From Ica || Full Day Excursion to the Los Perdidos Canyon ||

Imagine a day spent exploring one of Peru’s most visually captivating natural sites, all within striking desert scenery. This full-day tour from Ica offers a chance to see the mysterious Los Perdidos Canyon and learn about its fossils and formations. For $80 a person, you’ll get a good mix of adventure, scenery, and storytelling, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with cultural insights—from the iconic monuments at Ocucaje to the fascinating geology of the canyon itself. Plus, the stops at natural sculptures like the Toad, Horse Head, and Chihuahua Dog are quirky highlights that add a playful touch to the journey. The guide, who speaks both Spanish and English, makes sure everyone appreciates the stories behind each site.

A possible consideration is the early start, with pickup between 6:00 and 7:00 am, so it’s best suited for travelers who aren’t adverse to an early morning. The tour’s length — about 8 to 10 hours — means a full day of sightseeing, which could be tiring if you’re not used to long excursions.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, geology enthusiasts, or anyone keen to see less-visited natural marvels outside the typical tourist trail. It suits those who appreciate authentic landscapes and are ready for a day of exploration in the desert.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes and natural rock formations make for memorable photos.
• The Los Perdidos Canyon offers a fascinating walk and a chance to see native fauna.
• Stops at Ocucaje’s monuments and fossil sites add educational value.
• An early start and full-day schedule provide a comprehensive experience.
• The tour is guided in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations.
• The cost offers good value, especially considering the included transportation and expert guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Los Perdidos Canyon Tour

The Itinerary in Detail

From the moment we are picked up from our hotel in Ica, it’s clear this is a well-organized trip. The early morning start benefits from cooler temperatures and allows us to make the most of the daylight. The guide, whose knowledge comes across clearly, explains that the journey is about both geology and landscape—and the importance of fossils in understanding the area’s natural history.

Our first stop is the main square of Ocucaje, where we see the famous monuments of the shark, farmer, and fighting cocks. These sculptures are not just playful landmarks; they reflect local culture and history. We’re given some free time to grab breakfast and maybe visit the Paleontological Museum—a small but interesting spot that showcases fossils found in the region. The entrance fee is modest at 5 S/ (about 1.30 US$), a small price for a glimpse into the area’s prehistoric past.

Journey Through the Natural Landscapes

As we head south, the landscape transforms into a desert canvas of captivating formations. Stops at Aspirales de Callango and Delfin are brief but offer excellent photo opportunities of natural rock shapes that resemble familiar objects. The Pampa de las Piedras is particularly fun — it’s where you see those whimsically named formations like the Toad, Horse Head, Turtle, and Chihuahua Dog. These natural sculptures are part of what makes this trip so memorable, highlighting the area’s evolutionary artistry.

Exploring Los Perdidos Canyon

Reaching the Los Perdidos Canyon, we learn about its formation—how layers of sediment and erosion created these dramatic walls and shapes. The guide provides some background, but the real joy is in standing at the mouth of the canyon and soaking in the scale and beauty of the landscape.

After a brief history lesson, we stroll around the canyon’s exterior, enjoying views of the Ica and Seco rivers intersecting nearby. During this walk, native wildlife such as owls, coots, and lizards can often be spotted—a reminder of the desert’s resilient ecosystem. We also visit a pond at the site, where reflections and birdlife make for perfect photo moments.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Logistics

Transportation is by minibus or bus, comfortable enough for the long drive. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for easy interaction and conversation. The guide speaks both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible to a wider range of travelers.

The tour wraps up with an approximate return to Ica by 3:00-4:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore more of the city afterward. The entire day is well-paced, balancing driving time, sightseeing, and free moments.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple travelers mention how stunning the views are—”We loved the way the landscape constantly changed from stop to stop, each more fascinating than the last.” Others appreciate the informative guides who share interesting facts about fossils and geology, adding depth to the experience. Some note that the early start can be a challenge, but it’s worth it for the light and cooler temperatures.

A few comments mention that the free time at Ocucaje offers a good opportunity to explore independently, such as visiting the museum or enjoying breakfast, which adds flexibility to the trip. Most agree that photo opportunities abound, making this a photographer’s dream.

Analyzing the Value

At $80, the cost includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and stops at multiple scenic and educational sites. While you do pay an extra fee for the Paleontological Museum entrance, it’s a small price for the added context. Given the length of the tour and the number of sights, many find this to be a good value, especially for those eager to see natural formations in a remote desert setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion suits travelers with a curiosity for geology and fossils, those interested in off-the-beaten-path landscapes, or anyone wanting a full day’s adventure outside Ica. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic drives, natural sculptures, and learning about the history carved into the rocks.

The early start and full schedule might not appeal if you prefer leisurely mornings or a relaxed pace. But if you’re up for a day of exploration and stunning scenery, this tour offers both in spades.

The Sum Up

The full-day Los Perdidos Canyon tour from Ica offers a unique blend of natural beauty, geological intrigue, and cultural insights. You’ll love the spectacular rock formations, the chance to see native fauna, and the stories behind each site. It’s a chance to experience desert landscapes that feel almost otherworldly—perfect for travelers eager to see something different from the usual tourist spots.

At $80, it delivers good value, especially considering the guided commentary and multiple stops. It’s best suited for adventurers, geology buffs, and anyone looking to add a touch of wild desert scenery to their Peru trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by minibus or bus from your hotel and back, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to the Paleontological Museum of Ocucaje is 5 S/ (roughly 1.30 US$). Food and drinks are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, camera, comfortable closed-toe shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and some cash.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations for all travelers.

Can I visit the museum on my own?
Yes, you have free time to visit the museum independently after the main stops.

Would this tour suit kids or families?
It’s suitable for families, especially those with children interested in fossils and natural formations, but keep in mind the full-day schedule.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Peru’s hidden desert treasures, combining outdoor adventure with educational insights. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or just want to photograph dramatic landscapes, the Los Perdidos Canyon trip makes for a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby