The rugged desert landscapes of Ica, Peru set the stage for remarkable dining adventures. Local operators offer BBQ dinners in the stunning Huacachina Desert, complete with attentive service and regional wines. I’m especially fond of the combination desert-and-dining tours, where an exhilarating dune buggy ride leads to a perfectly-prepared meal at sunset. The food quality is consistently good, focusing on traditional Peruvian flavors and grilled specialties. My favorite experiences pair sandboarding adventures with intimate desert campsite dinners – it’s like having your own private restaurant in the dunes. These top-rated dining tours showcase the best of Ica’s culinary scene.
Check out our selected dining experiences below.
Key Points
- Private dining experiences in the Huacachina Desert offer a unique setting against a stunning desert backdrop, with activities like dune buggy rides and sand tubing.
- Dinner in the desert features a grilled BBQ meal, cocktails, and wine, with private chef and waiter services, and return transfers from Ica accommodation.
- The Buggy & Sandboard Adventure provides a thrilling experience with a round-trip buggy ride to a campsite for a barbecue dinner and sandboarding practice.
- Culinary offerings focus on quality and variety, including local flavors and ingredients, with a selection of cold snacks, grilled vegetable skewers, and wine.
- The experiences emphasize safety, with considerations for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, and young children, and a flexible cancellation policy.
Dinner at Huacachina Desert
Nestled within the captivating Huacachina Desert in Ica, Peru, Dinner at Huacachina Desert offers a private dining experience that transports guests to a world of enchantment. Recommended by 100% of travelers, this evening excursion caters to groups of up to 20 guests, providing a grilled BBQ dinner, cocktails, and wine against the stunning desert backdrop.
The experience includes a private chef and waiter, as well as a dune buggy ride, sand tubing, and a tour of the Laguna de Huacachina. Guests can enjoy the evening’s festivities with return transfers from their Ica accommodation or the bus station, with the activity ending back at the meeting point.
Priced from $130 per person, this unique experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
While not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, Dinner at Huacachina Desert promises an unforgettable evening of culinary delights and desert exploration for those seeking a memorable experience in Ica.
Read our full review: Dinner at Huacachina Desert Review
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Buggy & Sandboard Adventure With Dinner at Ica Desert
The Buggy & Sandboard Adventure with Dinner at Ica Desert offers an exhilarating journey through the captivating Ica Desert.
Departing from Ica or the Huacachina Oasis, this 5-star rated experience takes travelers on a round-trip buggy ride to a campsite for a delicious dinner.
The adventure begins with a practice session in sandboarding, allowing participants to master the art of gliding down the dunes.
Upon reaching the campsite, guests are treated to a starter of cold snacks, followed by a barbecue of steak or chicken, grilled vegetable skewers, and a bottle of wine for every two people.
With a maximum of 30 travelers and a minimum group size of 4, this experience offers an intimate and personalized outing.
Transfers, gratuities, and cancellation up to 24 hours before the start are all included.
However, the activity isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or children under 3 years old.
Read our full review: Buggy & Sandboard Adventure With Dinner at Ica Desert Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for Dining in Ica?
The dress code for dining in Ica is generally casual. Most restaurants don’t have strict dress requirements, and diners can comfortably wear things like shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. However, some upscale establishments may expect a slightly more formal attire.
Are Reservations Required for the Desert Dining Experiences?
Reservations are generally recommended for desert dining experiences in Ica to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. Many establishments have limited seating capacity for these unique dining settings, so planning ahead is advisable.
What Forms of Payment Are Accepted at the Restaurants?
The restaurants generally accept major credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Cash is also widely accepted. It’s best to confirm the accepted payment methods when making a reservation to avoid any surprises.
Is Alcohol Served During the Desert Dining Experiences?
Yes, alcohol is typically served during desert dining experiences in the region. Many of the restaurants offer a variety of local Peruvian wines and spirits to complement the cuisine.
Are There Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available?
Many Ica restaurants offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to cater to diverse dietary needs. Customers should inquire about menu selections when making reservations to ensure their preferences are accommodated.
Recap
The Huacachina Desert and Ica Desert offer unique dining experiences that allow visitors to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of Ica. Whether it’s an elegant dinner under the stars or a thrilling sandboarding adventure followed by a hearty meal, these activities provide unforgettable opportunities to savor the flavors of the region while surrounded by breathtaking views.