From Lima: Ica – Paracas 3D/2N

Experience the Mysteries and Natural Wonders of Ica and Paracas in Just Three Days

Imagine stepping into a world where ancient symbols dance across desert sands, wildlife thrives amidst dramatic coastal landscapes, and adrenaline rushes come from sandboarding down towering dunes. For just $346 per person, this 3-day Ica and Paracas tour offers an immersive taste of Peru’s lesser-known treasures, starting from Lima. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Nazca Lines, Huacachina, Ballestas Islands, and Paracas Reserve—each revealing a different facet of Peru’s diverse landscape and culture.

What we really appreciated about this tour is its mix of adventure and discovery. The sandboarding experience in Huacachina is genuinely exhilarating, offering some of the best dunes for sliding and photo opportunities. Plus, the guided visits to wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and the stunning Paracas National Reserve make this trip both fun and educational. The only potential drawback? The busy schedule means you’ll want to be ready for early mornings and tight timing, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour works best for travelers who love a little adrenaline, enjoy wildlife viewing, and appreciate authentic cultural stops. It’s ideal if you want a well-rounded experience without the hassle of planning each activity yourself. It’s not the best choice for those seeking a relaxed, slow-paced getaway, but for anyone eager to pack in some of Peru’s most captivating sights in just three days, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: From ancient geoglyphs to lively wildlife and desert adventures, this tour offers a broad view of Peru’s natural and archaeological wonders.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance each stop with interesting insights, making the experience more meaningful.
• Adventure-Focused: Sandboarding in Huacachina and boat tours to the Ballestas Islands add an adrenaline rush to the trip.
• Comprehensive Experience: The mix of land, sea, and desert activities ensures a well-rounded trip.
• Value for Money: At $346, the package includes transportation, accommodations, entrance fees, and guided tours—covering most of what you need.
• Limited Flexibility: The packed schedule might feel rushed for some travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Ica and Paracas Experience

Day 1: Starting from Lima and Exploring Ica

Your journey begins early with a bus ride from Lima—either Cruz del Sur or Peru VIP—setting the stage for the adventure ahead. The ride, depending on traffic and weather, typically takes a few hours and offers a chance to relax and enjoy scenic views of the Peruvian coast and desert. Upon arrival in Ica, the first stop is the Cachiche Hamlet, famous for its mysterious reputation and the 7-headed palm tree that has intrigued visitors for years. This village is also home to the Witches Theme Park, where we loved learning about local legends and the mystical side of Ica—fun and quirky, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Next, a visit to the House of Tiles allows for a taste of local craftsmanship—here, you can purchase traditional Ica tiles and chocolates, which make excellent souvenirs or gifts. The tour then takes you to an artisanal winery where you’ll taste wines and piscos—Peru’s famous grape spirits—and learn about the artisanal methods used to produce these beverages. This stop is particularly appealing for those interested in local food and drink, offering a genuine glimpse into Ica’s viticultural traditions.

A highlight of the day is the Huacachina Oasis—a stunning natural lagoon surrounded by towering dunes. We loved the contrast of the lush water against the surrounding desert. Here, the adrenaline kicks in with a thrilling 4×4 tubular ride across the dunes. Sandboarding is the real star—once the guide gives some quick tips, you’ll find yourself sliding down dunes with a grin ear to ear. The driver cleverly stops to give you opportunities to practice, ensuring everyone gets a turn. The views from the dunes are spectacular, and the photos—especially at sunset—are unforgettable.

Day 2: Wildlife and Coastal Wonders

In the early morning, you’ll head to the Pier in Ica for a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands—sometimes called the “Poor Man’s Galápagos” due to the abundant wildlife. The boat ride is smooth, and guides like Juan, if you’re lucky enough to have him, are full of stories that bring the rocks and seabirds to life. Expect to see sea lions, penguins, boobies, pelicans, and guano collectors in action. The views of the El Candelabro geoglyph from the water are a special treat, giving you a sense of the mystery surrounding these mysterious figures etched into the desert.

