The sun-soaked desert oasis of Huacachina packs serious adventure into its compact frame. This Peruvian gem’s standout attraction is its towering sand dunes, best experienced through guided tours. The classic 2-hour dune buggy ride at sunset delivers heart-pumping thrills and spectacular photo opportunities. For active travelers, professional sandboarding tours offer proper instruction and equipment – far better than trying it solo. Wine enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the nearby Pisco and wine tours, showcasing local vintages in historic bodegas. While the dune buggy tours tend to be crowded, private tours by Polaris vehicles provide a more personal desert experience. Let’s explore the best tour options in Huacachina.
Key Points
- For an adrenaline rush, consider the Dune Buggy and Sandboarding Tours which offer a 2-hour adventure with professional drivers and stunning sunset views.
- Explore the area’s cultural heritage through the Wine and Pisco Tour, which visits local wineries and provides an immersive insight into Peruvian viticulture.
- Opt for the Private UTV Tour and Sandboarding experience for a thrilling and exclusive adventure, complete with safety equipment and trained drivers.
- For a more serene option, the Canyon of the Lost Tour offers a scenic hike through rocky terrain, but may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
- Traveler feedback highlights the memorable experiences, but also notes some concerns about transportation discomfort and lack of air conditioning in certain tours.
2-Hour Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding
What could be more exhilarating than a 2-hour dune buggy tour and sandboarding adventure in the stunning Huacachina desert? This tour offers the perfect blend of thrills and natural beauty, with a maximum group size of 10 for a more intimate experience.
Travelers will meet at Arenas Bar & Lounge at 4:00 PM to embark on their journey. The tour includes a 4WD dune buggy ride through the desert, where professional drivers with extensive experience will guide participants through the breathtaking landscape.
Once at the dunes, it’s time to grab a sandboard and try your hand at this exciting activity, all while enjoying the stunning sunset over the desert.
The tour is priced from $27.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee, and includes the entrance ticket to the desert. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers, it’s an exhilarating way to explore the unique and captivating Huacachina region.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding Review
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Professional Sandboard & Sandski Tour in Ica, Peru
For travelers seeking an exhilarating and immersive experience in the Ica Desert, the Professional Sandboard & Sandski Tour offers an unparalleled adventure.
With 97% of travelers recommending this tour, it’s no surprise that it’s earned a Badge of Excellence for the South Coast of Peru.
Participants will navigate the stunning dunes of Huacachina, a desert oasis, either by sandboarding or sandskiing.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, from skis and boards to boots, poles, and protective gear.
Thrilling dune buggy rides and professional instruction from knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized and safe experience, even for first-timers.
The tour culminates in a breathtaking sunset over the desert landscape, with GoPro footage and photos to capture the memories.
With a maximum of 16 travelers per group, this tour offers an intimate and exclusive adventure.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the moderate physical fitness level required makes it accessible to a wide range of participants.
Read our full review: Professional Sandboard & Sandski Tour in Ica, Peru Review
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Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding
Though the Huacachina desert oasis is known for its tranquil beauty, the Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding activity promises an adrenaline-fueled adventure. This evening excursion features a thrilling buggy ride through the dunes, culminating in the opportunity to try sandboarding.
With a maximum group size of 10, travelers can expect personalized attention from the driver/guide. The tour includes a basic sandboard, though professional options are available for an additional $10. Entrance fees of 2 soles per person are also covered.
Travelers should note that the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible and those with serious medical conditions may not be allowed to participate. Nevertheless, most visitors can enjoy this exciting experience.
The tour departs at 4:00 PM from the Carola Lodge Hotel, and returns to the same location, providing a convenient start and end point.
With its adrenaline-pumping rides and stunning sunset views, the Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding is a must-do for thrill-seekers visiting Huacachina.
Read our full review: Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding Review
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Private Dune Buggy Tour With Sandboard or Ski / 2 Hours
Adrenaline-seekers visiting Huacachina can embark on a thrilling Private Dune Buggy Tour with the option to sandboard or ski. This 2-hour experience is limited to 9 people and includes a professional driver.
The tour can be customized based on group preferences, and participants receive confirmation at booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.
The tour departs from the Carola Lodge Hotel, with the option for direct meeting or pickup request. Participants will ride in a dune buggy and have the opportunity to try sandboarding or skiing on the desert dunes.
Equipment, including sandboards or skis, is included for one person, with additional equipment available for 30 soles per person.
While the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, most travelers can participate. Reviews of the tour are positive, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 9 reviews.
Pricing starts at $195.00 per group (up to 6 people), with a lowest price guarantee and flexible payment options available.
Read our full review: Private Dune Buggy Tour With Sandboard or Ski / 2 Hours Review
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Dune Buggy & Sand Sled Tour
The Dune Buggy & Sand Sled Tour offers an exhilarating adventure for visitors to Huacachina. This 2-hour tour departs from the Dito Sand Xsports meeting point, conveniently located next to the Wild Rover Hostel and across from the Reset Club.
