Sandboarding and Off Road in Lima (National Park Lomas de Ancón)

Sandboarding and Off Road in Lima (National Park Lomas de Ancón): A Thrilling Day Out

If you’re looking for a break from city sightseeing, this sandboarding and off-road tour from Lima offers an exhilarating escape into the desert’s quiet beauty. With a price tag of around $192, this roughly 6 to 8-hour adventure takes you away from the urban sprawl into the remote dunes of Lomas de Ancón. Led by friendly guides, you’ll get a thorough safety briefing, professional equipment, and a chance to carve down sandy slopes with no prior experience needed. Plus, you’ll be back in town with plenty of time to enjoy your evening.

What we really love about this tour is how seamlessly it combines adventure with comfort. The transportation is all included, so there’s no fuss about getting out there, and the guides are both knowledgeable and patient — crucial when you’re trying to master sandboarding for the first time. We also appreciate that the scenery is truly captivating: a hidden desert landscape that most travelers don’t get to see on a typical city tour. However, keep in mind that the tour depends on favorable weather, and cancellations can happen if conditions turn poor.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and want an authentic taste of Peru’s less-visited landscapes. It’s especially popular with those who like a bit of thrill and are open to trying something new — even if you’ve never snowboarded or sandboarded before, the guides ensure you’ll feel confident and supported.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience: Visit a remote dune area far from city crowds for a unique adventure.
• Inclusive activities: All equipment, instruction, and transport are included — perfect for beginners.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable instructors and drivers ensure safety and fun throughout.
• Beautiful scenery: Get stunning views of Lima’s hidden desert landscapes and soft dunes.
• Flexible timing & private tours: Options for morning or afternoon, with personalized attention.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations possible in bad weather, but full refunds or alternative dates are offered.

Discovering Lima’s Desert: What to Expect

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of city views, ecological insights, and desert thrills. It starts with a hotel pickup, allowing you to relax and enjoy a scenic drive through Lima’s downtown area. It’s a great way to get a quick orientation of the city’s layout as your guide points out different neighborhoods. Passing near the Callao District and the airport, you get a sense of Lima’s sprawling urban fabric before heading into the desert landscape.

Stop 1: Muelle de Ancon

Your first stop is at the fishermen’s town of Ancon, where the tour office is based. Here, you’ll meet your instructor, get fitted with your gear, and learn a bit about the local ecosystem. The 15-minute session is straightforward but essential, especially for first-timers. Reviewers mention that the staff is friendly and supportive, making beginners feel comfortable right from the start.

Stop 2: Eco-system of the Lomas

Next, you’ll drive along the Pan-American Highway, passing through the Lomas de Ancón, an ecological zone that offers a stark contrast to the desert dunes. This 10-minute stop provides insight into this unique habitat, which is green and lush in winter but dry and barren in summer. It’s a fascinating window into Lima’s coastal environment, giving extra context to the landscape you’ll explore later.

Stop 3: Entering the Desert

The highlight is reaching the desert dunes where the fun truly begins. Your instructor gives a rundown of sandboarding techniques, from stance to breaking to bunny heels. Expect about 3 hours of actual sandboarding, with plenty of opportunities to try different dunes. Soft, sprawling dunes offer a perfect playground for learners, and the guides encourage progression at your own pace.

One of the most cherished moments, according to reviews, is when you reach a big soft dune for panoramic views of Lima’s hidden desert scenery. Many travelers mention that the guides’ patience and support make all the difference. As one enthusiastic visitor says, “Aldo was a patient and professional teacher. We learnt a lot and had fun!”

Photography & Scenery

Throughout the day, you’ll be encouraged to take amazing footage of your rides and the surrounding landscape. There are plenty of opportunities for photos, especially atop high dunes offering sweeping views of the coastal desert. Reviewers rave about the pictures taken during the tour, often noting they capture the “best adventure photos” of their trip.

