Ica: Sandboarding or Sand Skiing in the Ica Desert

The Ica Desert in Peru offers a thrilling adventure with its towering sand dunes perfect for sandboarding or sand skiing. Visitors can experience the rush of gliding down these massive dunes, taking in the breathtaking desert landscape along the way. Starting from the picturesque Huacachina oasis, this 2-hour excursion includes a buggy ride and all necessary equipment, led by knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply seeking a unique experience, this activity promises unforgettable memories.

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Key Points

Experience thrilling sandboarding or sand skiing down towering sand dunes in the Ica Desert, starting from the picturesque Huacachina oasis.
Enjoy a scenic buggy ride through the desert landscape as part of the 2-hour adventure.
Receive personalized attention and safety instructions from a knowledgeable guide during the activity.
The experience is suitable for small groups and is available in both English and Spanish.
Confirm availability and book transportation options before your visit to ensure a smooth and memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Sandboarding or sand skiing in the Ica desert is the highlight of this 2-hour activity.

Priced from Kč 1,086 per person, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay nothing today.

The activity starts with a buggy ride through the scenic desert landscape, covering 5 to 7 kilometers, before reaching the dunes. A live tour guide provides a safety briefing, and all necessary equipment is included.

After the adventure, participants return to the buggies.

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Meeting Point and Transportation

Where does the sandboarding experience begin?

The sandboarding adventure starts at the Huacachina oasis. After meeting at this picturesque location, you’ll hop aboard a buggy for a 5 to 7-kilometer ride through the Ica desert.

The sandboarding adventure begins at the Huacachina oasis, where you’ll hop aboard a buggy for a desert ride to the towering sand dunes.

The buggy will transport you to the top of the towering sand dunes, where you’ll begin your thrilling sandboarding or sand skiing experience.

The buggy ride itself is part of the adventure, allowing you to fully learn about the scenic desert landscape before trying your hand at gliding down the massive dunes.

Experience Details

Once participants arrive at the sand dunes, a knowledgeable guide provides a safety briefing before the activity begins.

The guide explains proper sandboarding or sand skiing techniques and ensures everyone is comfortable with the equipment. Tour groups are small, allowing for personalized attention. The experience is led in both English and Spanish, catering to international visitors.

After the briefing, adventurers strap on their gear and glide down the towering dunes, feeling the adrenaline rush.

When the exciting descent is over, participants return to the waiting buggies, ready to explore more of the stunning desert landscape.

Activity Highlights

One of the primary highlights of this sandboarding experience is the opportunity to slide down enormous sand dunes.

Participants will carve turns and zoom down the towering slopes, surrounded by the scenic desert landscape. The thrill of riding the sand is complemented by the stunning views of the Ica desert.

Participants carve turns and zoom down towering slopes, surrounded by the scenic desert landscape and stunning views of the Ica desert.

After the activity, adventurers will return to the buggies, having experienced the excitement and adventure of sandboarding.

This unique and exhilarating activity allows visitors to enjoy the desert environment and create unforgettable memories.

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Important Information

This activity may not be suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Participants should bring their passport or ID, a camera, and cash. Pets, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. It’s important to provide the correct contact number with the country code and have WhatsApp for last-minute reservations. Guests should check availability with the supplier via email before booking.

| What to Bring | Not Allowed |

|—————|————-|

| Passport or ID | Pets |

| Camera | Alcohol |

| Cash | Drugs |

Contact the supplier to check availability and make any last-minute reservations.

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Getting to Huacachina Oasis

Travelers can reach the Huacachina oasis, the meeting point for the sandboarding adventure, in various ways. Many choose to take a bus or taxi from the nearby city of Ica, which is about a 10-minute drive away.

Alternatively, visitors can arrange private transportation directly from their hotel or accommodation. Some tour operators also offer roundtrip transfers from hotels in Ica.

Once at the oasis, guests will meet their guide and prepare for the buggy ride through the desert. The oasis provides a stunning backdrop for the sandboarding experience, with its crescent-shaped lake and palm trees.

What to Expect on the Sandboarding Tour

After being transported to the Ica desert by buggy, guests embark on their sandboarding adventure.

A safety briefing ensures everyone understands how to control their boards.

Then, it’s time to climb the towering sand dunes. Gliding down the slopes on the provided sandboards or skis, guests experience the thrill of the desert landscape.

The activity lasts about 2 hours, allowing plenty of time to try various runs and capture stunning photos.

At the end, guests return to the buggies, exhilarated by their desert adventure.

Tips for an Enjoyable Experience

To ensure an enjoyable sandboarding experience, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind.

First, wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that can get dirty. Bring sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Hydrate well before and during the activity.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes to provide support on the sand. Consider bringing a small backpack to store any personal items.

Lastly, listen carefully to the safety briefing and follow the guide’s instructions to stay safe on the dunes.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Sandboarding or Sand Skiing Gear?

Participants can bring their own sandboarding or sand skiing gear, but it’s not required. The activity provider will supply the necessary equipment for the experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activity?

There are no age restrictions for the sandboarding or sand skiing activity. Participants of all ages can enjoy the experience, though it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

Are There Any Risks Involved in Sandboarding or Sand Skiing?

There are some risks involved, including the potential for injuries from falls or collisions. Sandboarding and sand skiing can be physically demanding, so participants should be in good health and take necessary safety precautions.

Can I Rent a Dune Buggy to Explore the Desert on My Own?

You can rent a dune buggy to explore the desert on your own. However, it’s generally safer and more enjoyable to take a guided tour where the equipment and transportation are provided.

Is There Any Option to Extend the Duration of the Activity?

While the standard tour lasts 2 hours, there may be options to extend the duration with the provider. Customers should inquire about longer experiences or private tours when booking to see if an extended activity is available.

The Sum Up

The Ica Desert’s sandboarding or sand skiing adventure is a thrilling way to experience the region’s stunning natural beauty. With personalized guidance from knowledgeable instructors, adventurers can glide down towering dunes, taking in breathtaking desert vistas. This unique activity promises unforgettable memories, making it a must-try for those visiting the Huacachina oasis and the Ica region.