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Islas Ballestas, Peru |
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Islas Ballestas
After making a few circles in front of the Candelabra of the Andes we were on our way to the Islas Ballestas. These rock islands off the coast of Peru are part of a protected reserve which is home to several species of birds that number in the hundreds of thousands and huge sea lion population. These Islands are sometimes called the Gallopagos of Peru. In the 19th century these islands were an important part of Peru's economy because of the amount of guano collected here which was exported to Europe as fertilizer.
As we approached the islands we could see great swaths of black on the otherwise whitish rock. Closer investigation revealed that the black swaths were hundreds upon hundred thousands of birds. In places the birds were taking flight in what appeared to be a never ending ribbon connecting the island to the horizon. There are also several natural bridges carved into the islands adding particular interest to this rock formation. Man's intrusion here is minimal and limited to the collection of guano evidences by wooden loading/unloading docks which themselves are covered in guano since collections are made about three years apart.
This was our last stop in Peru. After all the strange and wonderful places we visite in this unique land it was nice to conclude our visit at this restful beachside resort. We headed back to Lima late in the afternoon where we caught our overnight flight to Houston.