Returning & Snacks

After a photo session and some final runs, you’ll return to the office in Ancon, then get dropped off back at your hotel or chosen location. Included snacks and bottled water keep you refreshed, and many reviews mention how friendly and professional the staff are, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This experience shines because of the combination of adventure and safety. The guides are certified and well-trained, and they emphasize safety gear, proper technique, and gradual skill-building. That means even first-timers leave feeling confident and proud of their new sandboarding skills.

Another big plus is the scenic diversity. You move from the city streets to a vibrant ecological zone, and finally into the vast, quiet dunes. That range of landscapes keeps the day exciting and provides ample photo opportunities.

The all-inclusive nature of the tour simplifies logistics. You don’t have to worry about transportation, gear, or finding a good spot — it’s all handled for you. Plus, the private tour option ensures personalized attention, which many travelers find invaluable.

Who will love this experience?

If you enjoy outdoor activities and are eager to try something different, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially ideal for those who want a half-day adventure that’s easy to fit into a busy itinerary. Even if you’re not a seasoned athlete, the supportive guides and beginner-friendly equipment make this accessible.

Couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a memorable story to tell will find plenty to love here. And if you’re traveling with kids, you’ll appreciate the moderate physical effort involved, with safety and fun front and center.

Practical Details & Tips

While the tour is quite balanced, here are some things to keep in mind to make your day smoother:

• Pricing at $192.31, it offers good value considering the included transportation, equipment, snacks, and guidance.
• Duration of 6-8 hours fits well into a day trip, with plenty of time for both the drive and activities.
• Transportation is private, with hotel pick-up and drop-off, saving you the hassle of trying to find the meeting point.
• Weather can influence the experience: cancellation is possible if conditions are poor, but you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Clothing: Sport-long sleeve clothes, hat, and sunscreen are recommended for protection against the sun and sand.
• Shoe size must be provided at booking, so plan ahead.
• Group size is limited to 15, ensuring personalized attention.
• Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, making this a family-friendly adventure.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that what makes this tour special are the knowledgeable guides, the stunning desert views, and the fun, safe environment. Rachel describes it as “one of the biggest highlights of her trip,” emphasizing how encouraging her guide was, especially for first-timers.

Many mention feeling safe and supported, with instructors making sure everyone can succeed. Ashley notes, “He supported us so well that we thought we were pros by the end,” highlighting how accessible the activity is, regardless of experience.

For some, the highlight is the quiet, private dunes — a perfect escape from crowded tourist spots — combined with the thrill of sandboarding. Visitors also appreciate the professional driving of Carlos, which added an extra layer of excitement without sacrificing safety.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thrilling glimpse into Lima’s lesser-known landscapes. It balances adventure with safety, making it an excellent choice for those new to sandboarding or anyone craving an active day outside the city. The scenic vistas, professional guides, and all-inclusive setup deliver good value for a memorable experience.

If you’re seeking a day filled with adventure, photography, and new skills, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a fantastic way to combine urban sightseeing with a wild, natural landscape. Plus, you’ll leave with photos and stories that’ll make your friends jealous.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, all equipment and instructions are included, and guides are experienced in supporting first-timers.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 6 to 8 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and return.

What should I wear?
Long-sleeve sports clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is hotel pickup provided?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, but physical fitness levels should be moderate.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or an alternative date.

Are snacks included?
Yes, snacks and bottled water are provided during the day.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is private for your group, with a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

What’s the main highlight of this experience?
Many travelers love the stunning desert views and the support from guides that help make sandboarding accessible and fun for everyone.

Final Word

For anyone craving an active, scenic escape just outside Lima, this sandboarding and off-road tour provides a well-organized, authentic experience. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, or families looking to add a memorable highlight to their Peruvian trip. With friendly guides, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to learn a new skill, it offers real value and genuine fun. Whether you’re flying solo, with friends, or family, this day in the dunes is likely to be a highlight of your visit to Peru.