Palomino Islands Yacht Tour and swim alongside the sea lions

Discover the Palomino Islands Yacht Tour and Sea Lion Swim from Lima

This 5-hour yacht tour departs from Callao, near Lima, offering an exciting chance to swim close to sea lions in their natural habitat. The tour, priced with a flexible “reserve now, pay later” option, begins with hotel pickups within the districts of San Isidro, Barranco, and Miraflores. It includes a 45-minute boat ride aboard a modern yacht to reach the Palomino Islands, where you’ll experience both wildlife encounters and scenic stops.

The tour highlights include visits to San Lorenzo Island, the Frontón Island, and the Cabinzas Islands. Along the way, guides share insights about the marine fauna such as Humboldt penguins and guano birds. The swimming experience with the sea lions lasts around 20 minutes, making it a key highlight for animal lovers and adventure seekers.

While the water temperature varies from 7 to 19 degrees Celsius, the opportunity to observe marine life and snorkel alongside friendly, harmless sea lions makes this tour stand out. The tour ends with a return to the Callao pier around 12:30 p.m., where transportation takes guests back to their hotels. This experience is ideal for those comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activity, but not suitable for children under 3 or pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• 5-hour yacht excursion with hotel pickup within Lima districts.
• Swim with sea lions in their natural habitat for approximately 20 minutes.
• Visit notable locations such as San Lorenzo Island and the Callao Islands.
• Observe marine fauna including Humboldt penguins and guano birds.
• Travel involves 45-minute boat ride and guided tours with bilingual guides (English and Spanish).
• Bring essentials like sun protection, swimsuit, towel, and camera; avoid alcohol and littering.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Lima

The tour begins early, with pickups scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. from selected hotels in San Isidro, Barranco, and Miraflores. From there, a bus or coach takes approximately 45 minutes to the Plaza Grau pier in Callao. Once onboard the yacht, the journey to the islands is about 45 minutes.

On the way, guides provide commentary about La Punta, Chucuito, El Camotal, Isla San Lorenzo, and El Frontón, enriching the experience with local insights. The tour is well-paced, with a 1-hour stop at San Lorenzo Island for photos, sightseeing, and a guided walk, followed by the sea lion swim and wildlife viewing. The return trip is also 45 minutes by yacht, ending at the initial pier for transportation back to the hotel.

San Lorenzo Island Exploration

The stop at San Lorenzo Island lasts about one hour, giving visitors time for photos, sightseeing, and a guided tour. The island’s rugged landscape and strategic location make it a scenic highlight. Guides lead a short visit, sharing details about the island’s significance and wildlife. This stop offers a chance to stretch, take pictures, and appreciate the island’s natural beauty.

The Unique Experience of Swimming with Sea Lions

The main highlight of the tour involves swimming alongside thousands of sea lions. This 20-minute activity provides an up-close encounter with these friendly and harmless animals. Guides emphasize that the sea lions are accustomed to human presence and pose no threat, making the experience safe and engaging.

Some travelers note that sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and other animals have a strong odor, which may be uncomfortable initially but generally becomes less noticeable over time. The Humboldt Current influences the water temperature, which can range from 7 to 19 degrees Celsius, so bringing appropriate clothing is advised. The opportunity to snorkel or simply observe marine wildlife in their natural environment makes this a memorable part of the tour.

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Marine Fauna and Island Wildlife Viewing

Besides sea lions, the tour offers chances to observe a variety of marine fauna such as Humboldt penguins and guano birds. The islands are part of a nature reserve, and guides explain the importance of preserving this habitat. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife, avoid touching animals, and minimize waste to protect the environment.

The scenic views of the islands and the opportunity to see diverse bird and marine species form an integral part of this adventure. The guides’ knowledge adds value, helping guests identify animals and understand their ecosystems.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Experience

Guides on this tour are bilingual, providing explanations in English and Spanish. Their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor enhances the overall experience, ensuring everyone stays informed and engaged. They also manage safety during swimming and wildlife viewing, offering tips and assistance as needed.

The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for a more intimate experience. The timing is usually well-organized, with clear instructions for each stop and activity. The lively commentary and local insights make the trip enjoyable, especially during the scenic boat rides and island stops.

Preparing for Your Day on the Water

Travelers are advised to bring sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat, as exposure to the sun can be intense. Packing a swimsuit, towel, and camera is essential for the swimming segment and capturing the scenery. Since the weather can change quickly, light layers or a windbreaker are recommended.

It’s also wise to have a light breakfast beforehand to avoid motion sickness during the boat ride. The yacht is equipped with bathrooms, making it convenient during the trip. Participants should avoid alcohol and littering, respecting the natural environment and the animals.

Suitability and Limitations of the Tour

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities. It is not recommended for children under 3 years or pregnant women due to the physical nature of swimming and boat movement. The water temperature and odor of the wildlife might be uncomfortable for some, but most find the experience rewarding.

The unique opportunity to swim with sea lions and observe the islands’ wildlife makes this tour attractive for nature lovers and those seeking a waterside adventure near Lima.

The Sum Up: A Memorable Wildlife and Marine Experience

The Palomino Islands Yacht Tour offers a well-organized, engaging day of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and outdoor fun. The highlight of swimming with sea lions provides a chance to get close to these playful animals in their natural environment—a truly special moment.

While the water temperatures and animal odors might be minor considerations, the knowledgeable guides, diverse wildlife sightings, and beautiful islands outweigh these factors. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, nature, and marine life viewing within a manageable timeframe.

Anyone with an interest in Peruvian marine fauna, island scenery, or close encounters with sea lions will find this experience both enjoyable and worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides pickup from hotels within San Isidro, Barranco, and Miraflores districts.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, swimming, and return.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Avoid bringing alcohol or litter.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is swimming with sea lions safe?
Yes, the sea lions are friendly and harmless; guides supervise the swimming activity to ensure safety.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or pregnant women.

What is the water temperature like?
It varies from 7 to 19 degrees Celsius, depending on the season and ocean conditions.

Are there wildlife viewing opportunities besides sea lions?
Yes, you can observe Humboldt penguins and guano birds on the islands.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Guides are bilingual and provide informative commentary about the islands and wildlife.

Is there any physical effort required?
The tour involves boat rides, walking on islands, and swimming; participants should be comfortable with these activities.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, reservations are flexible with a “reserve now, pay later” option.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby