Audio Guide of Julio C. Tello Site Museum

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is strategically located at km 27 of the Pisco–Puerto San Martín highway, in the heart of the Paracas National Reserve.

The general admission fee for the museum is usually around S/ 7.50 for adults, although reduced rates are available for students and children. Keep in mind that, since it is inside a protected area, you must first pay the Reserve entrance fee at the control booth.

The visit is smooth and highly educational; a full tour generally lasts between 45 minutes and one hour. It is the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in history without getting tired, ideal before continuing on to the reserve’s beaches.

This place safeguards the most important evidence of the Paracas culture, including its famous textile mantles and elongated skulls. It was named in honor of Julio C. Tello, the archaeologist who discovered this civilization in 1925, and it is key to understanding medicine and worldview in ancient Peru.

I recommend going in the morning, ideally between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. That way you will avoid the strong winds characteristic of the area, known as the 'Paracas Wind,' which usually rise in the afternoon, and you will enjoy better light for your photos.

Yes, after its reconstruction in 2016, the building features a modern and inclusive architectural design. It has ramps and wide spaces that make it easier for visitors with reduced mobility to move through the exhibition galleries.

Take advantage of being inside the Reserve to visit the spectacular Red Beach and the remains of the rock formation known as The Cathedral. In addition, the Lagunillas viewpoint is very close and is an excellent place to have lunch facing the sea.

Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the desert sun is intense, and do not forget your water bottle. For a more immersive experience, I suggest exploring it with a good audio guide that explains the mysteries of trepanation as you observe the pieces.