From Lima: Ballestas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour

The "From Lima: Ballestas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour" offers an unforgettable adventure that combines breathtaking natural scenery with the opportunity to witness diverse wildlife. Travelers embark on a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, marveling at the abundance of sea lions, penguins, and other marine life. The tour then ventures to the enchanting Huacachina Oasis, where guests can experience the thrill of a dune buggy ride and enjoy a taste of Peru’s renowned wines and pisco. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable day away from the city, this tour promises to deliver an immersive and captivating experience.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Lima.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Lima offers a comprehensive exploration of the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis, featuring boat tours, dune buggy rides, and wine/pisco tasting.
• The tour includes transportation from Lima, breakfast, a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands to see marine wildlife, and a visit to the mysterious Candelabro figure.
• Visitors can experience the thrill of dune buggy rides and enjoy a wine and pisco tasting at a traditional vineyard in the Huacachina Oasis.
• The tour duration is approximately 17 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for travelers.
• Certain restrictions apply, such as unsuitability for those with back or heart problems, and an additional cost for lunch at the vineyard.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day tour from Lima offers an opportunity to explore the renowned Ballestas Islands and the enchanting Huacachina Oasis. Priced from $158.33 per person, the tour lasts approximately 17 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travellers can book their spot without any upfront payment. The tour includes transportation from centrally located hotels in Lima, breakfast, a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, a visit to the Candelabro figure, a thrilling buggy ride through the desert dunes, and a wine and pisco tasting at a traditional vineyard.

Lunch at the vineyard restaurant and a bilingual tour guide are also provided, making this excursion a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Itinerary and Experience

Pickup from centrally located hotels in Miraflores, Barranco, Surco, San Isidro, and Centro de Lima starts at 05:00 AM, beginning the journey via the Panamerican South Highway. After a breakfast stop, the tour arrives at Paracas for a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, penguins, guanay birds, and dolphins. Visitors marvel at the Candelabro figure on the hillside before heading to the Huacachina Oasis.

Experience	Duration	Highlights
Ballestas Islands Boat Tour	2 hours	Marine wildlife
Candelabro Viewing	30 minutes	Ancient geoglyph
Huacachina Oasis Exploration	2 hours	Dune buggy ride, pisco tasting

The day concludes with a return journey to Lima, accompanied by a bilingual guide.

Ballestas Islands Wildlife

The Ballestas Islands are home to a diverse array of marine wildlife. Visitors can spot large colonies of sea lions sunbathing on the rocky shores.

Playful Humboldt penguins dart in and out of the water, while the skies above teem with guanay birds in graceful flight.

Occasionally, visitors may even catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming alongside the boat.

This vibrant ecosystem thrives due to the nutrient-rich waters of the Humboldt Current.

The boat tour allows travelers to observe this captivating wildlife up close, providing an unforgettable window into the natural wonders of this remote and rugged island chain.

Visiting Candelabro Figure

As visitors journey along the Panamerican South Highway, their eyes are drawn to the mysterious Candelabro figure etched into the hillside.

This massive geoglyph, measuring over 150 meters long, is a captivating sight that has puzzled researchers for centuries. The Candelabro’s origins and purpose remain shrouded in mystery, with some speculating it may have served as a celestial marker or had religious significance for the ancient Paracas culture.

While the exact meaning of this enigmatic figure may never be known, its sheer scale and presence against the dramatic coastal landscape make it a must-see stop on the tour.

Visitors can marvel at this enigmatic wonder before continuing their journey to the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis.

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Exploring Huacachina Oasis

After visiting the captivating Candelabro figure, the tour continues to the enchanting Huacachina Oasis.

Guests arrive at this tranquil desert lagoon, surrounded by towering sand dunes. With free time to explore, visitors can marvel at the unique natural scenery and peaceful ambiance.

The highlight is an exhilarating buggy ride through the undulating dunes, providing an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Following the dune buggy excursion, the tour stops at a traditional vineyard for a wine and pisco tasting. Here, travelers can sample the region’s renowned spirits and learn about the local winemaking traditions.

The Huacachina Oasis offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, culture, and thrilling activities, making it a must-see destination on this comprehensive full-day tour.

Dune Buggy Adventure

One exhilarating highlight of the Huacachina Oasis experience is the dune buggy adventure. Thrill-seekers will hop aboard specialized buggies and embark on an adrenaline-pumping journey through the majestic sand dunes. The experience combines the rush of off-road driving with the stunning desert landscapes. As the buggy winds through the dunes, riders will be treated to breathtaking vistas and the chance to feel the power of the vehicle under their control.

Feature	Experience
Terrain	Undulating sand dunes
Speed	Thrilling off-road pace
Views	Panoramic desert landscapes
Adrenaline	High-octane excitement

The dune buggy adventure is a must-do activity that perfectly complements the serene beauty of the Huacachina Oasis.

Wine and Pisco Tasting

Following the thrilling dune buggy ride, the tour takes visitors to a traditional vineyard for a chance to sample the local wines and pisco.

At the vineyard, guests can enjoy:

• A guided tasting of the winery’s signature wines and pisco, the national spirit of Peru
• Learning about the history and production methods of these beloved Peruvian beverages
• Pairing the wines and pisco with a delightful lunch at the vineyard’s restaurant, providing a well-rounded cultural experience

This stop offers a welcome respite from the adrenaline-fueled sand dunes, allowing travelers to savor the flavors that have made Peruvian wine and pisco renowned worldwide.

Important Considerations

Several important considerations should be kept in mind when booking this full-day tour from Lima. The tour isn’t suitable for those with back or heart problems, nor for children under 5 years old.

Travelers should pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a jacket, comfortable clothes, and a hat to protect against the elements. The tour involves an extended journey via the Panamerican South Highway, so those prone to motion sickness may want to take precautions.

Lunch at the vineyard is an additional cost of approximately 40 soles per person. This comprehensive tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis, as long as participants are prepared for the day’s activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private tour. Customers can request a private tour which provides a personalized experience with a dedicated guide and vehicle, rather than joining a group tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Customers can’t fully customize the itinerary, but the tour operator may accommodate minor changes upon request, subject to availability. Travelers should communicate their preferences to the operator before booking to ensure the tour aligns with their needs.

Are There Vegetarian/Special Diet Meal Options Available?

Yes, the tour provides vegetarian and special diet meal options. Guests can notify the operator of any dietary requirements when booking, and the team will accommodate them during the included meals.

Is There a Discount for Booking With a Group?

Yes, there is a group discount available. The more people in the group, the more the price per person is reduced. Booking with a larger group can result in significant savings compared to individual bookings.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is also possible, but it’s best to confirm the details with the tour provider directly.

Recap

The "From Lima: Ballestas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour" offers an unparalleled adventure, blending wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and culture. From marveling at the diverse marine life of the Ballestas Islands to the exhilarating dune buggy ride through the enchanting Huacachina Oasis, this tour provides an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and authentic local flavors. It’s a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of Peru’s coastal region.

You can check if your dates are available here: