Las Ballestas Isles

25 March 2024

Las Ballestas Isles

A nice early arrival at Las Ballestas isles, hoping to avoid the influx of day trip boats. These islands are dynamic with large sea arches and stacks rising out of the water. Some are favoured by the birds, turning the whole rocky surface white with guano, which smells rather foul when you are downwind of it. Large packs of sea lions escort us through the islands. We drop anchor in the lee of the island and lower the dinghy for a few exploration tours up to the deep sea caves and arches. Inca terns, Peruvian booby and the mighty Pelicans all bustling around. There is a local diving boat anchored right up close to the caves, they are diving for octopus. Sure enough, towards mid-morning, the tourist boats crowd us in, they are packed with sightseers. We are happy to have had the beautiful islands to ourselves for the early morning.

Another stop the next morning at the island of San Lorenzo just outside of Callao. Another rugged, semi-eroded cliff face with impressive breakers crashing on the rocks. There is a long sandy beach full of bird life. The dinghy is back in the water for a few rounds to get a closer look at the sea caves and natural life. At one moment, hundreds of the birds take off simultaneously invading the skies. An impressive sight! Not much distance remains to Callao port so we make ourselves harbour ready. Sails furled, yards straight and flags up. We will be honorary guests of the yacht club in Callao, and further up in Ancon after we are cleared by the authorities. Temperatures are starting to heat up, steady 30° every day.