From Lima: 1-day Ica Paracas Excursion + Vineyards and Buggy

Exploring the diverse landscapes of Peru’s Ica region is an exhilarating adventure. This one-day excursion from Lima promises an unforgettable experience, taking travelers on a captivating journey through the stunning Paracas peninsula, the breathtaking Huacachina oasis, and the renowned local vineyards. From witnessing unique wildlife on a boat tour to soaring over sand dunes in a dune buggy, the day is packed with thrilling activities. But the true highlight may lie in the opportunity to take in the region’s rich winemaking heritage, savoring the flavors of Ica’s renowned pisco and wines. Prepare to be captivated by the natural beauty and cultural offerings that this remarkable day has in store.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Paracas.

Key Points

• A full-day adventure combining natural landscapes, local vineyards, and thrilling activities like a boat tour to Ballestas Islands and a buggy ride at Huacachina oasis.
• Priced from $110 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and including pickup/drop-off, activities, meals, and a bilingual guide.
• Experience the "Poor Man’s Galápagos" with close encounters with Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and diverse birds during the 2-hour boat tour.
• Enjoy an exhilarating 1-hour dune buggy adventure through the Huacachina oasis and try sandboarding for added excitement.
• Explore renowned vineyards in the Ica region, sample world-class wines and pisco, and learn about the winemaking process during the vineyard tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Ica Paracas Excursion offers a full-day adventure that combines exploring the stunning natural landscapes of the Paracas region with a visit to local vineyards. Priced from $110 per person, the tour lasts one day and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants will be picked up from their hotels in Lima around 5 AM and transported to Paracas, about a 3.5-hour journey. Key activities include a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, a thrilling buggy ride through the sand dunes of the Huacachina oasis, and a tour and tasting at a local vineyard, with lunch also provided.

The tour concludes with a return to Lima in the evening.

Pricing and Inclusions

The Ica Paracas Excursion is priced from $110.00 per person.

This 1-day tour includes pickup and drop-off at hotels in Miraflores and San Isidro, a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, a sandboarding and buggy adventure, a visit to local vineyards, breakfast and lunch, as well as a bilingual guide and personal travel insurance.

The tour also covers all taxes and fees. Guests can expect to depart Lima around 5:00 AM and return around 9:30 or 10:00 PM.

Exclusions include personal expenses and tips. Guests should bring their passport or ID, comfortable clothing, and sun protection.

Itinerary and Activities

The Ica Paracas Excursion begins with an early pickup from hotels in Lima around 5:00 AM.

After a 3.5-hour bus trip along the Pan-American Highway, travelers will embark on a 2-hour boat tour to the Ballestas Islands. This offers an opportunity to see Humboldt penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat.

Next, the tour heads to the Huacachina oasis, where participants can enjoy a 1-hour buggy adventure through the sand dunes.

The final stop is at a local vineyard, where visitors can sample wine and pisco while enjoying a provided lunch.

The tour then returns to Lima, arriving at the hotels around 9:30 or 10 PM.

Ballestas Islands Boat Tour

The 2-hour boat tour to the Ballestas Islands provides travelers with a unique opportunity to observe an array of marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Often referred to as the "Poor Man’s Galápagos," the Ballestas Islands are home to a staggering number of Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and a variety of birds.

Passengers can expect to see these creatures up close as the boat navigates the rocky formations and coves.

The tour also offers stunning views of the Paracas Peninsula, with its rugged coastline and desert landscapes.

It’s an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to witness the incredible biodiversity of this region.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Huacachina Dune Buggy Adventure

After the boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, the Ica Paracas Excursion takes visitors on an exhilarating dune buggy adventure through the stunning Huacachina oasis.

This 1-hour buggy ride offers an adrenaline-filled experience as you navigate the towering sand dunes. The buggy drivers are skilled, and the ride promises thrills and breathtaking desert scenery.

Visitors have the opportunity to try sandboarding down the dunes, adding another adventurous activity to the day. The Huacachina oasis, surrounded by palm trees and sand, provides a unique and picturesque backdrop for this exciting part of the excursion.

Vineyard Tour and Tastings

Following the dune buggy adventure, the Ica Paracas Excursion takes visitors on a tour of the region’s renowned vineyards.

They’ll have the opportunity to sample the area’s world-class wines and pisco, Peru’s signature spirit. The tour includes a visit to local wineries, where guests can learn about the winemaking process and enjoy tastings.

Lunch is also available for those who wish to pair the wines with a meal. This portion of the excursion provides a chance to take in the rich agricultural heritage of Ica, complementing the earlier wildlife and dune experiences.

Trip Duration and Transport

The Ica Paracas Excursion starts with a 3.5-hour bus trip from Lima, covering the 300 km along the Pan-American Highway.

The tour offers:

• Pickup from hotels in Miraflores and San Isidro around 5:00 AM
• Return to Lima around 9:30 or 10:00 PM, with drop-off at the hotel
• A full day of activities, including the boat tour, sand dunes, and vineyard visit

The duration of the excursion is 1 day, providing participants with ample time to explore the diverse attractions of Ica and Paracas while enjoying a comfortable and hassle-free transportation experience.

Important Considerations

When planning the Ica Paracas Excursion, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, travelers should remember to bring their passport or ID card, as well as comfortable clothing and sun protection like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

It’s also a good idea to have some extra cash on hand for personal expenses and tips.

Visitors should avoid bringing weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, or fireworks, as these items aren’t permitted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Needs?

The tour can be customized to meet individual needs, though specific details are not provided. Travelers are encouraged to discuss any special requests or requirements with the tour operator before booking to ensure the experience meets their preferences.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. This provides flexibility to change your plans without penalty, making it a convenient option.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes breakfast and lunch. Outside alcohol is not allowed. Travelers should follow the guidelines outlined in the important information section to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.

Are There Any Age or Physical Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age or physical restrictions mentioned for the activities on this tour. However, participants should be reasonably fit to handle the boat ride, sand dune buggy, and light hiking involved.

How Reliable Is the Transportation Provided for the Tour?

The transportation provided for this tour is highly reliable. The tour operator uses modern, well-maintained buses driven by experienced, licensed drivers to ensure a safe and comfortable journey to and from the various activities.

Recap

This one-day excursion from Lima to Ica offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Travelers can expect an exhilarating journey, witnessing the diverse wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, soaring over the dunes of the Huacachina oasis, and savoring the flavors of local vineyards. With all activities and transportation included, this tour provides an unforgettable and seamless day trip exploring the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of the Ica region.

You can check if your dates are available here: