Ica: Sandboarding or sand skiing in the Ica desert

Imagine standing atop a towering sand dune in the heart of Peru’s Ica region, ready to slide down a wall of soft, golden sand. That’s exactly what this sandboarding and sand skiing tour offers. At just $47 per person, it’s a two-hour adventure that combines off-road buggy rides, a taste of desert thrill-seeking, and an introduction to a sport that’s as fun as it is unique. You meet your guide at the scenic Huacachina oasis, hop into a sturdy buggy, and head out into the stunning desert landscape — a perfect quick escape from the bustling city life.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of scenic desert views and the thrill of sliding down those massive dunes. Plus, the fact that you get to choose between sandboarding and sand skiing means you can tailor this adventure to your comfort level — whether you prefer standing on a board or skis. A second highlight is the professional guidance offered; your instructor explains safety rules clearly, making it accessible even for first-timers. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the activity might not be suitable for everyone — especially if you’re pregnant or have mobility issues. Still, for active travelers craving a quick dose of adrenaline, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers who want a taste of desert sports, families with older children, or anyone eager to enjoy breathtaking desert scenery while trying something new. If you’re after a sit-down tour or a relaxed cultural visit, this might not be the right fit. But if you’re open to a fun, active experience with a splash of desert adventure, you’ll likely come away smiling.

Key Points

• Affordable & Short: Two-hour tour at $47 provides great value for a quick desert adrenaline fix.
• Adventure Flexibility: Choose between sandboarding or sand skiing, depending on your interest and comfort.
• Expert Guidance: Clear safety instructions and an English-speaking instructor enhance the experience.
• Scenic Journey: Traversing 5-7 km in a buggy adds a fun off-road element.
• Accessible Experience: Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with mobility impairments.
• Authentic Setting: The activity takes place in the stunning Ica desert near the iconic Huacachina oasis.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sandboarding and Sand Skiing Tour in Ica

Starting at Huacachina: The Perfect Meeting Point

The adventure kicks off at the Huacachina oasis, a picturesque desert lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. This spot is a favorite for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and adventure. Meeting here means you’re immediately immersed in an authentic desert environment before heading out into the dunes.

Your guide, whose name might be shared upon booking, is usually bilingual, speaking English and Spanish. This helps ensure everyone understands the safety rules and instructions clearly. The group size varies but generally remains manageable, allowing for personalized attention and a lively, engaging atmosphere.

The Buggy Ride: From Oasis to Dune Base

Once gathered, you’ll hop into a robust buggy — a vehicle designed for desert terrain — and start your 5-7 km journey into the desert. This part of the tour is often described as exciting and scenic. We loved the way the drivers expertly navigated the sandy tracks, bouncing over dunes while providing plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the vast, arid landscape.

The buggy ride itself is part of the fun; it’s a lively, bumpy ride that builds anticipation for the real highlight — the dunes themselves. Some guests have mentioned that the off-road experience adds significant value, transforming what could be a simple sporting activity into a full desert adventure.

Reaching the Dunes: Setting Up for the Slide

After the drive, you step out of the vehicle onto one of the high dunes. Here, your instructor will demonstrate the basic safety rules, which are straightforward but important — especially for beginners. The focus is on respecting the dune environment, maintaining proper posture, and understanding how to control your slide.

You’ll be equipped with sandboarding or sand skiing gear: boards for standing, skis for a more streamlined glide. If you’re unsure which to pick, your guide will help you decide based on your comfort level or enthusiasm for a more sporty feel.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Fun Begins: Sliding Down the Dunes

The moment you get on your board or skis and push off from the top of the dune, the fun kicks in. Many reviews highlight the thrill of descending massive dunes, with some noting that it’s “more fun than I expected” and “easier to learn than I thought.” The soft sand provides a gentle but exhilarating ride, with the chance to practice your balance and control as you slide down the slopes.

For first-timers, don’t worry — you’re likely to stumble or fall, but that’s part of the experience. Guides are patient and helpful, often offering tips on how to maintain balance or get started.

Returning to Huacachina: Wrapping Up the Adventure

After a few runs, you’ll reassemble at the top of a dune for another round, or simply enjoy the scenery and take photos. When the two hours are up, you’ll climb back into the buggy and head back to Huacachina, often with a sense of having conquered a small but memorable challenge.

The tour typically ends with everyone returning to the starting point, feeling both tired and elated. Some guests reflect on how they learned a new skill, while others simply enjoyed the adrenaline rush.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour price covers everything you need: buggy transportation, an English-speaking instructor, and sandboarding or sand skiing gear. It’s advisable to bring your passport or ID, a camera to capture the moments, and some cash for tips or souvenirs.

You should also wear comfortable clothing suited for desert conditions, and consider bringing sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility challenges, so plan accordingly.

The Value of This Experience

At $47, this tour offers excellent value considering the scenic off-road journey, the personalized instruction, and the unique desert sport. Many travelers find that the memorable photo opportunities and the thrill of sliding down dunes make it worthwhile. The activity’s short duration makes it easy to fit into a broader itinerary without consuming your entire day.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re craving adventure in a stunning desert setting and want a hands-on experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly well-suited for active travelers, families with older children, or anyone eager to try something different from typical sightseeing. The inclusion of safety instructions makes it accessible even for beginners, while the off-road buggy ride adds a layer of excitement that elevates the experience.

Who Might Not Love It?

This experience isn’t ideal if you’re expecting a leisurely or cultural tour. It’s fast-paced, physically active, and outdoors, so if you’re not comfortable in the sun or with physical activity, it might not be perfect. Likewise, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or wheelchair users should consider alternative options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most of the activities are best suited for older children and teenagers, especially those comfortable with physical activity and outdoor environments. Always check with the provider for age restrictions.

Do I need prior experience to sandboard or sand ski?
No, the instructor explains safety rules and provides guidance, making it accessible for beginners who are eager to learn.

How long do we spend at each dune?
You’ll have enough time to get several runs down the dunes within the two-hour window, depending on group size and activity pace.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for desert conditions, along with sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun.

Is the buggy ride part of the activity?
Yes, the buggy ride is an integral part of the experience, taking you into the desert for approximately 5-7 km.

Can I choose between sandboarding and sand skiing?
Yes, you can decide which activity you prefer; the guide will help you select the best option based on your comfort level.

Are there any age or physical restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

What’s included in the price?
Transport by buggy, English-speaking instructor, and sandboarding or sand skiing equipment.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can book in advance, with options to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

In sum, this tour in Ica offers a lively mix of desert adventure and sporting fun at a reasonable price. The combination of scenic buggy rides and the thrill of sliding down dunes makes it a memorable addition to any Peru trip — especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a break from traditional sightseeing. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned thrill-seeker, this experience promises a fun, authentic taste of desert life.

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