Perhaps you read my 10 day itinerary about Peru and were looking for more detailed information, or maybe you just want to learn about how to swim with sea lions at Palomino Island. Either way, I'm glad you're here!
Covered in this Article:
Company to Use
Itinerary of the Trip
What to Bring
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would jump off of a boat into incredibly cold, sea lion filled ocean water. Then I found myself heading to Lima, Peru and looking for adventures. An amazing not well known fact is that you don't have to travel far from Lima for one of the most memorable wildlife encounters in your life. I saw a tour online to swim with Swim with Sea Lions at Palomino Island. I had never heard of Palomino Island before, but now it will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Company to Use: Swim with Sea Lions at Palomino Island
There is pickup offered, or you can simply take a cab to the meeting point. I took a cab to the port in Callao and it was very simple. You do go through a pretty rough area in Lima, but you'll drive straight through it to Callao. There you will meet with your tour guide and the other 15 people or so joining you to a unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary of the Trip:
The boat journey from Callao to Palomino Islands involves passing by several islands along the way and your tour guide will give you all the history you're looking for on this journey.
San Lorenzo Island: This is the largest island in the Callao region. It is known for its historical significance and diverse wildlife. As of 2011, San Lorenzo Island is no longer open to the public. It is a restricted zone controlled by the Marina de Guerra del Perú. Civilian vessels are required to be at least 300 meters off the shore of the island.
El Frontón Island: Another island that might be passed during the journey, El Frontón was formerly a prison island, similar to Alcatraz in San Francisco. Today, this island is occupied only by Humboldt Penguins and Sea Lions.
Cavinzas Islands: This group of islands is known for its bird colonies and natural beauty.
Palomino Islands (Islas Palomino): The ultimate destination of the journey, Palomino Islands.
Over most of these island rocks, they look like they're painted bright white with thousands of birds droppings. But, the good thing for us nature lovers is that this means this islands are also crawling with different Peruvian birds, including Humboldt Penguins! The closer you are to the island rock, the more you will notice the distinct smell it gives off. The longer it stays on the rock, the stronger the smell becomes.
Palomino Island
The closer you get, the more you start to see that rock moving and you realize it's COVERED with thousands of sea lions. I will be honest, that at first, the smell is overpowering, but you do really get used to it. Plus, you're so excited and nervous!
You're getting closer to the sea lions, and your tour guide will provide you a wet suit, which is great because the water is cold. There are no whales or sharks is in this section of the ocean, which is why there are over 8,000 sea lions living on this island because they live here free of predators. Anyone that wants to is able to jump in the water and swim up close and personal with hundreds of sea lions. They are playful and curious, but they also keep their distance for the most part.
I promise you I was terrified, but it was the most incredible experience that I will always remember. And if I am lucky enough to find myself in Lima again, I would happily redo this activity.
What to Bring on Your Sea Lion Swimming Adventure:
When embarking on this excursion to Palomino Islands in Peru, it's important to come prepared for a day of adventure and exploration. Here's a suggested list of items to bring:
Daypack: Bring a small backpack to carry your essentials. For me this included change of clothes, sun screen, sea sickness pills, water bottle and protein bars to settle my stomach as I am known to get an uncomfortable stomach on the water.
Swimwear: Essential for the main attraction – swimming with sea lions. I wore my bathing suit under my clothes which I would recommend.
Towel: To dry off after your swim and for general use.
Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, so protect your skin with a high SPF sunscreen.
Hat and Sunglasses: Additional sun protection for your face and eyes. But watch out for both if the boat gets going quickly!
Comfortable Clothing: Wear lightweight and breathable clothing.
Waterproof case: If you are brave enough to bring your smartphone in the ocean, be sure to buy a case similar to the provided link with an attached lanyard. I will own that I absolutely did not bring my phone into the water. I am known for dropping and spilling.
Water Bottle: You will definitely want to stay hydrated. The boat trip will take around three hours.
Motion Sickness Medication: If you're prone to motion sickness like I am, absolutely bring your preferred motion sickness meds.
Extra Clothing: To change after swimming.
Snacks: It's a 3 hour trip, and you don't want to be hangry around your new sea lion pals. Having snacks also helps to settle my stomach so I don't get sick.
Cash: So you can tip after the tour. (I HATE forgetting this!)
Binoculars: To enhance your wildlife viewing experience. I didn't have binoculars, but I definitely wish I had going by some of the islands.
Plastic Bag or Dry Bag: Keep your valuables and electronics protected from water.
Sense of Adventure and a Smile: Most importantly, bring a positive and adventurous spirit for an unforgettable day!
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