From Lima, a full-day adventure awaits that takes you through some of Peru’s most iconic sights: the Paracas Islands, the Oasis of Huacachina, and the heart of the Ica region. For just $76 per person, you gain a taste of marine wildlife, local flavors, and desert thrills. Expect an early start, around 5 am, with transportation included from central Lima neighborhoods like Miraflores, San Isidro, and Barranco. The tour is led by bilingual guides, ensuring clear explanations whether in English or Spanish, and is tailored to those eager for a mix of nature, culture, and adrenaline.

One aspect we particularly love is how the tour combines unexpected diversity — a boat trip among sea lions and penguins, a Pisco tasting, and sandboarding on towering dunes—all in one day. The small-group dynamic ensures a more personal experience, making it easier to ask questions and connect with your guide. The value for money shines through, given the inclusion of all tickets, taxes, snacks, and activities like buggies and sandboarding.

However, keep in mind the long hours involved — you’ll be on the move from early morning to evening, with some parts of the day requiring physical activity and a good pair of shoes. If you’re not a fan of early mornings or long days, this might feel a bit rushed. But for active travelers or those who want a comprehensive Peruvian day trip, this tour offers a fantastic introduction.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife, local culture, and adventure sports. It’s great for those who appreciate guided tours that try to pack as much into one day as possible, and who are comfortable with a fair amount of activity and travel.

Key Points

Diverse itinerary: Marine wildlife, Pisco tasting, dune adventures.
All-inclusive price: Covers tickets, taxes, snacks, and activities.
Small group: Ensures a more personalized experience.
Early start and busy day: Be prepared for a full, active schedule.
Expert guides: Bilingual, knowledgeable, attentive.
Ideal for: Adventure lovers, culture seekers, and those short on time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

When you sign up for this tour, you’re signing up for a journey that hits some of the most dramatic and photogenic spots in southern Peru in just one day. Our day begins around 5 am, a time that might seem early, but trust us, the quiet of Lima’s early morning makes for a peaceful start. Once aboard the comfortable transport, you settle in for the roughly 2.5-hour drive south to the Paracas National Reserve and Ballestas Islands.

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The Paracas and Ballestas Islands

The highlight here is the boat tour around the Ballestas Islands, often called the “poor man’s Galápagos” for their abundance of wildlife. Expect to see sea lions lounging on rocks, penguin families waddling around, and dolphins leaping alongside your boat. The guides are great at pointing out the variety of seabirds—pelicans, guano birds, and others—flying overhead or nesting on the cliffs. The chance to get close to these creatures makes this part truly memorable.

One of the most famous sights is the Candelabra of the Desert, a mysterious giant figure etched into the hillside. While no one knows exactly how or why it was created, its enormous size and visibility from the sea make it a fascinating photo opportunity. The guides typically share interesting stories and theories, adding to the allure of this enigmatic figure.

Ica and Pisco Tasting

Next, you’ll head to Ica, a town famous for its Pisco — Peru’s national spirit. Here, the tour includes a tasting of different Pisco flavors and wines, giving you a taste of the local craftsmanship. This is a great chance to learn about the drink’s production, and many travelers enjoy discovering their favorite type. The reviews praise the “great wine and pisco tasting,” emphasizing the quality and variety offered. After this, a delicious typical lunch is included, and it’s worth noting that the dishes tend to be well-prepared, showcasing local flavors and ingredients.

Huacachina Oasis and Desert Adventure

The pièce de résistance is the visit to Huacachina, a stunning desert oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes—truly one of the most dramatic landscapes in South America. Here, you’ll get a chance to ride in a buggy across the dunes, an adrenaline-filled activity that often earns praise for its fun and thrill factor. The guides typically take you to the highest dunes for some impressive photo opportunities.

For those craving even more adventure, sandboarding is offered. You’ll find it easier than you think to master sliding down the soft sand, and it’s a fantastic way to end the day with a rush of adrenaline. The reviews mention the “adventure sports” and how “Kerly was a great guide”, making the experience feel lively and well-organized.

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Practicalities and Comfort

Throughout the day, the tour provides light snacks and bottled water, keeping energy levels up. You should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the fantastic scenery. The group size tends to be small, which means more personalized attention and opportunities to ask questions.

Since the tour can vary due to weather or local conditions, flexibility is key. It’s also worth noting that if you’re staying outside the pickup zones, a small additional fee may be required for the transfer.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of marine wildlife, local spirits, and desert adventures is quite rare in a single day. Many travelers highlight guides like Paul and Kerly, noting their knowledgeable and caring approach. The value for the price is evident, considering all the included activities and tickets. Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated the personalized experience with small groups, making for a more relaxed and engaging day.

The stunning views at each stop, especially in Huacachina, leave a lasting impression. Many describe the sand dunes as “impressive” and the overall experience as “amazing from start to finish”. The tour’s pacing, with stops for breakfast, lunch, and breaks, balances activity with rest, although it is a long day.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early start and long hours involved. If you’re not used to full-day excursions or prefer more leisurely travel, this might feel rushed. Also, the physical activities like sandboarding require a certain level of mobility and enthusiasm. There’s no mention of accommodations or transfers outside central Lima areas, so travelers staying far from the pickup points should plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking to maximize your time in Peru and want a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and adventure, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy guided experiences, appreciate good value, and are eager to see different landscapes in a single day. Those who love taking photos will find plenty of opportunities, especially at Huacachina and the islands.

It’s also great for travelers who want to try local drinks like Pisco, and for those curious about marine animals but short on time for separate excursions. Keep in mind that it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues, as some activities involve walking or standing for extended periods.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins around 5 am, which helps maximize daylight and avoid the heat during desert activities. It’s an early start but worth it for the full experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price, but a stop is made in Ica for a meal with typical dishes. You might want to bring some cash or snacks, especially if you have specific dietary preferences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and cash are recommended. The tour provides water and snacks, but personal supplies are a good idea.

Are the activities suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
Activities like sandboarding and dune buggies require physical movement and balance, so they might not be suitable for everyone with mobility issues. The tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

To sum it up, this all-in-one day tour from Lima offers a fantastic snapshot of Peru’s diverse landscapes and culture. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see wildlife, enjoy local flavors, and experience desert thrills without sacrificing value or comfort. With knowledgeable guides and a well-paced itinerary, it promises a memorable, action-packed day. Just be prepared for an early start and a long day on the move. If you’re after a comprehensive, fun-filled adventure that covers marine life, regional drinks, and desert dunes, this tour hits the mark remarkably well.