Unlock the thrill of Peru’s stunning landscapes with this day trip from Lima. Explore the Ballestas Islands, marvel at the Huacachina Oasis, and conquer the dunes on an exhilarating buggy ride and sandboarding adventure. With a small group and expert guide, you’ll discover the best of Paracas and Huacachina in a single unforgettable day. But the real question is – are you ready to take on the challenge?
Good To Know
- A day trip from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina, priced at $89 per person, with round-trip transportation and a small group size of up to 10 participants.
- Includes a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands and an optional buggy ride and sandboarding adventure in the Ica Desert’s Huacachina Oasis.
- Provides an English and Spanish-speaking guide throughout the tour, ensuring a personalized and informative experience.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility for participants.
- Suitable for individuals with good physical capabilities, as the itinerary involves extensive walking, boat rides, and dune buggy adventures.
Trip Overview and Pricing
This day trip from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina is priced at $89.00 per person.
It’s a 1-day excursion with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Lima, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a small group size limited to 10 participants. An English and Spanish-speaking guide leads the tour.
This tour offers round-trip transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a small group size led by an English and Spanish-speaking guide.
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.
However, the tour may not be suitable for those with back problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.
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Itinerary and Activities
The day trip begins with an early 5:30 AM departure from Lima, followed by a 4-hour bus ride to Paracas. Upon arrival, guests embark on a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, where they can spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various bird species.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Ballestas Islands Boat Tour | 2 hours |
| Visit Huacachina Oasis | – |
| Optional Buggy Ride & Sandboarding | – |
After the boat tour, the group heads to the Huacachina Oasis in the Ica Desert, known for its towering sand dunes. Guests can opt for an exciting buggy ride and sandboarding adventure across the dunes for an additional fee. The day trip concludes with the return to Lima around 11:45 PM.
Transportation and Group Size
How is transportation handled for this day trip?
Round-trip transportation from Lima is included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making it convenient for travelers.
Convenient round-trip transportation from Lima with hotel pickup and drop-off, making for a hassle-free day trip experience.
The tour group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small and intimate experience. A live tour guide fluent in both English and Spanish accompanies the group throughout the day.
This allows for personalized attention and the ability to ask questions. The small group size also means less time waiting and more time exploring the stunning Paracas and Huacachina regions.
What to Bring and Recommendations
Comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for this day trip. Staying hydrated and protected from the sun are essential, as the tour involves several outdoor activities in the desert and on the water.
| What to Bring | Why |
| — | — |
| Comfortable Clothing | For walking, hiking, and adventuring |
| Swimsuit (optional) | For the boat tour or playing in the oasis |
| Snacks | To keep your energy up during the long day |
Dress in layers and bring any personal medications you may need. This will help ensure you have an enjoyable and comfortable experience throughout the day.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Considerations for Participants
Individuals with back problems, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness may find this day trip unsuitable.
The tour involves a long day, starting early and returning late. Participants should prepare for an extensive itinerary, as it involves boat rides, dune buggy adventures, and extensive walking.
Smoking is prohibited during the tour. Those with limited mobility or health concerns may want to reconsider this excursion.
The operator’s priority is ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Travelers should assess their physical capabilities before booking to make the most of this Paracas and Huacachina adventure.
Exploring the Ballestas Islands
The first stop on this Paracas and Huacachina adventure is the Ballestas Islands, a natural wonder teeming with diverse marine life. Passengers board a 2-hour boat tour to see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of bird species up close. The islands’ towering rock formations provide a dramatic backdrop for these wildlife sightings. As travelers observe the abundant life, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s ecological richness. This excursion sets the stage for the sand dunes and oasis adventures that await.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Wildlife | Sea lions, Humboldt penguins, diverse birds |
| Scenery | Towering rock formations |
| Access | Boat tour |
| Significance | Ecological richness of the region |
Discovering the Huacachina Oasis
Following the tour of the Ballestas Islands, the day trip continues to the breathtaking Huacachina Oasis.
Located in the Ica Desert, this natural wonder is known for its towering sand dunes. Participants can opt for an exhilarating buggy ride and try their hand at sandboarding across the dunes, for an additional fee.
The oasis itself offers a serene respite, with its tranquil lagoon surrounded by palm trees. Visitors can explore the charming town, filled with local shops and restaurants.
The oasis provides a unique and memorable experience, a perfect complement to the earlier boat tour.
Thrilling Buggy Ride and Sandboarding Adventure
Once participants have explored the charming town and serene lagoon of the Huacachina Oasis, they can opt for an exhilarating buggy ride and try their hand at sandboarding across the towering sand dunes.
The buggy ride provides a thrilling off-road adventure, with professional drivers navigating the dunes at high speeds. For sandboarding, you will receive instruction and gear before gliding down the slopes.
Thrilling buggy ride across the dunes, sandboarding down the slopes with instruction and gear provided.
This activity offers:
-
Adrenaline-pumping buggy ride across the desert landscape
-
Opportunity to try sandboarding, a unique desert sport
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Stunning views of the Ica Desert’s golden dunes
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Professional guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience
-
An optional add-on to the Paracas and Huacachina day trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the tour. Bringing water and snacks is recommended to stay refreshed and energized throughout the long day. Just be mindful of any restrictions on the tour.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age Requirement for Participants?
There are no minimum or maximum age requirements for this tour. However, it may not be suitable for very young children or seniors due to the long duration and physical activities involved.
Can I Receive a Refund if I Need to Cancel Last Minute?
Participants can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance. There’s a "reserve now, pay later" option available as well, providing flexible booking terms for this one-day tour.
Will There Be Opportunities to Stop for Lunch and Restrooms?
The tour includes stops for lunch and restroom breaks. Participants will have opportunities to refuel and take care of their needs throughout the day’s activities. It’s a well-planned itinerary to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Can I Extend My Stay in Paracas or Huacachina After the Tour?
The tour is a day trip, so you can’t extend your stay in Paracas or Huacachina after the tour. However, you’re free to explore these destinations on your own before or after the scheduled tour if you’d like to extend your visit.
The Sum Up
This day trip from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina offers an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and adrenaline-fueled activities. Witness the Ballestas Islands’ abundant wildlife, explore the stunning Huacachina Oasis, and enjoy the thrills of dune buggy rides and sandboarding. With a small group and knowledgeable guide, you’ll experience Peru’s breathtaking landscapes in an intimate and unforgettable way.
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