Ballestas Islands, National Reserve of Paracas, Nazca Lines & Huacachina oasis

Experience the Best of Southern Peru in Two Days

If you’re looking for a tour that packs some of the most iconic sights of southern Peru into a manageable two days, this trip might just be what you need. Starting in Lima, the journey takes you across diverse landscapes, from the bustling coastlines to the mysterious Nazca Desert. For $730 per person, you get a thoughtfully organized itinerary that includes boat trips, desert excursions, flight over the Nazca Lines, and sandboarding adventures — all with the comfort of a private tour and the convenience of pickup service.

What truly makes this experience stand out are two specific features: first, the expert guidance — as noted by a reviewer who called Marcos “very informative” and “professional,” making the entire trip smoothly organized and enjoyable. Second, the blend of natural beauty and cultural insights, like the wine and Pisco tasting at Bodega 1615, offers an authentic taste of local flavors and traditions.

A possible consideration is that the tour is quite packed, with early starts at 5:00 am and a full schedule that might feel rushed for some. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might not be the ideal choice. Still, for those eager to see many highlights in a short time and enjoy a wealth of activities, this tour is a fantastic option.

This experience suits travelers who are active, curious, and eager to explore both natural and cultural wonders. It’s especially ideal if you value guided expertise, want a mix of adventure and relaxation, and are comfortable with a moderate physical fitness level.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major sights from coastlines to desert dunes, with activities suited for adventure lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
• Expert Guide: Marcos receives praise for professionalism, friendliness, and honesty, enhancing the overall experience.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Includes visits to a local winery for Pisco and wine tasting, adding a flavorful cultural touch.
• Adventure Activities: Sandboarding and buggy rides offer adrenaline-fueled fun in Huacachina.
• Early Start & Full Day: Starts at 5:00 am, making the most of daylight but requiring good energy and punctuality.
• Value for Money: With all transportation, activities, and meals included, the price reflects a well-rounded, hassle-free trip.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This two-day adventure in southern Peru is a well-rounded introduction to some of the region’s most captivating sights. We’ll walk through each part of the itinerary, illustrating what makes each stop worth your time and what you might want to keep in mind.

Day 1: Coastline, Desert, and Flavors

Ballestas Islands

Your journey begins with an early morning pickup, heading straight to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Mini Galápagos.” The boat trip here is a highlight — you’ll see sea lions basking on the rocks and humboldt penguins waddling around in their natural habitat. Expect the boat ride to last about two hours, with a chance to marvel at the abundant wildlife. The experience is both lively and educational, giving you a close-up look at Peru’s rich marine life.

A traveler’s review sums this up nicely: “All activities were organized and executed perfectly,” highlighting the smoothness of the boat trip and the friendly guide’s knowledge.

Paracas National Reserve

Next, the tour takes you into the Paracas National Reserve, a vast desert park that stretches along the coast. What’s impressive here is how the desert landscape blends into the sea, creating stunning vistas. You’ll spend about two hours exploring the dunes, enjoying the expansive views, and understanding more about this unique ecosystem. This part of the tour is perfect for anyone interested in geography or just wanting to appreciate the stark beauty of desert and ocean convergence.

Lunch with a View

After the desert, the trip includes a delicious local lunch in Paracas Bay. The restaurant offers outstanding sea views — perfect for relaxing after a morning of activity. Many travelers comment on the quality of the food and the chance to savor fresh seafood, making this a gratifying part of the day.

Wine and Pisco Tasting at Bodega 1615

The afternoon wraps up with a visit to Bodega Nieto, where you can sample different varieties of Peruvian wine and Pisco, the national spirit. The tasting is not only enjoyable but also informative, giving insights into Peru’s wine-making traditions. It’s a lovely cultural touchpoint, especially appreciated by travelers who love sampling local flavors.

Overnight in Nazca

By evening, you arrive in Nazca, ready to rest up for the next day’s adventures. Staying overnight here allows you to get an early start for the classic Nazca Lines flight, avoiding the daytime crowds and ensuring a more intimate experience.

