How Far Are the Palomino Islands from Lima and How to Take a Tour

The Palomino Islands and the Cavinzas Islands are two pioneering areas of sustainable tourism in South America. In 2024, they received the prestigious ITB Earth Award granted by Green Destinations during the ITB Berlin fair, one of the most important tourism events in the world. Close, accessible, and full of wildlife, they are a perfect getaway to add nature and adventure to your trip.

Added to this is the fact that the distance from Lima to Isla Palomino in Peru is just 18 kilometers departing from Puerto Callao. Wild nature, free-roaming marine fauna, fresh air, and a boat adventure are just a few minutes away from the city.

In this article, we tell you how to get there, what the Palomino Island excursion includes, and what can be seen during the ride. Also, don't miss our recommendations for tours, accommodation, and travel packages to Lima, so you arrive with everything ready or complement your itinerary with the best activities.

Distance to Lima from Palomino Islands, Peru

One of the great advantages of the Palomino Islands is their proximity. This set of rocky islets is located just half an hour from the port of Callao, a port city that is part of the Lima metropolitan area. From the center of the Peruvian capital, the transfer to Callao is short and simple, making this experience a perfect half-day getaway.

What is the Tour to Palomino Islands from Callao Like

The Boat Tour to Palomino Islands proposes a complete experience: transfers from Lima, navigation, wildlife watching, and free time to enjoy the marine environment. The morning schedule of the excursion is ideal for combining with other plans in Lima during the rest of the day.

The navigation towards the Palomino Islands begins from the port of Callao. The boat trip lasts between three and four hours in total and allows you to enjoy the coastal landscape, the movement of the port, and the Pacific Sea. You can also observe historical vessels and learn aspects of Peru's naval history, while the landscape transforms and the rocky islets that make up the Palomino Islands appear.

What is There to See in the Palomino Islands

The Palomino Islands are part of the Guano Islands, Islets, and Capes National Reserve System, one of the most important protected natural areas of the Peruvian coast. This status guarantees biodiversity conservation and the development of responsible tourism.

The natural richness of the place is largely explained by the Humboldt Current, which cools the coastal waters and generates an enormous amount of nutrients. Thanks to this, the area has very high biological productivity, which translates into an abundance of fish, birds, and marine mammals.

One of the great attractions is the sighting of marine fauna in their natural habitat. During the excursion, it is common to observe South American sea lions (lobos marinos chuscos) resting on the rocks, swimming around the boat, or interacting with each other with total freedom.

Did you know that the Palomino Islands are home to one of the largest colonies of South American sea lions in Peru? There are more than five thousand individuals, and in the summer months, the population increases due to the breeding season.

In addition to sea lions, the sky and rocks are filled with guano birds. Peruvian pelicans, boobies, guanay cormorants, and other cormorants are part of the usual landscape, offering a constant spectacle for those who enjoy nature and photography. At certain times of the year, it is also possible to see Humboldt penguins, a vulnerable species that finds refuge in the caves and crevices of the islets.

With a little luck, the sea can offer unexpected encounters, such as the appearance of dolphins or sea turtles during the tour, moments that usually become the most talked-about part of the trip.

Palomino Islands Tour: Can You Swim with Animals?

Navigation is only part of what is experienced with this tour. For the more daring, there is a bonus adventure, one of the most exciting activities: the possibility of swimming near the sea lions.

Just as you read: you can enter the water and closely observe the behavior of these wonderful marine mammals. This is achieved thanks to the fact that the species inhabiting the Palomino Islands are very gentle, but also curious and friendly. In addition, the experience is always carried out under professional supervision and with adequate flotation equipment (wetsuits).

Far from being an invasive activity, swimming is done respecting the environment and the conservation rules of the protected area. The sea lions approach out of curiosity, circle around the visitors, and transform that moment into an experience difficult to forget.

Beyond the fauna, the Palomino Islands offer unique landscapes. The rocky islets, the intense blue sea, and the constant sound of birds and sea lions create a special atmosphere, ideal for disconnecting from the urban rhythm of Lima.

The excursion is perfect for those who enjoy nature photography. The environment offers unique scenes, both from the boat and during observation moments, so it is advisable to have water-resistant cameras or long-range lenses.