Imagine exploring Peru’s less-trodden southwestern corner, where vast deserts meet the Pacific Coast, and natural wonders abound. For just $90, this 2-day excursion offers a taste of both adventure and culture, taking you through the lively streets of Ica, the adrenaline-filled dunes of Huacachina, and the stunning marine life of Paracas. Guided by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll get a well-rounded look at this unique region, from its colonial history to its wildlife spectacles.

We especially appreciated the mix of activities: the sandboarding and buggy rides in the desert are pure fun, while the boat tour to the Ballestas Islands reveals impressive bird colonies and playful dolphins. The visit to a local pisco winery is a highlight for those interested in Peru’s national drink, offering tasting sessions that are both educational and enjoyable. The only consideration? Some parts of the itinerary depend on weather conditions and may be subject to change, so flexibility is key.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a combination of outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights, especially if you’re keen to understand local traditions like pisco-making. It’s perfect for those on a budget who want a comprehensive look at this vibrant corner of Peru, without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

Key Points

Balanced itinerary combining desert adventures, cultural visits, and marine wildlife.
Affordable price of $90 includes transportation, guides, and tastings.
Expert guides offer engaging commentary in both Spanish and English.
Wildlife sightings include penguins, dolphins, and sea lions.
Flexible scheduling with options for booking and cancellation.
Limited included costs mean you’ll need to budget for entrance fees and meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas: An In-Depth Review

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What is the Experience Like?

This 2-day tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Peru’s southwest, focusing on the highlights of Ica, the desert oasis of Huacachina, and the coastal marine reserves of Paracas. Starting in Ica, you’ll explore its historic city center, learning about its past while soaking in its lively atmosphere. Then, you’ll venture to Huacachina, famous for its towering sand dunes, where thrill-seekers can try sandboarding or rent buggies for a dune ride. The tour wraps up with a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, a sanctuary teeming with seabirds and marine mammals, plus a visit to the Paracas National Reserve—a spectacular stretch of coast with dramatic beaches and stunning vistas.

This itinerary is ideal if you’re looking to combine adventure with nature and culture in a manageable, affordable package. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the experience more enriching, whether you’re interested in local history, wildlife, or the process of making Peru’s beloved pisco.

Day 1: Ica and Huacachina

Your adventure begins with a pickup in Ica’s historic center, where your guide, possibly named in reviews like “Carlos” or “María,” will take you on a walking tour. Expect to see Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Casa de las Tejas, which provide a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. The guides are often lauded for their friendly demeanor and storytelling skills, making the city’s history come alive.

Next, you’re off to Huacachina, a natural desert oasis surrounded by towering dunes. This setting is surreal, and the landscape alone is worth the trip. Here, you’ll visit a local winery for a pisco and wine tasting, giving you insight into Peru’s national spirit and its significance to local culture. The tasting sessions are a highlight, with some reviewers mentioning how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are.

The thrill kicks in with buggy rides and sandboarding—a favorite among visitors. The buggies whip up the sand at exhilarating speeds, and the sandboards let you slide down the dunes, offering both adrenaline and panoramic views of the desert. One reviewer noted, “The buggy ride was fantastic, and the guides made sure we had a blast.” After a full day of adventure, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel to relax and enjoy dinner at your own pace.

Day 2: Paracas and Marine Wildlife

The next morning, after breakfast, the tour shifts to the coast. You’ll head to the Paracas pier for a boat ride across the Pacific Ocean. The boat adventure is a highlight, with chances to see dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. You’ll also get a good view of the El Candelabro, a mysterious geoglyph etched into the hillside, adding an element of intrigue to your journey.

The Ballestas Islands are often called the “poor man’s Galápagos,” and for good reason. The islands teem with guano birds, penguins, and are home to playful dolphins during certain seasons. The boat guides are usually very informative about the wildlife and the ecological importance of these islands. A visit to the sea lion conservation center at the dock allows for close-up views of these charming mammals.

Afterward, you’ll spend some time exploring the Paracas National Reserve on land. The tour includes visits to viewpoints on the Paracas Peninsula, along with stops at the beaches of Roja, Lagunillas, and Yumaque. These areas showcase stunning coastal scenery, with rugged cliffs and wide sandy beaches—perfect for photos and simply soaking in the scenery.

The entire experience is subject to weather conditions, which can sometimes cause minor changes in the schedule or boat availability. This flexibility, while occasionally disappointing, is essential for safety and ensures a smooth experience overall.

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What’s Included and What’s Not?

For the $90 fee, you get pick-up and drop-off, transportation by minibus and boat, bilingual guides, and a pisco/wine tasting. The rental of buggies and sandboards is also included, which are big draws for thrill-seekers. The tour also covers entrance fees for the boat to the islands and the Paracas National Reserve, though these are paid separately (about 35.60 S/ or $10 USD).

However, lunch and dinner are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals—your guide can recommend local spots. Also, the boat trip and entrance to the islands are not included, which is a typical practice to keep the base price lower. We recommend scheduling some extra funds for these components to fully enjoy your experience.

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The Value of This Tour

Given the price, this all-in-one package packs in quite a bit, providing a mixture of cultural insight, outdoor adventure, and wildlife encounters. The inclusion of guides who speak both Spanish and English ensures you won’t miss out on details or cultural nuances. Plus, the flexibility in booking and cancellation (with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance) makes it accessible and low-risk.

The adventure in Huacachina—especially the sandboarding and buggy rides—adds an exciting dimension many travelers cherish, while the boat tour to the Ballestas Islands offers a chance to see Peru’s incredible marine biodiversity up close. This blend of activities over two days creates a memorable experience without feeling rushed or overly commercial.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who like a mix of outdoor fun and wildlife**, as well as those interested in local cultural rituals like pisco-making. It suits budget-conscious travelers who want a rundown of the region, with guides making the history and ecology accessible and interesting. It’s perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers eager to explore a less-touristed but incredibly scenic corner of Peru.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas tour offers genuine value for those wanting a lively and diverse snapshot of southwestern Peru. You get a good balance of desert thrills, coastal scenery, and marine wildlife, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals.

While not overly luxurious or lengthy, it’s designed for practicality and fun. The inclusion of sandboarding, buggy rides, and wildlife viewing makes it especially appealing for active travelers. The scenic landscapes, from towering dunes to rugged beaches, are unforgettable. Plus, the chance to taste pisco and learn about local traditions adds a cultural layer that enriches the trip.

If you’re after a well-organized, affordable, and authentic Peruvian experience that combines adventure and nature, this tour is worth considering—and it’s likely to leave you with lasting memories of Peru’s striking landscapes and vibrant wildlife.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, transportation by minibus or bus and boat are included for the entire 2-day experience.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clearer explanations and a more comfortable experience for international travelers.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, transportation, guides, pisco and wine tastings, and rental of buggies and sandboards.

Are entrance fees covered?
Entrance to Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve are not included in the base price but can be paid separately, roughly 35.60 S/ (about $10 USD).

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What about meals?
Lunch and dinner are not included; you’re responsible for your own meals, though guides can recommend local restaurants.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat journey to the Ballestas Islands typically lasts long enough to see the wildlife and take photographs, with the option to explore the areas around the islands.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially for families interested in wildlife and outdoor activities, but always check with the provider for age restrictions on activities like sandboarding.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, hat, camera, and a little extra cash for meals and entrance fees.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The activities involve some walking and buggies, but generally, it’s suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility. Sandboarding and dune rides can be bumpy but are optional.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas tour fits your travel style. Its combination of adventure, wildlife, and local culture offers a genuine taste of Peru’s diverse landscape—all packed into just two days.