Day 2: Nazca’s Enigmas and Desert Thrills

Flight over the Nazca Lines

The morning begins with a one-hour flight over the Nazca Lines, famous for their mysterious geometric shapes and figures. The view from above offers the best angle to appreciate these ancient carvings, which remain one of Peru’s most intriguing archaeological mysteries. Expect to see giant figures like the hummingbird, spider, and monkey — all created with painstaking effort in the desert sands.

A reviewer who took this flight mentioned, “You get the best views from the air,” emphasizing how this perspective truly brings the Nazca Lines to life.

Laguna de Huacachina

After returning from Nazca, the tour heads to Huacachina, a small oasis town surrounded by towering dunes. Here, you’ll enjoy biking or buggy rides across the sands, a thrill for adventure-seekers. Sandboarding equipment is provided, letting you slide down the dunes and enjoy a classic desert activity. The landscape is surreal — a perfect backdrop for photos and adrenaline alike.

This segment is highly praised for its exhilarating buggy rides and sandboarding, making it a favorite among travelers craving excitement.

Lunch in Ica

Post-adventure, you’ll stop in Ica for a local lunch, with options explained by your guide. This allows you to relax and refuel before heading back to Lima, completing the loop of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure.

Return to Lima

The trip concludes with a drive back to Lima, arriving in the evening. It’s a long day but packed with memorable moments and unique sights.

Practical Aspects and Tips

• Transportation & Timing: The tour begins early at 5:00 am, which means you’ll need to be prepared for an early start but will maximize your daylight hours.
• Group Size & Customization: This is a private tour, so only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexible pacing.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate physical activity is involved, especially during the dune activities. If you’re comfortable with walking and some exertion, you’ll be fine.
• Weather & Cancellations: The tour relies on good weather for the flight and outdoor activities. In case of poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered.
• Cost & Value: At $730, the price includes transportation, all activities, meals, and guided commentary. Given the number of highlights and the personalized approach, many find it offers good value.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

One reason this tour earns high praise is the genuine expertise of the guide, Marcos, who was described as “very friendly” and “professional.” His honest approach and insightful commentary make each stop more meaningful. The inclusion of local wine and Pisco tastings adds an authentic flavor you won’t get on a standard sightseeing tour.

The combination of wildlife, archaeology, adventure, and culinary experiences ensures you’re engaging with Peru’s culture and landscape on multiple levels. It’s not just about ticking boxes but understanding and appreciating what makes southern Peru so special.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers eager for a packed, adventure-filled experience that covers wildlife, archaeology, and fun activities in quick succession. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a full schedule, you’ll thrive here. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, local flavors, and thrill-seeking pursuits like sandboarding.

It’s also an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting an overview of southern Peru’s top attractions with the convenience of a guided, all-in-one package.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Tour for You?

This two-day adventure offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adrenaline-pumping fun. It’s a practical way to see some of Peru’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. The inclusion of authentic touches like wine tasting, combined with the thrill of sandboarding and the awe of aerial views of the Nazca Lines, makes it a memorable experience.

While it’s quite full on and starts early, the professionalism of the guide and the variety of activities ensure this tour is both engaging and rewarding. If you’re looking for an experience that blends wildlife, archaeology, desert adventure, and local flavors—all with the convenience of private transportation and guided insights—this is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity like walking, boat rides, and sandboarding. The activities are designed to be accessible for most travelers in good health.

How long is the boat trip at the Ballestas Islands?
The boat trip lasts about two hours, giving plenty of time to see the wildlife and enjoy the scenery.

Will I get to see the Nazca Lines from the ground?
No, the best views of the Nazca Lines are from the air during the flight, which is included in the tour.

What should I bring for the sandboarding and buggy rides?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. The tour provides sandboarding equipment, but you might want to wear clothes suitable for getting dusty.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Some activities, like walking in the desert and sandboarding, may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Check with your guide to discuss specific needs.

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, all activities (boat trip, desert tour, Nazca flight, buggy rides, sandboarding, tastings), meals, and guiding services are included.

This tour offers a fantastic way to tick off some of Peru’s most captivating sights, all while enjoying local flavors and a touch of adventure. It’s perfect for those eager to see a lot in a short time, with a knowledgeable guide making every stop worthwhile.