If you’re planning to visit Paracas, you’re probably looking for the cheapest ways to get there without spending a fortune.
While many travelers choose organized tours or private transportation, those aren’t the only options. Backpackers, solo travelers and anyone looking to reduce travel costs often choose local transportation instead. After all, saving money on the journey means having more budget to enjoy activities like the Ballestas Islands, the Paracas National Reserve or even continuing your trip to Huacachina and Nazca.
Fortunately, traveling from Lima to Paracas can be surprisingly affordable. Whether you’re comfortable making an extra stop along the way or prefer a direct budget option, there are several ways to reach this beautiful coastal town without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll compare the cheapest ways to get to Paracas, including prices, travel times and the advantages of each option, so you can decide which one fits your travel style best.
Option 1: The Cheapest Route (Bus + Local Transport)
If your main goal is to spend as little as possible, this is probably the best option for you.
Start by heading to Atocongo Terminal in southern Lima. From there, companies such as Perú Bus offer frequent departures to the city of Ica. The journey usually takes between 4 and 5 hours, depending on traffic, and tickets cost around 20 soles (about USD 6).
Once you arrive in Ica, you’ll need to continue to Paracas. The easiest way is to take a mototaxi or local taxi to the transportation terminal, where you’ll find colectivos and local buses traveling to Paracas. This is the final part of the trip.
In total, you can expect to spend between 35 and 50 soles (USD 10–14), depending on the type of transportation you choose from Ica to Paracas.
Why choose this option?
This route is perfect for backpackers, solo travelers and anyone trying to keep transportation costs as low as possible. If you’re not in a hurry and don’t mind making an extra transfer, it’s one of the best value options available.
Things to keep in mind
Because this journey includes a transfer in Ica, it requires a little more planning than direct transportation. You’ll also spend a bit more time traveling, especially if you have to wait for your next ride to Paracas.
Still, for travelers who prioritize saving money over convenience, it’s hard to beat this option.
Option 2: The Easier Budget Option (Direct Colectivo)
If you’d rather avoid extra transfers but still keep your transportation costs low, taking a colectivo is an excellent choice.
Like the previous option, you’ll first need to get to Atocongo Terminal in southern Lima. From there, shared taxis known as colectivos depart directly to Paracas. Instead of stopping in Ica and changing vehicles, you’ll travel straight to your destination.
The trip usually takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic, and prices generally range between 40 and 65 soles (USD 12–19).
Why choose this option?
A colectivo is ideal if you want to save money without dealing with multiple transfers. Since it goes directly to Paracas, the journey is simpler and often a bit faster than traveling through Ica.
It’s a popular choice among backpackers, local travelers and anyone looking for a good balance between affordability and convenience.
Things to keep in mind
Unlike regular bus companies, colectivos don’t always follow a fixed schedule. Most drivers wait until all seats are occupied before departing, so you may need to wait a little while before the journey begins.
Comfort can also vary depending on the vehicle and the amount of luggage you’re carrying. If you’re traveling with large suitcases or simply prefer more space, you may want to consider a tourist transportation service instead.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Both options are among the cheapest ways to get to Paracas, making them excellent choices for travelers who want to save money. The best one simply depends on your travel style.
If you’re looking for the lowest possible transportation cost, taking a public bus to Ica and continuing to Paracas is the most budget-friendly option. It does require an extra transfer, but it’s a great choice for backpackers and travelers who don’t mind spending a little more time on the road.
If you’d rather enjoy a simpler journey, a direct colectivo is worth considering. While it usually costs a little more, it takes you straight to Paracas and saves you the hassle of changing transportation in Ica. No matter which option you choose, planning ahead and leaving early in the day will help make your trip much smoother.
If you’d like to see these transportation options in action, we’ve put together a short video explaining both routes, what to expect and how much each one costs.
Watching the video will give you a better idea of which option fits your budget and travel style before you head to Paracas.
🎥 Watch the video here: https://www.instagram.com/p/Da_xFxvgCRj/
