This two-day journey takes you from Peru’s bustling capital, Lima, to some of the country’s most distinctive sights in the Ica region. For $150 per person, you’ll explore the mesmerizing Ballestas Islands, sip wines and piscos along the famous Pisco route, and marvel at the stunning Laguna Huacachina oasis with its sweeping sand dunes. It’s a comprehensive taste of Peru’s coastal treasures, all wrapped up in one manageable trip.

What we particularly appreciated about this tour are the close-up wildlife encounters on the islands and the thrill of dune bashing and sandboarding—a unique way to experience Ica’s adventure side. The tour also offers a cultural glimpse with visits to Cachiche, famed for its legendary witches, and a chocolate tasting that satisfies sweet cravings.

A potential consideration is the pace of the trip—it’s quite packed, and some might find the schedule demanding, especially if you prefer a more relaxed experience. Also, the tour’s price of $150 covers many activities, but it does not include entrance fees or tips, so budgeting a little extra for these is wise.

This tour suits travelers looking for a full-day adventure that combines wildlife, local drinks, and desert thrills—perfect if you want a well-rounded, affordable introduction to the Ica region with knowledgeable guides who help bring each stop to life.

Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with sea lions, penguins, and pelicans at the Ballestas Islands.
Cultural Insights: Discover the legendary witches’ town of Cachiche and learn about Pisco production.
Adventure in the Dunes: Optional buggy rides and sandboarding in Huacachina add a fun, adrenaline kick.
Authentic Tasting: Enjoy local sweet treats, wines, and piscos for a true taste of the region.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes city tours, vineyard visits, and natural wonders in just two days.
Value for Money: At $150, the tour offers a balanced mix of activities and cultural experiences, making it a very good deal for what’s included.

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A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

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Day 1: Wildlife and Wine in Paracas and Huacachina

Your adventure begins in Lima, with pickup from your hotel—likely in Miraflores or San Isidro—and a short stop at Saga Falabella Miraflores. From there, the journey heads south toward the Peruvian coast. Once you arrive at the tourist pier in Paracas, your boat awaits for the yacht ride to the Ballestas Islands.

This part of the day is the highlight for wildlife lovers. As your boat glides out into the water, you’ll spot sea lions basking on rocks, penguins waddling at the shoreline, and flocks of pelicans and seagulls soaring overhead. The boat ride offers close-up views of the Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious geoglyph etched into the desert hillside—an iconic image you’ll want to snap.

The boat ride lasts about an hour, and many guides, like Juan, sharing anecdotes about the islands’ history and ecology, make it engaging. According to traveler reviews, “We loved the way the boat got us close to the animals, and the guides kept us entertained with stories about the islands’ legend and wildlife.”

Afterward, you’ll sample local sweet treats like tejas and chocotejas, which are small, chewy confections often flavored with honey and nuts—a delightful way to taste local flavors. There’s also free time to shop for souvenirs, especially local crafts and Pisco-related products.

Next, you’ll visit the Pisco route—a cluster of wineries and distilleries where you’ll taste seven varieties of wines and piscos. This part is especially enjoyable if you’re interested in Peru’s iconic spirit. Guides often share the production process, making it both educational and delicious. Many visitors note, “The tasting was generous, and I appreciated learning about the different Pisco types.”

By late afternoon, you’ll enjoy a free lunch at either Nietto or Catador restaurant, where the signature dish “sopa seca” (a traditional noodle dish) is often highlighted as a satisfying local meal.

If your hotel is in Huacachina, you’ll be transferred directly there; otherwise, you’ll end your day at the iconic Laguna Huacachina, a desert oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. As the sun sets, the scenery becomes even more striking, with the dunes shimmering in the evening light.

Day 2: Ica’s Cultural Gems and Desert Adventure

After a relaxed morning, your guide will pick you up for a city tour of Ica. The main square, the Church of Luren, the cathedral, and San Francisco Church are key highlights, each offering a snapshot of local architecture and history. Walk through Cachiche, a small town famous for its legends of witches—an area that intrigues many visitors. The stories of women with supernatural powers add a mystical flavor to your visit, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

As Peru is the world’s largest producer of Pisco, you’ll visit an additional winery here. Not only do you get to taste more Pisco, but you’ll also learn about its production—a craft deeply rooted in local tradition. Reviews mention that “It’s fascinating to see the process and taste so many different varieties.”

The Laguna Huacachina beckons again, but this time with the option to try buggies and sandboarding. Many travelers rave about the exhilaration of speeding across the dunes and sliding down on a sandboard. Guides often narrate local legends about the dunes, enhancing the experience with stories of desert spirits and legends. If you prefer a more subdued experience, you can simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Your return to Lima is by air-conditioned bus, offering a comfortable way to reflect on your busy two days of adventures and discoveries.

Practicalities and Value

For $150, the tour packs in wildlife viewing, cultural visits, wine tasting, and desert adventure—a solid value considering the number of activities included. The boat ride alone is worth it for wildlife enthusiasts, and the combination of natural and cultural sights offers a well-rounded experience.

The tour includes all transportation, yacht ride, city tours, and tastings, but travelers should budget extra for entrance fees ($6), tips, and optional activities like sandboarding or buggies. The group sizes tend to be moderate, ensuring you get personal attention while still sharing the experience with fellow travelers.

What sets this tour apart is its blend of nature, culture, and adventure—a little bit of everything in just two days. The guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

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Who This Tour Is Best For

It’s perfect for those who want an affordable, all-in-one introduction to the Ica region. If you enjoy wildlife, wine tasting, and a touch of desert adventure, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good choice for travelers with limited time in Peru who want a quick but comprehensive taste of this fascinating corner of the country.

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FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, activities like sandboarding and dune bashing may not be suitable for very young children or those with back problems.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking, plus a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. The desert sun can be intense, so prepare accordingly.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is available from Miraflores or San Isidro hotels, and the tour includes transfer in Huacachina if your hotel is there.

Are meals included?
You receive a free lunch at a local restaurant, but additional meals or snacks are not included.

What is not included in the price?
Entrance fees ($6), tips, buggies, sandboarding, and transfers outside the specified pickup locations are extra.

Is the tour accessible for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English and Spanish, with guides speaking both languages.

How long do the activities last?
The first day includes about a 1-hour boat ride, wine tasting, and sightseeing, with free time for shopping and lunch. Day 2 involves city touring, desert activities, and returning to Lima.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Lima to the Ica region offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, cultural discovery, and desert adventure at an attractive price point. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a variety of activities, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Peru’s coastal highlights without overloading their schedule.

Ideal for those who enjoy a little bit of everything—nature lovers, food and drink enthusiasts, and adventure seekers—this trip delivers memorable moments and a deeper appreciation of Peru’s diverse landscape and traditions. Just be prepared for a fast-paced schedule and extra costs for optional activities or entrance fees.

If you’re looking for a taste of wildlife, local spirits, and desert fun all rolled into two days, this tour deserves your consideration. It’s practical, fun, and offers a real snapshot of the vibrant Ica region.

Note: Always check current availability and confirm pickup points when booking, as schedules can vary.