From Lima: Ica Paracas and Ballestas Islands Tour for 1 Day

Set out on a captivating one-day excursion from Lima to the enchanting Ica region. Discover the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the "Poor Man’s Galápagos," where you’ll spot an array of marine life, including sea lions and penguins. Indulge in a wine-tasting experience at a local pisco vineyard, and explore the stunning Huacachina oasis, known for its towering sand dunes. This comprehensive tour offers a chance to learn about Peru’s natural wonders, leaving you eager to uncover more of the country’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• A one-day tour from Lima that includes transportation, guided visits to Ica, Ballestas Islands, and activities like sandboarding and buggy rides.
• Explore the Ballestas Islands by yacht, observe marine wildlife such as sea lions and Humboldt penguins, and enjoy a wine tasting experience.
• Discover the Huacachina oasis, the largest sand dunes in South America, and try adventurous activities like sandboarding and buggy rides.
• Enjoy free time in Ica for independent exploration, sampling local cuisine, and learning about the region’s cultural heritage.
• The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour typically starts with a morning pickup from either the San Isidro or Miraflores districts in Lima.

Priced from $74.02 per person, this one-day excursion takes visitors on a journey from Lima to the cities of Ica and Paracas, including a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

With a duration of approximately one day, the tour includes transportation, a guided visit to Ica, and the opportunity to experience activities like sandboarding and buggy rides in the Huacachina oasis.

Itinerary and Activities

Departing from pickup locations in the San Isidro and Miraflores districts of Lima, the tour commences with an early morning departure, with guests having the option of either a 4:30 AM or 5:00 AM pickup time.

The journey begins with a 4-hour bus/coach ride to the Ballestas Islands. Upon arrival, guests embark on an 80-minute yacht tour to observe the abundant marine wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various seabirds.

The tour then continues to Ica, where guests have free time for lunch and exploration. An optional visit to the Huacachina oasis offers the opportunity for sandboarding and buggy rides in the dunes, followed by a wine tasting experience at the Nietto Pisco vineyard.

Highlights and Experiences

What makes this tour a standout experience? The highlight is the opportunity to explore the largest sand dunes in South America on a thrilling buggy and sandboarding adventure. The scenic views of the Peruvian desert en route to Ica provide a captivating backdrop.

Plus, visitors can enjoy the local culture by:

1. Discovering the Huacachina oasis and its legendary origins.
2. Indulging in traditional Peruvian cuisine and a Pisco tasting experience.
3. Visiting Chincha for an additional wine tasting and sampling of local delicacies.

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and culinary delights.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour package are hotel pickup and drop-off in Miraflores and San Isidro, as well as a certified professional guide.

Shared round-trip transportation from Lima, onboard snacks, sandboard and buggy rental, boat transfers, and a city tour of Ica are also provided.

However, the tour excludes additional services not mentioned, tips, and meals like breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Participants should bring recommended items like a sun hat, change of clothes, camera, and charged smartphone.

Certain restrictions apply, and the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or visually impaired persons due to the adventure activities involved.

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Important Information and Requirements

Travelers should plan to bring a sun hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and a charged smartphone for the tour.

The tour has a few restrictions, including:

1. No weapons, sharp objects, or baby strollers are allowed.
2. Smoking, alcoholic drinks, and littering are prohibited.
3. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or visually impaired persons.

This is an adventure tour, and participants must be prepared for physical activities and marine biodiversity conservation efforts.

Following these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Pickup Locations and Departure Times

The tour offers pickup locations in the San Isidro and Miraflores districts of Lima. Guests can choose between a 4:30 AM or 5:00 AM morning pickup time, depending on their preference.

From there, the bus/coach will depart for the 4-hour journey to the Ballestas Islands. Punctuality is essential, as the tour group must arrive at the port on time to board the yacht for the 80-minute tour of the islands and their diverse marine wildlife.

The early departure time allows for a full day of exploration, including the optional visit to the Huacachina oasis and the wine tasting experience at the Nietto Pisco vineyard.

Transport and Boat Tour

After the early morning pickup, guests board the comfortable bus/coach for the 4-hour journey to the Ballestas Islands.

Upon arrival, they embark on an 80-minute yacht tour to explore the stunning natural beauty of the islands. The tour offers the opportunity to:

1. Observe the diverse marine wildlife, including playful sea lions, the iconic Humboldt penguins, and a variety of seabirds.

2. Witness the dramatic rock formations and sea caves that make up the Ballestas Islands.

3. Gain an appreciation for the region’s rich biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts.

Following the boat tour, the group continues on to the city of Ica for free time and exploration.

Optional Activities and Experiences

Visitors have the option to explore the Huacachina oasis, a tranquil desert lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. Here, they can try sandboarding on the largest dunes in South America and go on thrilling buggy rides across the golden sands.

The tour also includes a wine tasting at the renowned Nietto Pisco vineyard, where travelers can sample the region’s renowned pisco brandy.

Plus, the itinerary offers a visit to the historic city of Ica, allowing free time for lunch and independent exploration.

These optional activities provide a well-rounded experience, blending adventure, culture, and local culinary delights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

This tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back/heart problems, or the visually impaired, so parental discretion is advised for younger participants.

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

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes onboard snacks, so additional outside food and drinks may not be necessary.

Can I Book the Tour for a Group of 10 or More People?

Yes, the tour can be booked for groups of 10 or more people. Group discounts may be available, and the tour operator can accommodate larger group sizes with prior arrangement. It’s best to contact them directly for pricing and availability.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private tour. Travelers can book a private tour for their group, which provides more flexibility and personalized attention during the excursion.

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in Lima?

Yes, this tour can be combined with other activities in Lima. Travelers can explore additional sights, museums, or experiences before or after the Ica, Paracas, and Ballestas Islands tour to make the most of their time in the city.

Recap

This one-day tour from Lima offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Peru’s Ica region. From the Ballestas Islands’ diverse wildlife to the captivating Huacachina oasis and pisco tasting, this adventure provides an immersive experience showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. With convenient pickup and transportation, it’s an ideal way to discover the highlights of this remarkable destination in a single day.

You can check if your dates are available here: