Ica / Huacachina : Canon De Los Perdidos – Icas Hidden Gem

Ica, a stunning oasis town, serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Canon De Los Perdidos. This hidden gem in the OCUCAJE Desert offers an unforgettable full-day tour. Visitors can marvel at towering rock walls, uncover ancient marine fossils, and explore serene waterholes. Led by expert guides, this remarkable landscape promises lasting memories. Discover the geological wonders that make this region a must-visit destination.

Good To Know

1. The Canon de los Perdidos, or Canyon of the Lost, is a stunning natural wonder located in the OCUCAJE Desert near Ica, Peru.

2. The canyon features towering rock walls over 400 meters deep, with ancient marine fossils embedded in the canyon walls.

3. Visitors can uncover a variety of fascinating fossils, including ammonites, shark teeth, and petrified wood, providing insights into the region’s vibrant marine ecosystem.

4. The guided tour includes exploration of serene waterholes, 1.5 km long and 150 m deep, as well as insights into the formation of the geological wonders.

5. The full-day tour from Ica offers a unique opportunity to discover this hidden gem, with a focus on the dramatic environmental changes over time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Full-Day Tour of Canyon of the Lost

The full-day tour of the Canyon of the Lost from Ica takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the region’s geological marvels and natural wonders. Priced from $75 per person, the 8-hour small-group excursion ventures into the OCUCAJE Desert, where guests can discover ancient marine fossils.

The highlight is the breathtaking Los Perdidos Canyon Viewpoint, a 400-meter deep gorge. Guided walks along sandy paths reveal fossils and saltpeter deposits, as well as picturesque waterholes up to 150 meters deep.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and all entrance fees included, this tour showcases Ica’s hidden gem.

Getting to the OCUCAJE Desert

After a 1-hour bus ride from Ica, the tour takes visitors to the OCUCAJE Desert. This arid landscape is the gateway to the Canyon of the Lost, a geological marvel.

Along the way, the group stops to purchase any last-minute drinks and snacks before heading deeper into the desert. Here, guests explore areas rich in marine fossils, relics from when this region was underwater millions of years ago.

The guide provides insights into the formation and history of this unique environment, preparing the group for the stunning vistas that await at the canyon viewpoint.

Discovering Marine Fossils

As the tour bus pulls into the OCUCAJE Desert, visitors step out to uncover a treasure trove of marine fossils scattered across the arid landscape.

These ancient relics provide a window into the past, revealing the region’s vibrant marine ecosystem that existed millions of years ago.

The highlights include:

1. Ammonite fossils, ancient spiral-shaped mollusks that thrived in the prehistoric seas.

2. Shark teeth, remnants of the fearsome predators that once swam in these now-dry riverbeds.

3. Petrified wood, fossilized tree trunks that bear witness to the dramatic environmental changes over time.

Arrival at Los Perdidos Canyon Viewpoint

Approximately 1 hour into the journey, the tour group arrives at the breathtaking viewpoint of Los Perdidos Canyon.

Towering rock walls over 400 meters deep surround the lush oasis below. The guide points out ancient marine fossils embedded in the canyon walls, remnants of a time when this area was submerged under the ocean.

The group gazes in awe at the hidden lagoons and the vast, sandy expanse. The guide explains the geological history and the preservation efforts to protect this natural wonder from over-tourism.

The group takes in the stunning vistas before continuing their exploration of the canyon.

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Guided Walk Along Sandy Paths

The group now sets off on a guided walk along the sandy paths winding through the canyon.

The experienced guide leads them through this geological marvel, pointing out key features:

1. Fossilized marine creatures embedded in the canyon walls, remnants of a time when the area was submerged under the ocean.

2. Unusual saltpeter deposits, formed by the evaporation of mineral-rich waters.

3. Weathered rock formations sculpted by wind and water over millennia, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.

As they explore the hidden gems of the canyon, the group is captivated by the raw, untouched beauty of this geological wonder.

Exploring Waterholes and Saltpeter Deposits

After navigating the sandy paths, the group arrives at the serene waterholes of the canyon.

These deep, crystal-clear pools stretch 1.5km long and plunge 150m down. Saltpeter deposits line the walls, adding a striking mineral contrast to the scene.

Visitors can carefully explore the edges of the waterholes, keeping an eye out for fossils and other geological wonders.

The guide shares insights about the formation of these hidden gems, carved out over millennia by the relentless flow of water.

It’s an otherworldly experience, a true oasis in the heart of the Ocucaje Desert.

Highlights of the Stunning Canyon

Towering rock walls rise dramatically on either side, casting dramatic shadows across the canyon floor.

The Canyon of the Lost, often compared to the Grand Canyon, showcases the geological marvels of the Ica region.

Visitors can:

1. Explore the hidden waterholes, up to 150 meters deep and 1.5 kilometers long, carved into the canyon’s rock formations.

2. Discover fossilized remnants of the region’s marine past, with ancient marine creatures frozen in time.

3. Marvel at the sweeping vistas from the Los Perdidos Canyon Viewpoint, where the sheer scale of the canyon landscape becomes truly awe-inspiring.

What’s Included and Important Information

While the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Ica hotel or bus station, as well as all entrance tickets and a knowledgeable guide, there are a few important details to note.

A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to depart. Suggested items to bring include sunglasses, sun hat, food, drinks, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes.

The overall tour rating is 5/5 based on 2 reviews, with praise for the guide’s insights and the preservation of the stunning canyon from mass tourism.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book this tour with flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues as it involves guided walks along sandy paths and exploring deep waterholes, which could present challenges. Those with concerns should check with the tour operator for accessibility details.

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 includes complimentary lunch, but you’re free to pack additional snacks and beverages if you’d like.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the full-day adventure in the Canyon of the Lost. The small group size ensures a personalized experience for all participants.

Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography and videography are allowed during the tour. The tour operator encourages visitors to capture the stunning geological formations and natural beauty of the canyon.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for customers to change their plans without penalty.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable full-day tour offers the chance to explore the spectacular Canon De Los Perdidos, a hidden gem in the OCUCAJE Desert. Visitors can marvel at towering rock walls, uncover ancient marine fossils, and discover serene waterholes, all while learning about the region’s fascinating geological history from expert guides. This remarkable landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.

You can check availability for your dates here: