Islas de Ballestas are also known as the Poor Man`s Galapagos, however we really enjoyed the boat ride around the islands. Mostly, saw millions of birds for which the island has a rich history of guano harvesting. Amazing 2 pounds of poop retrieves an astonishing price of 10 dollars. Thankfully, despite the numerous birds above us we had a clean get away. Also, able to see penguins and seals. Later during the National Park tour we actually saw the rarely viewed sea otter. This was very lucky. A person in our group pointed out the animal as the guide was stating that he had only seen 2 of them during his history as a guide. The park was spectacular for its nothingness but sand, which is what the coast looks like all the way from Peru down to Chili. The park also held the only RED sand beach on the continent. At times flamingos can also be seen at the park but due to a sand storm we were not able to see them.

Back in Pisco, we had the opportunity to try a local specialty - cow stomach. It was sort of chewy, but these tiny pieces combined with peas in a sauce were actually quite good. When in Pisco, try a Pisco sour. This is a Peruvian specialty drink - here’s the recipe if you should like to try. Freshly squeezed lime juice, pisco (grape brandy), ice, sugar, 1 tsp. egg whites to create a lovely frothy top, and angostura bitters.

July 31st
Welcome to Peru!

August 2nd
Hello Pisco!

August 3rd
Islas de Ballestas

August 5th
Arequipa

August 6th - 8th
Cayon del Colca

August 10th
Puno

August 11th
Lake Titicaca

August 21st - 24th
Cusco and Pisac

August 25th - 30th
Hiking to Machu Picchu

Summary of Peru and Bolivia