After the boat tour, there’s some free time to explore the pier, enjoy breakfast, or snap photos of the colorful birdlife. Then, you’ll visit the Paracas National Reserve, a sprawling coastal protected area known for its striking rock formations, beaches, and lagoons. We loved walking along the beaches, taking in the dramatic La Catedral rock formation, and spotting flamingos and other birds at the lagoons. The highlight here is the diversity of landscapes—desert meets ocean—in an accessible, easy-to-navigate way.

Day 3: Relaxation and Optional Excursions

The final day offers some flexibility. You might choose to relax at your hotel, enjoying amenities like the pool, or opt for the optional Canyon of the Lost tour for an extra adventure. It’s a chance to see more of the rugged, scenic landscape and enjoy some quiet moments before heading back to Lima. The tour concludes with your bus ride back in the early afternoon, making it a quick but comprehensive escape.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $346, this package covers bus transportation, two nights’ accommodation, guided tours, entrance fees, and activities like the sandboarding and boat trips. When you break it down, you’re paying for a well-organized, all-in-one experience that takes care of logistics so you can focus on enjoying each stop. The inclusion of a professional guide ensures you’re not just ticking off sights but understanding their significance, which adds depth to the trip.

The guide’s knowledge is often highlighted in reviews—many travelers appreciated the way guides explained the history and ecology behind each site, making it more than just sightseeing. The visits to wineries and artisanal shops also add a local flavor, giving insights into Ica’s culture and traditions.

Considerations and Tips

While the schedule is packed, it means you’ll see a lot in a short time—so travelers who prefer slow travel might find it a bit rushed. The optional Nazca Lines overflight is an extra cost ($90 plus airfare), and it’s worth considering if you’re keen on aerial views of the famous geoglyphs. Keep in mind, mornings can be early, and transportation involves a fair amount of moving around, so packing light and being prepared for early starts will make your experience smoother.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers eager to see a broad range of Peru’s landscapes and sites in a short amount of time. If you love a mix of adventure (sandboarding, boat rides) and culture (local wineries, archaeology), you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s ideal for those with a sense of curiosity and a desire for active, engaging days. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or deep-dive into one particular area, you may want to consider spreading out these activities over more days.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Ica and Paracas tour from Lima offers a well-rounded introduction to some of the most intriguing parts of southern Peru. The combination of desert adventures, wildlife encounters, and coastal scenery makes it a rewarding experience for those looking to maximize their short time in the region. The guides’ expertise helps transform sightseeing into learning, adding value to each moment.

While a busy schedule might not be for everyone, if you’re someone who enjoys a mix of thrill and discovery packed into a manageable trip, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It balances the awe of ancient geoglyphs with the fun of sandboarding and the wonder of observing wildlife in their natural habitats—delivering a memorable snapshot of Peru’s diverse landscapes.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, bus tickets from Lima to Ica and return are included, along with transportation for activities within Ica and Paracas, such as boat rides and dune tours.

What’s the accommodation like?
The tour includes two nights’ accommodation, though specific details about the hotel are not provided. Expect comfortable lodging suitable for active travelers.

Can I take the Nazca Lines overflight?
Yes, but it’s an optional add-on costing around $90, plus airfare ($10) and a tourist fee (S/47). It’s a fantastic way to see the geoglyphs from above, but requires planning and additional cost.

Are meals included?
No, lunches and dinners are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries at your own pace.

Is there free time?
Yes, after the boat tour and at certain stops, you’ll have some free time to relax, take photos, or explore on your own.

What language are guides available in?
Guides are available in Spanish and English, so language should not be a barrier for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities like boat rides and sandboarding are generally suitable for older children and teens, especially those comfortable with adventure.

How physically demanding is the trip?
The tour involves some walking, boat rides, and sandboarding—activities that are generally accessible but may be challenging for those with mobility issues or certain health conditions.

Whether you’re craving adventure, wildlife, or cultural insights, this 3-day Ica and Paracas tour from Lima packs a lot of Peru into a manageable trip. Prepare for early mornings, active days, and a wealth of sights that will stay with you long after you leave.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby