From Ica to Huacachina: Buggy and Sandboarding Tour with Sunset

From Ica to Huacachina: Buggy and Sandboarding Tour with Sunset

Imagine yourself hurtling across vast, sun-kissed dunes in a rugged dune buggy, feeling the wind in your hair and the thrill of adrenaline in your veins. For around $25, this two-hour desert adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Ica to the surreal oasis of Huacachina, where the sands of southern Peru stretch endlessly. Guided by personable drivers and sandboarding experts, you’ll climb into a sturdy buggy, bounce over shifting dunes, and carve your way down the sandy slopes—culminating with a stunning sunset view that makes all the earlier thrills even more memorable.

What we love about this tour is how seamlessly it combines adrenaline-fueled fun with natural beauty. The guides are known for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making the whole experience feel both safe and exciting. Plus, the chance to capture the sunset over South America’s largest desert adds a touch of magic to an already unforgettable ride.

That said, it’s worth noting that during busy holidays, the tour duration might be shortened to about an hour, so if you’re looking for a lengthy adventure, plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who crave active outdoor fun—whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a first-time sandboarder, or someone who simply wants to see the desert from a new perspective.

Key Points

• Affordable and Fun: At just $25 per person, this tour offers great value for the adrenaline rush and stunning scenery.
• Authentic Experience: Includes a guided buggy ride through the dunes, with stops for sandboarding and sunset viewing.
• Flexibility: Pickup service is available, making it easy to join without hassle.
• Limited Admission Fees: The only extra cost is the tourist tax of S/ 3.60, which is paid at the start.
• Short but Sweet: With a 2-hour duration, it’s a quick but packed outing perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• Family Friendly: Reviews mention it’s manageable for all ages, with guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Huacachina Dune Buggies and Sandboarding Tour

Setting the Scene in Ica and Huacachina

Starting at Ica Discovery Tours, the adventure begins with a brief walk to the buggy parking lot near the Huacachina lagoon. This initial part is straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for a short walk up to the dunes—some reviews mention a manageable hill or hike to reach the buggy starting point. For most, it’s a small price to pay for the fun ahead.

Once you’re in the buggy, the real excitement begins. The guides, often friendly locals, are praised for their enthusiasm and professionalism. They know the dunes well, weaving through the massive, ever-changing landscape of Huacachina’s dunes like seasoned roller coaster riders.

The Dune Buggies: Fast, Fun, and Full of Surprises

The main highlight is the buggy ride itself. These vehicles are designed to tackle the sandy terrain with ease, zooming up and down dunes in a way that feels like a mix of thrill ride and scenic tour. The reviews describe the ride as “amazing,” “epic,” and “full of adrenaline and laughs.” The guides often make stops, giving you a chance to catch your breath and take photos.

One key detail to note is that while the tour lasts about 2 hours, the exact number of dunes covered can vary. Some reviews mention only a few downhill runs—around three in total—though the ride in the buggy itself is often described as the most fun. If you’re hoping for lots of dunes to descend, it’s good to clarify that the experience emphasizes a balance of riding, stops, and scenic views rather than quantity.

Sandboarding: A Highlight for All Levels

Sandboarding is included in the package, and it’s clear that many find it a highlight. You’ll have the chance to try regular sandboarding—not skiing or snowboarding, but sliding down dunes on your board. The reviews emphasize this as “fun,” with one traveler mentioning it was “manageable for us,” even with a short hike to reach the starting point.

If you’re new to sandboarding, don’t worry: the guides are friendly and cautious, offering tips and ensuring you’re comfortable before sliding down. For seasoned thrill-seekers, it’s a chance to sharpen your skills on some of the best dunes in southern Peru.

Sunset at the Desert’s Edge

The timing of this tour is ideal for catching the sunset. As the sun dips lower, the shadows cast on the dunes create a truly breathtaking scene—warm hues spilling across the landscape. Several reviews mention how stunning the sunset view is, with photos that come out “gorgeous” and “beautiful.” This is a peaceful moment amid the high-energy ride, perfect for snapping memorable pictures or just soaking in the natural beauty.

The Huacachina Oasis and Final Views

The tour ends at the Huacachina viewpoint, offering a panoramic view of the oasis—an almost surreal sight amid the endless dunes. The lush greenery surrounding the lagoon contrasts sharply with the sandy desert, giving a sense of the unique environment. This is a good moment to reflect on the contrast between the arid landscape and this tiny, vibrant oasis.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is wise—a lot of travelers plan their trip about a month beforehand, especially during peak seasons.
• The tour includes pickup, which is convenient if you’re staying nearby.
• For just S/ 3.60 soles ($1), you’ll need to pay the tourist tax at the start—an easy addition to the overall cost.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, as long as they’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and outdoor fun.
• Expect to spend about 2 hours on the dunes, with the actual experience feeling fast-paced and lively.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers emphasize the friendly and communicative guides, often mentioning how helpful they are via WhatsApp before the tour. The overall tone is very positive, with travelers describing the experience as “great fun,” “amazing,” and “worth the money.” Many also point out the good value for the adrenaline rush and views you get.

One reviewer noted, “We made stops for the sandboarding boards and appreciated the sunset,” highlighting how the tour combines different activities smoothly. Another mentioned that the driver “took us on a fast adventure ride,” making the most of the limited time.

Why This Tour Matters

This activity isn’t just about the thrill—although that’s a big part of it. The tour offers a glimpse into the dynamic landscape of Huacachina, a rare natural oasis surrounded by giant dunes. It’s an authentic way to experience Peru’s desert environment in a fun, engaging manner.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a short, energetic outdoor experience that’s packed with fun, this tour is a perfect choice. It appeals to adventure lovers, families, and anyone curious about sandboarding or dune buggy rides. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a quick but memorable highlight of Ica’s desert scenery without long hikes or complex logistics.

However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed or in-depth desert exploration, this tour might feel a bit hurried. Also, during holidays when the tour duration shortens, you’ll want to manage expectations about how many dunes you’ll experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention it’s manageable for families, including children around 11 years old, as long as they’re comfortable with outdoor adventure and physical activity.

How much does the tourist tax cost?
The only extra fee is S/ 3.60 soles per person, paid at the start of the tour, which covers the entrance to the desert area.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a buggy ride, sandboarding, and sunset views. The price covers the activity itself, but tips, lunch, and the entrance fee to Huacachina are not included.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet lively activity perfect for a half-day outing.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 29 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, ensuring availability and planning.

What about health facilities or safety?
According to reviews, health facilities are available nearby, and guides are attentive to safety, providing clear instructions and assistance.

Is transportation provided?
Pickup is offered from your hotel or designated location, simplifying the logistics of your day.

Final thoughts

This buggy and sandboarding tour from Ica to Huacachina is a fantastic way to experience one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes without the fuss. It blends adrenaline, natural beauty, and cultural charm into a compact adventure that’s accessible to most travelers. Whether you’re chasing thrill rides, eager to try sandboarding, or simply want to see the desert’s stunning sunset, this tour has a lot to offer for a modest price.

The guides’ friendliness and the scenic vistas elevate the experience beyond just a ride—they make it memorable. The limited duration keeps the tour energetic and manageable, perfect for those with a tight schedule or just dipping their toes into desert adventures.

If you’re after a fun, authentic, and affordable desert escapade, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a lively, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable way to spend a few hours in the desert, leaving you with great stories and even better photos.

Note: Always check the current conditions and availability, especially during busy holiday periods, and consider booking in advance to secure your spot.