Lima: Chilca or Marcahuasi Desert 4x4 Tour

Escape the bustling city of Lima and learn about the rugged beauty of Peru’s Chilca or Marcahuasi Desert. Whether you crave the adrenaline-fueled thrill of sandboarding or the serene wonder of ancient rock formations, this 4×4 tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Explore these remarkable landscapes with the guidance of experienced local experts, who’ll unveil the secrets of these captivating natural wonders. With flexible booking options and the promise of an unforgettable day, the only question left is – which desert will you choose?

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Key Points

The tour offers a full-day adventure exploring either the Chilca Desert or the Marcahuasi Plateau, with a thrilling 4×4 ride as a key feature.
The Chilca Desert tour includes a sandboarding lesson and a picnic lunch, while the Marcahuasi tour focuses on exploring unique rock formations and archaeological sites.
Both tours are available in Spanish and English, with convenient departure times and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The Chilca Desert tour is priced from $267 per person and lasts 7 hours, while the Marcahuasi tour is an 11-hour journey with an early 4:00 am departure.
The tours include transportation, guiding, and select equipment, but travel insurance and tips are not included in the package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Lima: Chilca or Marcahuasi Desert 4×4 Tour is a full-day adventure that offers two distinct experiences – exploring the Chilca Desert or trekking through the Marcahuasi Plateau.

A full-day adventure that explores the Chilca Desert or treks through the Marcahuasi Plateau.

Priced from $267 per person, the tour lasts 11 hours and is available in Spanish and English. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The Chilca tour features sandboarding and a picnic lunch, while the Marcahuasi tour includes a 4×4 ride and hiking to scenic rock formations, lagoons, and archaeological sites.

Transportation, guiding, and select equipment are included.

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

Exploring the Chilca Desert

For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, the Chilca Desert tour offers the perfect escape.

Participants will embark on a thrilling 4×4 ride through the dunes, followed by a sandboarding lesson. The experience culminates with a picnic lunch featuring local delicacies like red wine, ham, and cheese.

Throughout the excursion, the English and Spanish-speaking guide provides insights into the desert’s unique landscape and history.

With two convenient departure times, the Chilca Desert tour is an ideal choice for travelers with limited time in Peru who want to pack plenty of excitement into a single day.

The Marcahuasi Tour

Another captivating tour option is the Marcahuasi Tour, which takes adventurers on an 11-hour journey to the stunning Marcahuasi Plateau.

Departing at 4:00 am, the tour starts with a 4×4 ride to San Pedro de Casta. From there, hikers will explore the unique rock formations, lagoons, and archaeological sites of the Marcahuasi Plateau.

The tour includes transportation and an English/Spanish-speaking guide, but meals aren’t provided.

This is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a more challenging outdoor experience with breathtaking scenery beyond the Chilca Desert.

What’s Included

Depending on the tour option selected, the package includes various amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.

For the Chilca Desert Tour, the tour provides transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and complete sandboarding gear.

The Marcahuasi Tour includes transportation and a guide, but meals aren’t included.

The Marcahuasi Tour provides transportation and a guide, but meals are not included in the package.

Both tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off in a 4×4 vehicle.

While travel insurance and tips aren’t part of the package, the inclusions cover the essential needs for each unique desert adventure.

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Highlights of the Experience

The Chilca or Marcahuasi Desert 4×4 Tour provides an adrenaline-filled experience, catering to travelers seeking a thrilling and diverse adventure.

For the daring, the Chilca tour offers the chance to zoom across dunes and master the art of sandboarding.

Those seeking more serene exploration can embark on the Marcahuasi tour, which promises stunning vistas of rock formations, lagoons, and archaeological wonders.

Regardless of the option chosen, both tours deliver a perfect blend of excitement and scenery, making them an ideal choice for visitors with limited time in Peru.

The variety of activities ensures there’s something to captivate every traveler.

There's plenty more to explore in Lima

Booking and Flexibility

Booking the Chilca or Marcahuasi Desert 4×4 Tour is made easy with the option to reserve now and pay later, allowing travelers to secure their spot without upfront payment. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for plans that may change.

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Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping sandboarding or the scenic hike to Marcahuasi, this tour offers a variety of experiences to suit different preferences, all with the convenience of booking and flexibility.

Preparing for the Adventure

Preparing for the adventure begins with ensuring travelers have the necessary equipment and attire for the chosen tour option.

For the Chilca Desert Tour, sandboarding gear is provided, but travelers should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring sun protection.

The Marcahuasi Tour requires sturdy hiking boots, layers for changing temperatures, and a backpack for snacks and water.

Regardless of the tour, a small daypack, camera, and cash for tips are recommended.

Travelers should also review the tour schedule and plan accordingly, as the Marcahuasi tour departs early in the morning.

With the right preparation, adventurers can look forward to an unforgettable experience.

Additional Considerations

Although the tour packages include transportation and guided services, travelers should consider their personal preferences and physical abilities when selecting the appropriate option.

Those seeking an adrenaline rush may prefer the Chilca Desert Tour with its sandboarding activities. Conversely, the Marcahuasi Tour caters to hikers interested in exploring scenic rock formations and archaeological sites.

Plus, travelers should factor in the varying durations, with the Chilca Tour lasting 7 hours and the Marcahuasi Tour extending to 11 hours.

Finally, while meals are provided for the Chilca Tour, the Marcahuasi Tour doesn’t include meals beyond those mentioned.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The information provided does not specify the maximum group size for the tour. The details focus on the tour options, inclusions, and highlights, but do not mention the group size. Without any explicit information, the group size is not stated.

Are Private Tours Available for This Experience?

The tour provider offers private tours, allowing travelers to enjoy the experience with just their own group. Private tours provide more flexibility and personalized attention compared to joining a larger group.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and work with them to create a personalized itinerary within the tour’s overall framework.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend the duration of the tour. The Chilca tour can be extended to 8 hours, while the Marcahuasi tour can be extended to 12 hours, allowing more time for exploration and activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes a picnic lunch for the Chilca tour option. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is permitted to supplement the provided meals.

The Sum Up

Experience the thrill of adventure with the Lima: Chilca or Marcahuasi Desert 4×4 Tour. Whether you choose the exhilarating Chilca Desert or the breathtaking Marcahuasi Plateau, you’ll enjoy expert guiding, transportation, and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Discover Peru’s stunning landscapes and create an unforgettable memory with this exciting tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: