A Quick Note on the Term “Poor Man’s Galapagos”
Travelers widely use this phrase to describe destinations such as the Ballestas Islands and Isla de la Plata, but we understand that it can be derogatory.
Here, we use it only because it’s the term people search for when looking for affordable wildlife adventures.
What matters most is that the Ballestas Islands and Isla de la Plata offer extraordinary natural experiences, incredible in their own right, no matter the price tag.
Isla de la Plata: Ecuador’s accessible wildlife gem
If you’ve dreamed of the Galápagos but your budget won’t allow it, Isla de la Plata is an exciting alternative.
Located about 40 km off the coast of Puerto López in Machalilla National Park, this small island packs a surprising amount of wildlife and scenery into a single day trip.
Wildlife encounters
Visitors often spot blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, and even waved albatrosses (in season).
During the boat trip, you are likely to see dolphins and, from June to September, humpback whales leaping spectacularly close to the coast.
The experience
One of the most magical parts? The wildlife is not afraid of humans.
You can walk along marked trails while birds nest just a few meters away, allowing you to take close-up photographs without disturbing their natural behavior.
How to get there
From Quito or Guayaquil, you can reach Puerto López by bus or car.
Day trips to Isla de la Plata typically cost between $40 and $75 and include boat travel, a guide, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
Most trips are full-day excursions, departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
Best time to visit
Blue-footed boobies are most active from May to December.
If whale watching is your thing, plan your visit for June to September.
A Wildlife Experience That Surprises First-Time Visitors
When travelers think of marine wildlife in South America, the Galapagos Islands often steal the spotlight. But not everyone has the budget—or the time—for a Galapagos trip. That’s where the Ballestas Islands come in.
Located off Peru’s southern coast, these rocky islets teem with life: Humboldt penguins, sea lions, thousands of seabirds, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Often nicknamed the “Poor Man’s Galapagos”, they’re far more than a budget substitute—they’re a destination that stands proudly on its own.
Where Are the Ballestas Islands?
The Ballestas Islands sit just a few kilometers off the coast of Paracas, a small town about 3.5 hours south of Lima.
They’re part of the Paracas National Reserve, an important protected marine ecosystem where fishing is restricted to safeguard wildlife.
The islands are accessible only by boat, and visitors cannot set foot on them, this ensures the fragile ecosystem remains undisturbed.
Instead, boats circle the islands for up-close viewing of the spectacular wildlife and scenery.
Wildlife Encounters That Rival the Galapagos
What makes the Ballestas Islands worthy of their famous nickname is the sheer abundance of wildlife packed into such a small area. On a single two-hour boat trip, you might spot:
- Sea lions lounging on the rocks and swimming playfully around the boats.
- Humboldt penguins, a species native to the coasts of Peru and Chile, waddling between nesting areas.
- Guanay cormorants, Peruvian pelicans, and Inca terns in vast colonies that fill the sky.
- Occasionally, dolphins racing alongside the boats or rare sightings of migrating whales.
The experience isn’t just about seeing animals, it’s about feeling immersed in a thriving ecosystem.
Isla de la Plata vs. Ballestas Islands: Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | Isla de la Plata (Ecuador) | Ballestas Islands (Peru) |
| Tour Duration | Full day | ~2 hours |
| Wildlife Access | Walking trails, up-close encounters | Boat-based viewing only |
| Species Highlights | Blue-footed boobies, albatross, whales | Penguins, sea lions, pelicans |
| Cost | $40–$75 USD | $15–$25 USD |
| Best For | Travelers wanting an immersive, hike-and-snorkel day | Quick, scenic wildlife viewing |
Both Isla de la Plata and the Ballestas Islands prove that you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to enjoy South America’s impressive wildlife.
Although the Galapagos remain the destination par excellence, these places offer a taste of their magic at a much more affordable price.And remember: there’s nothing “poor” in Poor Man’s Galapagos about watching penguins dive, boobies dance, or whales leap against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
The “Poor Man’s Galapagos”
Why are the Ballestas Islands called the “Poor Man’s Galapagos”?
The nickname comes from their similar wildlife to the Galapagos—penguins, sea lions, and seabirds—at a fraction of the cost and travel time.
Can you land on the Ballestas Islands?
No, visitors remain on boats to protect the delicate ecosystem, but the close approach offers excellent viewing and photography.
What other attractions are near the Ballestas Islands?
Nearby highlights include the Paracas National Reserve, Huacachina Oasis, and the Nazca Lines.
How do the Ballestas Islands compare to Isla de la Plata in Ecuador?
The main difference is the type of wildlife and the experience.
Ballestas Islands: Ideal for a quick, low-cost day trip from Lima. You’ll see Humboldt penguins and massive sea lion colonies from a boat.
Isla de la Plata: Often called the “Mini-Galapagos” of Ecuador. It offers a unique chance to hike on the island and see iconic blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds up close, similar to a land-based Galapagos experience.
