About this experience
Join us on the Paracas and Huacachina Tour – Paracas National Reserve 2D/1N. We will explore the stunning landscapes of Ica. We will experience adventure, wildlife, and local culture in every moment. This journey will create unforgettable memories.
We will visit the famous Paracas National Reserve and observe its diverse wildlife. We will cruise around the Ballestas Islands and admire sea lions and birds. Our boat trip will provide close-up views of these unique ecosystems. Every moment will offer perfect opportunities for photography and nature appreciation.
We will discover Ica city and enjoy its sunny charm. In Huacachina, we will ride dune buggies across golden sands. We will try sandboarding and feel the thrill of sliding down massive dunes. The desert sunset will provide an unforgettable backdrop for our adventure.
We will also taste local wines and piscos during this tour. Our local guides will share stories about Ica and Paracas’ traditions. We will return with enriching experiences from nature, culture, and adventure combined. Every detail will ensure a seamless and exciting journey.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1Hotel Check-In and Tubulares in Huacachina
At 05:30 AM we will be picked up from your hotel in Miraflores, Barranco, or San Isidro. We will travel to the Cruz del Sur bus station. Travel time will be approximately 4 hours.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel in Huacachina. We will check in and enjoy the refreshing pool surrounded by massive sand dunes. The hotel will provide a relaxing atmosphere after the road journey.
At 04:30 AM we will ride tubulares (dune buggies) across the Huacachina desert. We will climb steep dunes and slide down sand slopes. We will practice sandboarding for thrilling downhill experiences. The tour will last about 2 hours, finishing at 06:30 PM. Sunset will provide perfect photo opportunities and an unforgettable desert view.
- Distance traveled
- 250 km
- Highest altitude
- 420 m.a.s.l
- Lowest altitude
- 180 m.a.s.l.
- Route
- Lima - Ica - Huacachina
- Difficulty
- Moderate (desert driving and sandboarding activities)
Day 2Day 2: Islas Ballestas and Paracas National Reserve (Option 1)
We will leave early from Huacachina to Paracas. Travel time will be approximately 1.5 hours. We will board a speedboat at El Chaco pier.
We will first observe the famous Candelabro geoglyph from the water. We will continue to Ballestas Islands to see sea lions, penguins, and various seabirds. We will cruise close to the rocky cliffs for excellent wildlife photography. This boat tour will last approximately 2 hours.
At 11:00 AM. we will explore Paracas National Reserve. We will walk along coastal cliffs and enjoy desert-meets-ocean landscapes. We will observe flamingos, pelicans, and local wildlife. We will take in panoramic views of pristine beaches and arid desert.
We will return to Huacachina or can drop at Paracas/Ica bus stations around 04:00 PM. This completes a full nature and wildlife experience in southern Peru.
- Distance traveled
- 120 km
- Highest altitude
- 200 m.a.s.l.
- Lowest altitude
- 0 m.a.s.l.
- Route
- Huacachina - Paracas - Huacachina
- Difficulty
- Easy to Moderate (boat tour and short walking trails)
Day 2Day 2: Wine and Pisco Tour in Ica (Option 2)
In the morning, we will visit Hacienda Tacama to explore traditional wine production. We will see vineyards and historic cellars. We will taste different wines and learn pairing tips.
Next, we will explore Cultur Pisco to understand traditional pisco production. We will observe distillation techniques and fermentation processes. We will enjoy sampling piscos and other products crafted locally.
We will conclude our vineyard tour after approximately 4 hours (2:00 PM). We will return to your hotel or the bus station in Ica, completing a cultural and gastronomic experience.
Note: itineraries are subject to change.
- Distance traveled
- 50 km
- Highest altitude
- 400 m.a.s.l
- Lowest altitude
- 180 m.a.s.l.
- Route
- Huacachina - Ica Vineyards - Huacachina/Ica
- Difficulty
- Easy (walking in vineyards, seated tastings)
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- One night of accommodation at Carola Lodge in Huacachina.
- Exciting dune buggy ride and sandboarding experience in the Huacachina Desert.
- Guided Ballestas Islands Tour and Paracas National Reserve Tour (Option 1).
- Entrance tax to Paracas National Reserve (Option 1).
- Exclusive Tacama Vineyard Experience with wine tasting (Option 2).
- CulturPisco Experience to discover traditional Pisco-making (Option 2).
- Entrance ticket to Hacienda Tacama (Option 2).
- Local tax in Huacachina included.
What’s not included
- Bus tickets between Lima, Ica, and Paracas are not included.
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
- Personal expenses and optional activities are not covered.
- Travel insurance and medical expenses are not included.
- Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers are optional.
- Any services not mentioned in the inclusions list are not included.
Frequently asked questions
Is the tour available all year round?
Yes, the tour operates throughout the year. Ica enjoys a sunny and dry climate almost every day.
Do we need to bring anything special?
We recommend comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and bottled water. For sandboarding, wear closed and resistant shoes.
Do we need previous experience for sandboarding or dune buggies?
No, both activities are perfect for beginners. Our guides will give short instructions and stay with the group during the activity.
What payment methods are available to book the tour?
We accept bank transfers and credit or debit cards. A small deposit is required to confirm your reservation.
Is the Paracas and Huacachina Tour - Paracas National Reserve family-friendly?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families, couples, and friends. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
What happens if the weather changes during the tour?
We will adjust the schedule if needed to ensure safety and comfort. Alternative activities will be offered when possible.