From Ica | Sandboarding in the Ica desert at sunset

From Ica | Sandboarding in the Ica Desert at Sunset — A Deep Dive into a Unique Peruvian Adventure

Imagine a day spent wandering through a mysterious canyon, savoring stunning desert views, and then sliding down dunes at sunset—all for just $55. This 1-day tour from Ica promises an authentic adventure into Peru’s lesser-known landscapes, combining natural beauty, a touch of paleontology, and thrill-seeking sandboarding. Led by bilingual guides, this excursion offers a well-rounded experience for those craving something off the beaten path.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances nature, history, and fun. The first highlight is the chance to explore the Cañon de los Perdidos, with its remarkable natural curves and fossil-rich depths—perfect for curious minds. The second is the sunset sandboarding, which turns a scenic desert landscape into an adrenaline rush. The only potential downside? The early start at around 6:00-7:00 a.m. might be a bit tough after a late night, but it’s worth it for the views and experience.

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers, geology enthusiasts, or travelers eager to see a different side of Peru. If you’re the type who enjoys combining natural exploration with active pursuits, this day trip offers tremendous value. It’s especially suited for small groups—limiting to just 10 participants—giving you more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit the lesser-known Cañon de los Perdidos, a natural wonder with spectacular formations.
• Educational Touch: Learn about fossils and the canyon’s natural history from guides who speak both Spanish and English.
• Active Adventure: Sandboarding at sunset provides a fun and memorable way to enjoy the desert scenery.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup in Ica and transportation included make the day hassle-free.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund; reserve now & pay later for flexibility.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed experience.

Exploring the Ica Desert and Cañon de los Perdidos

The adventure begins early in the morning, usually between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., when your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Ica. This is a smart move—by starting early, you beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures while exploring the desert landscape. The first stop at the main square of Ocucaje offers a chance to enjoy breakfast and see iconic sculptures like the sharks, farmers, and fighting cocks. For those curious about fossils, the nearby Paleontological Museum can be visited on your own for just 5 S/ (approximately $1.30 USD), adding a layer of geological context to your trip.

The drive southward takes you through spectacular desert scenery—think aspirales de Callango and Delfín formations—which are not only breathtaking but also highlight the natural artistry of erosion over millennia. Several photo stops along the way, like the Pampa de las Piedras, allow you to snap shots of curious shapes resembling a toad, horse, turtle, or even a Chihuahua dog. These natural sculptures are part of what makes this tour visually captivating—each turn of the road reveals a new natural marvel.

Arriving at Los Perdidos Canyon, you’ll learn about its formation and significance. The canyon’s distinctive curved natural shapes result from centuries of wind and water carving, creating an otherworldly landscape. You’ll get a chance for photos at the canyon’s mouth, where the Ica and Seco rivers meet, and enjoy a walk along the riverbed, which is often teeming with native fauna like owls, gallinules, or lizards. The guides often comment on how the canyon’s fossil deposits have revealed interesting insights into the area’s prehistoric past.

The Waterhole and Sunset Sandboarding

The final highlight is the waterhole, a picturesque spot perfect for more photos before heading back. Then, as the day wanes, you’ll be transported to the dunes for the sunset sandboarding session. This activity, included in the tour, is a highlight for many travelers—it’s fun, exhilarating, and offers some of the best views of the desert at twilight. Sliding down the dunes at sunset creates a memorable photo opportunity and a sense of connection with the expansive landscape.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of natural beauty and active fun is what sets this experience apart. Visitors often mention how the natural formations are unlike anything they’ve seen elsewhere, with some describing the canyon as “mysterious” and the fossil findings as very intriguing. Reviews also note that guides are bilingual, making it accessible for international travelers, and that the small group size fosters a more personalized experience.

The timing—starting early and ending around 3-4 p.m.—means you’re immersed in the desert’s magic during optimal daylight hours, avoiding the midday heat. The transportation by minibus or bus is comfortable, and the hotel pickup eliminates any stress about logistics.

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Authenticity and Value

At $55, this tour offers impressive value for a full day of exploration, especially considering the small group size and the inclusion of guides in both Spanish and English. The price also includes transportation, which simplifies what might otherwise be a complicated day of self-navigation. The only extra costs are the optional museum visit and food, which travelers should budget for separately.

Practical Considerations

• Early start might be challenging for night owls or late risers.
• Limited group size means booking in advance is recommended.
• Sandboarding is suitable for most ages but requires a basic level of physical agility.
• The fossil museum is optional and costs a small additional fee.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventure-minded travelers who like active pursuits like sandboarding, as well as those interested in natural landscapes and geology. It’s perfect if you want a day away from the crowded tourist spots, offering a glimpse into the less-explored desert regions of Peru. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers seeking a small-group, authentic day out will find this tour both engaging and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a rare chance to see the mysterious canyon and natural sculptures of the Ica desert while enjoying a fun sandboarding session during sunset. Its value for money, small-group setting, and bilingual guides make it an appealing choice for those eager to explore Peru’s hidden desert gems.

If you’re after stunning views, an engaging mix of nature and activity, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, this trip ticks all those boxes. It’s an excellent way to enrich your understanding of the region and leave with unforgettable memories of Peru’s rugged landscapes.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $55 per person, which includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and sandboarding at sunset.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately one day, with pickup between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. and return around 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Is food included?
No, food and beverages are not included, but there is time to have breakfast in Ocucaje or bring snacks for the day.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making the tour accessible for international visitors.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a desert environment, with sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes recommended.

Can I visit the Paleontological Museum?
Yes, you can visit the museum on your own for a small entrance fee—it’s optional but adds context to the fossils found in the canyon.

Is sandboarding suitable for children?
Sandboarding is generally suitable for most ages, but it requires some physical agility. Children should be supervised and comfortable with active outdoor activities.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This Ica tour blends natural wonder, history, and adventure—perfect if you’re looking to experience one of Peru’s lesser-known treasures while enjoying some exhilarating dune sliding at sunset.

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