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Discover the Palomino Islands and experience a unique marine adventure in Lima, swimming alongside sea lions in their natural habitat. Sail from Callao and enjoy stunning views of the coastline before reaching the Cavinzas National Reserve, where you can have a close encounter with hundreds of sea lions in the wild. Accompanied by professionals, enjoy an adventure that combines nature, navigation, and contact with marine wildlife, discovering the Peruvian coastline from a different perspective.
Palomino Islands and swimming with sea lions tour overview
Why choose this experience with us?
- Close to marine wildlife: Enjoy a close encounter with sea lions, seabirds and other species that live on the islands, watching them in their natural surroundings.
- A safe and unforgettable adventure: A trip to the Palomino Islands with a wetsuit, a life jacket and the supervision of specialised staff to swim alongside the sea lions.
- Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pickup at your hotel to the end of the experience you will have our guide with you, answering your questions and providing information and orientation.
- Enjoy every moment without rushing: An itinerary designed to take in the seascapes of the Callao coast and the encounter with the islands' wildlife at a relaxed pace.
Programme summary
Lima – Port of Callao – Palomino Islands – Lima
Sail from Callao to the Palomino Islands, discover Lima's coastline and enjoy the unique experience of swimming with sea lions in their natural habitat, accompanied by professionals and with all the safety equipment you need.
Tour facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | Half day: approx. 4 hours, including transfers and sailing |
| Departure time | 9:00 a.m. |
| Swimming with sea lions | Approx. 20 minutes, in the authorised area |
| Maximum altitude | City of Lima: 154 m / 505 ft above sea level |
| Minimum altitude | Sea level: 0 m |
| Difficulty | Easy, with an optional water activity |
| Temperature | Between 16 °C and 28 °C / 61 °F and 82 °F, depending on the season |
Highlights
- Port of Callao: the starting point for sailing to the islands off Lima's coast and the setting of an important Peruvian maritime tradition.
- La Punta: see this traditional Callao seaside district from the water and enjoy its coastal scenery.
- El Camotal: a partly submerged island surrounded by stories and legends of the coast.
- San Lorenzo Island: sail past the largest island on the Peruvian coast and learn about its historical and natural importance.
- El Frontón Island: see this historic Callao island from the sea, known for its distinctive past.
- Cavinzas National Reserve: an important natural area that is home to pelicans, boobies, gulls and other seabirds.
- Palomino Islands: the highlight of the trip, with a large colony of sea lions you can watch from the boat and, with the right equipment and specialised supervision, join in the water.
Palomino Islands and swimming with sea lions itinerary
Lima – Port of Callao – Palomino Islands – Lima
Half a day sailing along the Callao coast, with the most anticipated encounter of all: the sea lions of the Palomino Islands.
- The adventure begins early in the morning, with the pickup from your hotel in Lima (Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco) to travel to the historic Port of Callao, the starting point of this marine experience. Departure is at 9:00 a.m.
- On arrival we board a ferry that takes us to the catamaran or yacht, from where we begin sailing along Lima's coastline and discover the coast from a unique perspective.
- The trip begins by skirting La Punta, the traditional Callao seaside district known for its coastal scenery, and continues towards El Camotal, a partly submerged island surrounded by stories and legends.
- We sail past the imposing San Lorenzo Island, the largest island on the Peruvian coast, known for its historical importance and natural richness, and continue alongside El Frontón Island.
- We reach the Cavinzas National Reserve, an important natural area that is home to various seabird species, among them pelicans, boobies and gulls.
- Finally we arrive at the Palomino Islands, home to one of the main sea lion colonies on Lima's coast. From the boat we watch these animals up close as hundreds of them swim, rest and move around the yacht.
- Then comes the most anticipated moment: swimming with the sea lions. With a wetsuit, a life jacket and the supervision of a specialised guide, you can enter the water for about 20 minutes and enjoy a close encounter with these fascinating animals, always respecting their space and natural behaviour.
- Afterwards we head back to the port across the Pacific, with time to relax and take a last look at the islands and the Callao coastline before disembarking and returning to Lima.
What the Palomino Islands tour includes
Transport and sailing
- Tourist transport to and from the established pickup points in Lima (Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco).
- Pier entrance, to begin the maritime experience.
