Paracas

Two and a half day in Paracas.
The bus ride from Lima to Paracas takes about 3h45 and I am impressed by the punctuality and efficiency.
Everything goes smoothly and we are dropped on the main square of Paracas around 12:00. After a quick stop at the hostel to deposit the luggage, I go to a « secret » spot for lunch with a French friend met in the bus. Best cerviche so far! A stroll on the beach and across the touristic town round up the afternoon. In the evening I tried a restaurant on the Main Street with a friend met in Huaraz but the Cerviche does not hold up to the one at lunch (yes, 2 Cerviche a day 🙈).
The next day we start at 07:30 for a Tour of the Ballesta Islands, also called the Galápagos Islands of the poor. Interesting rock formations, many birds (including the cutest penguin couple), see lions,…although not the best season, we see many animals!
In the afternoon I rent a (bad) bike and go explore the Paracas Reserve on my own. I ride across the desert against a strong wind but the rugged coast and pink flamingos at the end are worth it.
A kayak excursion at sunrise is booked for the last day before taking the bus to Arequipa. It turns out to be kind of a scam, instead of the promised dolphins and flamingo reserve, we just paddle along the shore where big villas are built. I am paired with very American American, fortunately I sit in the front: I almost do not touch the water due to mass differences.
Oh well, now onto 13h10 bus drive to Arequipa!Read more