From Lima: Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour

Uncover the wonders of Paracas and the captivating Huacachina Oasis on this exhilarating day trip from Lima, where adventures await at every turn.

Set out on a captivating day trip from Lima to the stunning coastal region of Paracas and the enchanting Huacachina Oasis. Explore the Ballestas Islands, observe sea lions and Humboldt penguins, then indulge in the thrills of dune buggy rides and sandboarding. With round-trip transportation and expert guidance, this tour promises a well-rounded adventure. But what unique sights and experiences await you in this remarkable destination?

Good To Know

  • Full-day excursion from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina Oasis, priced at $62.10 per person with up to 10% savings.
  • Itinerary includes a 2-hour boat tour of Ballestas Islands and a 1-hour dune buggy ride with sandboarding in Huacachina.
  • Tour duration is 18 hours, with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Highlights include observing sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and diverse birdlife, as well as a bilingual guide throughout the tour.
  • Tour includes round-trip transportation from Lima but excludes food, drinks, and accommodations for specific medical conditions.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Tour offers a full-day excursion from Lima, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of these remarkable destinations.

Priced at $62.10 per person, a savings of up to 10%, the tour lasts 18 hours and allows for flexible booking, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

With a start time of 5:30 am and a return to Lima around 11:45 pm, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary and Activities

Commencing at 5:30 am from Mal. de la Reserva 615, the tour first travels to Paracas, a 4-hour bus ride from Lima.

Upon arrival, guests embark on a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, witnessing sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and diverse birdlife.

After a 65-minute lunch break in Paracas, the journey continues to the Huacachina oasis, about an hour’s drive away.

Here, adventurers experience a thrilling 1-hour dune buggy ride and sandboarding session.

The tour then returns to Lima, with an approximate 11:45 pm drop-off at the starting location.

Tour Highlights

Travelers can explore the diverse wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, home to a thriving population of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of bird species.

This 2-hour boat tour offers a unique opportunity to witness these creatures in their natural habitat.

The tour also includes an exhilarating dune buggy ride and sandboarding experience in the Huacachina oasis, an iconic desert landscape.

Throughout the day, travelers will benefit from the expertise of a bilingual guide, who’ll provide insights and information about the region’s history and ecology.

Direct transportation from Lima ensures a hassle-free experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a variety of services to enhance the overall experience. The package covers round-trip transportation from Lima, an expert bilingual guide, a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, and the opportunity to enjoy dune buggy rides and sandboarding in the Huacachina oasis.

However, the tour excludes:

  • Food and drinks

  • Accommodations for those with specific medical conditions (pregnant women, those with back problems, or prone to seasickness)

  • Smoking during the tour

  • Changes due to weather, strikes, or demonstrations (subject to adjustments)

Plus, certain holiday periods may require earlier pick-up times.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

Before embarking on this tour, travelers should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack any necessary snacks and sunscreen.

Smoking isn’t allowed during the trip. The itinerary is subject to changes due to weather, strikes, or demonstrations.

During holidays like Easter (April 17-20) and Peru Independence Day (July 25-28), the pick-up times may be adjusted.

Please be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals prone to seasickness.

Travelers are advised to bring cash for any additional expenses not covered by the tour.

Customer Reviews

What do the customer reviews say about this tour? Based on the 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 8 reviews, the tour seems to be a hit with travelers.

Reviewers praise the tour’s quality, comfort, and the guide’s responsiveness. Highlights include:

Reviewers praise the tour’s quality, comfort, and the guide’s responsiveness. Highlights include sandboarding and knowledgeable commentary.

  • "Great experience seeing the Ballestas Islands and dunes of Huacachina"

  • "Friendly, knowledgeable guide provided excellent commentary throughout the day"

  • "Comfortable transportation made the long journey bearable"

  • "Sandboarding was a thrilling activity, a must-try in Huacachina"

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from the designated location in Lima. After a scenic 4-hour bus ride, travelers arrive at the Ballestas Islands, where they embark on a 2-hour boat tour to observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and an array of birds. Following the wildlife viewing, there’s a lunch break in Paracas before heading to the enchanting Huacachina oasis. There, adventurers hop on dune buggies and try sandboarding, an exhilarating experience. The tour wraps up with the return journey to Lima, arriving around 11:45 pm.

What to Bring | What to Expect

— | —

Passport/ID | Early start (5:30 am)

Comfortable shoes | Boat tour of Ballestas Islands

Snacks and water | Dune buggy ride and sandboarding

Sunscreen | Scenic transportation to/from Lima

Tips for Making the Most of Your Experience

To make the most of this tour, travelers should pack a small day bag with essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and snacks. This will ensure they’re prepared for the varied activities and microclimates along the way.

Plus, travelers should:

  • Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and sand dunes

  • Bring local currency for optional purchases and gratuities

  • Familiarize themselves with the itinerary to make the most of the included activities

  • Stay hydrated and listen to the guide’s recommendations to have a safe, enjoyable experience.

With these tips, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable day exploring Paracas and the stunning Huacachina oasis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Boat Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands. The tour allows passengers to capture photos of the diverse wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various birds.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Near the Huacachina Oasis?

There are no medical facilities directly within the Huacachina oasis. The nearest hospital is located in the nearby city of Ica, around 5 km away. It’s advisable to prepare for any medical needs before visiting the sand dunes.

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

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour information states that food and drinks are excluded, so you’re free to pack your own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the day.

How Strenuous Is the Sandboarding Activity?

The sandboarding activity is moderately strenuous. It involves riding down sand dunes, which requires some physical effort and balance. Travelers with limited mobility or physical conditions may find it challenging but can still enjoy the dune buggy ride.

Can I Extend My Stay in Paracas or Huacachina After the Tour?

You can’t extend your stay after the tour. The tour’s itinerary is fixed, and it includes a specific timeframe for each activity. However, you could consider booking a separate overnight stay in Paracas or Huacachina before or after the tour.

The Sum Up

The "From Lima: Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour" offers an unforgettable adventure, showcasing Peru’s natural wonders. With a scenic bus ride, boat tour, dune buggy rides, and sandboarding, this tour provides an exciting and diverse experience for just $62.10 per person. Travelers can expect a day filled with stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and adrenaline-pumping activities, all under the guidance of expert tour leaders.

You can check availability for your dates here: