Paracas, Ica and Huacachina Day Trip From Lima | Mini-Galapagos
Active
15h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our team pick you up in the morning at your central Lima accommodation, transfer you to the coastal town of Paracas by direct bus, and hop aboard a speedboat. The adventure begins as you zip out across the waves to the Ballestas Islands in the Paracas National Reserve.
On arrival, watch native marine species including birds, penguins, and sea lions in their natural habitat. Your informative guide provides insight into the animals’ behavior and environment while you capture the scenery on camera.
Return to Paracas and continue to Huacachina, a remote oasis in the Ica Desert and home to the biggest dunes in South America. Zoom across the sand by dune buggy and give sandboarding a try. With your powerful buggy to help you reach the top of the dunes, you’ll save plenty of energy for sandboarding.
Depart Huacachina and return in comfort to your Lima accommodation, where your tour finishes.
Available options
Paracas, Ica and Huacachina Day Trip From Lima | Mini-Galapagos
Pickup included
What's included
Round trip bus ticket - sit back and relax
Free Time to explore Huacachina Desert Oasis
Friendly onboard Bilingual Guide to assist and advise
2-hour boat tour to the Ballestas Islands
2-hour Sandboarding and dune buggy tour
Pick up and drop off at your hotel
Entry/Admission - Islas Ballestas
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Take a speedboat out to the Ballestas Islands to see penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat – Paracas. Sometimes we spend 2 hours thirty minutes.
2
Stop 2
Arrive in Paracas around 9:45 am, you will then go with your guide to port to board the boat for the tour to Ballestas Island.
3
Depart from Paracas to Huacachina at 1:30 pm, arriving around 2:45. You will have free time until 4:00 pm when the buggy and sandboarding tour starts.
4
Dune Buggy up and Sandboard down the biggest sand dunes at the only desert oasis in South America. Then, bus transportation from Huacachina to Lima 4 hours by bus.
What's not included
Not mentioned food and drinks
Gratitudes
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
ZH-TW
PT
JA
EN
IT
PL
FR
DA
NL
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
The tickets are provided digitally via Whatsapp or email. Therefore, we will contact you a day before the tour.
About South Coast
The South Coast of Peru is a stunning stretch of coastline known for its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant culture. From the ancient ruins of Paracas to the bustling city of Ica, this region offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Top Attractions
Paracas National Reserve
A protected area known for its diverse wildlife, including sea lions, flamingos, and a variety of bird species. The reserve features unique geological formations and beautiful beaches.
Nature
Full day
Moderate
Nazca Lines
Mysterious ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, best viewed from the air. The exact purpose of these lines remains a subject of debate among archaeologists.
Historical
Half day
Moderate to Expensive
Huacachina
A small oasis town surrounded by sand dunes, known for its adventurous activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The town has a unique and lively atmosphere.
Adventure
Half day to Full day
Budget to Moderate
Ica
A vibrant city known for its wine production, hot springs, and rich history. Ica offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Cultural
Full day
Budget to Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
Raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and coriander. A national dish of Peru.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian with substitutes.
Pisco Sour
A cocktail made from Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Peru's national drink.
Drink
Contains alcohol, can be made without egg white for dietary restrictions.
Aji de Gallina
A creamy chicken dish made with a spicy yellow chili pepper sauce, served with rice and potatoes.
Main Course
Contains chicken, can be made with alternative proteins.
Popular Activities
Sandboarding in Huacachina
Dune buggy rides
Hiking in Paracas National Reserve
Beach lounging in Paracas
Hot springs in Ica
Wine tasting in Ica
Visiting local markets
Exploring historic sites in Ica
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere, with warm temperatures and sunny days. It's the ideal time for beach activities and exploring the coastal areas.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English in tourist areas
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The South Coast of Peru is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Jorge Chávez International Airport • 300 km from the South Coast
- Rodríguez Ballón International Airport • 100 km from the South Coast
By bus
Lima Bus Terminal, Arequipa Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the most common form of public transport and are affordable. They connect major towns and cities along the coast.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat, Cabify
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Paracas
Ica
Nazca
Day trips
Huacachina
20 km from Ica • Half day to Full day
A small oasis town surrounded by sand dunes, known for its adventurous activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides.
Nazca
100 km from Ica • Full day
A town known for its mysterious ancient geoglyphs, the Nazca Lines, best viewed from the air.
Festivals
Festival de la Vendimia • March
Fiesta de la Candelaria • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Ballestas Islands early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing.
- Book airplane tours over the Nazca Lines in advance to secure a spot.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially when visiting desert areas.
- Try local Pisco-based drinks and enjoy the region's wine tasting opportunities.
- Explore local markets for unique souvenirs and to experience the local culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
