Paracas National Reserve: A Complete Guide to Peru’s Coastal Gem
Located along the southern coast of Peru, Paracas National Reserve is a breathtaking mix of desert landscapes, rugged cliffs, and beautiful beaches. It's a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience one of Peru’s most unique natural wonders.
The reserve is best known for its golden beaches, dramatic coastal views, and otherworldly desert scenery. Visitors can soak in panoramic ocean vistas, explore charming coves, and witness the striking contrast between the desert and the sea.
Whether you're planning a day trip from Lima or staying in nearby Paracas, this guide will help you discover everything you need to know about visiting Paracas National Reserve—from what to see and do to tips for booking a tour.
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Paracas National Reserve: A Brief Intro
Before getting into all of the details for getting around and the different things to do in Paracas National Reserve, we're going to fill you in on some quick info about the area.
What is the Importance of Paracas National Reserve in Peru?
Paracas National Reserve is one of Peru’s most significant protected areas, which preserves both natural ecosystems and cultural heritage of Paracas.
Spanning 335,000 hectares, the reserve safeguards unique desert landscapes, diverse marine life, and ancient archaeological sites. It plays a crucial role in conserving Peru’s coastal biodiversity, including species like sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and flamingos.
The reserve also protects the Paracas Peninsula, which holds important pre-Columbian archaeological sites linked to the Paracas culture, which is one of the oldest civilizations in the country!
Where is Paracas National Reserve?
Paracas National Reserve is located just 5 km (3 miles) south of the city of Paracas. Hugging the coast, the reserve can be reached in just 10 minutes from the city.
Paracas is situated in the Ica region of southern Peru, and is 250 kilometers (155 miles) directly south of Lima, making it a popular day trip that is 3 1/2-4 hours away from Peru's capital.
How Do I Get to Paracas National Reserve from Paracas?
Due to the short distance from the city, it's pretty easy and affordable to explore Paracas National Reserve.
Here are the different options for how to get to Paracas National Reserve from the city of Paracas:
- Renting a car a driving to the Reserve
- Renting a bike in Paracas and cycling there
- Taking a guided group tour
- Hiring a taxi/tu tuk to bring you and take you around
Driving to Paracas National Reserve
Renting a car is the best option for exploring the reserve at your own pace. The road to the reserve is well-maintained, and there is plenty of parking at each viewpoint and beach.
Our first time we went with a taxi, and this time we rented a car, and it was such an immense difference that gave us flexibility in our schedule.
Cycling to Paracas National Reserve
Adventurous travelers can rent a bike in town and cycle to the reserve. As it's quite windy and there is a lot of sand, it's not our preferred method, but certainly an option for those that love to cycle, and want the most affordable way.
Tours to Paracas National Reserve
Booking a guided tour from Paracas is the easiest way to visit the Paracas National Reserve. These tours often include stops at the main viewpoints and beaches, and some of them are even on little go karts!
Taking a Taxi to Paracas National Reserve
While you can hire a taxi to drop you off, you'll certainly need a way to get around once inside. You can probably haggle with a tuk tuk or taxi driver to see how much they'll charge you to bring you around the reserve for a few hours.
*There is no public transportation that runs to the park, nor inside of it.
Paracas National Reserve: Hours & Ticket Info
Now that you know a bit about where Paracas National Reserve is, let's go over the hours of visitation, and the price to get inside the park.
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How Much is the Ticket to Paracas National Reserve?
The entrance fee for Paracas National Reserve is 11 soles for adults 3 soles for children (5-16) who are foreigners. Locals pay 5 soles for adults and 3 soles for children, and children under 4 and seniors over 65 are free of charge.
There is also a promotional rate for 17 soles, which is a combined ticket including Islas Ballestas. We'd recommend getting this ticket, as Paracas National Reserve and Islas Ballestas are the two top attractions in Paracas to experience.
What are the Hours You can Visit Paracas National Reserve?
Paracas National Reserve is open from 7 am-4 pm. That being said, we were at Playa la Mina at 3:45 pm and it didn't look like anyone was planning on leaving anytime soon. We're not sure how late they actually let you stay, but we'd recommend planning your schedule within these hours just in case.
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Paracas National Reserve Amenities
Paracas national Reserve is pretty well set up for tourism. It has paved roads, signs everywhere, and barriers to block areas and protect the natural environment.
Here are some things you should know about the amenities at the reserve:
Parking
Every single viewpoint and beach has its own parking area. The viewpoints have smaller areas where you can park anywhere, while the beaches are a bit more official, and have designated spots.
Parking is free of charge everywhere, so don't let anyone try to charge you.
Bathrooms
There are bathrooms mostly at the beaches. We'd recommend bringing your own toilet paper, as sometimes they end up running out, or try to charge you for it.
Restaurants
The top area for restaurants in Paracas National Reserve is Lagunillas. There are a few different sit-down establishments, and they serve a wide menu of options, particularly with local specialties such as fish, ceviche, and poultry dishes with rice and salad.
You can also get some snacks at Playa la Mina, or you'll find many families bringing their own picnics.
Please remember not to feed the wildlife, as it is dangerous for them!
Shops
There are quite a few shops that you can find throughout the reserve, primarily at the beaches. Playa la Mina and Lagunillas both had little kiosks that you could buy drinks, snacks, beach necessities, and souvenirs.
Lockers
The only place that we saw lockers were at Playa La Mina. You'll need cash to rent them, and they are just a few soles.
Accessibility
Many of the viewpoints have accessible ramps, while a few of the beaches such as Playa Rasposa are only accessible via stairs.
If you're unsure if visiting Paracas National Reserve is right for you, we'd recommend going with a tour, and speaking with the operator about the different options.
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Paracas National Reserve: Things to Do & See
Now that you know all of the basics for visiting Paracas National Reserve, let's look at all of the ways to enjoy your visit.
Check Out the Candelabria
The Candelabria is the most iconic sites in Paracas. The giant mysterious geoglyph is carved into the hillside of the Paracas Peninsula, and is believed to date back to 200 BC.
While the Candelabria is more commonly seen by water on a boat tour to Islas Ballestas, you can also reach it by foot inside the Paracas National Reserve.
Take in the Panoramas from the Different Viewpoints
One of the top things to do in Paracas National Reserve is to explore the different viewpoints. Pretty much anytime you see some infrastructure and a parking area, it is one of the viewpoints that you can enjoy, and they are all just minutes from one another.
Here are the top viewpoints to visit while you're visiting Paracas National Reserve:
Mirador Istmo
This viewpoint views the surrounding beaches.
Mirador Istmo II
From Mirador Istmo there is a second viewpoint that is much better in our opinion. There is a small hill that looks like a dirt road that leads up to a view that sits over Playa Roja (a beach with red sand).
El Catedral
This is probably the most famous viewpoint at Paracas National Reserve. It has breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs, and faces "el catedral" which is a rock that is said to be shaped like a cathedral.
Playa Yumaque Viewpoint
Located halfway between Mirador Istmo and el Catedral is a viewpoint located right on the coast, and here you can enjoy panoramic views of Yumaque beach below.
Hang Out at the Beaches
While the viewpoints around Paracas National Reserve are beautiful, the true highlights (in our opinion) are the different beaches that you can enjoy. Each one has its own special characteristics, and they also make a great place to dip in the refreshing blue waters of Paracas.
Playa Roja
This is one of the most photogenic spots in all of the Paracas National Reserve. The first time we visited it was available to enjoy, but due to protecting the fragile environment here it has now been blocked off from walking along it or swimming.
Back a few year ago you could walk along the cliffs.
That being said, with the yellow rocks, turquoise waters, and red cliffs & sand, Playa Roja is truly a stunning sight, and worth a stop!
Lagunillas
This is the first beach you'll come across that you can truly enjoy. It has a parking lot, restrooms, and some small shops and restaurants.
There is a small portion of beach you can swim in, and there is also a ramp up to a viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding beaches, cliffs, and bay full of colorful boats.
Playa Raspon
Just a bit further down the main road after Lagunillas is Playa Raspon, a small beach surrounded by cliffs. Head down the stairs and you'll be greeted by what feels like a true hidden gem, and a great place to relax with stunning views.
Playa La Mina
Just next to Playa Raspon is Playa la Mina, which is by far the most popular place for people to hang out in Paracas Nature Reserve.
With its golden sands, bright blue waters, and cliffs surrounding it, you'll find it packed with Peruvian families swimming and playing. We'll be honest, it was a bit chaotic when we went (around 3:00), so we'd recommend getting here much earlier if you want to have more space and peace during your beach stay.
At Playa La Mina you'll find the most amenities, including showers, lockers, bathrooms, and a shop.
Fun Fact: the top right picture is from our first visit in 2019, and the other two are from our most recent trip in 2025!
Punta Arquillo
This is the furthest beach on the route through Paracas National Reserve, and probably one that is the least visited. We ran out of time and unfortunately didn't get to visit. We did see the pictures though, and it looks well worth a visit if you have the time!
Playa Yumaque
Playa Yumaque is one of the widest and quietest beaches in Paracas National Reserve. Due to the high winds we really only saw a handful of people walking across it. But if you get lucky and have a calmer day then you can enjoy this beach for a quiet escape from the crowds.
Playa Supay
Located right near El Catedral, Playa Supay is a wide beach below the cliffs that offers a secret escape from the crowds. It is also where paragliders land!
Playa Mendieta
If you're looking for a truly remote slice of paradise in Paracas National Reserve then drive all the way south.
Here you'll find Playa Mendieta, which the majority of tourists don't actually make it too. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for those looking to scape the crowds and enjoy a more unique beach away from it all.
Visit the Salt Ponds
Another little gem of Paracas National Reserve is the area of the salt ponds. It's located about 15 minutes south of Mirador el Catedral, and seems to be the end of where cars can access inside the park.
If you go to the right there is an unpaved area you can drive through (just follow the tracks), and you'll find a beautiful pink pond! Also, on the way, keep an eye out, as we saw flamingos!
Many tour operators promote this place, and one of the park rangers said that the road isn't technically for tourism. So if you do decide to check it out, make sure you are being respectful of the area, and not causing any chaos that might get it closed off in the future.
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Safety & Rules at Paracas National Reserve
Paracas National Reserve is well-maintained, and it is very easy to stay safe and be a responsible traveler.
Here are a few things that you should keep in mind:
- There are no pets allowed
- Speakers and loud music are prohibited.
- You cannot bring alcohol into the reserve.
- No weapons or guns can be brought on the premises.
- LEAVE NO TRACE. Always clean up after yourself, and leave Paracas National Reserve better than you found it.
- Do not cross any of the boundaries. They are to protect the environment and the natural beauty of the reserve.
- Do not take any flowers, fauna, sand, or rocks from the area.
Make sure to respect the boundaries put up in the reserve.
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Other Things to Keep in Mind for Visiting Paracas National Reserve
Now you know almost everything you need to visiting Paracas National Reserve! But don't go just yet - we have a few more things that you may find helpful.
Weather in Paracas
Paracas experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, with slightly warmer temperatures in the summertime (December-March).
This climate is desert-like, but Paracas is also known for its intense coastal winds, which are at their strongest from August to October.
This area of Peru is super windy!
Winds pick up throughout the day, and despite being at sea level, you can find the clouds being very low. The first day we went to Paracas National Reserve the clouds were so low that we didn't have any visibility at the viewpoints, but when we went earlier the next day it was much better.
There was very little visibility the first day we went to Paracas National Reserve.
The Best Time to Visit Paracas National Reserve
The best time to visit Paracas National Reserve is early in the morning. This is when there are less crowds, and you can enjoy a more peaceful beach experience. Also, going early will give you more time to enjoy the reserve, and let you have a more relaxed visit.
The first day we went at 2:00, and we felt super rushed. Going earlier in the morning will give you the most optimal weather conditions, and let you enjoy the entire place at your leisure.
Go early if you want to beat the crowds at Paracas National Reserve.
How to Prepare for Visiting Paracas National Reserve
Here are some of the things we'd recommend bringing with you to Paracas National Reserve:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Reusable Water Bottle (we use this water bottle from Cafago because it holds the temperature)
- Flip Flops (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting)
- Bathing suit for the beaches
- Beach towel
- Zippered Bag or Backpack- take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
- Light jacket or sweatshirt if you visit early in the morning
- Action Camera (we use the Insta 360 X3 because it's small & waterproof)
- Camera (we use the Sony A7Riii)
- Standard Lens for a dynamic range (we use the Sony GM 24-70)
- Telephoto Lens to capture unique perspectives of the landscapes (we use the Sony GM 70-200)
- Tripod to capture photos when no one is around (we use the JOBY Rangepod which is good against the strong winds)
- Drone for unique shots of the landscapes (We use the DJI Mavic Mini 4 Pro)
- Case Mate waterproof Phone Pouch (we use the Casemate Waterproof Phone Pouch)
- Hair tie to put your hair back
- Cash to pay for the entrance fee or to purchase from local vendors at the beaches
Our drone shot in 2019 vs 2025
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Is Paracas National Reserve Worth Visiting?
Paracas National Reserve is one of the top reasons that travelers visit Paracas, and is a great addition to your itinerary, whether you are visiting on a day trip from Lima, or whether you plan on spending a night or two in the area.
The reserve is well-maintained, affordable, and has plenty of interesting places to visit inside.
Paracas National Reserve is definitely worth visiting!
How Long Should You Spend in Paracas National Reserve?
Being that some of the top attractions at Paracas National Reserve are beaches, you could easily spend the entire day there!
Most people spend an hour or two driving around and checking out the viewpoints, and spend a couple of hours at the different beaches.
We's recommend giving yourself a minimum of 3 hours if you'd like to see the highlights, and 4-5 if you're looking to swim, have a bite to eat, or explore at a more leisurely pace.
Tips for Visiting Paracas National Reserve
Bring a drone and don't miss the pink lake!
So are you ready to experience the beautiful Paracas National Reserve? It really is one of the top highlights of Paracas, and a great addition to any Peru itinerary.
Want to learn more about Paracas? We have a complete Paracas travel guide, as well as plenty of other Peru travel guides to check out. Also, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates, as well as exclusive content we send out each week.
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