From Lima: Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour

Exploring the natural wonders beyond Lima is a must for any traveler to Peru. This full-day tour takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to the stunning Paracas region and the captivating Huacachina Oasis. From a boat cruise among the Ballestas Islands to exhilarating dune buggy rides, the itinerary promises an adrenaline-filled adventure amidst Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. But what makes this tour truly special goes beyond the thrilling activities – it’s the opportunity to take in the country’s rich wildlife and captivating history that sets it apart.

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Good To Know

A full-day tour from Lima that explores the coastal town of Paracas and the desert oasis of Huacachina, priced at $89 per person.
Highlights include a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands to see wildlife, a dune buggy ride, and sandboarding in the Huacachina dunes.
Includes roundtrip transportation, a live guide in English and Spanish, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Offers a lunch break in Paracas with the opportunity to try local seafood dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa rellena.
Provides comfortable transportation with features like air-conditioning and restroom facilities, along with experienced drivers focused on passenger safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day tour from Lima takes visitors to the stunning Paracas region and the enchanting Huacachina oasis.

Priced at $89 per person, the tour includes roundtrip transportation, a live guide in English and Spanish, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

With a duration of one day, the itinerary features a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, a lunch break in Paracas, and thrilling activities like dune buggies and sandboarding in Huacachina.

Local taxes, food, and drinks are the only additional costs.

The tour offers the opportunity to witness wildlife and enjoy scenic wonders along the coast.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Paracas

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with an early 5:30 AM departure from Lima, kicking off an approximately four-hour journey to Paracas.

Once there, guests embark on a two-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands to witness sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and diverse bird species.

After a lunch break in Paracas, the tour continues to the Huacachina oasis, known for its massive sand dunes.

Visitors have free time to explore the unique desert oasis before the thrilling dune buggy ride and sandboarding experience.

The tour concludes with the return trip to Lima, where guests are dropped off at the original pickup location.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

As visitors embark on the Ballestas Islands boat tour, they are treated to an abundance of wildlife. Sea lions bask on the rocky outcrops, their barks echoing across the water. Alongside them, Humboldt penguins waddle on the shore, a delightful sight. Overhead, a diverse array of seabirds soar, including pelicans, cormorants, and Peruvian boobies. Beyond the islands, the coastal scenery is equally stunning, with rugged cliffs and sweeping vistas. At the Huacachina oasis, travelers can marvel at the towering sand dunes, a unique natural wonder in the heart of the desert.

| Wildlife Sightings | Coastal Scenery | Huacachina Oasis |

| — | — | — |

| Sea lions | Rugged cliffs | Towering sand dunes |

| Humboldt penguins | Sweeping vistas | Unique natural wonder |

| Seabirds (pelicans, cormorants, Peruvian boobies) | – | – |

| – | – | – |

Transportation and Amenities

Roundtrip transportation to and from Lima is included in the tour price.

Roundtrip transportation to and from Lima is included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless and convenient travel experience.

The tour bus is equipped with comfortable seating and restroom facilities, ensuring a smooth journey. Guests can expect the following amenities:

Restroom access on board the transportation.
Pickup and drop-off at the same location in central Lima.
Air-conditioning to keep passengers comfortable throughout the trip.
Experienced and knowledgeable drivers who prioritize safety.

This comprehensive transportation service allows travelers to focus on the sights and activities without the hassle of driving or finding their own way.

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Departure and Duration

The tour departs at 5:30 AM from Lima, approximately a four-hour journey to reach the Paracas region. The full-day experience allows ample time to explore the highlights of Paracas and Huacachina oasis.

| ————— | ——– | ———- | ——– |

| 5:30 AM | 1 day | Boat tour, dune buggy, sandboarding | Paracas and Huacachina |

Travelers can expect a well-organized itinerary, led by a knowledgeable guide, with the convenience of roundtrip transportation from and to Lima. This tour offers an immersive discovery of Peru’s stunning coastal landscapes and unique desert oasis.

There's plenty more to explore in Paracas

Boat Tour of Ballestas Islands

The two-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands offers travelers an up-close glimpse of the diverse marine wildlife inhabiting this protected national reserve.

The tour includes the opportunity to observe:

Colonies of sea lions basking on the rocky shores.
Humboldt penguins, a rare species found only in the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas Peninsula.
A variety of seabirds, including cormorants, pelicans, and Inca terns, soaring above the rugged cliffs.
Unique rock formations and sea caves carved by the relentless Pacific waves.

This wildlife-rich experience is a highlight of the Paracas and Huacachina Oasis tour.

Lunch Break in Paracas

After the informative boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, participants enjoy a lunch break in Paracas. The town offers a variety of local seafood restaurants, providing a chance to savor Peruvian cuisine. Diners can choose from a selection of fresh ceviche, grilled fish, and traditional dishes. The break also allows time to explore the charming coastal town, with its whitewashed buildings, seaside promenade, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

| Recommended Dishes | Typical Ingredients | Local Favorites |

| — | — | — |

| Ceviche | Fresh seafood, lime juice, chili peppers | Ceviche de Corvina |

| Lomo Saltado | Stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, french fries | Lomo Saltado de Paracas |

| Causa Rellena | Mashed potatoes, seafood or chicken | Causa Rellena de Langostinos |

| Arroz con Mariscos | Rice, mixed seafood, cilantro | Arroz con Mariscos de Paracas |

Dune Buggy Ride and Sandboarding

After the relaxing lunch break in Paracas, participants are whisked away to the iconic Huacachina oasis, known for its towering sand dunes.

The adventure kicks into high gear with a thrilling dune buggy ride. The buggies expertly navigate the undulating dunes, offering an adrenaline-fueled experience.

An adrenaline-fueled dune buggy ride expertly navigating the undulating Huacachina dunes.

Next, it’s time for sandboarding, a unique desert sport where participants can glide down the dunes on specialized boards.

The views from the top of the dunes are simply breathtaking. This high-octane portion of the tour is sure to leave everyone exhilarated and with lasting memories.

Thrilling dune buggy ride
Sandboarding down the dunes
Breathtaking views from the top
An adrenaline-filled desert adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s group size is not specified in the provided information. However, many day tours from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina typically accommodate small to medium-sized groups, usually ranging from 10 to 20 participants.

Are Any Snacks or Refreshments Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not include any snacks or refreshments. Participants are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks during the day-long excursion. Lunch is provided during the break in Paracas.

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

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, meals and refreshments are not included in the tour price, so travelers will need to purchase their own sustenance during the lunch break.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Transportation and During the Activities?

The tour does not provide Wi-Fi on the transportation or during the activities. Guests should plan accordingly as internet access may be limited in the remote areas visited on the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Sandboarding Activity?

For the sandboarding activity, participants don’t need to bring any special equipment. The tour provider supplies the necessary gear, including sandboards and safety equipment, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the sand dunes.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina Oasis offers an unforgettable adventure. Witness the wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, savor a delicious lunch in Paracas, and thrill in the dune buggy rides and sandboarding at the stunning Huacachina Oasis. With round-trip transportation and a live guide, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: