From Lima: Full Day Tour Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina

Set out on a captivating journey from Lima to the breathtaking Peruvian destinations of Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina. This full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, from the awe-inspiring Ballestas Islands to the enchanting Huacachina Oasis. Along the way, learn about the rich culture and winemaking traditions of the region, making for a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or simply seeking to uncover the hidden gems of Peru, this tour offers something for all. Prepare to be captivated by the stunning landscapes and vibrant local experiences that await.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Full-Day Tours In Paracas.

Key Points

• Depart Lima at 5:30 am for a 4-hour scenic drive to Paracas, exploring desert landscapes and the Pacific Ocean.
• Take a 2-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands to see diverse marine wildlife, including sea lions and Humboldt penguins.
• Visit the Huacachina Oasis, a desert lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes, offering adventure activities like dune buggies and sandboarding.
• Explore the region’s vibrant wine culture with tastings at Nietto Winery and Racimo de Uvas Winery, learning about traditional winemaking techniques.
• Return to Lima at around 10:00 PM after a day of diverse experiences across Paracas, Ica, and Chincha.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Departure to Paracas

The tour departs Lima at 5:30 am for the 4-hour journey to Paracas.

Travelers will get an early start to their day, leaving the bustling city behind as they head south along the coast. The drive offers scenic views of the desert landscape and Pacific Ocean.

Upon arrival in Paracas around 9:30 am, the group will embark on a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands. This natural reserve is home to an abundance of marine life, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various bird species.

After the boat tour, the group will depart for Ica, a 1-hour drive further inland.

Ballestas Islands Tour

Travelers arrive at the Paracas pier around 9:30 am and board a boat for the Ballestas Islands tour.

This 2-hour excursion offers a unique opportunity to witness a vast array of marine wildlife. Guests can spot sea lions lounging on the rocky shores, Humboldt penguins, and an array of seabirds, including cormorants and pelicans.

The tour also provides a glimpse of the Candelabro, a massive geoglyph etched into the coastal cliffs. Participants have the chance to take in the breathtaking scenery and capture stunning photographs of the diverse flora and fauna found in this protected natural reserve.

Journey to Ica

After the Ballestas Islands tour, the group departs for Ica, a 1-hour journey from Paracas. Along the way, the tour guide shares insights about the region’s history and culture.

Upon arrival, the group heads to the Huacachina Oasis, a picturesque desert lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes.

The highlights of the Ica segment include:

• Leisure time to explore the Huacachina Oasis and capture stunning photos
• A tour of the Nietto Winery, where visitors can sample a variety of local wines and Piscos
• A lunch break to indulge in regional Peruvian cuisine (not included in the tour price)
• A stop at the Racimo de Uvas Winery for additional wine and Pisco tastings.

Huacachina Oasis Exploration

Upon arrival at the Huacachina Oasis, visitors find themselves immersed in a captivating desert landscape. The tiny village, nestled amidst towering sand dunes, is known for its tranquil lagoon and adventure activities.

Guests can explore the oasis on foot, taking in the serene views and unique architecture. Dune buggies and sandboarding offer thrilling ways to experience the dunes, as riders zoom and glide over the golden sands.

After the adrenaline-fueled activities, visitors can relax at one of the cafes or restaurants, sampling local cuisine and Pisco cocktails.

The Huacachina Oasis presents a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture, making it a highlight of the full-day tour.

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Nietto Winery Experience

The tour next leads visitors to the Nietto Winery, where they embark on a guided tour and tasting.

Nestled in the heart of Ica’s wine country, the winery offers a unique peek into Peru’s vibrant wine culture.

Guests can expect to:

• Sample a variety of the winery’s renowned wines and piscos, the national spirit of Peru
• Learn about the region’s winemaking traditions and techniques from knowledgeable guides
• Explore the winery’s picturesque vineyards and production facilities
• Discover the subtle nuances and flavors that distinguish Nietto’s award-winning offerings

This immersive winery experience provides a delightful interlude before the tour continues on to the next destination.

Cultural Stop in Chincha

From Ica, the tour proceeds onwards to Chincha, a region renowned for its rich cultural heritage.

The group will visit the Racimo de Uvas Winery, where they’ll have the opportunity to taste the region’s renowned wines and piscos. This stop provides a chance to immerse in the local culture and traditions, offering a deeper understanding of Peru’s winemaking legacy.

After the winery visit, the tour continues its journey back to Lima, arriving at the approximate time of 10:00 pm, concluding an eventful and enlightening day filled with diverse experiences across Paracas, Ica, and Chincha.

Racimo De Uvas Winery

After exploring the cultural heritage of Chincha, the tour makes its way to the Racimo de Uvas Winery.

This family-owned winery offers a unique opportunity to sample their renowned wines and Piscos. Visitors can expect:

• A guided tour of the winery’s facilities, including the fermentation tanks and barrel rooms
• An informative tasting session featuring the winery’s signature blends
• The chance to learn about the region’s centuries-old winemaking traditions
• Time to browse the on-site shop and purchase bottlings to take home as souvenirs.

This stop provides a fitting culmination to the day’s culture, allowing guests to savor the flavors that have made Ica a renowned wine-producing hub.

Return to Lima

Now, with the experiences of the day behind them, it’s time for the tour group to make their way back to Lima.

The journey back covers approximately 5 hours, arriving at the expected time of 10:00 PM. Along the way, the group will have a final stop for a brief break.

Passengers can rest, stretch their legs, and enjoy a light snack before the final leg of the trip. The tour guide will provide updates and ensure everyone is ready for the return to the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour in Advance or Is It a Walk-In?

This tour can be booked in advance, as it’s a popular offering. Travelers are advised to reserve their spots early to secure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons. The tour operates on a shared service basis, with limited participant numbers.

Is There a Discount for Children or Senior Travelers?

The tour does not offer any discounts for children or senior travelers. The price of Kč 2,171 per person applies to all participants regardless of age or group size, which is limited to a maximum of 15.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

The tour operator may allow some customization of the itinerary to suit the traveler’s interests, but it’s best to inquire directly as the extent of flexibility can vary. Additional fees may apply for any customized activities or changes to the standard tour.

What Kind of Food Is Included in the Lunch During the Tour?

The lunch during the tour is not included. Participants are free to explore the local cuisine in Ica and Huacachina at their own expense, allowing them to customize their dining experience according to their preferences.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer optional extensions or additional activities. However, travelers can inquire about customizing their experience by adding extra stops or activities, such as the Black Music Shows, subject to availability and additional costs.

Recap

This full-day tour from Lima offers an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty of Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina. From the Ballestas Islands’ marine wildlife to the thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding at the Huacachina Oasis, the tour immerses guests in Peru’s rich culture and winemaking traditions, culminating in a memorable journey through the country’s diverse landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: