Two days exploring Peru’s coast and desert—Paracas and Huacachina offer a perfect escape from Lima’s hustle. For $155 per person, this tour promises a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and flavorful stops, all wrapped into a well-organized itinerary. We loved how it combines relaxing moments with adrenaline-pumping activities, and the chance to see wildlife up close—especially the penguins and sea lions on the islands. Another highlight? The breathtaking Golden Shadows trek at sunset, which delivers some of the most stunning views of the Peruvian coast.

One consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of travel, and depending on your pace, it might feel a bit rushed—so if you’re someone who prefers more leisurely exploration, this might not be the best fit. Also, travelers looking for a culinary or boutique experience might find the included stops somewhat basic. But if you’re after adventure, natural scenery, and a taste of local flavor, this tour hits the mark perfectly, especially for those eager to combine wildlife, desert dunes, and coastal vistas in just two days.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy diverse experiences—wildlife watching, hiking, and sandboarding—wrapped into one quick getaway. It’s also perfect if you want a structured, guided trip that takes care of transportation and logistics, leaving you free to soak in the sights.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The sunset at the Golden Shadows rocks and cliffs is a highlight.
Wildlife Encounters: Up-close views of penguins, sea lions, and other marine life.
Full-Day Activities: From trekking to boat tours, there’s no shortage of adventure.
Comfortable Transportation: Shared bus and boat trips are included, making logistics straightforward.
Authentic Experiences: Visit a local winery for tastings, adding a flavor of regional culture.
Time Management: It’s a packed schedule, so be prepared for a busy two days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Paracas and Huacachina Tour

While in Lima, here are other experiences we've covered

The Journey Begins: From Lima to Paracas

We start early, with pickup from Miraflores or Barranco, two lively districts in Lima. The shuttle is shared, and the ride to Paracas takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and pickup times. The tour offers two pickup windows—either morning or late morning—so you can choose what suits your schedule best. The comfort of the bus and the scenic views along the coast make the journey part of the adventure.

Once we arrive in Paracas, the tour guide, whose name I can’t reveal but who was friendly and knowledgeable, quickly makes us feel welcome. They provide clear instructions, so even if you’ve just arrived, you won’t feel lost. If you’re arriving later than 2:30 pm, you’ll be directed to the office to meet the group—an efficient way to keep things running smoothly.

Trekking the Golden Shadows: An Unforgettable Sunset

The highlight of day one is the trek through the Paracas National Reserve. This four-hour walk takes us deep into the dramatic landscape of cliffs, salt flats, and secluded beaches like Playa Mendieta. Our guide, Juan (a name that’s memorable), led us along scenic paths that reveal the raw beauty of the coast—sweeping views and the chance to witness the sunset bathing everything in a warm, golden glow.

What we loved most was the sense of tranquility and the feeling of being in a place that seems untouched by time. The cliffs, with their shadowy contours, turn a luminous gold at sunset, creating one of the most photogenic moments of the trip. This part of the tour is perfect for those who appreciate natural scenery and quiet reflection.

The hike is accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, although it does involve some walking on uneven terrain. Our guide made sure everyone was comfortable and informed us about the local geology and wildlife—adding educational value to the experience.

Day Two: Islands, Wildlife, and Desert Dunes

As dawn breaks, we embark on the Balleistas Islands tour—a two-hour boat trip that is surprisingly comfortable and well-paced. From the pier, we head out into the Pacific, passing the Paracas Candelabrum, a mysterious geoglyph that’s been carved into the hillside for centuries. It’s akin to a mini Nazca Lines experience, and the boat ride offers fantastic photo opportunities.

The boat tour continues to showcase impressive rock formations, such as the Arch of Desire and the Christ Profile, both natural sculptures that seem almost surreal against the ocean backdrop. We loved how close we could get to the Humboldt penguins and sea lions—their playful antics and curious looks make this part of the trip especially memorable. The wildlife viewing is a true highlight, and the boat crew makes sure everyone gets good looks and safe distances.

After the island tour, we make our way to Ica by shared transport. Here, a visit to a local artisan winery offers a taste of regional wines and piscos. It’s a laid-back stop, perfect to stretch your legs and sample some authentic flavors—something we appreciated after a busy boat ride.

The afternoon shifts gears as we head to Huacachina, a desert oasis that’s as enchanting as it sounds. The highlight here is the sandboarding and dune buggy ride, which is pure adrenaline. We zoom over the dunes in colorful Carts, feeling the rush as the vehicles slide down sandy slopes. Practicing sandboarding was surprisingly fun, especially for beginners—there’s enough guidance to get you started, and the thrill of sliding down those dunes is hard to beat.

Sunset in Huacachina is breathtaking—you’ll want your camera ready as the sun dips behind the dunes, casting long shadows and illuminating the whole oasis in warm hues.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers round-trip transportation from Lima, guided tours in English and Spanish, and activities like tubing, sandboarding, and the winery visit. We found the included entrance fees to be reasonable, but keep in mind you’ll need extra cash if you want to buy souvenirs or eat at the local restaurants. Food and lodging are not included, so plan accordingly.

The guided nature of the trip means you’re in good hands, with assistance available throughout. However, it’s a busy schedule—so if you prefer to linger longer at each spot or explore with more leisure, this may feel a bit rushed.

While you're exploring Lima, here are other experiences we've looked into

Authenticity and Practicalities

One aspect we appreciated was the balance between organized activities and authentic experiences. Visiting a local winery gives insight into regional produce, and the boat tour offers a genuine connection with marine life. The tour is also flexible enough to accommodate different interests: whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or a landscape lover.

The logistics, from transportation to timing, are well managed, which helps reduce stress. The only downside is that it’s a fast-paced trip—if you’re looking for a deep dive into each location, you might want to extend your stay or choose separate tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy active, varied days filled with natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure. It’s perfect if you’re traveling from Lima and want a convenient, guided way to see coastal and desert landscapes without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. It’s less ideal for those seeking a slow, relaxed exploration or gourmet experiences, as the schedule is packed and food is not included.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a value-packed two days, this tour offers an incredible mix of scenery, wildlife, and fun activities. It’s a well-organized way to tick off some of Peru’s most iconic sights—like the penguins on Ballestas Islands and the dunes of Huacachina—in a short time. The guide’s insights, the scenic vistas, and the thrill of sandboarding all add layers of enjoyment.

If you’re someone who loves natural landscapes, wildlife encounters, and energetic adventures, this trip will leave you with plenty of stories and photos. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How long does the trip take?
The tour lasts for two days, with pickups from Lima in the morning and returning late in the evening of the second day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Lima to Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina is included in the price, using shared buses and boats.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have time for lunch on day two after visiting the winery but should plan to bring snacks or buy food along the way.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Some entrance fees are included, like those for the winery and natural parks. However, you might need extra cash for specific tickets like the SERNANP reserves, pier fees, or Huacachina entrance.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the active nature of sandboarding and the adventure activities involved.

How physically demanding is the trek and activities?
The trek is moderate with some uneven terrain, suitable for most fitness levels. Sandboarding and dune buggies are fun and not overly strenuous but do require some balance.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, some cash, and water. It’s good to be prepared for a full, active day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility to adapt your schedule.

To sum it up, this tour is a fantastic way to experience some of Peru’s most captivating coastal and desert landscapes within a manageable, guided package. It’s especially suited for travelers craving a mix of wildlife, adventure, and scenic views without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves. Whether you’re into photography, wildlife, or just want an exhilarating two days, this trip offers genuine value and memorable moments.