From Lima: Day Trip to Paracas, Ica and Oasis Huacachina

Exploring the wonders of Peru’s southern coast is a captivating day trip from Lima. Travelers can witness the stunning natural beauty of the Ballestas Islands, indulge in Ica’s culinary delights, and embark on an exhilarating adventure at the enchanting Huacachina Oasis. This comprehensive excursion promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories. But what truly sets this day trip apart, and why should it be on every visitor’s itinerary?

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Good To Know

A day trip from Lima to Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina Oasis, priced from $75.00 per person, with a duration of 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Includes a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, a lunch and wine/pisco tasting experience in Ica, and dune buggy rides and sandboarding at Huacachina Oasis.
The Ballestas Islands boat tour offers sightings of marine life, such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds, as well as the El Candelabro Geoglyph.
The lunch and wine/pisco tasting experience in Ica features local Peruvian cuisine, including ceviche, lomo saltado, and alfajores, along with the opportunity to savor the national spirit, pisco.
The dune buggy rides and sandboarding at Huacachina Oasis provide thrilling adventure and scenic landscapes perfect for photography and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Lima to the stunning coastal region of Paracas, the historic city of Ica, and the enchanting Huacachina Oasis is priced from $75.00 per person.

The one-day tour lasts from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Reserve now and pay later options are available.

This day tour runs from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Reserve now and pay later options are available.

Highlights include a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, a visit to the El Candelabro Geoglyph, wine/pisco tasting, and thrilling dune buggy rides with sandboarding at the Huacachina Oasis.

Transportation, breakfast, and lunch are included, making this an all-inclusive and convenient day excursion.

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Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with departure from Lima at 5:00 AM, arriving at the Paracas pier around 9:30 AM.

Visitors then embark on a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, witnessing the diverse marine life including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds.

The journey continues to Ica, where a lunch and wine/pisco tasting experience awaits.

The final stop is the Huacachina Oasis, where thrill-seekers can enjoy dune buggy rides and sandboarding.

Throughout the day, there are ample opportunities for shopping and photography, ensuring a well-rounded sightseeing adventure.

Ballestas Islands Boat Tour

The Ballestas Islands boat tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s diverse marine ecosystem.

During the 2-hour excursion, guests can expect to witness:

Playful sea lions basking on the rocky shores and diving into the waters.
Vibrant colonies of Humboldt penguins, known for their distinctive black-and-white attire.
An array of seabirds, including pelicans, cormorants, and boobies, soaring overhead or perched on the cliffs.

This boat tour also provides a chance to see the enigmatic El Candelabro Geoglyph, a massive ancient symbol etched into the hillside, adding an intriguing historical element to the experience.

Ica Lunch and Wine/Pisco Tasting

After the captivating Ballestas Islands boat tour, the day trip continues with a delightful lunch and wine/pisco tasting experience in Ica. Visitors will savor local Peruvian cuisine while indulging in the region’s renowned wines and pisco, the national spirit. The tasting includes:

| Dish | Wine/Pisco |

| — | — |

| Ceviche | Sauvignon Blanc |

| Lomo Saltado | Malbec |

| Causa Limeña | Acholado Pisco |

| Quinoa Salad | Quebranta Pisco |

| Alfajores | Moscatel Pisco |

This culinary and oenological adventure offers a true taste of Ica’s vibrant culture and heritage.

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Huacachina Dune Buggy and Sandboarding

Dune buggies rev up at the edge of Huacachina, a captivating oasis nestled amidst golden sand dunes. Guests thrill as they careen up and down the towering slopes, hearts racing with adrenaline.

Then, it’s time to try sandboarding – the ultimate desert adventure:

Glide down the dunes on a specialized board, carving turns and catching air.
Embrace the sun-kissed scenery, snapping photos of the stunning landscape.
Explore the charming town, browsing local shops and indulging in refreshing drinks at the water’s edge.

An exhilarating end to an unforgettable day trip from Lima.

There's plenty more to explore in Paracas

Photography and Shopping Opportunities

With the adrenaline-fueled dune buggy and sandboarding adventures now complete, visitors can turn their attention to the charming Huacachina Oasis and its wealth of photographic and shopping opportunities. The oasis itself, with its lush palm trees and glistening lagoon, makes for stunning backdrops. Nearby shops and stalls offer an array of local handicrafts, artisanal goods, and souvenirs. To help guide visitors, here’s a quick overview of some top photography spots and shopping options:

| Photography Spots | Shopping Options |

|——————-|——————–|

| Lagoon Viewpoint | Artisan Markets |

| Palm Tree Groves | Handicraft Stalls |

| Dune Overlooks | Pisco Distilleries |

| Sunset Vistas | Jewelry Workshops |

| Camel Rides | Clothing Boutiques |

Transportation and Guide Options

Travelers can opt for convenient pickup at fixed locations or from their hotel, with the bilingual tour guide option available for enhanced guidance and interpretation.

The tour offers transportation via:

Minibus for groups of 25-30 persons.
Van for smaller groups of 18 persons.

Both vehicles provide comfortable and efficient travel throughout the day’s itinerary.

Regardless of the transportation choice, the tour ensures a seamless experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the exploration of Paracas, Ica, and the captivating Huacachina Oasis without the hassle of logistics.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The day trip includes all admission tickets, a hearty breakfast (starting from s/16 or $5), and a delectable lunch (from s/35 or $10) in Ica.

Souvenirs and personal expenditures are excluded. Travelers can opt for a sunset experience by booking the specific tour package.

The prices start from $75 per person, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can also take advantage of the "reserve now & pay later" option, making it a convenient and flexible choice for exploring Paracas, Ica, and the Oasis Huacachina.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The trip itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and request modifications to the day’s activities within the existing tour structure.

What Is the Group Size for the Day Trip?

The group size for the day trip varies, with options for a minibus accommodating 25-30 persons or a van for 18 persons. The specific transportation used depends on the booking option selected.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Gear for the Activities?

No special gear is needed. Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and sturdy shoes for walking and sand activities are recommended. The tour provides all necessary equipment like life jackets, dune buggies, and sandboards.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age or fitness requirements, but participants should be able to walk moderate distances and board/depart the boat. It’s suitable for most travelers in good health.

Can I Book Additional Experiences During the Trip?

Yes, you can book additional experiences during the trip, such as a sunset experience at the Huacachina Oasis. These can be selected when making your booking or inquired about with the tour guide on the day.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Lima offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Peru’s stunning coastal landscapes. From witnessing marine wildlife on the Ballestas Islands to soaring over sand dunes in Huacachina, the itinerary promises unforgettable experiences. With a delectable lunch and tastings in Ica, this captivating excursion provides a well-rounded glimpse into the natural and cultural treasures of this remarkable region.

You can check availability for your dates here: