Lima: Palomino Islands Sea Lions Swim & Speed Boat Tour

Summary

Palomino Islands wild sea lions swim by Lima with local stories

You’ll speed out from Lima’s Callao port with a local guide, spot wild sea lions at Palomino Islands, slip into a wetsuit for an optional swim among them, then snack on deck as you pass dramatic cliffs and hear stories about guano birds and penguins. It’s loud, salty, sometimes cold—but honestly unforgettable.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to smell so sharp, honestly. The morning started in Callao, where our guide—Miguel, who seemed to know every ship in the bay—pointed out old warships and fishing boats bobbing around. There was this weird mix of diesel and salt in the air, plus that distant sound of gulls fighting over something invisible. I kept squinting at San Lorenzo Island as we passed; Miguel said it’s packed with history but all I could think was how dry and sun-bleached it looked from the boat.

The ride out to Palomino Islands on the speed boat was a bit bumpy (hold onto your hat if you’re sitting up front). Everyone got quiet when we saw the first group of sea lions—honestly, they’re louder than I thought. It’s not just barking, more like a whole conversation happening on those rocks. You get close enough to smell them (not exactly perfume), and for a second I wondered if I’d actually get in the water. But they handed out wetsuits—cold and rubbery against my skin—and somehow that made it easier to just jump. Floating there with dozens of sea lions swirling past is…well, I still think about that moment when one popped up right beside me and stared straight into my goggles. Weirdly calming.

Afterwards, everyone was shivering a little but laughing too hard to care. They passed around snacks—some cookies and bottled water—and Miguel told us about the guano birds nesting nearby, plus a few Humboldt penguins he swore were watching us from the rocks (I only spotted one). On the way back, we drifted past cliffs shaped like something out of a dream. The sun felt warmer by then or maybe it was just relief from being back on board. Either way, you end up feeling kind of salty and alive at the same time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Palomino Islands and swim with sea lions

• Start tour to Callao islands
• Observe yachts and warships in bay
• Pass El Camotal sand bank and open sea
• See San Lorenzo island and wildlife
• Arrive at Palomino Island
• Swim with sea lions wearing wetsuits
• Return through cliffs and islets
• Enjoy complimentary snack on boat
• Arrive back at Callao marina

Top questions

Can you really swim with sea lions at Palomino Islands?

Yes, swimming with sea lions is included using provided wetsuits at Palomino Islands.

How long does the Palomino Islands tour from Lima take?

The full experience lasts about 2.5 hours from departure to return.

Are snacks or drinks included on this tour?

Yes, bottled water and snacks are served during the return trip.

Is hotel pickup available for this day trip?

If you book transfer from Miraflores, pickup can be arranged—just provide your address.

Do you have to swim on the Palomino Islands tour?

No—you’re not required to swim; you can stay on board if you prefer.

What should I bring for swimming with sea lions near Lima?

A swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, warm clothes or raincoat are recommended.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes—children over 3 years old can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Who leads the Palomino Islands day trip?

A professional local guide leads each group through the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes speed boat transport from Callao port with a local guide who shares stories along the way; all wetsuits provided for swimming with sea lions; bottled water and snacks served after your swim; bathrooms available onboard; plus optional hotel pickup if booked in advance before returning back to shore together.