From Lima: Ballestas Islands, Huacachina, and Pisco Tour

Set out on a captivating journey that showcases Peru’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. This comprehensive tour from Lima takes you to the Ballestas Islands, where you’ll witness an array of marine life, followed by a delightful winery experience with pisco tastings. But the true highlight awaits in the enchanting Huacachina oasis, where thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding promise an unforgettable adventure. Discover why this tour has become a must-do for travelers seeking to enjoy the essence of Peru.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive day tour from Lima to explore the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina desert oasis, and Ica region, including wildlife sightings, dune buggy rides, and pisco tasting.
• Boat tour of the Ballestas Islands to observe thousands of seabirds, Humboldt penguins, and sea lions in their natural habitats.
• Winery lunch and pisco tasting experience, providing an immersive look into Peruvian culture and cuisine.
• Thrilling dune buggy ride and sandboarding adventure in the stunning desert landscape of Huacachina.
• Inclusive package with transportation, local guide services, and hotel pickup/drop-off, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This comprehensive day tour takes travelers from Lima to explore the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina, and the Ica region.

The tour is priced from $75 per person and lasts one day, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can opt for a reserve now, pay later option.

This comprehensive day tour is priced from $75 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

The itinerary includes a boat ride to the Ballestas Islands to view marine wildlife, a lunch with a pisco tasting at a winery, and thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding in Huacachina.

Transportation, a local guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off are included.

Ballestas Islands Adventure

As the boat approaches the Ballestas Islands, travelers are greeted by the sight of thousands of seabirds soaring overhead.

This protected marine reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and guanays. Guests can observe these creatures up close during the boat tour, witnessing their natural behaviors and habitats.

The rugged cliffs and caves of the islands provide a stunning backdrop, creating an unforgettable experience.

Travelers will marvel at the sheer number and variety of marine life thriving in this unique ecosystem, a true highlight of the overall tour.

Winery Lunch and Pisco Tasting

After marveling at the incredible wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, the tour now heads to the NIETO winery for a delightful lunch and pisco tasting experience.

At the winery, guests will savor a delectable meal featuring local Peruvian flavors.

Guests will savor a delectable meal featuring local Peruvian flavors at the NIETO winery.

The highlight, though, is the pisco tasting – an opportunity to sample and learn about this iconic Peruvian spirit.

Under the guidance of knowledgeable staff, travelers can discover the nuances of different pisco varieties and production methods.

This immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for Peruvian culture and cuisine.

Huacachina Dune Buggy and Sandboarding

From Ica, the tour now ventures to the stunning desert oasis of Huacachina.

Buckle up for an adrenaline-fueled dune buggy ride through the towering sand dunes. The tour group will then try their hand at sandboarding, gliding down the golden slopes at exhilarating speeds.

The experience evokes a sense of:

1. Excitement as the dune buggy races across the dunes.

2. Thrill as participants soar down the sandy slopes on their boards.

3. Wonder at the surreal, lunar-like landscape surrounding Huacachina.

After the dune adventure, the group enjoys a leisurely stroll around the tranquil lagoon, taking in the unique oasis setting.

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Scenic Stroll Around the Lake

With the adrenaline-fueled dune buggy ride and sandboarding behind them, the group now embarks on a peaceful stroll around the serene Huacachina lagoon.

Flanked by towering dunes, the tranquil waters reflect the stunning desert landscape. Visitors can admire the lush oasis vegetation and spot local wildlife, including birds and iguanas.

The lake’s calm surface invites guests to take a moment and appreciate the serene surroundings. This leisurely walk provides a welcomed respite after the thrilling activities, allowing travelers to soak in the unique atmosphere of this desert oasis.

Transportation and Guide Services

The tour includes local guide services and modern transportation options to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The knowledgeable guides provide invaluable insights throughout the day, sharing their expertise on the local wildlife, history, and culture.

Transportation is handled via:

1. A modern boat for the Ballestas Islands cruise.

2. Dune buggies for the thrilling sandboarding adventure in Huacachina.

3. A comfortable van for transfers between locations and hotel pickup/drop-off.

The seamless logistics and reliable transportation allow you to focus on creating unforgettable memories during this exciting day tour.

What to Bring for the Tour

To make the most of your tour experience, visitors are advised to pack a few essential items. Comfortable shoes and clothes are a must, as you’ll be spending time walking, hiking, and navigating the dunes.

Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay protected from the sun. A camera is a great way to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife you’ll encounter.

Snacks are also recommended, as the tour includes a winery visit but no full meals.

Smoking, littering, and bringing alcoholic drinks on the vehicle are strictly prohibited to preserve the natural environment.

Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Not everyone may be suited for this tour. Certain individuals should consider the safety restrictions before booking. The tour isn’t recommended for:

1. Pregnant women due to the boat ride and dune buggy activities.

2. People with back problems who may struggle with the rough terrain and bumpy rides.

3. Those prone to seasickness as the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands can be choppy.

Visitors must also respect the local wildlife and environment during the visit.

Smoking, littering, and consuming alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are strictly prohibited.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, though pregnant women, those with back problems, or prone to seasickness may want to avoid the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

You can bring your own snacks and water, but alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle. The tour operator provides lunch at the winery, so bringing your own full meals isn’t necessary.

Is the Tour Fully Accessible for People With Disabilities?

The tour is not fully accessible for people with disabilities. It’s not suitable for those with back problems or prone to seasickness. Participants should respect the local wildlife and environment during the visit.

Can We Bring Our Own Dune Buggy or Sandboard?

No, participants can’t bring their own dune buggy or sandboard. The tour includes transportation by modern boat, dune buggy, and van provided by the tour operator. Personal equipment isn’t allowed for safety and liability reasons.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The 1-day tour package is fixed, but travelers can choose to add extra experiences or activities during their free time in Huacachina and Ica.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour from Lima promises an unforgettable day of natural beauty, culture, and thrilling adventure. Witness the wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, indulge in a winery lunch with pisco tasting, and enjoy the exhilarating dune buggy rides and sandboarding in the breathtaking Huacachina oasis. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an unparalleled experience to explore the best of Peru’s stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: