From Lima: Excursion to the Desert of Chilca or Marcahuasi

Embarking on an unforgettable adventure, travelers can experience the captivating landscapes of Peru with a small-group excursion from Lima. Priced at $280 per person, this 11-hour tour offers a chance to explore either the Chilca Desert or the Marcahuasi region, engaging in thrilling activities like sandboarding, hiking, and cycling. Led by knowledgeable guides, the journey promises breathtaking sights and a deeper understanding of these unique destinations. With comfortable transportation and a flexible cancellation policy, this excursion caters to the adventurous spirit, leaving one eager to uncover the hidden gems that await.

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Key Points

Excursion options from Lima to the Chilca Desert or Marcahuasi region, priced from $280 per person for an 11-hour small-group tour.
Activities in the Chilca Desert include sandboarding, hiking, and cycling, along with a picnic lunch and transport to the terraced dunes.
The Marcahuasi hiking experience involves an early morning pickup, a journey to San Pedro de Casta in 4×4 vehicles, and exploration of rock formations, lagoons, and archaeological sites.
Both excursions include hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, English and Spanish-speaking guides, and equipment rental, with flexible booking and free cancellation.
The tours offer a comprehensive experience for exploring Peru’s diverse landscapes beyond the confines of Lima.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This excursion offers a captivating journey from Lima to either the Chilca Desert or the Marcahuasi region.

Priced from $280 per person, the 11-hour small-group tour is limited to 10 participants. Live guides in English and Spanish lead the way, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reservations can be made now with the option to pay later.

Explore the adrenaline-pumping activities of sandboarding, hiking, and cycling in the Chilca Desert, or learn about the scenic hikes of the Marcahuasi Plateau, with a focus on archaeological sites and rock formations.

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

Activities Offered

The excursion offers a range of thrilling activities for visitors to choose from. In the Chilca Desert, you can try sandboarding on the terraced dunes and go cycling or hiking.

Explore the Chilca Desert with thrilling activities like sandboarding, cycling, and hiking on the terraced dunes.

For an adrenaline rush, the all-terrain vehicle maneuvers through the desert landscape.

Over at Marcahuasi, the main attraction is the scenic hiking route, which takes you through the plateau’s rock formations, lagoons, and archaeological sites.

Whether you prefer sand sports or a more leisurely hike, this excursion delivers a diverse range of experiences in one unforgettable day.

Chilca Desert Experience

For the Chilca Desert experience, visitors are picked up from their hotel in Lima and transported to the desert’s terraced dunes. There, they’ll enjoy 2 hours of sandboarding, with all the necessary equipment provided. A picnic lunch follows, complete with red wine, ham, cheese, bread, water, and snacks. After a full 7 hours in the desert, participants return to the meeting point.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| All-terrain vehicle maneuvers | – |

| Sandboarding | 2 hours |

| Picnic | – |

| Total Duration | 7 hours |

Marcahuasi Hiking Experience

Early risers embark on a journey to San Pedro de Casta, transported in rugged 4×4 vehicles from their hotels in Lima.

After an early 4 AM pickup, the hiking route leads to the Marcahuasi Plateau, where visitors discover rock formations, lagoons, and archaeological sites.

Trekkers enjoy the scenic beauty of this high-altitude destination, taking in the stunning vistas.

The 11-hour experience allows ample time to explore the area thoroughly before returning to Lima in the evening.

With an English and Spanish-speaking guide, this adventure offers a comprehensive Marcahuasi hiking experience.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

This excursion includes several key elements to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in 4×4 vehicles, and an English and Spanish speaking guide are all provided. Full sandboarding equipment rental is also included. However, meals not mentioned in the itinerary, travel insurance, and tips are excluded.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Meals not mentioned |

| Transport in 4×4 vehicle | Travel Insurance |

| English and Spanish speaking guide | Tips |

| Full sandboarding equipment rental | |

| | |

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Why Choose This Excursion?

Travelers looking for an unforgettable adventure will find this excursion to the Chilca Desert or Marcahuasi to be a thrilling and diverse experience.

The small group size ensures personalized attention from the live guide, who can provide insights in both English and Spanish. With free cancellation and a "reserve now, pay later" option, booking is flexible.

Whether you choose sandboarding in the Chilca dunes or hiking through the stunning Marcahuasi Plateau, this excursion offers an adrenaline-packed day filled with spectacular scenery and unique cultural encounters.

Whether sandboarding the Chilca dunes or hiking Marcahuasi Plateau, this excursion offers an adrenaline-packed day of spectacular scenery and cultural encounters.

It’s an excellent way to explore Peru’s captivating landscapes beyond the city limits.

Preparing for the Adventure

Participants will want to pack appropriately for the day’s activities and weather conditions.

Bring sun protection – sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking and sandboarding. Pack a light jacket or sweater, as the weather can be cooler at higher elevations.

Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks to keep energy levels up. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

While meals are provided for some activities, packing additional food may be helpful. With the right gear, adventurers will be prepared to fully enjoy the desert excursion.

Exploring the Unique Landscapes

Although the desert landscapes may seem barren at first glance, the Chilca and Marcahuasi regions offer a captivating array of natural wonders to explore.

From the undulating dunes of Chilca perfect for sandboarding, to the striking rock formations and serene lagoons of Marcahuasi, these destinations promise an exhilarating adventure.

Drift down the terraced dunes of Chilca on a thrilling sandboarding excursion.
Hike through the Marcahuasi Plateau, marveling at the ancient archaeological sites and diverse flora and fauna.
Cycle through the desert landscape, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face.
Spot wildlife like vicuñas, condors, and pumas in their natural habitats.
Enjoy the unique cultural traditions of the local communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Excursion Suitable for Solo Travelers?

The excursion is suitable for solo travelers. It offers a small group setting, free cancellation, and both English and Spanish-speaking guides, making it an accessible and flexible option for those exploring Peru independently.

Can the Group Size Be Larger Than 10 Participants?

The group size can’t be larger than 10 participants. The tour explicitly states the small group is limited to 10 people, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience for all travelers.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the activities, but the tour is suitable for participants aged 12 and above. Children under 12 can join with parental supervision.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to tailor the excursion based on your interests and activity level within the overall duration and pricing structure.

How Experienced Do I Need to Be for the Activities?

The activities are suitable for beginners. No prior experience is required for sandboarding or hiking. The tour guides will provide instructions and assist participants throughout the excursion to ensure everyone enjoys the adventure safely.

The Sum Up

This excursion from Lima offers a chance to experience Peru’s breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you choose the Chilca Desert or Marcahuasi, you’ll enjoy a range of activities led by knowledgeable guides. With comfortable transportation and a flexible cancellation policy, it’s an ideal adventure for any traveler. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these unique landscapes and create unforgettable memories in Peru.