The Islas Ballestas – Huacachina Full Day Tour will be an unforgettable experience combining nature, adventure, and the unique landscapes of southern Peru. During this day tour, we will discover the rich marine life of Paracas and the magic of the Huacachina Oasis, all in one energetic and scenic journey. We will travel from Lima along the Pacific coast toward the Ica desert, enjoying every moment between the sea, sun, and sand.
At the Islas Ballestas, we will observe an incredible diversity of wildlife such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and guano birds living among stunning rocky formations. We will also admire the mysterious geoglyph known as “El Candelabro,” a millenary figure etched into the coastal desert. This part of the tour will allow us to connect with nature and capture spectacular photos of the Peruvian coastline.
Later, we will live an exciting adventure in Huacachina, the only natural oasis in Peru. There, we will find a beautiful lagoon surrounded by tall golden dunes and palm trees. We will feel the adrenaline as we ride dune buggies across the desert and slide down the sand while sandboarding. Huacachina will be the perfect place to relax, enjoy the sunshine, and watch an unforgettable desert sunset.
The Islas Ballestas – Huacachina Full Day Tour with Machu Picchu 306 will take us to discover the best of the Peruvian coast and desert in a single journey. It will be the perfect trip for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and local culture. At the end of the day, we will return to Lima filled with joy and the best memories of southern Peru.
We will start early in the morning, traveling from Lima to Paracas along the Pan-American Highway for about 260 km . Upon arrival, we will board a speedboat to explore the Islas Ballestas, part of the National System of Islands, Islets, and Guaneras Points. We will see colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and guano birds such as the guanay and booby. We will also admire impressive rock formations and the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph, a symbol dominating the coastal desert.
Next, we will visit the Paracas National Reserve, a protected area of great natural beauty where the desert meets the sea. We will walk through scenic viewpoints and red-sand beaches while enjoying unique landscapes and abundant marine life. After that, we will head to the famous Huacachina Oasis, near the city of Ica, surrounded by giant golden dunes. Here, we will enjoy an exciting buggy ride and sandboarding session, sliding down the dunes as the sun sets over the desert.
At the end of the day, we will return to Lima with hearts full of adventure and unforgettable views. This Islas Ballestas – Huacachina Full Day Tour will perfectly blend nature, adrenaline, and culture, showing us the best of Peru’s coast and desert in one perfect journey.
The tour starts between 04:30 and 05:00 a.m. with hotel pickup in Lima.
The total duration is approximately 18 hours, returning to Lima around 10:00 p.m.
You will see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, guanay cormorants, boobies, and other guano birds in their natural habitat.
Yes, the tour is conducted in modern speedboats equipped with life jackets and full safety measures.
We recommend light clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a windbreaker for the boat ride.
Yes, instructors will give a short briefing so everyone can enjoy the activity safely.
No, meals are not included, but you will have free time to eat in Paracas or Ica.
The weather in Paracas and Huacachina is generally sunny and warm all year, with temperatures between 22°C and 30°C (71°F – 86°F).
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, though desert activities like buggies and sandboarding are optional.
Yes, we recommend bringing cash for meals, souvenirs, or personal expenses during the trip.
