Lima: 3-Day Tour to Paracas, Ballestas Islands & Huacachina

Set out on a captivating 3-day tour from Lima and uncover the natural splendor of Peru’s southern coastline. Explore the stunning Paracas National Reserve, witness the vibrant wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, and learn about the enchanting oasis of Huacachina. This adventure promises a delightful blend of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and culture. With flexible accommodations and free cancellation, this tour offers the perfect opportunity to experience the diverse beauty of Peru’s coastal regions. But what makes this tour truly remarkable? Dive into the details to find out.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best 3 Day Tours In Lima.

Key Points

• 3-day tour from Lima to Paracas, Ballestas Islands, and Huacachina, with activities like boat tours, dune buggy rides, sandboarding, and Pisco tastings.

• Itinerary includes exploring Hacienda San Jose, visiting Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve, and touring a Pisco vineyard.

• Tour can be booked starting at £135.44 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• Pickup available from hotels in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, and the tour is available in English and Spanish.

• Overall tour rating of 4.4/5 based on 14 reviews, with positive feedback on staff flexibility and knowledgeable guides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Offered by various tour operators, this 3-day tour from Lima takes visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Paracas, Ballestas Islands, and Huacachina.

Priced from £135.44 per person, the tour runs for 3 days and is available in both English and Spanish. Travelers can benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is offered from hotels and hostels in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, with private accommodation requiring a meeting point.

The tour provides an immersive experience, covering boat tours, dune buggy rides, sandboarding, and pisco tastings, allowing visitors to fully enjoy Peru’s natural and cultural wonders.

Itinerary Details

On the first day, the tour departs from Lima, making a breakfast stop at Mirasur along the way.

Visitors then explore the underground slave tunnels at Hacienda San Jose before arriving in Paracas by 1:30 PM, with the afternoon free to explore.

The second day begins with a 2-hour boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, where travelers can observe sea lions, penguins, birds, and dolphins.

This is followed by a 2-hour tour of the Paracas National Reserve, home to over 400 species of flora and fauna.

The group then travels to Huacachina, where they experience dune buggying and sandboarding, spending the night in the oasis town.

On the final day, the tour includes a 2-hour vineyard visit to learn about Pisco production and enjoy tastings, before returning to Lima.

Included Activities

The tour package includes a boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, where visitors can observe a variety of marine wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, birds, and dolphins. Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Paracas National Reserve, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Dune buggying and sandboarding in the nearby Huacachina oasis provide an adrenaline-filled experience. Finally, a guided tour of a local pisco vineyard offers an opportunity to learn about the production of this renowned Peruvian spirit and enjoy tastings.

Included Activities	Duration
Ballestas Islands Tour	2 hours
Paracas National Reserve Tour	2 hours
Dune Buggy and Sandboarding	Variable
Pisco Vineyard Tour	2 hours

Important Information

Travelers are advised to bring their passport or ID card, as well as sunscreen, for protection against the sun during the outdoor activities.

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments.

Participants should meet the tour group at the designated meeting point, which is outside McDonald’s in Parque Kennedy, 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Travelers should be aware that the itinerary is subject to change due to factors such as weather, strikes, or demonstrations.

Flexibility and understanding are essential, as the tour operator will do their best to accommodate any changes or disruptions.

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Customer Reviews

Reviewers on the whole have awarded this 3-day tour a solid 4.4/5 rating based on 14 reviews.

Customers highlighted the flexibility and accommodating nature of the staff, allowing them to enjoy the tour’s activities at a comfortable pace, despite some closures due to weather or COVID-19.

The guides received excellent feedback, with reviewers noting they enhanced the overall experience.

While the tour may not be suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, the tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Paracas, the Ballestas Islands, and Huacachina for those who can participate.

Departure and Arrival

Starting in Lima, the 3-day tour departs for Paracas, with a breakfast stop at Mirasur along the way.

After exploring the underground slave tunnels at Hacienda San Jose, the group arrives in Paracas by 1:30 PM.

The second day begins with a 2-hour boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, followed by a 2-hour tour of the Paracas National Reserve.

The group then travels to Huacachina, where they experience dune buggying and sandboarding before an overnight stay.

On the final day, the tour includes a 2-hour vineyard tour with Pisco tastings before returning to Lima.

Accommodation and Meals

The tour doesn’t include accommodation or meals, allowing participants the flexibility to choose their own lodging and dining options based on preferences and budgets.

This freedom allows travelers to tailor their experience to their needs and budget. Some popular choices in the area include:

• Cozy hostels in Paracas and Huacachina, offering dormitory-style accommodations and shared facilities at affordable prices.

• Mid-range hotels and guesthouses, providing more privacy and amenities while still being budget-friendly.

• Luxury resorts overlooking the stunning landscapes, for those seeking a more upscale experience.

Participants can explore a variety of local restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors to sample the diverse Peruvian cuisine during their free time.

Highlights and Experiences

This 3-day tour to Paracas, Ballestas Islands, and Huacachina offers a diverse range of experiences that immerse visitors in the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s southern coast. Highlights include:

Experience	Duration
Ballestas Islands Tour	2 hours
Paracas National Reserve Tour	2 hours
Dune Buggy and Sandboarding	Varies
Pisco Vineyard Tour	2 hours

Explorers will encounter diverse wildlife, from sea lions and penguins to over 400 species of flora and fauna. The adrenaline-pumping dune buggy and sandboarding activities provide thrilling adventures. Plus, the Pisco vineyard tour offers a glimpse into the production of Peru’s iconic spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

This tour doesn’t have a minimum group size. Customers can book individually or as a group. The tour operator will accommodate solo travelers and small groups alike, ensuring a personalized experience for all participants.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

This tour does not explicitly offer student or senior discounts. However, some tour providers may be willing to provide discounted pricing for these groups if requested in advance. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator about any available concessions.

Can the Itinerary Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour’s itinerary can be customized to include additional activities, though this may incur extra costs. Travelers should discuss their preferences with the tour operator to determine what’s possible within the tour’s duration and budget.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Clothing for the Activities?

For the activities, visitors should bring comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection like sunscreen and a hat. No specialized equipment is required, though some activities may benefit from bringing a camera to capture the scenery.

How Much Free Time Is There to Explore on My Own During the Tour?

The tour provides ample free time for independent exploration, with an afternoon free in Paracas on Day 1 and free time in Huacachina before returning to Lima on Day 3. Travelers can use this time to further discover the local areas.

Recap

This 3-day tour from Lima provides an exhilarating exploration of Peru’s stunning natural landscapes. Travelers can expect to witness the vibrant wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, embark on thrilling dune buggy rides in Huacachina, and indulge in a Pisco vineyard tour. With flexible accommodations and free cancellation, this tour promises an unforgettable experience of Peru’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

You can check if your dates are available here: