Imagine standing at the edge of a canyon that rivals the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, but in the heart of Peru’s desert. That’s what you get with the Full Day Canyon of the Lost tour, a well-priced adventure designed for those eager to explore striking geological formations, lagoons, and natural features nestled in the Ica desert. For $59 per person, you’ll spend about a full day uncovering the secrets of this dramatic landscape, guided by a friendly Spanish-speaking expert.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning vistas with accessible hiking and walking opportunities, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers. The visit to La Plaza Caracol on the canyon’s fourth level offers a unique viewpoint that’s not often included in similar excursions. Plus, the opportunity to marvel at the natural Face of the Puma adds a whimsical touch to the rugged scenery.

A possible consideration? The tour involves unpaved roads and a fair amount of walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of an active adventure. If you’re looking for a relaxed, low-effort sightseeing day, you might find the walking and trekking a tad vigorous. Nevertheless, this trip is ideal for adventurous souls who love authentic landscapes and outdoor exploration, particularly if you’re eager to see something truly different from the usual tourist spots.

In summary, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a value-packed day out that combines natural beauty, geological intrigue, and a touch of adventure. It suits those with a curious spirit and a desire to see Peru’s desert landscapes from a new perspective.

Key Points

Spectacular Landscapes: The canyon’s geological formations and lagoons create unforgettable views.
Unique Features: La Plaza Caracol and the Face of the Puma offer distinctive photo and exploration opportunities.
Active Experience: Expect walking, hiking, and trekking on natural, unpaved paths.
Small Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Value for Money: At just $59, it includes transportation, a guide, police security, and safety essentials.
Flexible Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours before, making it a low-risk option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Canyon of the Lost: A Deep Dive

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The Itinerary and What It Means for You

Your day starts early, with pick-up between 6:30 and 7:00 am from Ica. This early start is typical for full-day excursions in Peru, allowing you to maximize daylight hours and avoid the heat during the most intense midday hours. The 30-minute drive along the Pan-American Highway takes you toward the desert’s edge, where the landscape quickly transforms into a rugged, ghostly terrain.

A brief stop for toilets and supplies ensures everyone is comfortable before the real adventure begins. The journey into the desert involves an unpaved road, highlighting the raw, untouched nature of this area. Traveling on unpaved roads isn’t glamorous, but it adds to the feeling of being somewhere truly out of the ordinary, away from crowds and city noise.

Arriving at the Canyon of the Lost: What You’ll See and Do

Once at the canyon, your guide will take you to the main geological highlights. The Gorge itself is a marvel—layers of rock and sediment cut deep into the earth, revealing a palette of earthy reds, browns, and greys. These formations are not just beautiful; they tell a story of natural forces shaping the landscape over millions of years.

One of the tour’s special features is La Plaza Caracol, located on the fourth level of the canyon. The name, meaning “snail-shaped plaza,” hints at its spiral-like formation, providing a rare vantage point over the canyon’s depths. Visitors say it’s a “beautiful viewpoint” that offers “a sense of being on top of the world,” and many appreciate the opportunity to capture stunning photos.

Next, you’ll visit the Face of the Puma, a naturally occurring rock formation that resembles a feline’s profile. It’s a fun and striking sight that sparks the imagination—whether you see a puma or just enjoy the interesting shape, it’s a reminder of nature’s playful artistry.

Optional Stops and Additional Sights

The tour also includes a visit to Ocucaje Square, a small town square where local culture and daily life unfold. For those interested in paleontology, there’s an optional stop at the paleontological museum—a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past, which adds historical depth to the day.

By mid-afternoon, you’ll start heading back to Ica, arriving around 3:00 to 4:00 pm. This timing gives you a relaxed afternoon and evening to reflect on your adventure or explore Ica further.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers round-trip transportation, which is a huge plus in remote areas—no need to worry about navigating or arranging your own transport. A Spanish-speaking guide will lead the way, providing insights and answering questions, though language could be a barrier for non-Spanish speakers. The group size is limited to 10, ensuring more personalized attention.

Safety isn’t overlooked—police security and a first aid kit are included, giving peace of mind in unfamiliar surroundings. However, the tour does not include meals or souvenirs, so plan to bring snacks, water, and perhaps some small gifts from Ica.

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The Experience in Practice

One reviewer mentions, “The views are simply stunning, and I loved that I could explore the canyon at my own pace.” Another highlights the small group size as a key benefit, allowing for better interaction and a more intimate experience. Some note that walking on unpaved paths can be a bit tiring but worth it for the views and sense of adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $59, this tour provides solid value considering the transportation, expert guide, and security measures included. The scenic highlights like La Plaza Caracol and the Face of the Puma are unique features that make this outing stand out from more generic desert excursions. The optional visit to the paleontological museum adds a layer of cultural interest, making the day more enriching.

The tour’s focus on natural geological formations rather than heavily commercialized attractions** means you’ll experience the desert landscape as it truly is—desolate, striking, and full of hidden surprises. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with walking, or those eager to see dramatic scenery off the beaten path.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers with a curiosity for geological wonders and natural landscapes. It’s ideal if you appreciate authentic outdoor exploration rather than polished tourist spots. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy moderate hiking and unique scenery, this tour offers a memorable day out. However, those seeking a very relaxed or minimal walking tour might find the physical aspect a bit demanding.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Canyon of the Lost tour from Ica offers a rich combination of natural beauty, geological intrigue, and a touch of adventure—all at a reasonable price. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to see a lesser-known side of Peru, far from crowded ruins or city sights. The views are genuinely breathtaking, worth the early start and a bit of rugged travel.

Whether you’re a geology buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a day in the desert with dramatic landscapes and lagoons, this tour delivers. The small group size, safety measures, and knowledgeable guide ensure an engaging and intimate experience. Just bring your camera, good walking shoes, and a spirit of adventure.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pick-up is between 6:30 and 7:00 am, so plan to be ready early.

How long is the drive to the canyon?
The drive takes about 30 minutes along the Pan-American Highway, followed by an unpaved road into the desert.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes for the trek.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate walking and active exploration suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide bilingual?
The guide speaks Spanish; there’s no mention of English-speaking guides, so some language barriers might exist.

What’s not included?
Feeding, personal expenses, and souvenirs are not included.

Is there free time during the tour?
The schedule is structured mainly around the stops and activities, but you can enjoy the views and take photos at your own pace.

How strenuous is the tour?
Some walking on unpaved paths is involved, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

Would this tour suit someone with mobility issues?
Probably not, as access involves walking over natural, uneven terrain.

If you’re eager to explore the striking geological formations of Peru’s desert and enjoy a manageable, well-organized day trip, the Canyon of the Lost from Ica provides a memorable, scenic adventure.