Ballestas Islands, Vineyards and Buggies in Huacachina From Ica

Ica, a vibrant Peruvian city, offers visitors a thrilling outdoor adventure. From the awe-inspiring Ballestas Islands to the serene vineyards and exhilarating buggy rides in Huacachina, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Explore the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and local flavors – a journey that’ll leave you wanting more. Discover the captivating allure of this hidden gem and uncover the reasons why it’s a must-visit destination.

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Key Points

Diverse tour package that includes buggy rides, sandboarding, and an adventure on the Ballestas Islands.
Pickup available from Ica, with a 6:30 am start time and a maximum of 15 travelers.
Not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, but most can participate in the activities.
Option to visit Paracas National Reserve if the Ballestas Islands tour is canceled.
Tour rated 5.0 overall, with private transportation and a knowledgeable driver as highlights.

Tour Overview and Key Inclusions

The tour includes a diverse range of activities, including group tourist mobility, a 2-hour buggy and sandboarding experience with a sunset, and a 2-hour adventure on the Ballestas Islands.

The tour also includes a tourist ticket for the islands, feeding, and tips. The total cost starts from $90 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour can accommodate a maximum of 15 travelers and offers pickup from hotels or a central meeting point in Ica.

Looking for more options in Ica? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Meeting Point and Pickup Details

Pickup is available from all hotels within a specified distance range or at the main door of BBVA bank – Banco Continental, located at La Libertad 141, Ica 11001, Peru, which is the designated meeting point.

The tour starts at 6:30 am and returns to this same meeting point. The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

Those unable to reach the meeting point can arrange private transportation at an additional cost. The tour company advises guests to be punctual, as the group departs on time to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Health and Safety Considerations

Although the tour is generally accessible, it may not be suitable for all travelers. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

However, most travelers can participate in the activities. Participants should be aware of these health and safety considerations before booking the tour to ensure it meets their individual needs and abilities.

Most travelers can participate in the activities, but should be aware of health and safety considerations before booking the tour.

The operator give you a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Tour Alternatives and Adjustments

If the Ballestas Islands tour is canceled due to bad weather, the operator will instead visit Paracas National Reserve.

This reserve offers:

Stunning coastal landscapes and sand dunes
Wildlife viewing opportunities, including flamingos and sea lions
Hiking trails and the chance to explore the desert environment
The option to take a boat tour along the coastline

Plus, if the reservation date falls on a holiday, travelers will receive one hour of buggy and sandboarding instead of the standard two-hour activity.

These tour adjustments ensure guests have an engaging experience regardless of weather or special circumstances.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the tour, with an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 3 reviews. Guests highlighted the private car experience, knowledgeable and friendly driver, and an enjoyable overall day.

While most were satisfied, a minor critique noted the Paracas activity was brief with few animals observed. Despite this small quibble, the tour seems to provide an exceptional adventure exploring the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina’s sand dunes, and the surrounding region.

The tour’s flexibility, including a National Reserve visit when the islands are inaccessible, further demonstrates its value for travelers seeking an engaging Ica excursion.

There's plenty more to explore in Ica

The Ballestas Islands Experience

The Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the "Peruvian Galápagos," offer a captivating glimpse into the vibrant marine life of the Paracas region.

During the 2-hour adventure, travelers can:

Observe thousands of seabirds, including Peruvian boobies, guanay cormorants, and Humboldt penguins, nesting on the islands’ rocky cliffs.
Spot sea lions basking on the shores and swimming in the cool waters surrounding the islands.
Witness the Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious ancient geoglyph etched into the hillside, believed to be a navigational marker.
Learn about the rich history and ecology of the Ballestas Islands from the knowledgeable guide.

Exploring Huacachina’s Dunes and Vineyards

After exploring the captivating Ballestas Islands, the tour takes visitors to the enchanting oasis of Huacachina.

Here, they embark on an unforgettable adventure traversing the striking sand dunes by buggy. Soaring over the golden hills, the adrenaline-pumping ride culminates in an opportunity to try sandboarding, gliding down the slopes.

Soaring over golden hills, an adrenaline-pumping buggy ride culminates in the chance to glide down slopes on thrilling sandboards.

Following the dunes, the tour visits local vineyards, where travelers can savor the region’s renowned wines.

This well-rounded experience showcases the diverse landscapes and activities that make Huacachina a must-visit destination for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Sum Up

This all-inclusive tour offers an unforgettable adventure exploring the Ballestas Islands, local vineyards, and the thrilling dunes of Huacachina. Travelers can witness diverse wildlife, savor rich flavors, and enjoy an exhilarating buggy ride with sandboarding, creating lasting memories of Peru’s stunning natural beauty. With a convenient meeting point and comprehensive inclusions, this tour promises an exciting and hassle-free experience for every visitor.