From Lima: Day Trip to Paracas, Ica and Oasis Huacachina

Embarking on an exhilarating day trip from Lima to Paracas, Ica, and the stunning Huacachina Oasis, travelers can enjoy a diverse range of experiences for just €56.59 per person. This 17.5-hour adventure promises unforgettable sights and thrilling activities, all while ensuring a seamless journey back to the capital. From guided tours of the Ballestas Islands to indulging in wine and pisco tasting, this comprehensive day trip offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s southern regions. With convenient pickup locations and a bilingual guide, the stage is set for an extraordinary exploration beyond Lima’s bustling streets.

Key Points

• A comprehensive day trip from Lima to the Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina Oasis regions, offering a range of activities and experiences.
• Guided tour of the Ballestas Islands to observe diverse wildlife, followed by wine and pisco tasting in Ica.
• Thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding adventures at the stunning Huacachina Oasis.
• Flexible tour options with free cancellation and convenient pickup locations in Lima.
• Highly rated tour with positive customer feedback on punctuality, guide expertise, and the overall experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Lima provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions of Paracas, Ica, and the Huacachina Oasis.

Priced from €56.59 per person, the 17.5-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Highlights include a guided tour of the Ballestas Islands, a wine and pisco tasting in Ica, and exhilarating dune buggy rides and sandboarding in the Huacachina Oasis.

The tour’s flexibility, comprehensive inclusions, and discounted pricing make it an attractive choice for those seeking an immersive day trip from Lima.

Itinerary and Experience

What does the day trip’s itinerary and experience entail?

The journey begins with an early 5:00 AM departure from Lima, arriving at the Paracas pier around 9:30 AM.

Travelers then embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the Ballestas Islands, where they can witness an array of wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds.

After the island tour, the group travels to Ica, where they indulge in a 1-hour lunch and wine/pisco tasting.

The final stop is the captivating Huacachina Oasis, where adventurers can enjoy a thrilling 2-hour dune buggy ride and sandboarding experience before returning to Lima around 10:30 PM.

• Witness the diverse wildlife of the Ballestas Islands
• Savor the flavors of Ica’s renowned wine and pisco
• Embrace the adventure of dune buggy rides and sandboarding

Transportation and Pickup

Situated across multiple locations in Lima, the pickup options for this day trip include National Bank, Barranco, and Miraflores, among others. Depending on the selected option, transportation is provided either by a mini-bus accommodating 25-30 persons or a van with a maximum capacity of 18. A bilingual tour guide is available to accompany the group throughout the journey.

Pickup Locations	Transportation Type	Capacity (persons)
National Bank	Mini-bus	25-30
Barranco	Van	Max 18
Miraflores	Mini-bus	25-30
Others	Van	Max 18

Inclusions and Exclusions

The day trip includes pickup from the specified locations, transportation via either a mini-bus or a van depending on the option selected, and a bilingual tour guide to accompany the group throughout the journey.

The tour includes the following:

• Admission tickets to all the attractions, such as the Ballestas Islands and the Huacachina Oasis.
• A wine and pisco tasting experience in Ica.
• The dune buggy ride and sandboarding activities at the Huacachina Oasis.

However, the tour doesn’t include breakfast, lunch, souvenirs, or personal expenditures.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have generally rated this day trip quite positively, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 42 reviews.

Highlights mentioned by reviewers include the tour’s punctuality, the guide’s good explanations, and the timely visits to the various attractions.

However, some critiques have been made, such as the audio quality of the guide’s commentary on the boat tour and the limited sandboarding experience.

Exploring the Ballestas Islands

Nestled just off the coast of Paracas, the Ballestas Islands offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the vibrant marine ecosystem thriving in this protected natural reserve.

During the guided tour, travelers are treated to a symphony of sights and sounds, including:

• The thunderous roars of sea lions as they bask on the rocky outcrops
• The graceful movements of Humboldt penguins as they dart in and out of the crashing waves
• The vibrant displays of diverse seabird species, such as boobies, cormorants, and pelicans

This remarkable wildlife viewing experience provides a window into the delicate balance of the region’s fragile ecosystem, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

Ica Wine and Pisco Tasting

Following the tour of the Ballestas Islands, the day trip continues inland to the vibrant city of Ica, renowned for its rich winemaking heritage.

Guests will enjoy a stop at a local winery or distillery to sample the region’s celebrated wines and pisco, a distinctive Peruvian brandy. This tasting experience offers insights into the production methods and flavors that have made Ica’s offerings so renowned.

With the guidance of knowledgeable staff, visitors can savor the complex aromas and tastes that reflect the terroir of this unique wine-producing area. The tasting is a highlight of the day, providing a delightful interlude before the adventure continues at the nearby Huacachina Oasis.

Thrilling Dune Buggy and Sandboarding

After indulging in the flavors of Ica’s celebrated wines and pisco, the day trip takes an exhilarating turn at the nearby Huacachina Oasis.

Here, thrill-seekers hop aboard dune buggies and charge through the towering golden sand dunes. The adrenaline-pumping ride offers:

• Breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling desert
• Steep ascents and heart-racing descents that leave participants grinning from ear to ear
• The chance to try their hand at sandboarding, gliding down the dunes on specialized boards.

This unforgettable excursion caps off a dynamic day of discovery, leaving travelers with memories that will last long after the sand has been brushed off.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement. It’s suitable for all ages, though parents should consider their child’s abilities and interest in the activities like dune buggies and sandboarding.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the trip. However, lunch and wine/pisco tasting are included in the tour, and outside food and beverages may not be allowed on the boat or during other activities.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned?

The price listed is all-inclusive, with no additional fees or taxes mentioned. However, it’s worth noting that any personal purchases or extra activities beyond the itinerary may incur additional costs not covered in the package price.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for Sandboarding?

For sandboarding, you don’t need any special equipment. The tour provider supplies the necessary gear, including sandboards and protective gear. You just need to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, there are options to extend or customize the itinerary. Travelers can add extra activities, such as visiting the Pisco distillery or Nazca Lines, for an additional cost. These customizations can be arranged directly with the tour operator.

Recap

This day trip from Lima to Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina Oasis offers an unbeatable value at just €56.59 per person. Travelers can expect a guided tour of the Ballestas Islands, wine and pisco tasting, and thrilling dune buggy rides with sandboarding. With convenient pickups, a bilingual guide, and flexible payment options, this 17.5-hour adventure provides an unforgettable experience showcasing the region’s natural wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: