Palomino Islands

The Palomino Islands are a small group of islets located off the coast of Callao, near Peru's capital city, Lima. They are part of the National Reserve System of Guanay Islands, Islets, and Capes (RNSIIPG) and are famous for their massive population of South American sea lions. An estimated 8,000 to 10,000 sea lions inhabit these rocky outcrops, finding a safe haven free from natural predators. In addition to the sea lions, the islands serve as critical nesting grounds for various seabirds, including the Guanay cormorant, the Inca tern, and the Humboldt penguin. The waters surrounding the islands are nutrient-rich due to the cold Humboldt Current, which supports a high density of marine life. Historically, like many other Peruvian coastal islands, they were utilized for the extraction of guano, a valuable natural fertilizer. Today, the islands are a premier ecotourism destination where visitors can swim near the sea lions under strict environmental regulations. The rugged coastal landscape and constant Pacific surf give the islands a wild, untouched atmosphere despite their proximity to the metropolitan area of Lima.

Nearby cities

Lima

The capital and largest city of Peru.

Huaraz

The premier hub for trekking and mountaineering in the Peruvian Andes, at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca.

History & landmarks

Real Felipe Fortress

A massive historical fortress in Callao, built in the 18th century to protect against pirates and corsairs.

Larco Museum

A privately run museum of pre-Columbian art in Lima, housed in a beautiful 18th-century building.

Huaca Pucllana

A massive adobe pyramid of the Lima culture, which today is a fascinating relic in the middle of the modern Miraflores district.

Monastery of San Francisco

An impressive baroque church and monastery complex in Lima, particularly famous for its underground catacombs.

Bridge of Sighs

A picturesque wooden bridge in the bohemian district of Barranco in Lima, which has inspired many artists, musicians, and lovers.

Pachacamac

A massive archaeological site on the coast south of Lima that was an important religious center long before the Incas.

Chavín de Huántar

An archaeological site and important religious center of the pre-Hispanic Chavín culture in the Peruvian Andes.

More places

Port of Callao

The most important and largest port in Peru, handling the majority of the country's international trade.

La Pampilla Refinery

The largest oil refinery in Peru, located in the coastal region of Callao.

Parque de las Leyendas Zoo

Lima's main zoo and botanical garden, divided into three ecological zones of Peru.

Chancay Megaport

A major deep-water port project aimed at significantly increasing trade between South America and Asia.

Lomas de Lachay National Reserve

A fog-dependent ecological oasis in the desert near Lima that turns green during the humid season and attracts wildlife.

Huachipa Zoo

A popular animal park on the outskirts of Lima, showcasing a large collection of Peruvian and exotic animal species.

Amancay Sanctuary

A hilly area near Pachacámac, known for the yellow amancay flower, which blooms briefly during the winter.

Caral

The oldest known city in the Americas, an ancient pyramid city in the Supe desert.