San Fernando Bay and Sandboarding in Nazca.

Looking for a mixture of wildlife encounters, desert thrills, and coastal scenery? This 6-hour tour in Nazca, priced at $91 per person, offers exactly that. Your day begins with a scenic drive through the desert, leads to the chance to spot sea lions, penguins, and condors, and culminates with an adrenaline-pumping sandboarding experience on the dunes.

What we love most? The opportunity to witness more than 350 protected species at San Fernando Bay, and the chance to try sandboarding — a fun, if slightly challenging, activity that adds a real sense of adventure. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge helps bring these natural wonders to life.

One consideration to keep in mind: this tour involves a fair amount of driving and outdoor walking, so it suits those comfortable with a full day of activity in a desert environment. It’s ideal for travelers interested in wildlife, scenic landscapes, and active pursuits rather than luxury or very relaxed experiences. This experience really shines for those who love authentic encounters with nature and are eager for an exciting, well-organized excursion.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Biodiversity: Home to sea lions, penguins, otters, and over 350 protected species.
• Scenic Desert & Coastal Views: Crosses the Nazca desert and visits San Fernando Bay with stunning coastal scenery.
• Educational Value: An interpretation center with skeletons and biodiversity info enriches the experience.
• Adventure Element: Sandboarding on Huaricangana dunes offers thrill and fun.
• Local Guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance understanding and engagement.
• Flexible & Practical: Includes transportation, pick-up from your hotel, and a delicious local lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of This Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The experience begins with hotel pick-up in Nazca, making it convenient and hassle-free. From there, a 4×4 vehicle whisks you southward across the desert landscape, emphasizing comfort and the ability to access more remote areas. The vehicle’s ruggedness is perfect for navigating the sands and rocky terrains you’ll encounter, and sharing the ride with a small group means more personalized attention.

The Desert Journey

The two-hour drive through the Nazca desert sets the tone for the day. As you gaze out the window, you’ll see the Huaricangana and San Fernando hills—not famously as the Nazca Lines, but equally captivating in their stark beauty. This part of the tour offers a chance to appreciate the vastness of the landscape and get a sense of the environment where these creatures thrive.

San Fernando Bay: Wildlife and Biodiversity

Arriving at San Fernando Bay, you’re stepping into an area teeming with life. The coastal waters, though cold, are bustling with schools of sardines and anchovies, providing the basis for the local food chain. Here, you’ll see sea lions lounging on rocks and penguins waddling along the shore — a rare sight in South America outside of Patagonia or the Falklands.

The interpretation center is a highlight for many visitors. It displays animal skeletons and offers insights into the more than 350 protected species that inhabit or visit the reserve. Your guide, often bilingual, will share stories about each species’ role in the ecosystem, making the experience both informative and memorable.

If luck is on your side, you might catch a condor soaring overhead — a breathtaking sight that underscores the majesty of the Andean wildlife. Several travelers commend the guides for their knowledgeable narration, which helps make these sightings more meaningful.

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Lunch Break & Leisure Time

After exploring, it’s time to relax and refuel. A local restaurant offers a chance to taste fresh fish and other regional dishes. Many reviews mention that the lunch is delicious and satisfying, a perfect pause amid the outdoor adventures. You’ll have about an hour free to enjoy the scenery, chat with your group, or browse local shops if available.

Sandboarding Adventure

The final part of your tour takes you back into the desert, ascending to the slopes of Huaricangana mountain. Here, you’ll get equipped with a sandboard and learn some basic techniques before sliding down the dunes. Sandboarding is not just a fun activity but an authentic way to connect more deeply with the landscape — and yes, it’s a thrill, especially for those new to the sport.

For many, this is the most memorable part of the day. Some reviews note that “it’s harder than it looks,” but the guides are patient and encouraging, making it accessible for beginners. Expect to get a bit sandy, and perhaps a funny story or two to tell afterward.

Return and Reflection

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll board your vehicle for the return trip to Nazca. The drive back offers a relaxed atmosphere to reflect on the day’s wildlife sightings, desert vistas, and sandboarding thrills. Your guide will likely point out interesting features along the way, enriching your understanding of the landscape.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of wildlife, scenic desert crossing, and sandboarding makes this a well-rounded experience. Unlike typical desert tours, you get to see animals in their natural habitat and learn from guides passionate about conservation. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch adds great value, ensuring you’re well-fed for the activities ahead.

The bilingual guides earn praise for their ability to share both factual information and local stories, making the experience accessible for English and Spanish speakers alike. And because it’s a small-group tour, you won’t be lost in a crowd, allowing for more personal attention and spontaneous questions.

A Few Considerations

This tour involves a fair amount of outdoor activity—walking on uneven terrain, exposure to sun and wind, and a bit of physical exertion during sandboarding. Travelers should be comfortable with hot, dry environments and prepared with sun protection, water, and suitable footwear.

Also, since the duration is about six hours, it’s best suited for those with a full day to spare. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, less active experience, other options might better suit you.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

Ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. It’s perfect if you want to combine wildlife observation with a desert adventure. Families with older kids might also enjoy the sandboarding activity, while those interested in birdwatching will appreciate the condor sightings.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is a Good Choice

This San Fernando Bay and sandboarding tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and active fun that makes for a memorable day in Nazca. The chance to see penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat is rare in Peru, adding a special touch to your trip. Meanwhile, the sandboarding adds a dash of excitement and helps break up what could otherwise be a straightforward nature tour.

The value for money is notable, considering the included transportation, guiding, and lunch. For travelers who want an authentic, well-organized adventure away from crowded tourist spots, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those willing to be outdoors, curious about wildlife, and eager for a bit of desert adrenaline.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Nazca and transportation in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, including travel, sightseeing, lunch, and sandboarding.

What should I bring?
It’s best to wear comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Don’t forget water to stay hydrated.

Is food included?
Lunch at a local restaurant is included, but other drinks or snacks are not.

Can beginners do sandboarding?
Absolutely. Guides help with basic techniques, and most find it fun even if they’ve never tried before.

What wildlife might I see?
You might see penguins, sea lions, otters, and possibly the Andean condor flying overhead.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making explanations accessible for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife encounters.

In summary, if you’re after a full-day adventure combining wildlife, scenic desert crossings, and a dose of desert fun, this tour in Nazca is a smart choice. It offers a window into Peru’s natural beauty, with enough excitement to make your day memorable.

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