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Destinations › South America › Peru

Paracas

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This concerns Peru as a whole. Check official travel advisories before you go.

Placed by the Kiomigo editors.

Paracas is a small coastal town in Peru, known for its proximity to the Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands. The town caters primarily to Peruvian and Latin American tourists, with a malecón lined with restaurants and bars. While the beach itself may not be the best, the surrounding natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities for exploration.

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Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes at various eateries. The town is still recovering from an earthquake, leading to new hotels and resorts being built. Expect a laid-back atmosphere, but be prepared for some tourist-oriented pricing.

Routes through here

★ Creator's pick 12 nights · 9 stops Peru: Lima, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu Lima → Cusco

Every route opens in the planner as your own copy: change any stop, any night.

Sightseeing

Julio C Tello Museum: showcases local archaeology and history
Paracas National Reserve: a vast area of natural beauty and wildlife
Ballestas Islands: home to diverse seabird populations
Malecón: a waterfront promenade with dining options

"Explore nature and history in Paracas"Paracas

Things to do

Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands for wildlife viewing
Explore the Paracas National Reserve by bike or car
Join a 2-day tour with Casa Hogar Illary to support local families
Try sand-surfing in the dunes near the reserve
Local food and drinks - Paracas

Local food and drinks

Menu del Dia: a local lunch option for S./25
Ceviche: fresh fish dish, often caught that morning
Local fish dishes: available at waterfront restaurants
Pisco: local spirit, often served in cocktails
Local traditions - Paracas

Local traditions

Fiesta de San Juan: celebrated in June with music and dance
Pisco Sour Day: held on the first Saturday of February
Local fishing traditions: still practiced by many families

Do's and don'ts

Try the local ceviche at a waterfront restaurant
Rent a bike to explore the Paracas National Reserve
Join a guided tour for a better experience of the Ballestas Islands
Bring cash, as some places do not accept cards
Don't expect a pristine beach for swimming
Don't rely solely on public transport; consider renting a vehicle
Don't miss the chance to try local seafood dishes
Don't forget sunscreen, as the sun can be strong

Practical

At a glance

Founded
200 BC
Population
2.000
Accessibility
The town is mostly walkable, but some areas may be challenging.
Price level
Mid-range

Things to know

The beach is not ideal for swimming, so plan accordingly
Transport options to the reserve can be limited; consider renting a bike or car
Prices can be higher in tourist areas, especially for food and drinks
Some accommodations may close during the low season, so check ahead
history_eduHistoryexpand_more

Paracas has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations, particularly the Paracas culture known for its intricate textiles and burial practices. The area was later influenced by the Inca Empire, which left its mark on local traditions and agriculture.

In the 20th century, Paracas became a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore its natural beauty and archaeological sites. The town has faced challenges, including recovery from a significant earthquake in 2007, but continues to grow and attract visitors.