Participants will enjoy a dune buggy ride and sand sledding, with all fees and taxes included. Bottled water and photos/videos are also provided.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 7 reviews, this tour is a solid choice for an adrenaline-filled experience in the Peruvian sand dunes.
At a starting price of $26.16 per person, the Dune Buggy & Sand Sled Tour provides excellent value for an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: Dune Buggy & Sand Sled Tour Review
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3-Hour Wine and Pisco Tour / Tacama and El Catador
For those looking to experience the rich wine culture and history of Peru, the 3-hour Wine and Pisco Tour is an excellent choice. This tour takes visitors to two wineries – Tacama and El Catador – where they can sample around 10 different wines and pisco brandies.
Tacama is one of the oldest vineyards in South America, while El Catador offers a glimpse into historic winemaking techniques.
The tour provides an opportunity to learn about Peruvian viticultural history and culture from an insightful guide. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience is intimate and relaxing, a welcome break from fast-paced sightseeing.
The tour includes private transportation, alcoholic beverages, and a traditional lunch in a vineyard setting. Priced at $44.00 per person, the tour offers a great value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Peruvian culture, this tour is a must-do in Huacachina.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Wine and Pisco Tour / Tacama and El Catador Review
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1-Hour Tour in a Polaris Vehicle / Huacachina Desert
Leaving the tranquil wine and pisco tastings behind, visitors can embark on an exhilarating 1-hour tour through the Huacachina desert in a Polaris vehicle.
The tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, offers a unique off-road adventure with a professional guide. Suitable for both off-road newbies and experienced riders, the private tour ensures an active exploration of the desert terrain, not just a passive passenger experience.
The tour includes sandboarding, with rental equipment available, allowing participants to enjoy the desert’s thrilling activities.
Pickup and return transfers from Huacachina or Ica are included, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience. Priced at £167.31 per group (up to 3 people), the tour provides private transportation, all fees, and taxes.
With a high rating of 4.9/5 from 10 reviews, this adventure is a must-try for those seeking an unforgettable desert experience in Huacachina.
Read our full review: 1-Hour Tour in a Polaris Vehicle / Huacachina Desert Review
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Buggy Tour With Sunset in Huacachina
Though the 1-hour Polaris vehicle tour offers an exhilarating desert experience, the Buggy Tour With Sunset in Huacachina provides a longer, more action-packed adventure. Lasting 2 hours, this tour combines the thrill of dune buggies with the beauty of a desert sunset.
Travelers can enjoy regular sandboarding as part of the experience, and the tour accommodates up to 50 people at a time. With an impressive 5-star rating based on over 5 reviews, this tour offers excellent value at just $25 per person, including the entrance fee.
While lunch isn’t specified, tips aren’t included in the price. Pickup and drop-off can be arranged, with a designated meeting point at La Casa de Bamboo. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with certain medical conditions.
Reviewers rave about the fun, friendly driver, and stunning sunset views, making this buggy tour a must-do activity in Huacachina.
Read our full review: Buggy Tour With Sunset in Huacachina Review
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Private UTV Tour and Sandboard in Huacachina 01 Hour
Travelers seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure in Huacachina can embark on a Private UTV Tour and Sandboard experience. Operated by Machu Picchu Peru Tours, this 1-hour tour offers the chance to explore the sand dunes on a UTV and try sandboarding.
The tour includes safety equipment like glasses, helmet, and a regular sandboard. Drivers trained in UTV operation will ensure a thrilling yet safe ride. The Huacachina Tourist Ticket is also provided, allowing access to the oasis town.
The meeting point is Carola Lodge, with the tour returning to the same location. Operating daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, it’s best to confirm the start time in advance. Moderate fitness is required, and the experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with medical conditions.
Priced from $65 per person, the private tour ensures your group participates exclusively. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.
With a 5-star rating, this UTV and sandboarding adventure promises an unforgettable experience in Huacachina.
Read our full review: Private UTV Tour and Sandboard in Huacachina 01 Hour Review
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Canyon of the Lost Tour of Ica From Huacachina
The Canyon of the Lost Tour of Ica from Huacachina presents an opportunity to explore a stunning natural wonder on the South Coast of Peru. Priced at $89 per person, this private tour accommodates up to 10 travelers with a 6:30 am start time.
Transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and meals are included. While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, though those with back issues, expectant mothers, or heart conditions should avoid the tour.
The journey involves a 1.5-hour drive and a hike down the rocky canyon terrain in the heat. Reviewers noted the scenery is beautiful but found the tour description incomplete, with additional unscheduled stops and limited bilingual guide services.
Some travelers experienced discomfort from the bumpy ride and lack of air conditioning. The Canyon of the Lost Tour offers a chance to witness Peru’s natural splendor, though guests should be prepared for a moderately challenging excursion.
Read our full review: Canyon of the Lost Tour of Ica From Huacachina Review
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Recap
Huacachina offers a range of dune buggy and sandboarding tours that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you want a thrilling 2-hour adventure or a more leisurely 1-hour tour, there’s an option to suit your needs. Tours often include the opportunity to try sandboarding, making for an unforgettable experience in this unique desert oasis.