Planning Your Palomino Islands Boat Tour Lima

Most tours start in Callao, which is a port city adjacent to Lima. You can easily reach the docks from neighborhoods like Miraflores or San Isidro. The drive usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.

The tours generally last around four hours. This includes the boat ride, the swim, and sightseeing around other nearby islands. Many companies offer two departure times: one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

It is important to know what to wear for a Palomino Islands boat trip before you go. Wetsuits are usually provided by the tour operators. These are vital because the Humboldt Current makes the water quite cold.

Check if your tour includes snacks, water, and life jackets. Most professional operators follow strict safety rules. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the summer months from January to March.

9 Highlights of Swimming with Sea Lions in Palomino Islands Peru

This trip offers more than just the swim. You will see incredible birds, historic ruins, and beautiful coastal views. Here are the top nine things to see and do during your excursion.

• Quick Pick: Best for Wildlife – Palomino Islands Sea Lion Colony
• Quick Pick: Best for History – Real Felipe Fortress view
• Quick Pick: Best for Families – La Punta district

1. Name: Palomino Islands Sea Lion Colony
   Type: wildlife
   Why go: This is the main attraction where you can swim with thousands of sea lions.
   Best for: Animal lovers and thrill-seekers.
   Where: 6 miles off the coast of Callao.
   Time: 1 hour (swim time).
   Cost: Included in tour price.
   Getting there: Via boat from Callao docks.
   Tip: Keep your hands to yourself; the sea lions are curious but wild.
2. Name: Cavinzas Islands
   Type: nature
   Why go: Famous for its guano bird populations and unique rock formations.
   Best for: Bird watchers.
   Where: Adjacent to Palomino Islands.
   Time: 20 minutes (boat viewing).
   Cost: Free viewing on tour.
   Getting there: Part of the standard boat route.
   Tip: Look for the small Humboldt penguins nesting in the rock crevices.
3. Name: San Lorenzo Island
   Type: sight
   Why go: The largest island in Peru with a rich naval and archaeological history.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: West of Callao.
   Time: 30 minutes (viewing).
   Cost: Free to view from boat.
   Getting there: Boat pass-by.
   Tip: Notice the naval base buildings on the shore.
4. Name: El Frontón Island
   Type: sight
   Why go: Home to the ruins of a famous former prison.
   Best for: Dark history enthusiasts.
   Where: Near San Lorenzo Island.
   Time: 15 minutes (viewing).
   Cost: Free to view.
   Getting there: Part of the tour itinerary.
   Tip: Ask your guide about the historic prison riots that happened here.
5. Name: La Punta District
   Type: neighborhood
   Why go: A beautiful, upscale historic district where many boat tours depart.
   Best for: Pre-tour lunch or a stroll.
   Where: Callao peninsula.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: Free to explore.
   Getting there: Taxi or tour shuttle from Lima.
   Tip: Try the local ceviche at a restaurant overlooking the water.
6. Name: El Camotal
   Type: experience
   Why go: Known as the "sunken city," this area was submerged during a 1746 earthquake.
   Best for: Unique sightseeing.
   Where: Between Callao and San Lorenzo.
   Time: 10 minutes (viewing).
   Cost: Free viewing.
   Getting there: Boat passage.
   Tip: On very low tide days, you can sometimes see the tops of the ruins.
7. Name: Callao Monumental
   Type: experience
   Why go: A vibrant urban art project with galleries and colorful murals.
   Best for: Culture and photography.
   Where: Downtown Callao.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Free to walk; galleries vary.
   Getting there: 10-minute taxi from the docks.
   Tip: Join a guided street art tour for the best context.
8. Name: Real Felipe Fortress
   Type: sight
   Why go: An 18th-century fortress built to protect Lima (Wikipedia) from pirates.
   Best for: Photography from the boat.
   Where: Callao harbor front.
   Time: 5 minutes (viewing from boat).
   Cost: Free to view.
   Getting there: Visible from the departure dock.
   Tip: You can visit the interior on a separate land tour.
9. Name: Chucuito Neighborhood
   Type: neighborhood
   Why go: A historic Italian district famous for its bright, multi-colored wooden houses.
   Best for: Architecture lovers.
   Where: Near La Punta.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Free to walk.
   Getting there: Walkable from the Callao docks.
   Tip: This is a very safe area for taking photos of the colorful facades.

Essential Tips for Your Sea Lion Adventure

Before you jump into the water, remember that it is quite cold. Most tours provide a thick wetsuit. Wear your swimsuit underneath to make changing easier.

Seasickness is common because the Pacific Ocean can be choppy. If you are prone to motion sickness, take a pill an hour before boarding. Sit in the middle or back of the boat for a smoother ride.

The sea lions are very friendly. They often swim quite close to people. However, you should never touch them or try to feed them. This keeps both you and the animals safe.

Finally, consider checking out other top attractions near Lima after your tour. You can visit Miraflores for a sunset dinner to end your day perfectly. Ensure your camera is waterproof if you plan to take it into the water.