The Ballestas Islands are islands in the Pacific Ocean, close to the South America continental coast of Peru. Although the islands fall just outside the Paracas National Reserve they are protected by separate legislation. The islands are home to over 160 species of marine bird including the Humboldt penguin, cormorants, boobies and pelicans. On the shores can be seen large numbers of sea-lions and in the sea it is possible to encounter dolphins and even whales.
The quantity of birds was particularly obvious from the huge amount of guano, covering the red rock of the islands with baked white clay - which, surprisingly enough, used to be Peru’s main industry, used extensively by Europeans for fertiliser. there are still a few guano factories on the islands, which guys live on for two months at a time like oil riggers.
These islands and cliffs are clearly a rocky paradise for wildlife and are definitely an essential visit for anyone interested in wildlife.
