Day Tour to Ballestas Islands and Huacachinca Ica Desert

The Day Tour to Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Ica Desert promises an unforgettable adventure in Peru. Travelers will explore the diverse marine ecosystem of the Ballestas Islands, encountering pelicans, penguins, and sea lions up close. But the real thrill begins in the serene Huacachina oasis, where sandboarding and dune buggy rides across the dramatic desert landscape await. With tastings of local wines, pisco, and traditional sweets, this tour offers a captivating cultural experience that combines the natural wonders of Peru with its rich heritage. Prepare to be swept away by the breathtaking sights and unique activities that make this tour a must-do for any visitor.

Key Points

• This day tour explores the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Ica Desert, featuring diverse marine life, sand dunes, sandboarding, and wine/pisco tasting.
• The Ballestas Islands, known as the "poor man’s Galapagos," offer panoramic views of the Candelabro geoglyph and a chance to see unique wildlife.
• The Huacachina Ica Desert provides thrilling activities like dune buggy rides and sandboarding, as well as opportunities to taste local wines and sweets.
• The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and various activities, but has restrictions for infants, pregnant women, and individuals with back problems.
• The tour offers a special offer price of $57.60, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a reserve now, pay later option.

Overview of the Tour

This day tour offers travelers a chance to explore two of Peru’s renowned natural wonders – the Ballestas Islands and the Huacachina Ica Desert.

The highly-rated tour, recommended by 100% of previous travelers, is operated by Viajes Origenes tours in Lima, Peru. The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and various activities such as visiting the Huacachina lagoon, seeing the Candeladro geoglyph, and tasting local wines, piscos, and sweets.

Participants can also enjoy sightings of coastal flora and fauna, as well as try sandboarding and tubing. The tour caters to a variety of travelers, with some restrictions for infants, pregnant women, and those with back problems.

Highlights of the Ballestas Islands

During the Ballestas Islands portion of the tour, travelers can expect to witness an abundance of marine life and stunning natural scenery.

Often referred to as the "poor man’s Galapagos," the Ballestas Islands are home to an impressive array of wildlife, including pelicans, Peruvian boobies, Humboldt penguins, and sea lions.

Visitors will have the opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural habitat, as well as admire the dramatic, rocky landscapes that characterize the islands.

The tour also includes a panoramic view of the Candelabro geoglyph, a massive ancient figure etched into the cliffside.

With its diverse fauna and breathtaking scenery, the Ballestas Islands segment of the excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Exploring the Huacachina Ica Desert

After marveling at the captivating wildlife and landscapes of the Ballestas Islands, the tour moves on to the enchanting Huacachina Ica Desert. This stunning oasis, nestled amidst towering sand dunes, offers a unique and thrilling experience. Visitors can indulge in the heart-racing adventure of sandboarding, glide across the golden sands, and explore the serene Huacachina lagoon. The tour also includes a wine and pisco tasting, allowing guests to savor the flavors of the region. Whether seeking an adrenaline-filled experience or a moment of tranquility, the Huacachina Ica Desert promises an unforgettable addition to the day’s adventure.

Activity	Duration	Price
Sandboarding	1-2 hours	S/.35.00
Dune Buggy Ride	30 mins	S/.35.00
Huacachina Lagoon Exploration	1 hour	Included
Wine and Pisco Tasting	30 mins	Included
Typical Sweets Tasting	15 mins	Included

Panoramic View of Candeladro Geoglyph

The towering Candeladro geoglyph, an ancient and enigmatic figure etched into the desert landscape, comes into view as the tour progresses.

This colossal figure, measuring over 150 meters long, is believed to have been created by the Paracas culture centuries ago.

Visitors are treated to a panoramic view of this remarkable geoglyph, allowing them to appreciate its sheer scale and the skill required to construct it.

The Candeladro’s intricate design and mysterious origins captivate onlookers, sparking curiosity about the civilization that once inhabited this arid region.

This breathtaking sight is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Peruvian coast.

Wine and Pisco Tasting Experience

As part of the day tour, travelers are treated to a delightful wine and pisco tasting experience.

This offers a chance to sample the renowned Peruvian spirits and wines from the region. The tasting takes place at a local winery or distillery, where knowledgeable guides provide insights into the production process and unique flavor profiles.

Visitors can savor the smooth, complex notes of the pisco and discover the vibrant, fruity characteristics of the regional wines.

This experience allows travelers to deepen their appreciation for Peruvian gastronomy and culture, providing a well-rounded introduction to the delights of the Ica Desert.

Typical Sweets Tasting

Alongside the wine and pisco tasting, the day tour also includes a sampling of typical sweets from the Ica region.

Travelers will have the chance to try local delicacies like the famous suspiro de limeña – a meringue-based sweet that’s a staple in the area.

They’ll also get to taste other regional favorites, like the creamy mazamorra morada, a purple corn pudding.

These traditional confections offer a flavorful glimpse into the culinary heritage of Ica.

The tasting is a delightful addition to the overall experience, providing a well-rounded exploration of the region’s food and culture.

Transportation and Meeting Details

Travelers can directly head to their preferred meeting point or request a pickup service for an additional $15 per leg, accommodating up to 4 people.

Multiple meeting points are available for selection. Confirmation is received at the time of booking unless within 2 hours of travel.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and children under 1 year old can’t participate in the Ballestas trip.

Children over 2 years must present identification for the Ballestas trip. The maximum group size is 35 travelers, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women.

Participation Requirements and Pricing

Confirmation is received at the time of booking unless within 2 hours of travel.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and children under 1 year old can’t participate in the Ballestas trip.

Children over 2 years must present ID for the Ballestas trip. The tour has a maximum of 35 travelers and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women.

The tour is currently on special offer at $57.60, a savings of $6.40 from the regular price of $64.00.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Customers can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 35 travelers, but there’s no minimum group size specified. Travelers can book individually or with a group, as long as the total doesn’t exceed the maximum capacity.

Can We Modify the Itinerary or Add Extra Activities?

According to the tour details, the itinerary can’t be modified, and extra activities aren’t included. However, travelers can request additional pickup service for an extra charge of $15 per leg (up to 4 people).

Is There an Option to Purchase Professional Photography Services?

Professional photography services are not explicitly offered as part of the tour package, but customers can inquire with the tour operator about adding this option for an additional fee. The tour focuses on sightseeing activities rather than photography services.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

The tour offers a special offer, priced at $57.60 instead of the regular $64.00, allowing travelers to save $6.40. Plus, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

Can We Stop at Any Additional Locations Along the Way?

According to the tour overview, there are no additional stops offered along the way. The tour focuses on visiting the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina lagoon. However, travelers can request pickup service for an additional fee if desired.

Recap

This day tour to the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Ica Desert provides a remarkable opportunity to witness Peru’s diverse marine life and captivating landscapes. The tour combines the exploration of the Ballestas Islands’ vibrant ecosystem with exhilarating sandboarding and dune buggy rides in the serene Huacachina oasis, complemented by tastings of local wines, pisco, and traditional sweets, delivering a truly immersive cultural experience.