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Machu Picchu, Incan marvel nestled in the Peruvian Andes, epitomizes the grandeur of pre-Columbian architecture and culture.

SAN FERNANDO MARINE RESERVE TOUR

“The San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour is an unforgettable adventure from Nazca to the Pacific coast of Marcona. Just two hours away, this hidden paradise combines rugged desert landscapes with one of Peru’s richest marine ecosystems. Traveling by 4×4 with a naturalist guide, you’ll descend from the barren highlands to a pristine bay where sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and sea otters thrive. Above the cliffs, Andean condors soar, while on the desert plains you may spot the elusive guanaco, one of South America’s rarest camelids.”

“Explore the Wonders of the San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour – Penguins, Guanacos, and Dramatic Ocean Views”

“Crossing Desert Horizons to Find Condors and Guanacos in the Wild”

Your adventure begins with a thrilling 4×4 ride across the desolate desert that stretches from Nazca to the Pacific coast. The landscape feels otherworldly, with barren hills and endless plains that suddenly open to the blue waters of San Fernando Bay. Along the way, the desert reveals unexpected treasures — the elusive guanaco roaming the plains and the mighty Andean condor soaring above the cliffs. These rare encounters, set against the stark beauty of the coastal desert, make the journey as extraordinary as the destination.

Tourist photographing a guanaco in the San Fernando Reserve
Andean condor flying above the Pacific Ocean in San Fernando

“Exploring Penguin Colonies, Seabird Cliffs, and Sea Lion Beaches of the Pacific Ocean”

At the bay, San Fernando comes alive with marine life. On rocky islands, travelers may spot Humboldt penguins alongside pelicans, boobies, cormorants, and Inca terns. The air is filled with birdsong while waves crash against dramatic cliffs. Just around the bend, the highlight of the reserve appears: beaches covered with hundreds of South American sea lions, resting, swimming, and playing in the surf. This mix of vibrant wildlife and breathtaking Pacific Ocean scenery creates an unforgettable finale to the San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour.

Tourists admiring the cliffs of San Fernando Marine Reserve
Pelicans and seabirds at San Fernando Marine Reserve
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TOUR SUMMARY

The San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour is a full-day eco-adventure from Nazca to the Pacific coast of Marcona. Traveling by 4×4 with a naturalist guide, the journey begins at 08:30 h with a desert drive across vast dunes and barren hills that suddenly give way to turquoise ocean views.
Along the way, travelers may spot guanacos roaming the plains and Andean condors soaring high above the cliffs. Once at San Fernando Bay, the adventure continues on foot with visits to rocky outcrops where Humboldt penguins, pelicans, boobies, and cormorants thrive.
After exploring all main zones, the tour concludes with the return to Nazca, arriving around 17:30 h.

Starting Point

Your hotel in Nazca.

Tour Duration

8 hours approx.

Departure Time

08:30 h.

Language

English

“Why Travelers Choose This Destination”

A Desert-to-Ocean Adventure

Few places in Peru offer such a dramatic transition, from barren desert plains that resemble another planet to blue waters alive with wildlife.

Rare Wildlife Encounters

Travelers have the chance to spot guanacos, one of the Andes’ rarest camelids, and watch the mighty Andean condor soar above the Pacific cliffs.

A Sanctuary of Marine Life

From Humboldt penguins and sea otters to pelicans and Inca terns, the reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

The Realm of Sea Lions

The unforgettable sight of hundreds of sea lions resting and playing along the beaches is often the highlight of the day, creating memories that last a lifetime.

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San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour

Full Itinerary

San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour
Full Description

I. Morning Departure from Nazca
Your San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour begins at 08:30 h with a pickup from your hotel in Nazca. Traveling in a powerful 4×4 vehicle, you leave the city behind and head west toward the Pacific coast. The road soon transforms into an off-road adventure across vast desert landscapes, where the silence of the dunes and the immensity of the horizon feel almost otherworldly. This dramatic drive takes about two hours, offering spectacular desert scenery along the way.
 
II. Encounters with Guanacos and Condors
As you approach the reserve, the desert starts to reveal its secrets. On the sandy plains, you may spot guanacos, South America’s rarest wild camelids, gracefully moving across the dunes. Looking upward, keep your eyes on the sky: this is also one of the few coastal places where Andean condors can be seen soaring above the cliffs, their massive wings spread wide over the Pacific Ocean.
 
