Paracas and Ica Tour from Lima: Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Oasis

The Paracas and Ica Tour from Lima is the ultimate full-day adventure for those looking to explore the stunning Peruvian coast. In a single day, you will go from observing sea lions and penguins at the Ballestas Islands to sliding down the massive dunes of the Huacachina Oasis. Furthermore, the Paracas and Ica Tour from Lima includes a gastronomic experience at a traditional vineyard, where you will learn about the rich Pisco culture. Therefore, this program is ideal for maximizing your time in Peru, combining nature, culture, and a thrilling sunset adventure.

Highlights: Ballestas Islands · The Chandelier geoglyph · Ica Vineyards · Huacachina Oasis · Sandboarding.

ℹ️ General Information

• Duration: 1 day (approx. 18 hours).

• 2026 Price: $129.00 USD per person.

• Pick-up: Included from Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro.

• Activities: Boat tour, Pisco tasting, Dune Buggies, and Sandboarding.

⭐ Highlights of the Paracas and Ica Tour from Lima

• Cruise to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Galapagos of Peru,” to see unique marine wildlife.

• Marvel at the mysterious Paracas Candelabra, a giant geoglyph etched into the seaside cliff.

• Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch and Pisco tasting at a local vineyard in Ica.

• Experience the adrenaline of Dune Buggies across the highest sand dunes in South America.

• Capture the perfect sunset photo over the beautiful Huacachina Oasis.

🗺️ Itinerary: Paracas and Ica (Full Day)

Morning: Heading to the Paracas Reserve

• 04:30 AM: Pick-up from your accommodation (San Isidro, Miraflores, or Barranco).

• 08:30 AM: Arrival in Paracas. Time for a quick coffee before boarding.

• 09:10 AM: Boat tour of the Ballestas Islands to observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and guano birds. On the way, we will spot the famous “Candelabra” geoglyph.

Midday: Pisco Culture and Local Flavors

• 12:30 PM: Arrival at a traditional vineyard. Enjoy a full Peruvian lunch (vegetarian and vegan options available).

• 01:30 PM: Guided tour of the cellar and wine and pisco tasting, where you will learn about the artisanal distillation process.

Afternoon: Adrenaline at the Huacachina Oasis

• 03:00 PM: Arrival at the Huacachina Oasis. Free time to walk around the lagoon or take photos.

• 04:00 PM: 2-hour Dune Buggy tour at high speed followed by sandboarding (sliding down the dunes).

• 05:45 PM: Relaxing time to watch the sunset from the top of the dunes.

Evening: Return to the Capital

• 06:30 PM: Start the return journey to Lima.

• 11:30 PM: Arrival back at your hotel or drop-off point in Barranco, Miraflores, or San Isidro.

• For 2 – 3 people: 50 USD each
• For 4 – 6 people: 45 USD each
• For 7 – 10 people: 40 USD each

✅ What is Included

• Comfortable private bus transportation with air conditioning and USB ports.

• Pick-up and drop-off at hotels in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro.

• Certified bilingual professional guide (English and Spanish).

• Ballestas Islands boat tour (2 hours) with all entrance fees included.

• Full lunch at a traditional local vineyard.

• Guided wine and pisco tasting.

• Dune buggy tour and sandboarding with all entrance fees included.

❌ Not Included

• Breakfast and dinner.

• Professional sandboard (a basic board for sliding on your stomach is included; professional stand-up boards cost an extra $16 USD).

• Additional alcoholic beverages after the tasting.

• Tips for the guide and driver (optional).

• 🎒 What to bring

  • Clothing: A windbreaker for the boat tour (the ocean breeze is chilly) and light clothing for the desert.

  • Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

  • Footwear: Comfortable sneakers for walking in the sand.

  • Electronics: USB chargers (the bus has ports) and plenty of memory for your camera.

  • Water: A reusable bottle to stay hydrated in the desert heat.

  💡 Expert Recommendations

  1. Communication: Check your WhatsApp the night before (around 7:00 PM local time). We will send the exact pick-up time and the bus’s live location.

  2. Meeting Point: If your hotel is outside the pick-up area, the meeting point is the Starbucks in Barranco (Pedro de Osma 102) at 5:00 AM.

  3. Pro Sandboarding: If you have snowboarding experience, we recommend renting the professional board to slide down standing up; consequently, your experience will be much more exciting.

  4. Holidays: During Peruvian holidays (like July 28th or Easter), boat times might be slightly reduced due to high demand. Therefore, please book well in advance.

❓ FAQ – Paracas and Ica Tour from Lima

1. Is the buggy tour safe for children? Yes, it is a family-friendly activity, although it is quite thrilling. The drivers are experts in navigating the Ica dunes.

2. Can I do this tour if I have a flight late at night? We do not recommend it. The tour returns to Lima near midnight; consequently, you might miss your flight if there are traffic delays.

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