Planning a day trip from Lima that combines adventure, local flavors, and stunning scenery? This tour offers a mix of thrilling sandboarding on towering dunes, a taste of Peruvian wines and Pisco, and a glimpse into the heart of Ica. For $105 per person, you’ll spend around 14 hours exploring the desert landscape, sampling regional wines, and enjoying a delicious local lunch.

What we love most about this experience: first, the professional instructors are skilled at customizing the sandboarding lesson, making it accessible whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider. Second, the wine and Pisco tasting in Ica offers a genuine taste of Peru’s beloved spirits and wines, often accompanied by interesting insights from guides.

A potential consideration: the long travel day might be tiring for some, especially those not accustomed to early mornings or full days on the road. But if you’re eager for a full immersion into Peruvian landscapes and culture, this trip offers excellent value.

This tour suits adventurers who want a blend of outdoor thrill and culinary exploration, as well as travelers seeking a well-organized day trip with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

Adventure and Relaxation: Combines the adrenaline of sandboarding with relaxing wine tasting.
Professional Guidance: Instructors tailor lessons to your skill level, ensuring a fun and safe experience.
Cultural Flavor: Savor local wines and Pisco, gaining insight into regional flavors.
Beautiful Scenery: Towering dunes, the oasis of Huacachina, and sunset views add to the visual feast.
Convenience: All transport, lunch, and photos are included, making for a worry-free day.
Ideal for Active Travelers: Suitable for those who enjoy outdoor activities and authentic local experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour Experience

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Journey from Lima to Ica and Huacachina

This tour begins early in the morning, with comfortable transport by van from Lima. The approximately 14-hour day includes a scenic drive south along Peru’s coast, giving you a chance to glimpse the transition from cityscape to desert landscape. For many, the highlight is the arrival at Huacachina, a tiny oasis surrounded by towering dunes, often described as a surreal, almost otherworldly spot.

The Dunes and the Sandboarding Adventure

Once at Huacachina, you’ll meet your professional instructor—a key figure in making the experience enjoyable regardless of your experience level. The instructor will give a brief safety and technique overview before letting you loose on the massive sand dunes.

We loved the way the lesson is personalized—whether you want to try a gentle glide or a full-speed rush down the dunes, the instructors will adjust accordingly. Expect to spend a good chunk of the afternoon gliding, sliding, and laughing as you navigate the shifting sands. The dunes are impressive, with some reaching heights that make the sensation of sliding down both exhilarating and a little humbling.

Capture the Moment

Throughout your time in Huacachina, your guide will take plenty of photos and videos, which they will send to you afterward. These images will help you relive the thrill and the beautiful scenery, from the sweeping dunes to your triumphant (or maybe slightly wobbling) moments on the sandboard.

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Traditional Lunch in Ica

After your dune adventures, the tour makes a stop in Ica for a well-earned lunch at a local restaurant. The meal typically features regional flavors, offering a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine. Travelers have praised the quality of the food, describing it as both tasty and filling—perfect for recharging after a morning of activity.

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Tasting Wines and Pisco

Post-lunch, the experience takes a delicious turn with a wine and Pisco tasting. Ica is renowned for its vineyards and spirit production, and the tour includes samples of local wines and Pisco, Peru’s national spirit. Guides often share insights into the production process, adding a layer of cultural understanding. Many reviewers mention that the wines are surprisingly good, and the Pisco tasting is a highlight, especially if you’re interested in spirits with a story.

Sunset and Reflection

The day ends with a chance to witness a spectacular sunset, often viewed from the dunes or from a scenic overlook. It’s the perfect moment to relax, reflect on the day, and snap some final photos of the landscape bathed in golden light.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers many essentials: transportation, a professional instructor, sandboarding or skiing lessons, wine and Pisco tasting, lunch, and photos/videos. All you need to bring is a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes.

Not included are drinks beyond the tasting, and meals for breakfast and dinner, so plan your day accordingly. The tour is designed for those over 12 years old, excluding pregnant women and anyone with back problems, to ensure safety and comfort.

Practical Tips for Travelers

To make the most of your day, dress comfortably—think breathable fabrics and sturdy shoes suitable for sandboarding. Remember to bring lots of sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, as the desert sun can be relentless. Hydration is key, so carry plenty of water with you.

The group is generally small, guided by bilingual guides who speak both English and Spanish, making communication straightforward. The tour starts early, so be prepared for an energetic day that demands a bit of stamina, especially in the heat.

Authenticity and Value

This experience hits a sweet spot for travelers wanting more than just a scenic drive. The professional instruction and personalized lessons guarantee a good time whether you’re a novice or a seasoned sandboarder. The inclusion of local wine and Pisco tasting offers an authentic taste of Ica’s renowned products, elevating this from a simple adventure to a cultural exploration.

While the day is long, most travelers find the value justified by the diverse activities, beautiful scenery, and well-organized itinerary. Plus, the photos and videos are a nice souvenir to remember your adrenaline-fueled descent and your sip of Peru’s spirits.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip caters well to adventure lovers who want to try something exciting and physically engaging. It’s also perfect for food and drink enthusiasts eager to sample regional wines and Pisco in a relaxed setting. If you appreciate stunning desert vistas and are comfortable with a full-day outing, this tour will suit you.

However, it might not be ideal for young children under 12, pregnant women, or those with back issues, given the physical activity involved.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines adventure, culture, and scenery, this tour from Lima offers excellent value. You’ll get your heart pumping with sandboarding on some of Peru’s most impressive dunes, savor authentic local wines, and capture memories through photos and videos. The guides’ professionalism and the scenic beauty make the long day worthwhile.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a fun, active, and culturally rich experience outside bustling Lima. Expect to return home tired but with plenty of stories—and maybe a new skill or two—making this tour a memorable addition to your Peruvian adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 14 hours, including travel time from Lima, activities, lunch, and sunset views.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for sandboarding or skiing. Remember to hydrate often and wear sturdy shoes.

Is sandboarding suitable for beginners?
Yes, professional instructors will customize lessons according to your skill level, making it accessible even if you’ve never tried before.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 12, pregnant women, and people with back problems are not recommended to participate.

What is included in the price?
Transport, professional instructor, sandboarding or skiing lesson, wine and Pisco tasting, lunch, and photos/videos of your experience.

Are drinks besides wine and Pisco included?
No, additional drinks are not included, so you might want to bring extra water or purchase drinks during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, activities like sandboarding depend on good weather; check the forecast and reschedule if necessary.

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

This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, cultural flavor, and scenic beauty, making it a great pick for those eager to explore beyond Lima with a sense of fun and discovery.