Full Day Paracas – Ica from Lima: An Authentic Peruvian Adventure

If you’re craving an unforgettable day exploring some of southern Peru’s most iconic sights, the Full Day Paracas – Ica from Lima tour offers an excellent value for about $115 per person. This 13-hour journey takes you from the bustle of Lima to the stunning Ballestas Islands, the surreal Huacachina desert oasis, and finishes with a visit to a local winery for tasting some of Peru’s famous piscos and wines. Oh, and did I mention it includes all the transport? That’s a big plus, saving you the hassle of organizing multiple trips on your own.

What we especially appreciate about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who make the journey engaging and informative, and the variety of landscapes — from marine wildlife to vast dunes and lush vineyards. The experience is balanced, giving you a taste of nature, adventure, and local culture all in a single day.

That said, this is a long day, and if you’re not used to early mornings or long bus rides, it might be a stretch. Also, some stops are quite brief, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider how much time you want at each location. This tour is perfect for those who love adventure, want a comprehensive taste of southern Peru, and don’t mind a full day on the road.

Key Points

All-in-one experience: Marine wildlife, desert dune buggies, and wine tasting in one day.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience.
Seamless logistics: Transportation is included, making the trip hassle-free.
Authentic activities: Sandboarding, boat rides, and local wine tasting.
Early start: Leaves Lima at 4 am, so be prepared for a long day.
Ideal for adventure lovers: Those who enjoy outdoor activities and varied scenery.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour offers a full package for travelers eager to explore Peru beyond Lima. Starting at around 4 am from a centrally located pick-up point—Avenida Arequipa—you’ll face a long bus ride that lasts approximately 3.5 hours. While early, this time allows you to maximize your day, arriving fresh for the activities ahead.

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The Journey Begins: Lima to Paracas

The ride from Lima is comfortable, with modern buses that keep you entertained with scenic views along the coast and countryside. It’s worth noting that the transportation is included in the price, so you won’t need to worry about booking separate tickets or figuring out transit logistics.

Stop 1: The Iconic Ballestas Islands

One of the tour’s crown jewels is the guided boat ride around Ballestas Islands (also called Isla Blanca). Recognized as a prime spot for marine wildlife, the islands are teeming with birds, sea lions, and other marine creatures. The boat ride lasts about 1 hour 40 minutes, giving you enough time to marvel at the lively fauna and snap some memorable photos.

Participants often rave about the guides’ storytelling, which brings the islands’ wildlife and environment to life. As one traveler noted, “The guides were wonderful and inclusive,” making the experience both fun and educational.

The Desert Oasis of Huacachina

Next, you’ll head to Huacachina, a natural desert lagoon surrounded by towering dunes. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of this surreal setting, with opportunities for sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The thrill of zooming across the dunes in a specially designed adventure car is a highlight — an exhilarating way to experience the desert’s vastness.

While only about an hour and a half, this stop leaves a lasting impression. Travelers often mention how the spectacular dunes and unique setting make for perfect photos and a real sense of adventure. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring a windbreaker, as the desert can be breezy and hot.

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Visiting the Ica Wine Region

After desert fun, the tour proceeds to Ica for a relaxed visit to a local artisanal winery. Here, you’ll get a brief tour of the winery process, followed by tastings of local piscos and wines. You’ll also have some time to wander through the market or buy souvenirs.

Many reviews praise the quality of the wine and pisco tasting, describing it as a valuable addition to the day. This part of the trip gives insights into Peru’s traditional alcohol production, which is deeply tied to local culture.

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Returning to Lima

The journey back is approximately 4.5 hours, meaning you’ll arrive back in Lima around late evening. While long, the trip is mostly comfortable, and the scenic views help make the time pass smoothly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comprehensive Itinerary

You’re hitting several highlights in one day—marine wildlife, desert adventure, and wine tasting—making it a good choice for travelers who want a well-rounded experience. Each stop offers something different, ensuring you won’t get bored.

Quality Guided Tours

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism of the guides, such as “The guides were wonderful and inclusive.” Their local insights help you appreciate each location more deeply, especially when navigating busy or unfamiliar environments.

Value for Money

For $115, including transportation, guided tours, boat rides, sandboarding, and tastings, this tour provides excellent value. It eliminates the hassle of planning each element separately and provides a seamless experience from start to finish.

Authentic Experiences

Rather than just ticking off sights, this tour delves into local culture and nature, from the vibrant fauna of the islands to the traditional wine-making process. Travelers have remarked on the authenticity of the activities, making it more memorable.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

Prepare for early mornings: Set your alarm early and get a good night’s sleep beforehand.
Dress comfortably: Breathable clothes, sturdy shoes for sandboarding, and sun protection are essential.
Bring essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, water, and a packed lunch will keep you energized.
Keep valuables safe: Carry only what you need, and use a daypack for essentials.
Be ready for long hours: The day is packed, so patience and good humor will enhance your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers who love outdoor activities and diverse landscapes. If you’re interested in wildlife, dunes, or local wine, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer guided experiences, as the tours are well-organized and informative. Travelers who don’t mind early mornings and long drives will get the most out of it.

However, if you’re sensitive to motion sickness or have health issues that make travel or strenuous activity difficult, this might not be ideal. The tour is not suitable for babies under one year or those with certain medical conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Paracas – Ica from Lima tour offers a rich blend of nature, adventure, and culture in a single day. It’s an excellent way to see some of Peru’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips yourself. The expert guides, combined with genuine activities like boat rides, sandboarding, and wine tasting, make for an authentic and engaging experience.

If you’re after a full, active day that combines wildlife, desert fun, and local flavors, this tour provides a compelling package. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy a variety of Peruvian landscapes without sacrificing comfort or quality.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at around 4 am, starting from a designated meeting point on Avenida Arequipa in Lima.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transfers and transportation from Lima to Paracas, Ica, and back are included in the price.

How long is the bus ride?
The trip from Lima to Paracas is about 3.5 hours, with subsequent transfers between stops lasting 1 to 1.5 hours.

What activities are included at Huacachina?
You’ll enjoy guided tours, sandboarding, and dune buggy rides—an adventurous way to experience the desert landscape.

Can I taste local wines and piscos?
Absolutely. The winery visit includes guided tours and tastings of local wines and piscos, showcasing Peru’s traditional beverage craft.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children, but not for babies under 1 year. Keep in mind the long hours and active nature.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection, water, a camera, and a packed lunch are recommended. Don’t forget your passport or ID.

How long is the return trip to Lima?
The journey back takes around 4.5 hours, so be prepared for a late arrival in Lima.

Is it possible to cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

In all, this tour delivers a hefty dose of Peru’s most captivating sights, all packed into one carefully curated day. Whether you’re drawn by wildlife, adventure, or local flavors, it’s an experience that’s hard to beat for the value and authenticity.