Paracas Bus Tour from Lima

Duration
Full day
Service
Group
Pickup
Hotel
Cancel
Non-refund
Guide
Difficulty
Easy

About this experience

We will begin our adventure early in the morning, leaving Lima in a comfortable tourist bus. The journey will take around four hours, offering beautiful coastal views along the Pacific Ocean. During this scenic ride, we will relax and prepare for an unforgettable full-day experience in Paracas and Ica.

Once we arrive, we will explore the stunning Paracas National Reserve, one of Peru’s most unique coastal sanctuaries. We will admire vast desert landscapes meeting turquoise ocean waters and feel the ocean breeze energize our senses. This place will surprise us with its incredible biodiversity and its rich combination of desert and sea.

We will then visit the famous Ballestas Islands, often called the “mini Galápagos” of Peru. Here, we will see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and thousands of seabirds thriving in their natural habitat. The boat ride will offer us unforgettable moments surrounded by wildlife and the impressive “Candelabro” geoglyph on the Paracas Peninsula.

After exploring Paracas, we will continue to Ica, located about 75 kilometers away. We will enjoy the magical desert oasis of Huacachina, where golden dunes stretch endlessly across the horizon. Those seeking excitement will have the chance to try sandboarding or ride dune buggies over the rolling sands.

Our Full Day Ica Paracas from Lima by Bus will be the perfect mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation. This trip will let us experience two of southern Peru’s most fascinating destinations in a single day. We will return to Lima in the evening, full of memories and stories to share.

Why we will love the Paracas Peru from Lima by Bus – Paracas National Reserve Tour: we will enjoy the sea, desert, and wildlife in one perfect journey. We will experience adventure without compromising comfort or budget. And most importantly, we will travel with a 100% local operator, ensuring authentic experiences every step of the way.

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Paracas Peru from lima by Bus -  Paracas National Reserve

The adventure begins early in the morning with hotel pick-up between 04:00 and 04:45 AM from Miraflores or Barranco. After a brief introduction from the guide, the journey starts aboard a comfortable tourist bus heading south along the Pacific coast. Along the way, a short stop allows time to enjoy a light breakfast while admiring the sunrise over the coastal desert.

Upon arrival in Paracas, the experience continues with the Ballestas Islands Tour, a highlight of any Paracas Peru tour from Lima. A modern speedboat takes travelers across the bay to observe the famous Candelabro geoglyph, followed by close encounters with marine wildlife such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds. The combination of ocean views, rock formations, and biodiversity creates an unforgettable experience.

After returning to Paracas, there is free time to explore the waterfront, relax by the sea, or try traditional sweets like tejas and chocotejas. The journey then continues to Ica, known as the “City of Eternal Sun,” where a traditional Pisco and Wine Bodega visit introduces travelers to Peru’s iconic spirit through tastings and cultural insights.

The tour reaches its most exciting moment at the Huacachina Oasis, a natural lagoon surrounded by massive sand dunes. This unique desert landscape sets the stage for an adrenaline-filled experience with dune buggies and sandboarding. Riding across the golden dunes while enjoying panoramic views becomes one of the most memorable parts of the day.

After the desert adventure, the return journey to Lima begins in the late afternoon. The tour concludes in the evening with drop-off near Larcomar and transfer back to the hotel, ending a day filled with unforgettable landscapes and experiences.

Tour statistics: 

  • Total Distance: 470 km (round trip)
  • Highest Altitude: 406 meters above sea level (Ica)
  • Lowest Altitude: Sea level (Paracas)
  • Route: Lima – Paracas – Ica – Huacachina – Lima
  • Difficulty Level: Easy – Suitable for all ages
Note: itineraries are subject to change.