- Catamaran or yacht trip along the Callao coast and around the Palomino Islands.
Marine experience
- Swimming with sea lions in their natural habitat, in the authorised area, lasting about 20 minutes.
- Wetsuit to make the water activity more comfortable.
- Life jacket, compulsory during the boat trip and the swim.
Guide and assistance
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English), with information about the route and the marine wildlife.
- Assistance throughout the trip, from the start of the transfer to the end of the experience.
- Prior coordination: the day before the tour we contact you to confirm the time and the pickup point.
Not included
- Meals and drinks. We recommend bringing water and some snacks for the trip.
- Return to your hotel: at the end of the tour, drop-off takes place at the service's established points.
- Travel insurance (recommended): cover for flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays and medical assistance.
- Tips (optional).
- Expenses arising from causes beyond the agency's control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, strikes, political instability or changes in government policy.
Palomino Islands tour price
Rates
| Rate | Price per person |
|---|---|
| General rate Shared service, from 1 traveller | 85 USD |
The rate covers the transfer, the pier entrance, the boat trip, the wetsuit, the life jacket and the swim with sea lions.
Plan your visit
Departure is at 9:00 a.m., with pickup beforehand in Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco. We recommend booking early to secure your date and your place on board. Travelling soon? Ask us about availability: depending on the date, you can also book just a few days ahead.
Upgrade your experience
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup outside the established areas | On request | If your hotel is outside Miraflores, San Isidro or Barranco, we arrange a meeting point or an additional transfer, subject to availability and cost. |
Before you book
The service can run all year round, subject to availability and to weather and sea conditions. For safety reasons, the operator may change the route or suspend the swim when sea conditions are not suitable. The water activity requires being comfortable in the sea and is allowed from the age of 8, under the responsibility of parents or companions.
What to bring on the Palomino Islands tour
These are the most important items for this half-day experience at sea.
Required documents
- Original, valid ID card or passport.
- A digital copy of your document, recommended as a backup.
Clothing and items for the sea
- Swimwear for the swim with the sea lions.
- A personal towel and a full change of clothes for after the water activity.
- Comfortable, light clothing.
- A light or windproof jacket, especially while sailing.
- Cap or hat and sunglasses.
Personal protection
- Sunscreen.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Personal medication, if you need it, including seasickness tablets if you are prone to it.
- Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses.
Equipment
- Mobile phone or camera.
- A waterproof case or zip-lock bag to protect your electronic devices.
- Power bank (optional, but recommended).
Important considerations
- Sailing depends on sea and weather conditions; for safety reasons, the operator may change the route or suspend the swim.
- Wearing the life jacket and the wetsuit is compulsory during the water activity.
- The swim respects the animals' habitat and behaviour: chasing, touching or feeding the sea lions is not allowed.
- The swim requires adequate physical condition to get into and stay in the sea.
- There may be wind, spray and movement of the boat while sailing; if you are prone to seasickness, take your usual precautions before setting off.
- Keep your personal belongings protected during the boat trip and the water activity.
- Times and sailing durations may vary because of traffic, sea conditions and safety regulations.
- The experience follows the instructions of the captain, the guide and the specialised staff at all times.
Frequently asked questions about the Palomino Islands
What does the Palomino Islands tour include?
Transport from the pickup points, a professional bilingual guide, the pier entrance, the catamaran or yacht trip, swimming with sea lions, a wetsuit, a life jacket and assistance throughout the trip.
How long does the tour last?
It is a half-day experience of about 4 hours, including transfers and sailing, according to the operating conditions of the service.
Where does the tour start?
With the pickup from hotels in Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco, according to the points established for the service. From there we travel to the Port of Callao. Departure is at 9:00 a.m.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, for passengers staying in the established pickup areas. For other locations we recommend checking the available points in advance or arranging an additional transfer.
Does the tour include the return to my hotel?
No. At the end of the experience, drop-off takes place at the service's established points.
How do you get to the Palomino Islands?
From the Port of Callao we board a ferry that takes us to the catamaran or yacht. From there we begin sailing towards the Palomino Islands and other points along the coast.
Which places do you see while sailing?
We sail past La Punta, El Camotal, San Lorenzo Island, El Frontón Island and the Cavinzas National Reserve, before reaching the Palomino Islands.
Can you land on the islands?
