Paracas | Excursion to Ica and Huacachina oasis

Paracas | Excursion to Ica and Huacachina Oasis: A Practical Guide to Peru’s Desert and Culture

If you’re looking for a day-trip that combines cultural exploration with a touch of adventure, this tour from Paracas to Ica and Huacachina might be just what you need. For $115 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours enjoying the history, flavors, and landscape of the Ica region. From visiting a local winery to wandering through Ica’s streets and experiencing the iconic Huacachina oasis, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this part of Peru special.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the chance to sample Peruvian Pisco at a working winery — a genuine way to connect with local traditions. Plus, the exhilarating opportunity to sandboard in Huacachina makes the trip memorable for those craving some adrenaline.

A possible consideration is the timing; starting around 11:30 a.m. and returning by 8 p.m., the day is packed, and travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might feel a bit rushed. This tour suits those interested in a structured, guided experience that balances cultural insight with outdoor fun, especially if you’re eager to see multiple sites without planning each detail yourself.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: Visit Ica’s main sites, including the Plaza de Armas, the church of Señor de Luren, and the Regional Museum.
• Wine and Pisco Tasting: Gain insight into local production methods and sample some of the region’s best wines.
• Adventure in Huacachina: Experience the thrill of sandboarding and enjoy stunning desert vistas.
• Convenient Transportation: All travel is included, making for a seamless day.
• Small Group Size: With a limit of 10 participants, the tour offers a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Return Options: Drop-off can be arranged either back in Paracas or in Ica, depending on your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Travel Logistics

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Paracas around 11:30 a.m., giving you a comfortable start to the day. The bus journey to Ica takes about an hour and a half — a good time to relax or briefly review your guide’s notes on the region’s history.

The small group size (limited to ten) allows for a more personalized experience, with guides like Luis or Carmen providing insights in both Spanish and English. The comfortable, air-conditioned bus makes the trip pleasant, especially if you’re coming from the coast.

The Winery Experience: Sipping and Learning

Our first stop in Ica is at a local winery, which is a highlight for many. Here, the focus is on peruvian Pisco, the national spirit of Peru, and the region’s wines. This is not just a tasting; it’s a chance to understand the process from grape to glass.

The guide explained that visitors get to taste some of the products, which is a treat. The chance to try fresh, local wines and compare different varieties gives you a real appreciation of Peru’s winemaking traditions. Many reviews praise this part for its authenticity and friendly atmosphere: “Loved the way they explained the wine making process and the chance to taste several varieties.”

Exploring Ica’s Main Sites

After the winery, the tour continues with a guided walk through Ica’s streets. You’ll see the Plaza de Armas, a lively square surrounded by colonial architecture, and the Church of Señor de Luren, a significant religious site for locals. The Regional Museum of Ica offers a deeper dive into the region’s history, showcasing artifacts from cultures like Paracas, Nasca, Wari, and Inca.

Many travelers appreciate the museum for its clarity: “It’s small but well-organized, and it really helps you understand the layers of history here.” There’s an admission fee of 15 S/ (soles), which is a reasonable addition to the tour.

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Huacachina Oasis: Nature and Adventure

The highlight for most visitors is the stop at Huacachina, a surreal desert oasis with a lagoon surrounded by towering dunes. The landscape alone is worth the visit — it’s a sharp contrast to the coastal scenery of Paracas. The guide shares the legend of Huacachina, adding a layer of myth to the experience.

Here, you have about an hour of free time. Many choose to try sandboarding, which is available for an extra fee but well worth it for the adrenaline rush. Others simply enjoy walking along the dunes or relaxing by the lagoon. The views of the sun setting over the desert landscape are often mentioned as unforgettable.

Lunch and Free Time

The tour includes a one-hour window for lunch, giving you the chance to try local dishes or grab a quick snack. Ten participants have noted that the free time is enough to find a decent place and enjoy a relaxed meal without feeling rushed.

Return Journey

After a full day, the bus departs Huacachina around 4 p.m. and heads back to Paracas, arriving around 8 p.m. This schedule works well for travelers who want to maximize their day but might be a long evening for those with early plans the next day.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around Ica and exploring dunes.
• Bring cash for museum entrance fees and extra purchases like wine or sandboarding.
• The small group size means a more intimate experience, but it’s wise to book early as spots fill quickly.
• While meals aren’t included, there are plenty of options for lunch during the free time — consider trying some local ceviche or anticuchos.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers wanting a balanced mix of culture and adventure. If you enjoy learning about local traditions, tasting regional wines, or trying your hand at sandboarding, this trip offers a little of everything. It’s perfect if you prefer guided excursions that don’t require you to organize logistics yourself.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small groups and personalized attention, making the day feel more like a trip with friends than a crowd-filled tour. However, travelers seeking a very relaxed pace or more time at each stop might find this schedule a bit full.

The Sum Up

This tour from Paracas to Ica and Huacachina delivers solid value for those eager to explore beyond the coast. You’ll enjoy authentic wine tasting, learn about regional cultures, and experience the dunes up close — all in one day. The combination of cultural insight, scenic landscapes, and a dash of adventure makes it a versatile choice.

Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or someone who wants a shot of adrenaline in the desert, this tour offers a well-rounded slice of Peru’s diverse attractions. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and varied activities make it a memorable way to spend a day. Just be prepared for a full schedule and a lot of highlights packed into six hours.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pick-up is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. from your hotel in Paracas, so plan to be ready a little earlier to avoid delays.

How long is the bus ride from Paracas to Ica?
The journey takes about an hour and a half, providing a comfortable window for relaxing or reviewing the day’s plans.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, a bilingual guide, and wine and pisco tasting at the winery.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s a free hour to find your own meal at Huacachina.

Can I buy local products during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase wine, souvenirs, or snacks during the stops, especially at the winery and in Ica.

Is there an entrance fee for the museum?
Yes, the Regional Museum of Ica charges a 15 S/ entrance fee, payable on-site.

What if I want to stay longer in Huacachina?
The tour includes about an hour of free time, but you could arrange to stay longer if you coordinate with your guide beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities like sandboarding, but keep in mind the schedule might be long for very young kids.

This guided day trip from Paracas offers a well-curated look at Ica’s cultural gems and Huacachina’s natural beauty, all in a manageable, engaging package. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a strong way to make the most of your time in southern Peru.

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