LIMA: HALF-DAY SANDBOARDING TOUR

LIMA: HALF-DAY SANDBOARDING TOUR is a unique way to combine adventure with the quick escape from the city chaos of Lima. Priced at $150 per person, this 6-hour excursion takes you about 70km from downtown Lima—the right distance for a day of adrenaline without sacrificing too much of your time. Led by qualified instructors, the tour promises a safe, fun, and accessible introduction to sandboarding, even if you’ve never tried it before.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its convenience and professional guidance. The all-terrain vehicle ride offers scenic views of the desert landscape, and the instructors are there to ensure you’re comfortable and safe. We also like that it’s not a full-day commitment, making it easier to fit into a busy itinerary or combine with other activities in Lima.

However, some travelers have noted a few downsides, like the experience of being in less lively locations or the presence of a dog in the vehicle, which might bother sensitive travelers. This tour is most suited for those who seek a quick, authentic adventure without the need for prior experience, and who are comfortable with some off-road driving and outdoor activity.

If you’re looking for an active day trip that offers a taste of Peru’s desert landscape without traveling hours, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who want a fun, safe introduction to sandboarding with all equipment provided and a knowledgeable guide to help you along the way.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: No prior experience needed, equipment with velcro bindings suitable for sneakers.
• Convenient Location: Just 70km from Lima, saving time and avoiding long travel days.
• Professional Guidance: Qualified instructors ensure safety and maximum fun.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, safety helmets, entrance fees, water, and hotel pickup are included.
• Balanced Itinerary: Two off-road rides with a sandboarding session and photo stops.
• Potential Downsides: Some travelers mention less lively surroundings and a driver with a dog in the vehicle, which may impact comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Pickup
We start bright and early (check availability for specific times) with pickup from your hotel or chosen location in Miraflores or San Isidro. This convenience is a major plus—no need to navigate public transport or worry about getting lost. The guide will load you into an all-terrain Jeep or SUV, ready for a roughly 90-minute drive across scenic landscapes. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with the driver demonstrating off-road skills that add a dash of excitement even before reaching the dunes.

The Desert and Sandboarding Area
Once in the desert, the vastness of the landscape quickly becomes apparent. The sand dunes stretch out as far as the eye can see, offering plenty of space for daring descents. The guide will give you a brief safety lesson and instructions—perfectly suited for first-timers—so you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed. The equipment, featuring velcro bindings, makes it easy to slide down and transition to more challenging dunes if you’re feeling brave.

Sandboarding Session
The core activity lasts about two hours, divided into multiple runs on dunes of varying heights. Some reviews noted that the instructor quickly pushes participants to try higher dunes, which can be exhilarating but also a little intimidating for the cautious. The instructor’s experience and attentiveness help ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the activity safely. We appreciated that the tour emphasizes fun and safety over competition or risk-taking.

Photo and Rest Stops
Along the way, there’s a designated photo stop where you can capture the stunning landscape—perfect for sharing your adventure on social media. The scenery is striking, with sweeping desert vistas and the occasional distant mountain, providing a diverse backdrop to your sandboarding memories. After the session, the vehicle returns for another scenic off-road ride, often more relaxed and reflective.

Drop-Off and Reflection
The return trip takes another 1.5 hours, giving you time to unwind, chat about your experiences, or simply enjoy the desert views. The tour concludes with drop-offs back at your original pickup point, allowing you to head straight back into the city or continue exploring Lima.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included in the Price
– Sandboarding equipment and safety helmets—no need to rent or bring your own.
– Entrance fees to the desert area, ensuring no surprise costs.
– Bottled water to stay hydrated during the activity.
– Pickup and drop-off at your hotel, Airbnb, or specified location.
– Qualified instructor guiding you through all stages.

What’s Not Included
– Meals such as breakfast, lunch, or dinner—you might want to pack a snack or plan to dine afterward.
– Beers, other drinks, or snacks are not provided, so bring your own if desired.

What to Bring
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and a change of clothes are essential. Since the activity can get dusty, clothes that can get dirty are recommended. A daypack for your belongings, a fully charged smartphone for photos, and cash for extras are advised.

Restrictions and Considerations
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back or mobility issues, heart problems, epilepsy, or allergies to insect bites. Also, it’s not recommended for children over 95 years or people with certain disabilities. Insect repellent and biodegradable sunscreen are advised to protect yourself and the environment.

The Real Traveler Perspective: Pros and Cons

One traveler noted the professionalism of the instructors and the overall safety, describing the activity as “fun and safe,” even for those without previous experience. Many appreciated the great value for the money, especially considering the included equipment, instructor guidance, and hotel pickup.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A traveler mentioned a disappointing experience with the driver bringing a dog into the vehicle—though this is not a common complaint, it’s worth considering if you’re sensitive to odors or animals. Another reviewer felt the location was somewhat “sad,” with fewer people doing the activity, which might affect the lively atmosphere some seek during outdoor adventures.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurers eager to try sandboarding without traveling too far from Lima. It suits beginners, families, or groups looking for a fun, safe outdoor activity in a stunning desert setting. If you love scenic drives, outdoor sporting fun, and a quick escape from city life, this will fit the bill. But if you’re uncomfortable with off-road vehicles, dust, or less energetic environments, you might want to explore other options.

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The Sum Up: Why Choose This Tour?

This half-day sandboarding adventure offers a practical and lively way to experience Peru’s desert landscape. It’s designed for those who value professional guidance, convenience, and decent value. The included equipment and safe environment make it accessible for first-timers, especially if you’re eager to try a sport that combines adrenaline with stunning scenery.

While not a perfect experience for everyone, it’s a fun, authentic taste of Peru’s outdoor landscape that fits well into a busy itinerary. The tour’s emphasis on safety and the opportunity to learn a new skill make it a memorable addition to your Lima trip—especially if you’re craving a bit of adventure in your cultural journey.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for those without previous sandboarding experience. Equipment has velcro bindings suitable for sneakers, and instructors guide you through the basics to ensure everyone can participate safely.

How long is the drive from Lima to the desert?
The trip is approximately 70km, which takes about 1.5 hours in an all-terrain vehicle. The scenic drive is part of the experience, with opportunities to enjoy views along the way.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers sandboarding equipment, safety helmets, entrance fees, bottled water, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the guidance of a qualified instructor.

Can I bring food or drinks?
The tour does not include meals or snacks. You’re advised to bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a snack if desired, but meals are not provided.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, durable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, such as sportswear, are recommended. Shoes should be closed-toe and comfortable; sandals or flip-flops are not allowed.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with certain health conditions, or mobility impairments. Insect repellent and biodegradable sunscreen are recommended.

How many people are in each group?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, most tours tend to have small groups for a more personalized experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process offers flexible reservation with “reserve now, pay later.”

Will I be able to take photos?
Absolutely, the tour includes designated photo stops, and you are encouraged to bring your camera for scenic shots and action photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activity is generally suitable for older children comfortable with outdoor sports, but younger children or those with health restrictions may not be ideal candidates.

With plenty of adventure and scenic beauty in a short time, this sandboarding tour provides a fun, accessible way to experience the desert outside Lima. Whether you’re seeking a new sport, a memorable photo opportunity, or just a break from city sightseeing, it’s a lively option worth considering.

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