Inclusions & exclusions

What's included

  • Pick-up and drop-off from hotels in Miraflores or Barranco
  • Round-trip tourist bus: Lima – Paracas – Ica – Lima
  • Boat tour to the Ballestas Islands with life jackets and bilingual guide
  • Entrance to Paracas National Reserve and all local taxes
  • Visit to a traditional Pisco and wine bodega in Ica
  • Tasting of local Piscos and wines
  • Breakfast on route (one coffee and one savory sandwich)
  • Dune buggy (tubulares) ride in Huacachina desert.
  • Sandboarding activity with equipment included
  • Professional bilingual tour guide (English / Spanish)

What's not included

  • Meals not specified in the itinerary (lunch and dinner)
  • Personal expenses, souvenirs, and additional snacks
  • Travel or health insurance
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and local staff
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Any services not listed in the inclusions

Recommendations

Before traveling

  • Original passport or valid ID for verification
  • Comfortable clothing suitable for coastal weather
  • Light jacket or windbreaker (Paracas can be windy)
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen for sun protection
  • Hat or cap to protect from direct sunlight
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour
  • Camera or smartphone to capture amazing views
  • Motion sickness pills (recommended for boat ride to Ballestas Islands)

Policies

At Machu Picchu Peru Tours, we are committed to providing transparency and flexibility in every booking. For the Paracas Peru from Lima by Bus – Paracas National Reserve Tour, the following conditions apply:

  • Cancellations made more than 48 hours in advance will incur a 25% penalty for administrative expenses + 6% payment processing fee based on the total amount paid.
  • Cancellations made within 24 hours prior to the tour will incur a 50% penalty for administrative expenses + 6% payment processing fee of the total amount.
  • Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour or no-shows will be subject to a 100% penalty, with no refund applicable.
  • All promotional rates, special offers, and discounted bookings are non-refundable.
  • All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via our official communication channels (email or WhatsApp).
  • In cases of force majeure (weather conditions, strikes, road closures, or other unforeseen events), the tour may be rescheduled or evaluated for a partial refund, depending on the situation.
  • Approved refunds will be processed within 7 to 45 business days, depending on the payment method and administrative validation.

Frequently asked questions

We answer your questions about this tour

1 ¿Qué incluye el tour Paracas Perú desde Lima en Bus?

We will explore the Ballestas Islands, visit a traditional Pisco and wine bodega, and enjoy the desert oasis of Huacachina. Each destination offers unique landscapes, culture, and adventure

2 What is included in the Paracas Peru from Lima by Bus tour?

The tour includes round-trip transportation, Ballestas Islands boat tour, entrance fees, bilingual guide, breakfast, and Huacachina activities such as dune buggy and sandboarding.

3 How long is the Paracas and Ica Day Tour from Lima?

 This is a full-day tour lasting approximately 16 to 17 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Lima in the evening.

4 Is the Ballestas Islands boat tour safe?

Yes, the boat tour is operated with certified equipment, life jackets, and experienced bilingual guides to ensure safety at all times.

5 Do I need previous experience for sandboarding?

No experience is required. The activity is suitable for beginners and instructions will be provided before starting.

6 What is the best time to take the Paracas Peru from Lima by Bus tour?

The tour operates year-round, but the best conditions are usually from April to December with clearer skies and less humidity.

7 Are meals included in the tour?

Breakfast is included. Lunch and dinner are not included, but there will be time to enjoy local food in Ica.

8 Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Yes, it is an easy tour suitable for most travelers. However, dune buggy rides may not be recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems.

9 What should I bring for the tour?

You should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, a light jacket, cash, and your passport or ID.

10 Can I cancel or modify my booking?

Yes, cancellations and modifications are subject to our cancellation policy and must be requested in advance through official channels.

11 Is hotel pick-up included?

Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included from hotels located in Miraflores and Barranco.

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Traveler Experiences

What our travelers say about our Machu Picchu tours

Our reputation is built on the experiences of real travelers. With more than 1,200 verified reviews across TripAdvisor and Google, we are consistently rated 4.9 out of 5 — one of the top-rated Machu Picchu tour operators in Cusco.

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Tripadvisor

"Punctuality, very attentive guide and perfect organization. From the hotel exit, transit by train, lunch schedule and guided tours."

AS

Andrey S.

