Ica – Paracas Full day

Ica – Paracas Full Day Tour: A Mix of Marine Wildlife, Dunes, and Vineyards

When you think of Peru’s desert coast, you might picture the towering Andes and Machu Picchu. But just a few hours south of Lima lies a completely different world—where marine life thrives, sand dunes stretch endlessly, and vineyards produce top-notch pisco and wine. For around $160 per person, you can spend about 15 hours exploring this diverse landscape with a reputable guide, experiencing the Ballestas Islands, the Huacachina oasis, and a local vineyard.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines nature and adventure with culinary delights. You get to see the playful sea lions and penguins at the Ballestas Islands, then feel the thrill of sandboarding down the dunes. Plus, the wine and pisco tasting at El Catador vineyard adds a perfect touch of local flavor. The only possible drawback? The long day of travel—roughly 3.5 hours each way—so patience and good shoes are essential if you want to enjoy everything at a leisurely pace. This trip suits travelers looking for a full-immersion day that offers a bit of everything: wildlife, adventure, and authentic local experiences.

Key Points

• Marine wildlife: See sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds on the boat tour of the Ballestas Islands.
• Adventure activities: Experience sandboarding and tubing in the dunes at Huacachina, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
• Cultural experience: Taste local wines and pisco at El Catador vineyard, with optional lunch included.
• Scenic stops: Marvel at the mystical Candelabro geoglyph and the stunning oasis of Huacachina.
• All-in-one day: This trip covers nature, adventure, and local culture, making it a great value for a full day away from Lima.
• Limited group size: Small groups of up to 14 travelers ensure a more personalized experience.

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A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Journey: From Lima to Paracas

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Miraflores or San Isidro, two of Lima’s most central districts. The van ride takes about 3.5 hours, giving you a comfortable way to leave the city behind and transition into the coastal desert landscape. During the drive, your guide (possibly named in reviews, although not specified) shares interesting tidbits about the region, helping you appreciate the diverse ecosystems you’ll encounter.

This part of the day is a good time to relax or ask questions, as the bus is modern with air conditioning, making the long ride more bearable. Keep in mind that early departure times are common, so prepare to get up a little before dawn if you want to maximize your day.

The Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands

Arriving at El Chaco Pier, you’ll board a modern boat for the highlight of the day—the Ballestas Islands. Here, you’ll get approximately 3.5 hours to explore this marine sanctuary. It’s often called the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” and for good reason—sea lions bask on rocks, Humboldt penguins waddle among seabirds, and the coastline is dotted with candelabra-shaped geoglyphs visible from the sea.

Tour guides are usually very knowledgeable, sharing stories about the islands’ ecology and the significance of the Candelabro, a mysterious symbol carved into the hillside. Travelers frequently comment on how stunning the wildlife viewing is—many note that the sea lions are particularly playful, and the penguins adorable, providing ample photo opportunities.

Exploring the Vineyards at El Catador

After the boat excursion, the trip continues inland to the town of El Catador, famous for its wine and pisco production. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting session—sampling a variety of wines and piscos, often described as delicious and authentic. Some travelers opt to have lunch at the vineyard, which typically features local dishes that complement the drinks.

The vineyard visit offers a chance to learn about Peru’s distilling traditions and to purchase bottles directly from the producer. Many reviewers praise the high quality of the wines and the knowledgeable guides, who make the tasting both fun and educational.

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The Oasis of Huacachina and Dune Adventures

Next, your journey takes you to Huacachina, a desert oasis that’s both surreal and lively. You’ll have some free time to stroll around, take photos of the iconic palm-lined lagoon, and explore the local shops. But the real thrill comes from the sandboarding and tubing.

The dunes are giants—some as high as skyscrapers—and the experience of sliding down them on a board, or zooming downhill in an inflatable tube, is exhilarating. Reviewers highlight the adrenaline rush and the breathtaking scenery. It’s suitable for all adventure levels, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.

Free Time and Reflection

After the activities, you have some free time to soak in the atmosphere of Huacachina. Many visitors like to snap photos of the sunset over the dunes or pick up souvenirs from local vendors. It’s a relaxed way to end the busy day before heading back to Lima.

Returning to Lima

The journey back takes about 3.5 hours, giving you time to unwind after your full day. Expect to arrive in the late evening, tired but filled with memories of marine life, desert adventures, and delicious local drinks.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of southern Peru’s coastal region in just one day. It’s perfect if you’re limited on time but still crave a mix of nature, adventure, and culture. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the variety of activities will appeal to adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and wine lovers alike.

However, be prepared for a long day of travel, which might be tiring if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The activities are quite active—sandboarding especially—so comfort and agility matter. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Transportation and Duration

The round-trip journey spans about 7 hours of driving, split into two parts with stops at the key sites. The modern van ensures comfort, but the long hours on the road mean packing snacks, water, and patience.

The Boat Tour

The boat to the Ballestas Islands is well-organized, with a guided tour included. Expect about 3.5 hours of sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and ask questions. The boat’s safety standards are generally good, with reviewers noting a smooth ride.

The Vineyard Visit

The wine and pisco tasting at El Catador is about an hour, but many stay longer to explore or have lunch. The tasting is guided and designed for beginners and connoisseurs alike, emphasizing local flavors and authentic production methods.

Huacachina Adventures

The sandboarding and tubing take approximately 2 hours. Guides provide equipment and instructions, ensuring beginners are comfortable. The dunes are spectacular, and the activities are safe with proper supervision.

Free Time and Shopping

After the dune activities, you can wander around Huacachina, enjoy the scenery, or pick up souvenirs. The free time is a welcome break before the long drive back.

Pricing and Value

At $160 per person, the tour covers transportation, guides, boat ride, vineyard tasting, dune activities, and some meals. Considering the variety of experiences packed into a single day, many travelers find this to be good value. It’s a comprehensive way to see a different side of Peru without booking multiple separate excursions.

Final Thoughts

The Ica – Paracas full-day tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife spotting, outdoor adventure, and local culture. Whether you’re a nature lover eager to see sea lions and penguins, an adrenaline junkie craving dune thrills, or a wine enthusiast interested in Peru’s pisco and wines, this trip delivers on many fronts.

It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road and are excited about experiencing the diversity of Peru’s coastal landscapes. The small group format ensures a more intimate and engaging experience, which many reviewers appreciate.

If you value stunning coastal scenery, wildlife encounters, and a taste of desert adventure, this tour is a reliable choice. Just be prepared for the long hours and bring your best camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Lima are included, with modern vans providing comfortable transit.

How long is the boat tour?
The boat to the Ballestas Islands lasts about 3.5 hours, allowing plenty of time to see the wildlife and geoglyphs.

Can I have lunch at the vineyard?
Yes, you can enjoy a meal at the vineyard, which often features local dishes to complement the wine and pisco tastings.

Are sandboarding and tubing suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide instructions and equipment, making these activities accessible for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but check if your kids are comfortable with long travel and active dune activities.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness.

How early does the tour start?
Start times vary; check with the operator when booking to confirm your pickup time.

Is this a small group tour?
Yes, limited to 14 participants for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

This full-day adventure is a fantastic way to see a side of Peru often overshadowed by the mountains and Machu Picchu. It offers just the right blend of wildlife, thrill-seeking, and local flavor—a memorable day for those eager to explore beyond Lima.

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