The most epic Paracas & Huacachina experience ever!

This two-day adventure from Lima packs in some of the most stunning scenery and unique activities Peru has to offer. For $180 per person, you’ll explore Paracas’s secluded beaches, kayak or swim in a natural oasis, enjoy a desert happy hour, and then discover Huacachina’s famous dunes with dune buggies and sandboarding. Along the way, you’ll also get a taste of Peruvian wine and Pisco and see the incredible Ballestas Islands wildlife. The entire trip is designed for those who want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic local flavor, all in a well-organized two-day package.

Two things we really love about this tour are the unique desert happy hour surrounded by endless sand and the diversity of experiences, from wildlife viewing to sand dunes. Plus, the small-group transportation keeps things intimate and comfortable. The only thing to consider is that some activities, like the boat tour to the islands, are optional and not included in the base price, so you might want to reserve tickets in advance for those highlights.

This tour suits travelers who crave a mix of natural beauty and adrenaline, those eager to see a lesser-visited side of Peru, or anyone wanting a well-rounded 48 hours of adventure. If you love scenic boat trips, wildlife, sand dunes, and local wines, this trip hits all those marks.

Key Points

Unique Experiences: Combines wildlife, beaches, desert adventures, and wine tasting.
Well-Organized: Small group, private transportation, and all fees included, making logistics smooth.
Authentic Moments: Opportunities to swim in real natural oases and enjoy a desert sunset picnic.
Adventure & Relaxation: Sandboarding, kayaking, and a party under the stars balance thrills with chill time.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local tips.
Flexible Options: Activities like the boat tour to the Ballestas Islands are optional but highly recommended.

A Deep Dive into the Journey

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Day 1: From Lima to Paracas’s Hidden Gems

Your adventure kicks off early — pickup begins at around 5:30 am in Miraflores or Barranco, so be prepared for an early start. From there, you’ll travel in a comfortable, private vehicle with a group of no more than 22 travelers, ensuring your day isn’t a crowded, rushed experience but rather a laid-back exploration.

Playa El Raspon provides the perfect setting to stretch your legs and enjoy the ocean. The sandy shores and clear waters create a classic Peruvian beach vibe, but it’s the rock formations that add a touch of drama. Bring a book or simply enjoy the calming sounds of the sea — it’s a great spot to relax and soak in the ocean breeze.

Next, you’ll head to Paracas’s secret oasis — a place so tranquil that most locals don’t even know about it. Here, you can swim in the real oasis, kayak, paddleboard, or just sit back and enjoy the peace of this natural miracle. Travelers consistently rave about this highlight, with one reviewer calling it “a magical spot” that offers a unique escape into nature.

The highlight of Day 1 is undoubtedly the desert happy hour. Picture plush cushions, flickering lanterns, and a private picnic amidst endless golden sands. As the sun sets, the desert comes alive, and you’ll find yourself dancing under a blanket of stars, a moment many describe as “absolutely stunning” and “a sunset party watching the dunes.” The experience isn’t just pretty — it’s genuinely fun and memorable.

Day 2: Wildlife, Wine, and Huacachina’s Dunes

Day 2 begins with the chance to visit the Ballestas Islands — a boat tour (not included in the initial price but bookable separately) that promises encounters with sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. These wildlife spectacles, along with the famous Candelabra geoglyph, are what make the islands a must-see for nature lovers. Reviewers who took the boat tour say it’s “fascinating” and “full of stunning views and wildlife,” adding a special touch to the overall trip.

After the islands, you’ll visit Cultur Pisco Vineyard in Ica for a tasting of Peruvian wines and Pisco. This part offers a delightful break from the desert — sampling local beverages and then enjoying a hearty lunch featuring traditional dishes. One reviewer called this stop “a perfect blend of flavors and relaxation,” emphasizing how enjoyable the experience was and how it added depth to the trip.

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to Huacachina, a beautiful desert oasis surrounded by towering dunes. Here, you’ll hop into a dune buggy for an adrenaline-pumping ride and then try sandboarding down the dunes — an activity that even the most cautious travelers have loved, with some calling it “fabulous” and “great fun.” The views from the top of the dunes are spectacular, offering sweeping vistas of the desert landscape.

The Value of the Experience

This tour is priced at $180 — a fair deal considering the variety of activities, the inclusion of lunch, dinner, wine tasting, and all fees and taxes. The small groups and private transportation ensure you avoid the chaos of large buses, giving you a more personalized experience. Many reviews mention guides like Diego and Edwin by name, praising their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness, which significantly enhances the trip.

Authenticity and Comfort

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of adventure and comfort. The private transport means you’re not just another face in a crowded bus, and the included meals cater to various dietary preferences, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.

The desert happy hour is truly a one-of-a-kind moment, offering a luxurious yet rustic setting that many reviewers say exceeds expectations. Imagine good wine, delicious food, and an unforgettable sunset, all surrounded by endless dunes — a true highlight.

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Considerations and Practical Tips

While the trip is packed with memorable moments, some activities like the boat tour to the Ballestas Islands are optional and not included in the package. Booking in advance for these can help ensure you don’t miss out, especially during peak travel seasons. Also, because some meals are not included, travelers should plan for breakfast and dinner either before or after the tour.

Weather can influence experiences — hot desert days and cool evenings mean packing layers. Also, since the trip involves a lot of outdoor activity, comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys a diverse mix of wildlife, scenery, and adventure, this trip is ideal. It’s perfect for those who want to see off-the-beaten-path spots like secret oases, indulge in local wine and Pisco, and have fun sandboarding and dune buggying. The trip’s small-group setting makes it great for families, couples, or friends looking for a memorable yet manageable experience. If you appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and personable, this tour will deliver.

Final Thoughts

This two-day tour from Lima offers a comprehensive look at some of southern Peru’s most captivating landscapes. From quiet beaches and hidden oases to wildlife-filled islands and sweeping dunes, it caters to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The small-group size, well-organized itinerary, and authentic experiences like desert happy hours and vineyard tastings make it a great value.

While some highlights are optional and require separate booking, the core activities and included meals create a satisfying and memorable journey. This trip is especially suited for those who want a full, varied experience with plenty of opportunities to unwind and capture stunning photos.

If you’re ready to explore Peru beyond Lima with a well-rounded, exciting, and authentic trip, this tour stands out as an excellent choice. It promises adventure, beauty, and a few surprises along the way, making it a fantastic way to spend two days in southern Peru.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, private transportation for up to 22 travelers is included, ensuring a comfortable and easy journey between stops.

What’s the start time? The tour begins early, around 5:30 am, to maximize daylight and experiences.

Are meals included? Lunch on Day 1 and dinner are included, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. Breakfast and additional meals are not included.

Can I do the boat tour to the Ballestas Islands? The boat tour is not included but can be booked separately, and many guests find it well worth adding.

What activities are optional? The boat tour to the islands is optional; everything else, like dune buggies and sandboarding, is part of the package.

How big are the groups? The tour operates with a maximum of 22 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

Is there free cancellation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who are the guides? Guides like Diego and Edwin receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, adding value and warmth to the trip.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear for the oasis, and layers for cooler desert evenings.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of natural beauty, adventure, and authentic local culture — a fantastic way to see some of Peru’s most remarkable sights in just two days.