Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Lima to the stunning Paracas and Huacachina oasis. This small-group tour offers a boat adventure to the Ballestas Islands, where you’ll witness incredible wildlife. Experience the thrill of a buggy ride and sandboarding in the picturesque Huacachina oasis. With personalized attention from bilingual guides and round-trip transportation, you’ll explore Peru’s breathtaking natural wonders. What awaits you in this one-of-a-kind day trip?

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Good To Know

Explore Paracas and Huacachina, two of Peru’s top natural wonders, on a day trip from Lima with round-trip transportation.
Enjoy a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands to see diverse wildlife and a visit to the Huacachina oasis.
Participate in optional activities like a buggy ride and sandboarding at the Huacachina dunes.
Experience a small-group tour led by bilingual guides, ensuring personalized attention and an intimate experience.
Tour is suitable for adventurous travelers, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with back issues.

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Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina offers travelers the opportunity to explore two of Peru’s natural wonders.

Priced from $62.30 per person, the tour provides a full-day itinerary with round-trip transportation from Lima. Guests can save up to 30% when booking, and there’s no need for upfront payment as they can reserve their spot and pay later.

Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, is led by knowledgeable guides in both English and Spanish.

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Itinerary and Activities

The day trip begins at 5:30 AM with a 4-hour drive from Lima to Paracas.

The day trip begins at 5:30 AM with a 4-hour drive from Lima to Paracas.

Upon arrival, visitors embark on a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands. This excursion offers the chance to spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various bird species.

After the boat tour, the group travels to Huacachina, an oasis in the Ica Desert. Here, participants can enjoy an optional buggy ride and sandboarding across the towering sand dunes for an additional fee.

The day trip concludes with the evening return to Lima around 11:45 PM.

Transportation and Group Size

Round-trip transportation from Lima is included in the day trip, ensuring convenience for participants.

The group size is limited to 10 people, providing an intimate and personalized experience. This small group size allows for easier coordination and a more enjoyable tour.

The evening return to Lima is scheduled around 11:45 PM, completing the full-day excursion.

Travelers can sit back, relax, and let the transportation logistics be taken care of, allowing them to focus on exploring the stunning natural wonders of Paracas and Huacachina without the hassle of coordinating their own travel.

Guidance and Language

Although the day trip is self-guided, a live tour guide accompanies participants and provides commentary in both English and Spanish. This ensures all travelers can fully understand and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the attractions visited.

The tour guide offers:

Insights into the unique geology and wildlife of the Ballestas Islands
Explanations about the ancient Inca heritage and natural wonders of Huacachina
Tips on the best vantage points for photography and capturing memorable moments
Assistance navigating the logistics of the day, from transportation to scheduling
Personalized attention to address any questions or needs that arise throughout the tour.

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Preparation and Restrictions

To help travelers prepare for the day trip, the organizers recommend packing a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes.

These items will ensure visitors are ready for the varied environments they’ll encounter, from the coastal Ballestas Islands to the desert landscapes of Huacachina.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, individuals with back problems, and those prone to seasickness should avoid this excursion due to the boat tour and off-road activities.

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Exploring Paracas and the Ballestas Islands

The day trip begins with a 4-hour drive from Lima to the coastal town of Paracas.

There, you’ll board a boat for a 2-hour tour of the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Poor Man’s Galapagos."

This wildlife-rich archipelago is home to:

Thousands of sea lions
Humboldt penguins
Pelicans and other seabirds
Guano-covered rock formations
Impressive sea caves and rock arches

The Ballestas Islands tour offers a glimpse into the diverse marine life and unique geography of this Peruvian coastal region, setting the stage for the next adventure in the Ica Desert.

Discovering the Oasis of Huacachina

After exploring the Ballestas Islands, the day trip continues to the mesmerizing oasis of Huacachina.

Nestled amid towering sand dunes, this desert oasis offers a unique and serene escape. Visitors can take an optional dune buggy ride, speeding across the rolling sand and stopping to try sandboarding down the dunes.

The contrast between the lush lagoon and the surrounding desert landscape is breathtaking. With free time to wander, travelers can relax by the tranquil waters, snap photos, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before the journey back to Lima.

Thrilling Buggy Ride and Sandboarding Experience

Although the tranquil lagoon of Huacachina offers a peaceful respite, the true thrill of this desert oasis lies in the optional dune buggy ride and sandboarding experience.

Adventurous travelers can:

Zoom across the towering sand dunes in a thrilling off-road adventure
Surf down the slopes at exhilarating speeds, carving turns and experiencing the rush of sandboarding
Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the undulating desert landscape
Feel the adrenaline coursing through their veins as they conquer the shifting sands
Immerse themselves in the unique ecosystem and culture of this hidden gem in the Ica Desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will There Be Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The information provided does not mention whether Wi-Fi will be available during the tour. The tour is focused on outdoor activities, and there’s no indication that Wi-Fi access is included or provided at the various locations visited.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks for the day trip. The tour operator recommends packing a lunch, snacks, and water to have on hand during the activities and travel time.

Is the Tour Accessible for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. It involves boat tours, sand dunes, and optional activities that could be challenging. Travelers with mobility or health concerns should check with the tour provider for more details.

Can I Book Additional Activities Upon Arrival?

Yes, travelers can book additional activities like the optional buggy ride and sandboarding upon arrival in Huacachina. These activities incur an extra fee not included in the base tour price.

What Should I Do if I Lose My Belongings During the Tour?

If you lose belongings during the tour, you should immediately notify the tour guide. They can assist in trying to locate the lost item and follow the tour operator’s policy on lost and found procedures.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina offers an exceptional opportunity to witness Peru’s stunning natural beauty. From the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands to the thrilling buggy ride and sandboarding experience in the Huacachina oasis, this small-group tour provides a well-rounded and unforgettable adventure. With convenient transportation, personalized guidance, and an affordable price, it’s an ideal way to explore these remarkable destinations beyond Lima.