Paracas y Huacachina desde LIMA , Islas Ballestas y sandboarding

Experience the Best of Southern Peru with a Full-Day Tour from Lima

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Lima, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of Peru’s most iconic outdoor sights—without the hassle of planning transportation or logistics. For $85 per person, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring Paracas, Huacachina, and Ica, with an experienced guide leading the way. You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, visiting the Islas Ballestas with their wild marine life, the famous sand dunes of Huacachina where you can try sandboarding, and finishing with a visit to Ica’s renowned wineries.

What we especially appreciated are the up-close wildlife encounters at the islands, where the chance to see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and colorful marine birds makes for unforgettable moments. And the adventure of sliding down massive dunes or riding tubulars adds a splash of adrenaline to the trip. The only thing to consider is that this is a full-day tour with some active elements, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, wildlife, and scenic landscapes, especially those eager to get a taste of Peruvian nature and local culture all in a single day. It’s perfect for those arriving in Lima who want an authentic, active day trip filled with unique sights and memorable activities.

Key Points

• All-inclusive Value: The tour covers transportation, entrance fees, activities like sandboarding, and wine tastings, making it a convenient one-stop experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: Visiting the Islas Ballestas offers a chance to see marine life and seabirds in their natural habitat.
• Adventure Activities: Sandboarding on the dunes and riding tubulars add excitement suitable for thrill-seekers.
• Local Culture & Flavors: The visit to Ica includes a wine tasting, giving a taste of Peruvian viticulture.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pick-up from your Lima hotel and private or semi-private transport streamline the day.
• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5.0 rating from five reviews, travelers consistently speak highly of this tour’s overall value and experience.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins early, with a pickup from your Lima hotel around noon, setting the tone for a relaxed day. The transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring you stay comfortable despite the busy schedule ahead. With a maximum of 35 travelers, the group size keeps the experience intimate enough for personalized attention, yet lively enough for shared fun.

First Stop: Islas Ballestas

Our first highlight was the Islas Ballestas, often called the “Galápagos of Peru”. As we cruised through the bay, the guide pointed out the sea lions basking on rocks, while groups of Humboldt penguins waddled along the cliffs. The variety of marine birds—cormorants, flamingos, and guanay—made for a vibrant spectacle. The included admission ticket allowed us access to this natural sanctuary, where we could photograph the wildlife and appreciate the rugged beauty of these islands.

One reviewer, Roberto_F, described it as “excepcional,” noting that it was an “incredible experience” and appreciated that the agency included the return to the hotel—something that adds significant value for hassle-free travel.

Second Stop: Huacachina and Its Dunes

Next, we arrived at the Laguna de Huacachina, a desert oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. The scene here is striking—the reflective water contrasts sharply with golden dunes that stretch for miles. This is where the tour really gets exciting. You can walk around, take photos, or try the sandboarding down the dunes for those wanting a bit of thrill.

The tubular rides were a highlight, providing a bumpy, exhilarating experience that appeals to adventure lovers. The included admission for these activities means you get to enjoy authentic, adrenaline-pumping fun without extra costs.

Final Stop: Ica’s Vitivinicultural Bodegas

The last leg of the journey takes us to Ica, a region famous for its wine and pisco production. Visiting a local vineyard offered a glimpse into Peru’s traditional wine-making process, culminating in a tasting session. This not only adds a cultural touch but also allows you to appreciate local flavors—something many travelers find memorable.

According to the reviews, the delicious wines and tapas truly stand out, providing a perfect end to a busy day. The included visit is free of additional charges, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to unwind before heading back to Lima.

Returning to Lima

The tour concludes around 10:30 pm, with drop-off at your hotel, easing the logistics of a long, active day. This full itinerary packs in a lot of sights and activities, making it a very good value considering the price.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

What makes this tour particularly appealing is how it balances wildlife viewing, adventure, and cultural experiences in one day. We loved the way the wildlife cruise at Islas Ballestas sets the tone—offering that sense of discovery and connection with nature. The adrenaline rush from sandboarding and tubular rides adds a fun, energetic element that few tours combine so smoothly.

The inclusion of wine tasting at Ica offers a genuine taste of local tradition, and the entire experience is designed to maximize what you get from a single day—minimizing travel stress with private transport and guided insight.

Potential Drawbacks

Given the full schedule, this tour might feel a bit rushed for some. The long day requires good stamina, and if you’re not into active or outdoor pursuits, some parts may feel too energetic. Plus, the tour’s weather-dependent activities mean that if conditions aren’t ideal, some activities might be limited or canceled.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers interested in outdoor adventure, wildlife, and scenic landscapes will find this experience highly rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy active pursuits like sandboarding or want a comprehensive day trip that mixes nature, culture, and thrill. If you’re arriving in Lima and want a full taste of southern Peru’s highlights without the hassle of organizing separate visits, this tour is a great pick.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Lima offers exceptional value for travelers eager to explore Paracas, Huacachina, and Ica in one go. The combination of wildlife, adventure, and local culture makes it a well-rounded experience that many reviewers, like Roberto, have described as “inforgettable.” The seamless logistics, guided insights, and included activities make it an efficient way to see some of Peru’s most iconic sights.

While it’s a busy schedule, the diverse highlights—wildlife viewing, dune sliding, wine tasting—keep the day exciting and fulfilling. If you’re seeking an active, authentic, and well-organized trip that introduces you to the natural beauty and local flavors of southern Peru, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 12:00 am, with pickup from your Lima hotel. Be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

How long is the total duration?
The tour is approximately 12 hours, ending around 10:30 pm, including travel time and activities.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with private or semi-private options available, making the journey comfortable.

What activities are included?
Activities include wildlife viewing at Islas Ballestas, sandboarding and tubular rides at Huacachina, and wine tasting at a vineyard in Ica.

Are there any additional costs?
All fees, taxes, and activities are included. However, you should budget for optional tips, meals, and personal souvenirs.

Do I need to have a high physical fitness level?
A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended because of activities like sandboarding and walking around the sites.

Is there a guarantee of wildlife sightings?
While wildlife viewing is generally good, sightings depend on the season and weather. The tour includes a visit to the islands where marine life is abundant.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and some cash for optional purchases or tips.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with active outdoor activities like sandboarding and boat rides.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience southern Peru’s nature, adventure, and local culture in one well-organized day. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a packed itinerary that balances fun, learning, and authentic sights—all without the stress of planning every detail themselves.