From Lima: City Tour in Ica and Visit the Huacachina Oasis

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines cultural sights, stunning desert vistas, and some adrenaline-pumping fun, this tour from Lima to Ica and the Huacachina oasis could be just what you need. For $125 per person, you’ll spend roughly 15 hours exploring the charming city of Ica, tasting some of Peru’s finest wines, and marveling at the surreal landscapes of Huacachina. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience offers a rare chance to see a different side of Peru—beyond the bustling capital.

What we truly appreciated were the eyesight-pleasing sunset views over Huacachina, and the insightful visits to local wineries that give you a taste of Peru’s spirited traditions. The inclusion of sandboarding and dune bashing adds a spirited touch to the desert adventure, perfect for those craving a mix of culture and adrenaline.

A potential consideration is the long bus ride—about four hours each way—which might feel a bit taxing if you prefer more relaxed travel. Still, the overall value of this adventure makes it a solid choice for active travelers eager to pack a lot into one day.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy diverse experiences—cultural, scenic, and adventurous—and don’t mind a full schedule. If you love combining sightseeing with outdoor thrills, this trip offers a well-rounded day out.

Key Points

Authentic cultural visits include Ica’s main square, a historic church, and local winery tastings.
Stunning desert landscapes highlight the Huacachina oasis with whimsical dunes and natural beauty.
Adrenaline activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides provide fun and excitement.
Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary in English or Spanish.
Flexible scheduling with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Value for the price considering transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and activities included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Ica and Huacachina Tour

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Starting Out: From Lima to Ica

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Miraflores around 07:30 am, a convenient start that sets the tone for a full day. You’ll board a comfortable bus, likely Cruz del Sur or a similar operator, for the approximately four-hour journey south to Ica. Travel comfort and punctuality are key here, and reviews suggest the guides and drivers are attentive and professional, making the long trip manageable.

This early start means you’ll get to maximize your time in Ica and Huacachina. The bus ride itself is a good opportunity to relax, enjoy scenic views of the Peruvian coast, and maybe even catch a quick nap before your adventures begin.

Exploring Ica: City Sights and Local Flavors

Once in Ica, the tour kicks off with a guided walk through the city’s main square, where you’ll see the historic church and the lively avenue of Luren. These spots offer a glimpse into Ica’s local life and architecture, giving you a snapshot of the city’s character.

One standout stop is the artisanal winery, where you’ll learn about the traditional production of Peruvian Pisco and Wines. The guide explains the process of fermentation and distillation, and you’ll even get to taste a few varieties—an authentic experience that adds flavor (literally and figuratively) to your day. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s knowledgeable commentary made the visit particularly engaging. This part of the tour offers a slice of Peruvian culture and craft, perfect for wine lovers or those curious about local traditions.

The Desert Oasis: Huacachina

After exploring Ica, your journey continues to Huacachina, a striking oasis surrounded by towering dunes and whimsically shaped formations. This is the highlight for many travelers—the surreal landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

You’ll have about an hour here, enough time to soak in the views and take some memorable photos at sunset. The guide arranges transportation in tubulars—dune buggies that roar across the sands—adding an element of excitement. These buggies are quite the thrill, especially when they speed up and go down the dunes, offering a quick dose of adrenaline.

Sandboarding is included, with standard boards provided. The guides are friendly and helpful, encouraging everyone to try sliding down the dunes—something you’ll probably find both amusing and exhilarating. One review mentioned that the sandboarding isn’t professional-level, but it’s still a fun activity that adds a playful edge to the visit.

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Timing and the Return Journey

After a busy afternoon in Huacachina, you’ll board the bus again for the four-hour ride back to Lima. The sunset en route is often described as breathtaking, making the long trip more pleasant. Expect to arrive back in Miraflores around late evening, having experienced a full day packed with sights, tastes, and outdoor fun.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a well-rounded look at a less-visited but captivating part of Peru. The combination of cultural highlights and natural beauty makes it appealing to a variety of travelers. The guides’ professionalism and the inclusion of entrance tickets and activities ensure you get good value for the price. The visit to a local winery enriches your understanding of Peru’s cultural landscape, while the desert adventure satisfies those craving active pursuits.

The stunning sunset views over Huacachina are an especially memorable feature, giving you a perfect photo opportunity and a serene moment after an adrenaline-filled sandboarding experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day journey suits travelers who want to see a different side of Peru without spending too much time away from Lima. It’s ideal if you enjoy cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and scenic photography. If you’re comfortable with a long bus ride and want a mix of sightseeing and adventure, you’ll find this trip rewarding. Families, couples, and solo adventurers alike will appreciate the variety packed into this once-in-a-day experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Lima to Ica and Huacachina provides excellent value for those wanting a diverse and active day. The combination of cultural insights—like wine tasting—and outdoor thrills—such as dune bashing and sandboarding—means you get a lot of different experiences in one trip. The guides’ attentiveness and the stunning desert landscapes make it a memorable outing.

While the lengthy bus rides might not be for everyone, they are part of the adventure, giving you time to relax and enjoy the changing scenery. The sunset views alone make this journey worthwhile, offering a peaceful end to a lively day.

If you’re curious about Peruvian culture, love natural beauty, or simply want a fun-filled day trip from Lima, this experience has a lot to offer. Just pack comfortable shoes, a camera, and a sense of adventure, and you’ll come away with stories to tell—and photos to cherish.

FAQ

How long is the bus ride from Lima to Ica?
The bus ride takes about four hours each way, generally on a comfortable coach like Cruz del Sur.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to buy lunch during your free time in Ica.

What activities are available in Huacachina?
You’ll have a guided tour, photo opportunities, sandboarding with standard boards, and dune bashing in tubulars (dune buggies).

Is the sandboarding professional?
No, the sandboarding isn’t done professionally, but guides are friendly and will help you practice.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, comfortable clothes, and cash for meals or souvenirs.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.

How is the sunset viewed?
The sunset over Huacachina is considered one of the most beautiful sights on the tour, perfect for photos and a peaceful moment.

How late does the return trip go?
The return bus departs after the activities, with arrival back in Lima usually late in the evening, depending on availability.

This full-day tour from Lima to Ica and Huacachina balances scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and outdoor fun, offering a memorable slice of Peru for those eager to see beyond the city.