III. Penguins, Seabirds, and Coastal Walk
Upon reaching San Fernando Bay, you’ll set off on foot with your naturalist guide. The rocky outcrops and natural islands are home to Humboldt penguins, cormorants, pelicans, boobies, and Inca terns. The air is filled with the sound of thousands of seabirds, creating a powerful connection with this protected ecosystem. You’ll have time to explore, take photographs, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the bay.
 
IV. Sea Lion Colonies and Ocean Views – Return to Nazca.
The highlight of the day awaits at the far end of the bay: the sea lion colonies. Here, hundreds of South American sea lions rest, swim, and play along the beaches, offering an unforgettable wildlife encounter. The cliffs and turquoise waters of the Pacific create a breathtaking natural backdrop, the perfect setting for lunch by the sea. If you wish, you may also take a refreshing swim before the return journey to Nazca.
 
Inclusions:
  • Pick up from your hotel in Nazca.
  • Private transport and entrance fees.
  • A box lunch and drinks.
  • English speaking guide.
  • Drop off at your hotel at the end of the tour.

Exclusions:

  • Extras & Gratuities.
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Transport & Guide

Our Services

Transport

“Transportation for the tour”

Modern Vehicles

Safe & Comfortable

Guide

“Tour Guided in English”
Our local guide watching wild Guanacos on route to San Fernando Marine Bay

Local Guide

Years of experience
Any Question !

Customer Reviews

“A Hidden Gem on Peru’s Coast”

This tour was one of the best surprises of our trip. The drive through the desert felt like an adventure on another planet, and then suddenly the Pacific Ocean appeared with incredible wildlife everywhere. Seeing condors and sea lions in the same day was unforgettable.

Isabel M. / Australia.
Excursion by dune buggy to San Fernando Bay

“Wildlife Beyond Expectations”

We booked this tour hoping to see a few penguins, but we got so much more. Guanacos in the desert, condors soaring above the cliffs, and a huge colony of sea lions on the beach. Our guide made it even more special with his knowledge of the San Fernando Marine Reserve.

Paul G. / USA.
Trip Essentials
Tour Date Change Policy:
You have the flexibility to change the date of your tour with ease, provided that you make the request at least 5 days in advance.
No charges will be applied for rescheduling within this timeframe.
 
Cancellation Policy:
If there’s no choice but to cancel, please be informed of any related fees.
Please notify us at least 7 days before the scheduled tour date to avoid any significant charges.
In such cases, only an administration fee of 10% will be deducted from the total amount paid.
 
Last-Minute Cancellations:
We regret to inform you that last-minute cancellations are not accepted.
 
No Shows:
In the event of a no-show, where a customer fails to appear for the tour without prior notice, a 100% cancellation fee will be levied, and no refunds will be issued.

Suggestions

Book in Advance: Availability is limited since the tour requires a 4×4 and local guide. Reserve early, especially in high season.
 
Dress in Layers: Mornings can be warm, but afternoons near the coast get windy. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker.
 
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Closed walking shoes or sneakers are best for rocky paths and sandy terrain.
 
Sun Protection: Carry sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen — the desert sun is strong all year round.
 
Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle to sip during the trip.
 
Camera Ready: Keep a small backpack for your camera or phone. Wildlife sightings happen quickly, and you won’t want to miss them.
 
Avoid Heavy Valuables: The desert and beach walks are rugged. Best to leave jewelry or unnecessary items at the hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions – San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour

How long does the San Fernando Marine Reserve Tour last?
The tour lasts about 7–8 hours. It begins at 08:30 h in Nazca and returns by 17:30 h.
 
What type of transport is used?
We travel in a 4×4 vehicle, ideal for crossing the rugged desert terrain between Nazca and San Fernando Bay.
 
Is the tour private or shared?
This is a private tour. You’ll have your own driver and local guide, which allows for more flexibility and personalized attention.
 
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Common sightings include Humboldt penguins, sea lions, pelicans, boobies, cormorants, Inca terns, condors, and guanacos. Wildlife sightings vary depending on the season and luck.
 
Can we swim in the ocean?
Yes, it is possible to swim in the bay’s waters, though they can be cold. Swimming is optional and depends on weather conditions.
 
What should I bring?
Light clothing for the morning, a jacket or windbreaker for the afternoon, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a small backpack.
 
Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch and drinks are included in the tour.
 
Is this tour suitable for everyone?
The tour involves some walking on rocky terrain and sandy beaches, so a basic level of fitness is recommended. It may not be suitable for people with mobility issues.
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From: US $ 150.00