PRIVATE TOUR from Lima to Oasis and ballestas Island(make your own schedule)

Lima’s Hidden Gems: A Personalized Day Trip to Paracas, Ballestas Islands, and Huacachina Oasis

If you’re looking to escape the urban rush of Lima for a day, this private tour offers a flexible, intimate way to explore some of Peru’s most captivating natural sights. For $220 per person, you get about 16 hours of sightseeing—visiting the Ballestas Islands, known as the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” and the striking Huacachina Oasis, surrounded by towering sand dunes. The tour is designed with your preferences in mind, meaning you can tailor your schedule to focus on what excites you most.

What we love about this trip is how it avoids the typical crowded bus tours. Having a private guide and vehicle means your experience is more relaxed and personalized. Plus, the chance to customize your day to include stops you’re most eager to see makes it feel more like an adventure crafted just for you. The inclusion of snacks, a boat tour, and the option to choose how long you spend at each site adds to the overall value.

One thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include lunch, dinner, or optional activities like dune buggy rides—so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan for a meal on your own. Also, the journey relies on good weather, which can influence your experience, especially in the desert. This tour suits travelers who appreciate flexibility, smaller group settings, and authentic moments away from large crowds.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic landscapes, wildlife viewing, and a touch of adventure, this trip could be perfect. It’s especially suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness willing to walk or stand during boat trips and explore the dunes.

Key Points

• Private Experience: You’ll enjoy a personalized and relaxed day with just your group.
• Flexible Schedule: Customize your stops at Huacachina, Paracas, and the Islands.
• Wildlife Viewing: See penguins, sea lions, and diverse bird species at the islands.
• Stunning Scenery: Experience the breathtaking dunes of Huacachina and the rugged coastlines.
• No Fixed Itinerary: The tour’s design allows you to spend more or less time at each site.
• Includes Snacks & Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and refreshments provided.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Early for Maximum Adventure

The tour kicks off around 6:00 am, giving you a full day of exploration. We appreciate the early start because it maximizes daylight, especially considering the long travel time from Lima. The private vehicle—well air-conditioned and comfortable—sets a tone of ease right from the start. Having your own driver means you won’t be squeezed into large groups or pushed along a rigid schedule.

Huacachina Oasis: A Desert Marvel

Your first stop is Huacachina, the only desert oasis in South America, renowned for its towering sand dunes and spectacular sunsets. The trip lasts about four hours here, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. You might choose to walk around the oasis, take photos, or simply relax and absorb the surreal landscape. Some reviews mention that the oasis wasn’t the highlight for everyone, but many travelers find the views and atmosphere unique.

What makes Huacachina special? The towering dunes are perfect for photos, and the sunset views are truly unforgettable. It’s a landscape that feels almost otherworldly, especially as the sun dips behind the dunes, casting long shadows and illuminating the sands in shades of gold and orange.

Paracas and the Ballestas Islands

Next, your journey takes you to Paracas, a coastal town famous for its wildlife and natural beauty. For about two hours, you’ll enjoy a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called “Peru’s Galápagos” for their rich birdlife and sea mammals. Expect to see colonies of penguins, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. The boat ride is a highlight, offering close-up views of these adorable creatures and dramatic coastal scenery.

Authentic wildlife encounters are what make this stop memorable. One reviewer mentioned that the islands are comparable to the Galápagos, but at a fraction of the price, which is quite true. The boat trip is a relaxed, scenic adventure—no rushing or crowding involved—and your guide will point out notable species and formations.

Flexibility and Personalization

Because this tour is private, you can choose how long to stay at each site, whether you want a quick photo stop or a longer exploration. One traveler noted that the tour’s flexibility allowed them to enjoy the boat trip and visit a winery afterward, which shows how adaptable the schedule can be.

Optional Add-Ons and Considerations

While the core package includes snacks, transportation, and the boat trip, it doesn’t cover lunch, dinner, or dune buggy rides. If you’re eager to experience the dunes more actively, you might want to book a separate buggy tour—something many travelers find adds a fun, exhilarating dimension to Huacachina.

The reviews suggest that the driver and guide are friendly and accommodating, making the day more comfortable and enjoyable. However, since this is a private experience, you’re responsible for your own meals and extra activities.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour starts early at 6:00 am, so be prepared for a long day.
• Price at $220 per person reflects the private nature and customizability of the experience.
• Expect to spend about 4 hours at Huacachina and 2 hours at Paracas, with plenty of flexibility.
• Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks—though some are provided—especially for the desert.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around dunes and uneven terrain.
• Confirm weather conditions before going, as poor weather can affect the boat trip and dune views.
• Since the tour is booked on average 120 days in advance, plan ahead if you want to secure your preferred date.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a more intimate, tailored experience outside the crowd-heavy group tours. It’s ideal for those with moderate fitness—able to handle walking and boat rides—and who want to see a mix of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and desert vistas in one day. If you’re interested in wildlife viewing, beautiful scenery, and flexibility, you’ll find this tour offers good value and memorable moments.

It’s especially fitting for travelers who prefer private transportation and want the ability to customize their schedule, rather than being herded along in a large group. Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Peru’s natural beauty with a touch of adventure, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 6:00 am, allowing plenty of time for an exhaustive day of sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults? Yes, as long as they have a moderate physical fitness level, especially since walking and boat rides are involved.

Are meals included? No, lunch and dinner are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase meals on your own.

Can I customize the itinerary? Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can decide how long to spend at each stop and possibly add activities like dune buggy rides.

What is included in the price? The tour includes transportation, snacks, and the boat trip to the islands.

Are there any optional activities? Yes, dune buggies around the dunes are available but not included in the package.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, sunglasses, water, a hat, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is the boat trip safe? Yes, the boat tours are standard, and your guide will ensure safety precautions are followed.

What if the weather is bad? The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book? Booking approximately 120 days ahead is recommended, especially if you want to secure your preferred date.

In summary, this private tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to explore some of Peru’s most stunning natural sites beyond Lima. With wildlife, scenic dunes, and the freedom to craft your perfect day, it’s suited for travelers craving authenticity, personalized service, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a unique escape, this trip makes a memorable addition to your Peruvian journey.