From Lima: Ica + Paracas 2D / 1N

Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Ica and Paracas with this immersive two-day tour. Venture beyond the bustling city of Lima, delving into the captivating Cachiche Hamlet, indulging in artisanal wine and pisco tastings, and exploring the stunning Huacachina Oasis. On the second day, witness the diverse wildlife of the Ballestas Islands and uncover the hidden wonders of the Paracas National Reserve. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of adventure and culture.

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Key Points

A 2-day 1-night tour from Lima to Ica and Paracas, visiting attractions like Cachiche Hamlet, Huacachina Oasis, and Ballestas Islands.
The tour includes wine and pisco tasting at an artisanal winery, along with exploration of the Paracas National Reserve.
The tour is priced at €195.85 per person, with a maximum group size of 10 participants, and available in English and Spanish.
The first day features a visit to Cachiche Hamlet and Witches Park, followed by an afternoon of winery visits and Huacachina exploration.
The second day includes a maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands and a land tour of the Paracas National Reserve.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Ica + Paracas 2D / 1N tour offers a compact yet immersive experience, with a duration of 2 days and 1 night.

Priced from €195.85 per person, this small-group tour is limited to 10 participants and available in English and Spanish.

Flexible booking allows free cancellation up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

The tour includes bus transportation, a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, one night’s accommodation, and various activities such as winery visits, dune buggy rides, and wildlife viewing.

Highlights range from the Cachiche Hamlet to the Ballestas Islands, providing a diverse exploration of Ica and Paracas.

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Day 1 Itinerary

The day begins with a 6:00 AM departure from Lima, either from the Cruz del Sur Bus Terminal or the Peru VIP Bus.

Arriving in Ica around 11:30 AM, the group will be picked up from their hotel or the bus station.

The first stop is the Cachiche Hamlet, featuring a 7-headed palm tree and the Witches Theme Park.

Next, they’ll tour the House of Tiles, with optional purchases of Ica tiles and chocolates.

The afternoon includes:

An artisanal winery visit with wine and pisco tasting.
Lunch featuring typical Ica cuisine.
Exploring the scenic Huacachina Oasis and desert activities like 4X4 buggy rides and sandboarding.
A 5:00 PM transfer to the hotel.

Cachiche Hamlet and Witches Park

After being picked up from their hotel or the bus station in Ica, the group’s first stop is the Cachiche Hamlet. Here, they’ll see the intriguing 7-headed palm tree, a natural wonder.

Next, they’ll explore the Witches Theme Park, learning about local folklore and traditions. The park features exhibits on witchcraft, shamanism, and ancient Inca rituals.

Visitors can browse the craft stalls, sample local foods, and even participate in a "witch-themed" experience. This unique cultural stop provides an immersive introduction to the mysterious and mystical aspects of Ica’s heritage.

Artisanal Winery Visit

Moving on from the intriguing Cachiche Hamlet, the group heads to an artisanal winery for a wine and pisco tasting.

At the winery, they’ll:

Learn about the production process of these popular Peruvian spirits.
Participate in tastings to sample the distinct flavors of the regional wines and pisco.
Discover the rich heritage and traditional techniques that make Ica’s artisanal beverages unique.
Have the opportunity to purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.

This immersive winery visit offers a deeper appreciation for Ica’s thriving agricultural and culinary traditions.

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Huacachina Oasis Adventure

From the artisanal winery, the group continues their Ica adventure by visiting the stunning Huacachina Oasis. This scenic desert lagoon is surrounded by towering sand dunes, providing an exhilarating 4×4 buggy ride and sandboarding experience.

| Activity | Duration |

|———-|———-|

| 4×4 Buggy Ride | 1 hour |

| Sandboarding | 1 hour |

Participants can enjoy the thrill of dune bashing and gliding down the golden slopes before returning to their hotel at 5:00 PM. The Huacachina Oasis is a highlight of the Ica region, offering a unique desert adventure.

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Day 2 Itinerary

The second day begins with an early pickup from the hotel or bus terminal in Ica at 6:30 AM.

The group transfers to the tourist pier at 7:45 AM to embark on a maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands. The tour includes:

Viewing the geoglyph "El Candelabro" and observing sea lion maternity wards.
Birdwatching for Humboldt penguins, boobies, pelicans, and more.
Returning to the pier at 10:00 AM for free time to enjoy breakfast, crafts, or photography.
Setting out on a land tour of Paracas National Reserve, visiting key sites like La Catedral, Supay Beach, Roja Beach, and Lagunillas Beach.

The tour ends at 4:00 PM with a transfer to the bus terminal in Ica.

Ballestas Islands Wildlife Tour

The maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands begins at 8:00 AM.

Travelers will visit the geoglyph "El Candelabro" and observe sea lion maternity wards. The tour offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, with sightings of Humboldt penguins, boobies, and pelicans.

After the 2-hour cruise, guests have free time for breakfast, shopping for crafts, or taking photographs.

The tour showcases the diverse marine wildlife and stunning natural landscapes of the Ballestas Islands, providing an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Paracas National Reserve Exploration

After the maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands, the land tour of Paracas National Reserve begins at 11:00 AM.

The tour explores:

The tour explores a cathedral-like rock formation, remote beaches with dramatic cliffs and vibrant sand, and a picturesque beach with calm waters.

La Catedral – A natural rock formation resembling a cathedral.
Supay Beach – A remote beach known for its dramatic cliffs and vibrant red sand.
Roja Beach – A beach with striking red and white sand.
Lagunillas Beach – A picturesque beach with calm, shallow waters.

The tour concludes around 4:00 PM with a transfer back to the bus terminal in Ica.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for Fewer Than 2 Days?

No, the tour cannot be booked for fewer than 2 days. The tour overview clearly states the duration is 2 days, so it’s not possible to book a shorter version of this particular itinerary.

Is There a Discount for Children or Students?

Yes, there is a discount for children and students. The tour price is reduced by 10% for those under 12 years old and 5% for students with a valid ID card.

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

No special equipment is needed for the activities. Buggies and sandboards are provided for the desert adventures. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor activities in the dunes and on the maritime tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to fit your preferences. The tour operator provides flexibility to adjust the activities and schedule to suit your interests within the 2-day duration. Just let them know your requirements when booking.

Are Meals or Drinks Included Other Than What Is Mentioned?

The tour includes specific meals as mentioned, but does not cover any other meals or drinks beyond those. Additional food and drinks not listed in the inclusions would be at the traveler’s own expense.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating blend of adventure and culture in Ica and Paracas. Explore the charming Cachiche Hamlet, indulge in artisanal wine and pisco tastings, and marvel at the stunning Huacachina Oasis. Witness unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes on the Ballestas Islands tour, followed by an exploration of the Paracas National Reserve. It’s a perfect way to experience the natural wonders and rich heritage of these captivating regions.