This was the most desolate cruise port I have ever seen! A few vendors were set up at the pier, and motor coaches were waiting to shuttle passengers for excursions. That was it!
So the choices were to: 1. Book an excursion, 2. Take the shuttle to Paracas, or 3. shop for 10 minutes and get back on the ship. We paid to take the motor coach shuttle into Paracas, and so glad we did, as Paracas is the gateway to the Ballestas Islands.
The drive to Paracas was much the same as the port.
Sand and dirt everywhere. Dry and hot. Definitely slather on the sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
As we neared Paracas, the town made me think of a magical oasis in the desert. Was it a mirage?
Fishing and tourism are the main sources of income. Row boats, fishing boats, and speed boats are ready to take tourists to see Ballestas Islands. For those who didn’t book a ship’s excursion, tickets for tours can be purchased in the main building where shuttles drop off passengers in Paracas.
Little shops and restaurants -some offering wifi with purchase- line the pier in Paracas. We booked a jet boat tour leaving in 30 minutes, which would give us a little time to look around the town after the tour.
The jet boat took us in front of our cruise ship. Then in front of the famous “candelabra.” This looks like a sand dune, but it is solid rock.
No one knows the origin of this windswept etching in stone. Some say aliens?!? Now, on to the scenery:
Upon our return to town, we spent a little time looking in the shops with friendly people and purchasing some souvenirs.
Our shuttle back to the ship took us past the walled residential area were many of the fishermen and shop owners live.
If I ever return to Paracas….
I would definitely repeat everything with one exception. I would be sure to sit on the left side of the jet boat near the back for the best views of the scenery.
Next stop: Callao (Lima), Peru