Machu Picchu, Incan marvel nestled in the Peruvian Andes, epitomizes the grandeur of pre-Columbian architecture and culture.

TOUR TO SAN FERNANDO BAY

“Our Tour to San Fernando Bay is an unforgettable journey through wild desert and pristine coastline. Travel by 4×4 from Nazca to a hidden marine sanctuary where sea lions, penguins, condors, and guanacos thrive. Walk along rocky shores, witness powerful ocean views, and explore one of Peru’s most biodiverse coastal landscapes in this immersive full-day adventure.

“Tour to San Fernando Bay: An Off-Road Adventure into Peru’s Untamed Coastal Reserve”

A Hidden Marine Sanctuary

“Conquer the Desert on a 4×4 Quest to the Pacific”

Travel across a surreal desert landscape in a powerful 4×4, where dry hills and red sands stretch like a Martian world. After two hours of thrilling off-road adventure, the Pacific suddenly appears, a striking contrast of wild ocean meeting lifeless land.

“Track the Elusive Guanacos in the Wild”

One of the few places in Peru to see wild guanacos! These elegant camelids roam freely in the high desert cliffs above the bay, offering a rare sighting of a species once sacred to ancient Andean cultures.

4x4 vehicle crossing the desert on the way to San Fernando Bay
Wild guanaco standing on a desert hill overlooking San Fernando

“Find Penguins Where You Least Expect Them”

Discover the unexpected: penguins in the tropics! Along rocky outcrops near the bay, you’ll find Humboldt penguins living far from icy shores, nesting among coastal caves and sunlit cliffs. 

“Soar with Condors Above a Living Coastline”

San Fernando is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Observe majestic condors circling overhead, alongside flocks of pelicans, boobies, cormorants, and graceful Inca terns gliding above the waves and rocky islands.

Humboldt penguins on rocky cliffs near San Fernando Bay
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Route Map to the Bay of San Fernando

Summary

Tour to San Fernando Bay begins at 08:30 h with hotel pickup in Nazca. Journey by 4×4 across the desert to a remote marine sanctuary on the Pacific coast. Spot wild guanacos, Humboldt penguins, condors, and sea lions in their natural habitat. After exploring rocky islands and coastal viewpoints, enjoy lunch by the sea and return to Nazca by 16:00 h.

Starting Point

Your hotel in Nazca.

Tour Duration

8 Hours approx.

Departure Time

08:30 h.

Language

English

“Why Travelers Choose This Tour”

Tour to San Fernando bay

Full Itinerary

Tour to the Marine Reserve of San Fernando

Full Description

Part I: 4×4 Expedition Across the Desert
Your Tour to San Fernando Bay begins at 08:30 h with hotel pickup in Nazca. The journey kicks off aboard a 4×4 vehicle, ideal for traversing the desolate beauty of the coastal desert. The landscape is surreal — endless red hills and cracked earth that resemble the surface of Mars. Along the way, your naturalist guide shares insights into the region’s geology, flora, and the rare wildlife that survives in this dry terrain. If lucky, you might even spot wild guanacos roaming the hills.
 
Part II: Arrival at the Pacific Coast & Wildlife Encounters
After roughly 2 hours of off-road adventure, the desert suddenly gives way to the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. At El Mirador, a scenic viewpoint, you’ll capture sweeping panoramas of San Fernando Bay — a remote and peaceful marine sanctuary. From here, a short walk leads you down to the bay, where sea lions rest on rocky shores and Humboldt penguins waddle along the coastline. You’ll also see pelicans, cormorants, Inca terns, and possibly condors soaring above the cliffs.
 
Part III: Exploration of the Natural Island & Beach Break
You’ll continue on foot across a rocky beach toward a natural island platform, home to nesting seabirds and dramatic rock formations. The guide will point out areas where penguins and other rare species often hide. After time to explore and enjoy the island views, you’ll return to the beach to rest, have lunch, or even swim in the cold but refreshing waters of San Fernando. Before heading back, you’ll visit another part of the bay where hundreds of sea lions gather along the shoreline, an unforgettable farewell. The tour ends in Nazca around 16:00 h.
 
What is included ?
  • Pick from your hotel in Nazca.
  • Private 4×4 wheel drive transportation.
  • English speaking guide.
  • All entrance fees.

What is not included?

  • Meals, extras and gratuities.

TRANSPORT & GUIDE

Customer Reviews

“This was pure adventure! From crossing the desert to spotting condors and sea lions, San Fernando Bay felt like a hidden world waiting to be explored.”

Charles K. / England

“I never imagined seeing penguins in the desert! The 4×4 ride, ocean views, and wildlife made this one of the wildest and most beautiful days of my trip.”

Camila R. / USA

Trip Essentials

Free cancellation:
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the activity starts. Any cancellations after this time or no-shows on the day will not be refunded.

Tour Date Change Policy:
You have the flexibility to change the date of your tour with ease, provided that you make the request at least 48 hours in advance.
No charges will be applied for rescheduling within this timeframe.

Cancellation Policy:
If there’s no choice but to cancel, please be informed of any related fees.
Please notify us at least 48 hours before the scheduled tour date to avoid any significant charges.

Last-Minute Cancellations:
We regret to inform you that last-minute cancellations are not accepted.

No Shows:
In the event of a no-show, where a customer fails to appear for the tour without prior notice, a 100% cancellation fee will be levied, and no refunds will be issued.

What to Bring for the San Fernando Bay Tour:

  • Comfortable walking shoes (for rocky terrain)
  • Light jacket or windbreaker (it can be windy by the coast)
  • Sunblock and a wide-brim hat
  • Sunglasses (with UV protection)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Snacks or light lunch.
  • Swimsuit and towel (for those who want to swim)
  • Binoculars (optional, for birdwatching)

Not wheelchair accessible.

FAQs for the Tour to San Fernando Bay:

1. What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 08:30 h with hotel pickup in Nazca and ends around 16:000 h when we return to your hotel.
 
2. Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, but please note that the tour includes a 4×4 desert drive and some walking over uneven terrain. It’s best for those in reasonably good physical condition.
 
3. Will I see wildlife for sure?
While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, sea lions, seabirds, and even guanacos and penguins are commonly observed during the tour.
 
4. Can I swim at San Fernando Bay?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to swim in the Pacific Ocean near the beach area, though the water can be cold. Bring a towel and swimsuit if interested.
 
5. Is lunch included in the tour?
Lunch is not included, but you are welcome to bring your own food. We stop for a relaxed break by the beach where you can eat and enjoy the view.
 
6. What kind of vehicle is used?
The journey is done in a 4×4 vehicle, ideal for crossing the desert terrain and reaching remote coastal areas.
 
7. What should I wear?
We recommend lightweight clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses, and closed walking shoes. Bring a light jacket for ocean winds.
 
8. Are there bathrooms along the way?
There are no formal restrooms at the bay or on the desert route, so we advise guests to use facilities before departure.
 
9. Can this tour be done privately?
Yes, this is a private experience with a local naturalist guide, offering a personalized and flexible itinerary.
 
10. Do you offer this tour all year round?
Yes, the Tour to San Fernando Bay operates year-round, but weather and wildlife activity may vary by season.
 

Video About San Fernando Bay in Marcona

From: US $150