No. The experience takes place from the boat and, in the authorised area, with the swim among the sea lions. The tour is designed to watch marine wildlife while respecting its natural habitat.
Which animals can I see?
Sea lions and various seabirds, such as pelicans, boobies and gulls. Wildlife watching depends on the natural conditions of the day.
How many sea lions can I see?
The Palomino Islands are home to a large colony. The number you see can vary with the season, the sea conditions and the animals' natural behaviour.
Is swimming with sea lions included, and how long does it last?
Yes, it is included in the programme. It takes place in the authorised area, following the instructions of the specialised staff, and lasts about 20 minutes.
Is it safe to swim with the sea lions?
The activity is done with a wetsuit and a life jacket, plus the supervision of the staff in charge. Passengers must follow the safety instructions given before and during the activity at all times.
Can I touch or feed the sea lions?
No. To protect the wildlife and keep the experience responsible, chasing, touching or feeding the sea lions is not allowed. The aim is to watch them and share the space while respecting their natural behaviour.
Are the wetsuit and the life jacket included?
Yes, both are included. Wearing the life jacket is compulsory during the boat trip and the water activity, and the wetsuit makes the swim more comfortable.
Do I need to know how to swim?
The swim requires being comfortable in the water and following the instructions of the staff in charge. If you have any doubts about taking part, we recommend letting us know when booking.
Can children take part?
Yes, from the age of 8, provided they meet the safety conditions and are under the responsibility and supervision of their parents or companions. Taking part in the water activity is subject to the operator's instructions.
How difficult is the tour?
It is easy. Even so, the swim requires enough mobility to get into and out of the water and to follow the instructions of the specialised staff.
Is the tour on a catamaran or a yacht?
On a catamaran or a yacht, depending on the boat assigned for the date of the service and on operating conditions.
Does the tour run all year round?
Yes, subject to availability and to weather and sea conditions. Sailing and the swim may be changed for safety reasons.
What happens if sea conditions do not allow the swim?
Passenger safety comes first. If sea or weather conditions are not suitable, the operator may change, limit or suspend the water activity and adjust the route as needed.
Could I get seasick while sailing?
Some passengers may feel seasick because of the boat's movement. If you are prone to it, we recommend taking your usual precautions before setting off and telling the staff about any discomfort.
Does the tour include food and drinks?
No. The experience does not include meals or drinks; we recommend bringing water and any personal items you need for the trip.
What should I bring on the tour?
Swimwear, a towel, a full change of clothes, a light or windproof jacket, a cap or hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle and a waterproof case for your phone. You will find the full list in the What to bring tab.
Do I need my passport or ID card?
Yes. We recommend bringing your original, valid passport or ID card, plus a digital copy as a backup.
Will I receive information before the tour?
Yes. The day before the service our team will contact you to confirm the details of the tour, the time and the pickup point.
Does the tour have safety measures?
Yes. The activity has safety equipment, including a life jacket and a wetsuit, plus the supervision of the staff in charge during the water activity.
What is the booking process?
Step 1. Availability enquiry. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check the date you would like to travel. Our team will guide you through the programme and the services included.
Step 2. Passenger details. To process the booking we need, exactly as they appear on your travel document, your full name, passport or ID number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy), nationality and gender.
Step 3. Payment and confirmation. Once availability is confirmed, we will send you the payment instructions. When the payment is received, we will arrange and confirm the services.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once the services are confirmed, you will receive the official booking confirmation with the details of your tour. At that point your booking will be 100 % guaranteed.
Can I cancel or change the date of my booking?
Yes. You can request a change or a cancellation. The conditions and any charges depend on how far in advance the request is made and on the policies that apply to the service. We recommend checking the booking conditions before paying.
Why choose the Palomino Islands tour?
Because it brings together sailing, coastal scenery and a close encounter with marine wildlife in a single experience: you will discover the Callao coastline, see its main islands and have the chance to swim with sea lions in their natural surroundings.
Any further questions?
You can contact our sales team on WhatsApp at +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % local Peruvian company specialising in adventure and cultural travel experiences in Peru's main destinations. We have a team of certified guides and operations staff committed to delivering unique, safe and high-quality experiences.
We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personalised attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee standards of excellence in every detail of the operation, from planning through to the tour itself.
With Sakura Expedition, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
