From Lima: Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour
Location: Ica Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.5 (based on 10 reviews)
Price: $73 per person
Duration: 18 hours, with flexible start times

Imagine leaving the hustle and bustle of Lima behind early in the morning, stepping into an adventure that takes you through some of Peru’s most striking landscapes. For around $73, you get a long but rewarding day exploring the Ballestas Islands, where sea lions and penguins frolic in their natural habitat, then heading to the Huacachina Oasis, a striking desert lagoon surrounded by towering dunes, perfect for exhilarating dune buggy rides and sandboarding.

What we love about this tour is how it combines diverse environments—sea, desert, and oasis—in a single day. The included boat tour at the islands offers close-up wildlife viewing, and the dune buggy and sandboarding in Huacachina deliver a thrill that’s hard to match. Plus, the convenience of roundtrip transportation from Lima simplifies logistics and maximizes your time.

A possible consideration is the long day’s travel time—about 4 hours each way—so this tour suits those who don’t mind a bit of a bus ride in exchange for a full day of exploration. It’s especially ideal if you’re eager to see a variety of landscapes and enjoy authentic adventure experiences. Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and small group settings will find this tour particularly appealing, as reviews highlight friendly, responsive guides and intimate groups of only 12 participants.

Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Up-close views of sea lions and penguins in their natural habitats make this tour memorable.
Adventure on Dunes: Dune buggy rides and sandboarding down massive dunes provide adrenaline and fun.
Comfort & Convenience: Roundtrip transportation from Lima and a small group setting make for a relaxed, personalized experience.
Authentic Local Feel: Visits to Paracas and Huacachina showcase authentic Peruvian coastal and desert environments.
Flexible & Accessible: Booking is flexible with free cancellation and pay later options, suitable for spontaneous plans or detailed planning.
Value for Money: For just $73, you get an 18-hour trip packed with highlights, guided tours, and activities, making it a solid value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full-Day Tour: A Deep Dive

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Starting Early and Traveling in Comfort

The day kicks off at 5:30 am from Mal. de la Reserva 615, with a comfortable coach taking you south from Lima—about 4 hours on the road. We found this part of the journey surprisingly smooth, with most travelers enjoying the chance to catch up on sleep or prep for the day’s adventures. The bus is described as comfortable, and the direct transportation is a huge plus—you won’t be stuck with multiple pickups or complicated logistics.

First Stop: The Ballestas Islands

After arriving in Paracas, your two-hour boat tour begins, offering a chance to see sea lions lounging on rocks, Humboldt penguins waddling around, and a variety of seabirds soaring overhead. The islands are sometimes called the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” and for good reason—they’re a compact, lively space full of wildlife and dramatic scenery.

The reviews highlight how authentic this experience feels, with one traveler noting, “The Islas Ballestas are also amazing,” and another quoting, “Great quality of tour, we booked it last minute and they immediately sent me a WhatsApp to make sure everything was in order.” This suggests guides are attentive and eager to ensure you see as much as possible.

Lunch and Rest in Paracas

Following the boat tour, you get some free time in Paracas—about 65 minutes. It’s enough to stretch your legs, take photos of the coastal views, or grab a quick snack. While the tour doesn’t include food, the opportunity to explore this charming seaside town adds a nice touch to the experience.

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Journey to the Desert Oasis

Next, you’ll hop into the bus again for about an hour-long ride to Huacachina, the only natural desert oasis in South America. The scenery shifts dramatically from coastal to arid desert, and the dunes grow taller and more spectacular the closer you get.

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Dune Buggies and Sandboarding in Huacachina

Once in Huacachina, the highlight is the dune buggy ride—an exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping adventure as you zoom up and down massive dunes. Sandboarding offers the chance to slide down these towering sandy slopes. According to reviews, travelers find this experience “incredible,” with one describing the desert as “incredible” and “the dunes [are] some of the biggest in South America.”

The sunset views here are especially stunning, providing great photo opportunities and a memorable backdrop for your adventure. The tour’s flexibility allows for about an hour in Huacachina, enough to take in the scenery and enjoy the thrill rides.

Return Trip to Lima

After this desert adventure, you’ll board the bus back around 6:30 pm, with an estimated arrival back at Mal. de la Reserva 615 around 11:45 pm. It’s a long day, but the experience is packed with variety—marine life, desert thrills, and scenic vistas—all in one trip.

Practical Details and Considerations

Included and Not Included

The tour covers your guide, roundtrip transportation, a 2-hour boat tour, fauna sightings, and the sandboarding and dune buggy activities. You’ll need to bring your own food and drinks, and cash for additional local taxes—about 16 soles (~$4 USD) in Paracas and 4 soles (~$1 USD) in Huacachina.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the dunes and boat ride. Sunscreen and a hat will protect you from the strong desert sun, and snacks are recommended since there are no food stops en route. Don’t forget your passport or ID for identification, and some cash for small expenses.

Tour Size and Guides

Limited to 12 participants, this small group setting offers a more personal, flexible experience. Guides are bilingual (English and Spanish), often praised for their friendliness and knowledge—making the trip not just fun but also educational.

Flexibility & Cancellations

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the “reserve now, pay later” option adds flexibility—perfect if your plans are still up in the air or if you want to secure your spot without commitment.

Authentic Experiences and Real Travelers’ Feedback

From reviews, many travelers appreciated the considerate service and responsive guides. One reviewer said, “The guide and the customer responded very quickly. And there was no extra charge or forced purchases,” which can be rare on busy tour days.

Another expressed delight at the experience: “It was an amazing trip—the guide was very nice, and the desert is incredible. The islands are also amazing,” highlighting the balance between wildlife and scenery.

Travelers also mention that the bus is comfortable, the activities are exciting, and the views are unforgettable. For those seeking a mix of wildlife spotting, adventure, and scenic beauty, this tour offers excellent value.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to experience different environments—from coastal wildlife to desert dunes—in one day. If you enjoy guided group tours, dislike long solo drives, and want a combination of relaxation and adrenaline, you’ll find this tour hits the mark.

It’s ideal for those with a flexible schedule and a sense of curiosity about Peru’s diverse natural landscapes. Since it includes small group sizes and bilingual guides, it’s suited for travelers who appreciate more personalized attention and cultural insights.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness, given the dune and boat activities. Also, be prepared for a long day, with a lot of ground covered and scenery changed.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina offers a well-rounded adventure, combining wildlife encounters, scenic boat rides, and thrilling dune activities. For just $73, you get a comprehensive experience that showcases some of Peru’s most iconic natural sights, all in a comfortably organized and small-group setting.

Travelers looking for a value-packed day that balances nature, adventure, and authentic scenery will find this trip rewarding. It’s perfect for those wanting to experience Peru beyond the city—seeing sea lions, penguins, and towering dunes—all in one exciting package.

While it’s a long day, the variety of sights and activities makes it an unforgettable excursion. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and a sense of adventure—and you’re all set for an enriching day trip.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:30 am, which is ideal for making the most of the day and avoiding the midday heat in Huacachina.

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Lima is included, making logistics hassle-free.

How long is the boat tour?
The boat tour of the Ballestas Islands lasts about 2 hours, providing ample time to see wildlife up close.

What activities are offered at Huacachina?
You will experience dune buggy rides and sandboarding down large dunes—both are highlights praised by travelers.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations and a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, snacks, cash for local taxes, and your passport or ID.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Small groups of 12 make for an intimate experience. It’s suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for pregnant women, those with back issues, or prone to seasickness.

How late does the tour return to Lima?
You’ll arrive back around 11:45 pm, so be prepared for a full, busy day.

This tour offers a diverse taste of Peru’s natural beauty and adventure. Whether you’re wildlife enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or simply in search of authentic scenery, it’s a well-considered choice for a memorable day outside Lima.