Planning a day trip from Lima that packs in a variety of unforgettable experiences? This tour, priced at $75 per person, takes you south to explore the Ballestas Islands, the Ica region, and the iconic Huacachina Oasis. It’s a long day, but with so much packed in—marine wildlife, local wine, and desert thrills—it’s a wonderful way to see a different side of Peru without straying far from the capital.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see the marine life around the islands, especially the sea lions and penguins, which really bring the ocean to life. The wine and pisco tasting at a local vineyard offers a taste of Peru’s famed spirits, and the dune buggy rides in Huacachina provide an adrenaline rush that’s hard to beat. Plus, you get to try sandboarding, which is surprisingly fun and easier than it looks.

A potential drawback? Given the early start at 5:00 AM, this tour demands a good level of stamina and an appreciation for a full, action-packed day. Also, some might find the timing tight, especially if you like to explore at a more relaxed pace or want more time at each stop.

This trip is best suited for active travelers or anyone eager to combine wildlife, culture, and adventure all in one day. If you’re comfortable with long hours on a coach and enjoy a mix of nature and fun activities, this tour offers excellent value for a comprehensive Peruvian experience.

Key Points

Wildlife & Marine Life: The boat tour around the Ballestas Islands is a highlight, with sea lions, penguins, and seabirds providing great photo opportunities.
Cultural & Culinary Insights: The visit to a local winery for wine and pisco tasting offers authentic flavors and an insight into Peruvian traditions.
Adrenaline-filled Dune Adventure: Dune buggy rides and sandboarding at Huacachina are the most exciting parts, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Timing & Logistics: The early departure and long day mean you’ll need to be prepared for a busy schedule, but it’s all well-organized.
Value for Money: At $75, including transport, guides, and all tickets, it offers solid value considering the diverse experiences.
Family & Active Travelers: The tour suits those who enjoy outdoor activities and are up for a full day of exploration and fun.

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Starting Early: The Long Road from Lima

The day kicks off at 5:00 AM with pickup from designated points in Lima. While this early start might seem challenging, it’s necessary to maximize your time at each destination. The drive south offers a chance to see some of the Peruvian countryside, and most travelers find the bus comfortable and air-conditioned—crucial for such a long day.

Expect to arrive at the Paracas pier around 9:30 AM, where the real adventure begins. This early start is well worth it, giving you time to explore the marine sanctuary and see the famous El Candelabro, a mysterious geoglyph carved into the desert sands. Your guide, whose name might be shared during the tour, will share theories about its origin, adding an intriguing cultural touch to the experience.

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The Ballestas Islands: Peru’s Galápagos

Once aboard the boat, you’ll be surrounded by abundant wildlife. The islands are often called the “poor man’s Galápagos,” and for good reason. As the boat cruises around, expect to see sea lions lounging on rocks, penguins waddling along the shoreline, and a variety of seabirds soaring above. The boat ride lasts around two hours, allowing plenty of time for photos and wildlife viewing.

Many reviews praise the boat tour for its informative guides and close encounters with fauna. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the boat got close enough to see the sea lions clearly, and the guides shared interesting facts about each species.” Be sure to bring your camera and waterproof gear if you want the best shots.

Visiting El Candelabro and Exploring the Coast

After the boat tour, you’ll head to El Candelabro, a fascinating desert geoglyph visible from the sea. The guide will share different theories about its purpose, which adds an element of mystery to this flat, sandy landscape. It’s a quick stop, but a memorable photo opportunity, especially with the desert backdrop.

Lunch and Wine Tasting in Ica

Next, the journey takes you to Ica, where a hearty lunch awaits at a local restaurant and winery. The tour includes a wine and pisco tasting, giving you a chance to sample some of Peru’s celebrated spirits, such as Pisco Sour. Travelers mention the excellent selection and the chance to learn about traditional production methods, making this stop both tasty and educational.

The hour-long stop at the winery offers a relaxing break from the morning’s activity, and many reviews highlight the friendly guides and delicious local cuisine. While some might wish for more time to explore Ica’s town itself, the focus here remains on the tasting and hospitality.

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The Dunes of Huacachina: Sandboarding and Buggies

The final major stop is the Huacachina Oasis, a tiny desert village with a stunning lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. Once there, you’ll hop into dune buggies for a high-energy ride over the shifting sands. The buggies are equipped with capable drivers who take you up and down dunes, providing panoramic views and plenty of adrenaline.

Sandboarding, a surprisingly easy sport to pick up, is the highlight for many. You’ll get a few runs down the dunes, feeling the rush as the sand whips past. One reviewer said, “It’s a thrill I won’t forget — gliding down the dunes was way more fun than I expected.” After the action, you’re free to relax, take photos, or browse local shops at the oasis.

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Return Journey and Final Thoughts

As the day winds down, at 5:30 PM, the bus departs Huacachina for Lima. Expect to arrive back around 10:30 PM, tired but full of stories and photos. If you wish to stay longer in Huacachina or visit other nearby spots, just inform the guide beforehand.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, wildlife viewing, and cultural tastings. It offers a great balance of nature, tradition, and thrill, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to experience Peru’s diverse landscapes in one day. Keep in mind the early start and full schedule — it’s not for those seeking a slow, leisurely day.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Considering the price of $75, including transportation, guide, all tickets, and tastings, this tour provides excellent value. You get a broad overview of Peru’s coastal highlights, packed into a manageable day. The boat tour and wildlife sightings are particularly praised, as is the chance to sample local spirits in Ica.

However, the tight schedule means you won’t be able to linger long at each stop. For travelers who prefer a relaxed pace or more in-depth exploration, this might feel rushed. But for those wanting to tick multiple boxes — wildlife, culture, adventure — it’s a compelling option.

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour departs early at 5:00 AM from Lima, so be prepared for an early morning start.

How long is the boat tour around the Ballestas Islands?
The boat tour lasts approximately two hours, giving you plenty of time to see marine wildlife and take photos.

What can I expect at the wine and pisco tasting?
You’ll visit a local winery and enjoy tastings of wine and pisco, learning about traditional production methods and sampling some of Peru’s best spirits.

Is the dune buggy ride safe?
Yes, the buggies are driven by experienced guides who prioritize safety, while providing an exhilarating ride over the dunes.

Can I do sandboarding if I’ve never tried it before?
Absolutely. Sandboarding is quite accessible, and most find it easier and more fun than they expected.

How long do we stay at Huacachina?
You’ll have time for the dune buggies, sandboarding, and some sightseeing around the oasis. The tour typically returns to Lima by 10:30 PM.

What should I bring for the trip?
Pack your passport or ID, change of clothes, sunscreen, water, and cash for extras or souvenirs.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the base price. You can purchase lunch in Ica, with options starting around S/35 (about US$10).

Is there a possibility to stay longer in Huacachina?
Yes, you can inform your guide after the dune activities if you wish to extend your stay at the oasis.

To sum it up, this day trip from Lima offers a lively mix of marine wildlife, cultural tasting, and desert adventure in one of Peru’s most distinctive landscapes. It’s perfect for those who want a packed, active day that covers coast, countryside, and desert in a single tour. While the early start and tight schedule might not suit everyone, the value, variety, and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers eager to see Peru’s diverse sides.