungle cruise on the mighty Amazon, which includes wildlife spotting, visits to Indigenous villages, and a stop at a manatee rescue center. Then head south to Cusco for hikes around the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu before enjoying resort-style fun on the desert beaches of Peru's Pacific coast.

Highlights of Peru's Coast & Andes: History, Nature & Landscapes - 10 days

On this 10-day itinerary, get a taste of Peru's metropolitan capital Lima, then head south to to Nazca for an aerial view of the world-famous geoglyphs, and to Paracas for a marine wildlife tour. Afterwards, travel to Cusco, ancient center of the Inca Empire, and explore the beautiful surroundings of the Andes in the Sacred Valley, visiting pretty, historic towns like Ollantaytambo and tackling the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. End your trip by visiting one of Peru's geological wonders, Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.

Preserved mummy in a tomb of Chauchilla cemetery in Nazca, Peru

Lima, Paracas & Nazca Adventure - 7 Days

On this weeklong journey through Peru, you'll get a taste of metropolitan Lima before heading south to Paracas for a marine wildlife tour. Next, head to Nazca and get an aerial view of some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs. Top it all off by trying your hand at sandboarding in the desert oasis of Huacachina.

Where desert meets the ocean, Paracas Coastline, Peru

Lima, Paracas & Nazca Adventure - 6 Days

Get a taste of Peru's metropolitan capital of Lima, then head south to Paracas for a marine wildlife tour. Next, head to Nazca and get an aerial view of some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs. Top it all off by trying your hand at sandboarding in the desert oasis of Huacachina.

Peru's Coast & Andes Highlights: Lima, Paracas, Cusco, Machu Pacchu - 11 Days

See the best of Peru's coast and the Andes on this eleven-day exploration. Start in the north to see the museum of Lima and the coast, where you'll check out the Nazca Lines and see the Ballestas Islands. From here, catch a flight to Cusco where you'll hike on the Inca Trail, see Machu Picchu, and explore Rainbow Mountain.

A group of children on the beach by the sea on the Peruvian coast

Coastal Peru for Families: Lima, Paracas & Máncora - 7 Days

Leave the crowds behind with this week-long family trip that combines the lesser-visited gems of Peru's beautiful northern coast with the culture, food, and ruins of cosmopolitan Lima. Soak up the sights and sounds in the country's capital, earn major brownie points with the kids as you surf dunes and meet penguins in Paracas, and swim with giant sea turtles in the turquoise waters of Máncora.

See the islands and sand dunes in Paracas on the the Pacific coast

Lima, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that eight to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Peru trip with stops in Lima, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. It's also possible to hit the highlights in seven days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another place like Puno, Arequipa, Cabanaconde, and the Amazon. See more ideas for Lima, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley itineraries below.

Discover the Highlights of Lima - 7 Days

You don't have to venture far outside Peru's capital city for a week's worth of fascinating history, culture, high-altitude thrills, and world-class cuisine! On this 7-day itinerary, you'll base yourself in Lima, exploring the city's top museums and landmarks with a local guide. Learn how to make pisco sours and ceviche on a food tour around the bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, then enjoy a few side trips away from the city. First you'll detour to the Inca site of Pachacamac, then you'll board a small plane for a ride high over the famous geoglyphs known as the Nazca Lines. Return to Lima for one last night on the town before this weeklong journey comes to an end.

Wander around Machu Picchu at your own pace

Lima, the Amazon, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley: Best Itinerary Ideas

Fourteen to 15 days is a great length for a Peru trip, with stops in Lima, the Amazon, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. It's also possible to hit the highlights in 11 to 13 days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country. Keep reading for more inspiring Lima, the Amazon, Cusco, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley itineraries.

End the trip by spending a few days in the Paracas National Reserve

Explore Peru's Epic Landscapes: Jungle, Mountains, Desert & Ocean - 14 Days

For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Peru, you'll want to see it all—and this two-week itinerary comes close. After an exciting food tour in Lima, set off for the epic landscapes, starting with a remote lodge in the lush Amazon. Next, fly to the high-altitude Andes for hikes and cultural activities—including time in Machu Picchu—before ending at a Sahara-like desert next to the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you'll meet local artisans, llama herders, and even marine life in the "Peruvian Galápagos."

See the coastal desert of Paracas on this active family trip to Peru

Active Family Fun in Peru: Lima, Paracas & the Sacred Valley - 14 Days

This fun-filled family adventure combines must-see Peruvian highlights like the Sacred Valley with off-the-beaten-path gems like the coastal deserts and beaches of Paracas. Get your bearings in Lima, then head to the northern coast for sea lion sightings and endless ocean views on a boat cruise to Isla Ballestas. Traverse the endless dunes of Huacachina by dune buggy and sandboard, hike to the heights of Machu Picchu, and learn the secrets of the ancient Inca at Pisac Archaeological Park.

