How to get from Lima to Paracas
Are you looking for tips on how to get from Lima to Paracas?
Paracas is by far one of the most popular trips you can take from Lima.
Here we can find the picturesque Ballestas Islands, which are home to lots of breathtaking wildlife and even some ancient ruins too.
Whilst most only visit for the day, there’s actually more going for this town than you’d otherwise think, so it’s worth exploring further before deciding on how long to spend here.
Lima to Paracas
In this guide we’ll explore some of the most popular ways of getting from Lima to Paracas. We’ll also take a look at where to stay as well as some tips based on our time spent here.
Paracas Quick Summary:
- 📍 Where is it: Western Peru
- 🗺 Difficulty Getting There: Very Easy
- ⏱ Time needed: 1-2 days
- ☀️ Best Time to Visit: November-January
Where is Paracas, Peru?
Paracas is located along the Pacific coast of Peru, roughly halfway down the country.
This makes it a really easy day trip from the capital, and it’s no surprise that Paracas has now become a major stop for travelers heading around the Southern Peruvian Loop.
The climate is definitely more arid than that of Lima, and you can enjoy more blue skies here. Just remember to bring an extra layer since the evening can get cooler (especially when heading between the months of June to September).
Is Paracas worth visiting from Lima?
Not often do small towns become part of a major itinerary around a South American country, however Paracas is one of those exceptions in Peru.
It’s home to the incredible Ballestas Islands, where you’ll find penguins, sea lions and thousands of birds flying in perfect formations over the sea.
If you only have the day free, then I highly recommend visiting Paracas and these islands with this day trip from Lima.
Along the way you’ll visit Huacachina and get to sandboard in the desert, as well as have all transport and breakfast included.
How far is Paracas from Lima?
Paracas is located roughly 250 km south of Lima, which is 3 hours driving distance (or 4 hours if taking the bus).
If going for the day then it’s best to wake up early and head on a bus, where you can be here by the late morning. We actually recommend the day trip, although travelers should try to spend more a few more days in Lima before embarking on this trip.
It’s also important to remember that trips out to the Ballestas Islands stop running in the mid-afternoon, so try and get here as early as possible.
Paracas is also located close to the city of Ica (89 km), so if you’re already here then it’s even easier and quicker to make the trip over.
Where to stay in Paracas?
Travelers who are backpacking or trying to stick to a budget will want to stay at the Kokopelli Hostel. Known for its great atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to meet other travelers and chill out in its on-site swimming pool.
If you want a private room instead, then Hotel Munay is a great option. As well as having a private en-suite bathroom, you’ll also be just a couple of blocks away from the main beach in Paracas.
Those after a more luxurious stay will want to consider Casa Paracas. Here you’ll be staying in a beautiful, sleek private room, along with air-conditioning and on-site barbecue facilities. They also organize tours and private shuttles to the airport.
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How to get from Lima to Paracas
Overall getting from Lima to Paracas is very easy, and through our experience here we’ve found 3 main ways of making the trip.
Bus from Lima to Paracas
The bus is the best way for independent travelers to get to Paracas from Lima, and is also the cheapest option costing $14 for a one-way ticket. The bus ride takes 4 hours.
PerúBus are one of the best providers to go with, since they make the trip directly (usually you’d have to otherwise change in either Pisco or Ica). They currently have two departures from La Victoria Bus Station in Lima, leaving at 4:00am and 12:45pm.
You can book tickets online at RedBus to easily make plans in advance. Whilst the bus ride itself is safe, just take care since La Victoria can be sketchy (stay within the bus terminal, especially when waiting for the earlier departure).
Driving from Lima to Paracas
Driving is also another option to make the trip, and is best for those who want ultimate flexibility (since the bus only has a few departures daily, and also as the group tour times are fixed).
A word of warning however; that driving in Lima is a different beast. I (George) have lived here for a while, and even basic driving etiquette is not followed (such as switching lanes or even stopping at red traffic lights). As a result it can be a really stressful experience, and not a great idea for us travelers out to have a good time.
I’d only recommend renting a car when heading from Lima to Paracas if you’re used to driving in South America (or Peru specifically). Hertz and SIXT are some of the best car rental companies to choose from in Lima, whose offices are located right outside the Jorge Chávez International Airport.
Small Group Tour to Paracas
Out of the three options, this is one of the most popular and is best for travelers who are short on time.
On this memorable Day Tour from Lima, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and first visit the oasis town of Huacachina. Located within the Ica Desert, you’ll be able to go Sandboarding as well as fly around the dunes in an adrenaline-pumping buggy ride (both activities are included).
You’ll then head to Paracas where you’ll visit the Ballestas Islands, and also enjoy the beach and landscapes from town.
As well as all activities and a hearty breakfast, you’ll also have a private vineyard tour included too (the Ica region is famous for its particular blends).
Getting from Lima to Paracas
And that’s all for this guide on how to get from Lima to Paracas. This once-quiet fishing village has now turned into a major stop when backpacking through Peru.
Not only can you visit the Ballestas Islands, you can also relax on remote beaches and enjoy the peaceful small-town vibes.
In this guide we’ve explored how to get from Lima to Paracas, as well as where to stay and what to do.
Be sure to read our Backpacking Peru Itinerary for more advice on what to do when here.
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