Paracas, Peru

About Paracas

Paracas lies 220 kilometres south of Lima, where the Peruvian desert meets the Pacific in a wide, sheltered bay beside a national reserve of red cliffs, sea lions and enormous seabird colonies.

The wind statistics are remarkable: consistent wind on around three hundred days a year, with June and July the exceptions. It arrives around midday and peaks between three and four in the afternoon at 30 to 40 knots — strong, and worth respecting. October through December brings the biggest swell for wave riders.

The bay serves every level. Shallow, flat water near the shore suits beginners, while the far side of the bay holds butter-flat water for anyone chasing speed or tricks. The Pacific here is cold rather than tropical, at 16 to 22°C year-round, so a wetsuit is part of the kit — a 3/2 is generally enough.

When the wind drops there is the reserve: bays and cliffs to explore by rented buggy, wildlife boat trips to the Ballestas islands, and some of the cheapest excellent ceviche in South America.

When to go

Best months: January, February, March, April, November, December.

Kite areas

1 distinct riding area documented within this destination.

• Paracas

  Best months: January, February, March, April, November, December.