Peru Highlights Adventure - 8 Days

From Lima to Machu Picchu, this one-week highlights tour is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure. Explore the bohemian neighborhoods and food scene of Lima, then continue to Cusco—the ancient Incan capital. Spend several days in the Sacred Valley discovering colorful textile markets and monolithic ruins, then walk the Inca trail to arrive at Machu Picchu.

Peru's Cultural Highlights & Nazca Lines - 9 Days

From Lima to the Nazca Lines to iconic Machu Picchu, this 9-day adventure brings you to Peru's cultural and historic highlights. Start in the metropolitan city of Lima, then head south to Paracas. See the massive Nazca Lines by airplane tour and try your hand at sand boarding on the nearby sand dunes. Explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley, visiting ancient Inca ruins and bustling textile markets, and experiencing local culture. End with a visit to the famed 15th-century imperial Machu Picchu ruins located high in the Amazonian cloud forest.

Birds flying over a natural arch in the Ballestas Islands

Peruvian History & Wildlife - 15 Days

From Incan ruins to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, the 15-day version of this itinerary shows you the many sides of Peru. Experience metropolitan Lima, the incredible Nazca lines, and the Incan capital of Cusco. Walk a section of the Inca Trail, followed by a day at Machu Picchu. And make your way to Puerto Maldonado, where you'll spend three days viewing wildlife on jungle excursions while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.

Spend your last night of the trip in Huacachina, a desert village surrounded by sand dunes

Ultimate Peru: Deserts, Rainforests, Ruins & Wildlife - 16 Days

Uncover Peru's natural and cultural wonders on this comprehensive 16-day trip. Begin in the north-coast desert, where you'll discover archaeological sites and ancient pyramids, then spot endangered wildlife on a four-night cruise through the Amazon Rainforest. Next, tour Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley, including UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu, before heading south to witness marine life in Paracas National Reserve, camp among the Huacachina dunes, and fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines.

Adventurer's Trip to Peru - 10 Days

This 10-day tour combines Peru's highlights for an active and fun getaway. Explore Lima and stroll around its bohemian sea-side neighborhoods. Go shopping for fresh produce at a local mercado before heading to a cooking class to get an authentic taste of Peru. View some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs then try your hand at sandboarding on the nearby dunes. Next, head south to Cusco. Explore the impressive ruins of Machu Picchu, colorful textile markets, and bustling plazas of southern Peru. Embark on an exciting via ferrata and zip-lining adventure and hike to the peak of Huayna Picchu mountain for some stunning views. Finally, travel to Lake Titicaca to experience the beauty and culture of its islands.

Peru's Cultural Highlights & Nazca Lines - 11 Days

From Lima to the Nazca Lines to iconic Machu Picchu, this 11-day adventure brings you to Peru's cultural and historic highlights. Start in the metropolitan city of Lima, then head south to Paracas. See the massive Nazca Lines from the window of an airplane, try sandboarding on nearby dunes, explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley, visiting ancient Inca ruins and busy textile markets, then spend a day visiting the famed ruins of Machu Picchu. Finish your trip exploring the islands and cultures of Lake Titicaca.

Culture & Wildlife in Peru: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, Amazon Rainforest, & More - 13 Days

From the Nazca Lines to Machu Picchu, this 13-day itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the world's most impressive geoglyphs, then spend time exploring the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and metropolitan Lima. Next, journey into the Amazon to spot wildlife from the comfort of an eco-lodge. Head to Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and finish your trip with a short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.

Sea lions fighting for space on Peru's Ballestas Islands

Highlights of Peru: Machu Picchu, Inca Train, Nazca Lines & Ballestas Islands - 12 Days

From the Amazon to Machu Picchu, this itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the Nazca Lines, then spend some time exploring the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and the metropolitan city of Lima. Next, journey into the Amazon to spot wildlife from the comfort of an ecolodge. Finally, head to the Inca capital of Cusco and explore the Sacred Valley before your short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.

Essential Peru - 14 Days

From the Nazca Lines to Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and Machu Picchu, this 14-day itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the Nazca Lines - some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs, then spend some time exploring the metropolitan city of Lima before heading out to explore the colonial city of Arequipa. Next, explore Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, then head out to Lake Titicaca - a place rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. Finally, head to the Inca capital of Cusco and explore colorful textile markets and small towns of the Sacred Valley, and hike the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Essential Peru - 12 Days

From the Colca Canyon to Machu Picchu, this 12-day itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the Nazca Lines, some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs, before exploring Lima and the colonial city of Arequipa. Then visit Lake Titicaca, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley. Cap off your trip by walking in the footsteps of the Incas on a short hike to Machu Picchu.

Other popular travel destinations in Peru
Sacred Valley · Lima · Cusco · Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu · Machu Picchu · The Amazon · Southern Peru · Puno · Northern Peru · Arequipa & Colca Canyon · Arequipa · Inca Trail · Trujillo · Iquitos · Chachapoyas · Colca Canyon · Tambopata · Nazca · Chiclayo · Ica · Ausangate Trek · Mancora · Ayacucho

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