October 14, 2025

Google

"Machu Picchu Peru Tours full day Sacred Valley was an amazing highlight of our trip to Peru. Do not miss it! Our driver Julio Cesar took us on time and safely to all amazing places and experiences beating the crowds. The guide, Erik, was the most passionated guide I've met. An incredible story teller, knowledgeable and giving us a superb experience. It was a real perfect day and an amazing almost private tour feeling like a super engaging history class. Don't think twice."

PN

Patricia N.

A year ago

Tripadvisor

"A very enriching experience, a lot of history, although it rained that day, was a good for nothing our tour. Our guide was very attentive and professional."

MR

Maria R.

October 12, 2025

Google

"We had a amazing tour with Machu pichu Peru tours to the vinicunca mountain, or the rainbow mountain. Tour was well organised and your tour guide took really good care of us. Also the breakfast and lunch was quite good. We can totally recommend this tour organisation."

DK

Daniel K.

2 years ago

Tripadvisor

"The tour starts very early type 3-4 am, how good you can sleep on the way, we breakfast in a very good buffet and then depart for the mountain. Here the height is the problem, you can walk up but it requires a lot of condition, the good thing is that there are horses that you can pay and for 90 suns they leave you 15-20 minutes from the top. Wear layered clothes as you can warm up when climbing. We already walk down and the road is much easier. On horseback you go up in 40 minutes, you are on the mountain an hour to take pictures and the return is about 1 hour or so. In the end we still had lunch in the same very rich buffet!"

AC

Alejandra C.

October 12, 2025

Google

"I highly recommend Machu Picchu Peru Tour. Their service is incredible. I highly recommend their guides, especially Rocio and Jhordi. They are very professional and super friendly. My recommendation is because they have everything arranged and structured so we can fully enjoy the experience: transportation, lodging, food, and tourist attractions. I hope you can take advantage of traveling with them and enjoy it as much as we did."

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Cesar G.

8 months ago

Tripadvisor

"I liked the Service and attention I received, plus the quality of the guide who touched us to know the sacred valley on the way to Machu Picchu was first class, with extensive knowledge of the Inca culture and with very good explanation, I highly recommend them."

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Salvador M.

September 19, 2025

Google

"It was a wonderful experience. Getting to know one of the wonders of the world and learning its history in detail was very rewarding. We had an excellent guide who answered every one of our questions and her support was unconditional. The guide, Veronica Quispe, and the drivers who supported us were incredible. Thank you so much. They made the trip wonderful."

PN

Patty N.

10 months ago

Tripadvisor

"They were exceptional! Everything very organized, took care of all the details, we hired all the tours, lodging and transfer, we do not regret!"

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Sarah E.

October 12, 2025

Google

"The quality and friendliness of the staff were impressive. Wendy served us and was always very attentive to everything, responding quickly. They offer good options without breaking your budget. A short but substantial excursion. The guide Jaime knew everything in detail and provided excellent explanations. I recommend him, especially if you're traveling with children or older adults, as he really has everything under control."

AS

Ara S.

3 years ago

Tripadvisor

"Recommended! What a beautiful place!!! Most of us went up there on mules. Important to clarify if the person weighs more than 110 kg he will not be able to carry it and will have to walk up. It is still very expensive, to have proper footwear."

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Veronica L.

October 12, 2025

Google

"I had the wonderful experience of coordinating a group trip with Carolina from this agency, and it was very positive. They were always willing to help and facilitate the trip. On the tours, we had the opportunity to meet Alex on the Sacred Valley tour. He is an excellent guide, very friendly and knowledgeable about all the sites, making the tour very entertaining. In Machu Picchu, we were guided by Edmar, an excellent, knowledgeable, and friendly guide."

KD

Kevin D.

2 years ago

Google

"I loved that the travel agency made everything easy for me in Cusco. All I had to worry about was being on time for pickup and choosing what to eat at the buffet. The agency itself took care of everything. If I could highlight anything, it's the fact that I had a different guide on each tour, and they were all very kind and polite. They did their jobs well and knew how to explain the history of each place."

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Enrique G.

10 months ago

Google

"The excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas was a great one. Our guide, Veronica, accompanied us the entire time and did her best to make the experience as informative as possible."

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Agustin G.

A year ago