Transfer from Lima to Paracas with private tour of Pachacamac archaeological site en route

Upon meeting in Lima, you depart in the morning on a private transfer to the southern Pacific coast of Peru to the Paracas Peninsula and the protected marine ecosystems of the Paracas National Reserve. The approximate 4-hour drive passes through the coastal Peruvian desert and the valleys of Cañete, Chincha, and San Clemente, known especially for its pima cotton cultivation.

Your first stop, just outside Lima, includes a private guided tour of the archaeological site of Pachacamac, one of the most important religious centers of ancient Peru. Predating the Incas from as early as 200 AD and then used by the Incas until approximately 1500 AD, it was named by the early inhabitants of the region after the “Creator of the World” Pacha Kamaq, thus underlying the site’s importance in Peru’s history. It is best known for the 17 great pyramids that have been uncovered to date and its multi-colored fish frescos.

The next stop is lunch in a typical hacienda in the town of Chincha for a taste of local Peruvian specialties, such fresh seafood or lomo saltado (beef with rice, vegetables and potatoes). Another hour brings you to your final destination of the town of Paracas in the late afternoon, with time to relax at your five-star hotel and watch the sunset before dinner. Relaxation may include immediately taking advantage of the hotel’s spa facilities and a spa treatment (at your expense).

Ballestas Islands boat excursion (2 hours); Visit to Ica and Pisco distillery with tasting

This morning you set off on a two-hour, small-group, boat excursion to the Islas Ballestas, the rocky islands off the Paracas Peninsula that are an important marine sanctuary for the bluefooted booby and many other sea birds. At the confluence of the Pacific’s cold nutrient-rich Humboldt and warmer Niño currents, the diverse wildlife sightings from your vessel may also include sea lions, penguins, pelicans, and even dolphins. Also visible from the water, looking back to the mainland, is a large-scale geoglyph similar to the Nazca lines, known as the Candelabro because of its three-pronged design. Among much speculation, one theory of its origins is that it was a beacon to mariners.

Back on land, you proceed to the town of Ica (approximately a one-hour drive), where you visit a famous Pisco distillery and learn how Peru’s traditional spirit is made, with included tastings of both the tangy Pisco and local wine. Later, you return to the hotel for lunch and free time to enjoy the afternoon, perhaps at your hotel’s inviting pool and spa.

Other activity options (which can be arranged directly through your hotel, ideally on day 1 of the tour), offer further discovery of the region, and include a guided 3- to 4-hour archaeological tour of Tambo Colorado. It is the best preserved example of the remains of Incan administrative centers found throughout Peru, which the Incan Emperor Pachacutec commanded be built around the end of the 15th century. The roofless adobe walls contain brightly painted red niches, the “colorado” of the site’s name. Dinner is on your own and can be enjoyed at one of the hotel’s restaurants.

Paracas National Reserve walk, easy; Transfer to Lima

This morning features an easy guided walk at the Paracas National Reserve, reached by a short drive past fisherman villages and wide open beaches. Peru’s oldest marine reserve is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, not only thanks to its protected flora and fauna, especially birds along the shore line, but also for the historical and archaeological significance surrounding the ancient Paracas people. Absorbing the tranquil beauty walk of the beach, rocky outcroppings, and wide Pacific views, you make your way back to the hotel to refresh, check-out, and have lunch before the approximate 3- to 4-hour drive back to Lima, arriving at about 5:00 pm.