If you’re looking for an amazing adventure in Lima, Peru, the Palomino Islands Tour is a must-do! This fun boat tour takes you to the Islas Palomino, where you’ll get to see incredible wildlife like Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and tons of birds. Best of all, you can even swim with sea lions in the open sea, making this an unforgettable, unique experience for everyone.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this amazing tour!
What Are the Palomino Islands?
The Palomino Islands are a group of small islands located off the coast of Lima, Peru. These rocky islands are home to thousands of sea lions, and many types of seabirds, like the red-legged cormorants and Humboldt penguins. It’s a wild and beautiful place where you can see animals in their natural habitat, far from the busy city life.
How Do I Get to Palomino Island from Lima?
The tour starts in La Punta, a small district in Callao, about 30 minutes from Lima. Most tours depart from La Mar 229, a popular meeting point. From there, you’ll take a Palomino Islands boat that heads out into the open sea. The boat ride is about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the ocean breeze and beautiful views.
Max altitude
0 m / 0 feet
Trip Length
Full day
Languages
English / Spanish
Physical Level
Easy
Cancellation
Cannot be cancelled
Inclusions
Included
- Transportation and shared service guide, bilingual guide (Spanish / English).
- All entrance fees.
- First aid kit.
Not Included
- Services not specified.
- Tips.
- Travel insurance or inconvenience fees.
What Can You Expect on a Palomino Islands Tour?
Here’s what a typical Palomino Islands tour looks like:
1. Start at San Lorenzo Island
Your first stop is San Lorenzo Island, the largest island off the coast of Lima. While you can’t get off the boat here, you’ll get a great view of this fascinating island, which is full of history and home to many seabirds.
2. Meet the Humboldt Penguins
As you continue your boat tour, you’ll reach a spot where you can see Humboldt penguins waddling along the rocks. These cute little penguins are native to the area and are a highlight of the tour. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture this cool experience!
3. See Thousands of Sea Lions
The real highlight of the tour comes when you reach the Palomino Islands. These islands are home to a large colony of sea lions—literally thousands of sea lions! You’ll see them lounging on the rocks, swimming in the water, and barking loudly. The sight and sound of these playful animals are truly a unique experience.
4. Swim with Sea Lions
One of the most exciting parts of the Palomino Islands tour is the chance to swim with sea lions! After putting on a wetsuit, you’ll jump into the ocean and swim near these friendly creatures. Don’t worry, they’re curious but gentle, and swimming with them is completely safe. It’s a memory you’ll cherish forever.
5. Bird Watching
Along with the sea lions, you’ll also see a variety of birds that call the islands home. Look out for red-legged cormorants, pelicans, and even Humboldt penguins as they nest on the rocks. The combination of birds and sea lions makes the Palomino Islands tour a great adventure for nature lovers.
Why Choose the Palomino Islands Tour?
The Palomino Islands tour is a fantastic option for anyone who loves wildlife, adventure, or just a day out on the ocean. Here are some reasons why this tour is a great choice:
Amazing Experience: The chance to swim with sea lions and see thousands of sea lions up close is an experience unlike any other.
Family-Friendly Adventure: The tour is suitable for kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family outing.
Unique Wildlife: From Humboldt penguins to a colony of sea lions, you’ll see animals in their natural habitat that you can’t find anywhere else in Peru.
Easy to Access: The tour departs right from Lima, so you don’t have to travel far to start this adventure.
Cool Experience: Whether you’re visiting Peru or live in Lima, this is a cool experience you don’t want to miss!
Is the Palomino Islands Tour Safe?
Yes! The Palomino Islands tour is completely safe. The tour operators provide wetsuits for those who want to swim with the sea lions, and you’ll be guided by experienced professionals the whole time. The sea lions are friendly and used to humans, so there’s no need to worry. The boats are also modern and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth ride to and from the islands.
What to Bring on the Palomino Islands Tour
- Swimsuit: If you plan to swim with sea lions, bring a swimsuit. You’ll wear a wetsuit over it to stay warm.
- Towel: After your swim, you’ll want to dry off, so don’t forget a towel.
- Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong on the water. Protect yourself with sunscreen.
- Camera: There will be plenty of photo opportunities, so bring a camera or your phone to capture the amazing sights.
- Warm Clothes: It can get chilly on the boat, so bring a light jacket or hoodie for the ride.
What Makes the Palomino Islands Tour a Unique Experience?
Few places in the world offer the chance to swim with sea lions in their natural habitat. On this tour, you’re not just watching wildlife from a distance—you’re actually getting in the water with them! This makes it a unique experience that you won’t find on many other tours.
Plus, the diversity of wildlife you’ll see—birds and sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and other sea creatures—makes this tour a true nature lover’s dream.
FAQs About the Palomino Islands Tour
1. How long is the Palomino Islands tour?
The tour typically lasts about 4 hours, including the boat ride to and from the islands.
2. How do I get to Palomino Island, Lima?
The tour departs from La Punta, Callao, about 30 minutes from Lima. Most operators provide transportation from central Lima to the boat.
3. Is it cold in the water?
Yes, the water can be cold, but you’ll be provided with a wetsuit to keep warm while swimming with the sea lions.
4. Can kids swim with the sea lions?
Yes, children can swim with the sea lions, as long as they are comfortable in the water and accompanied by an adult.
5. What kind of wildlife will I see?
On the Palomino Islands tour, you’ll see thousands of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, red-legged cormorants, pelicans, and other seabirds.
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