Ballestas-Huacachina oasis and overflight in Nasca from Lima

Experience the Best of Peru in Two Days: From Marine Wildlife to Ancient Geoglyphs

If you’re dreaming of a quick but comprehensive trip that captures some of Peru’s most iconic sights, this 2-day tour from Lima hits all the highlights: the Ballestas Islands, the surreal Huacachina Oasis, the Nazca Lines, and even a scenic overflight. Priced at $380 per person, it’s a busy schedule, but it packs in a lot of value for travelers eager for adventure, wildlife, and a glimpse into the country’s mysterious past.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its balance of nature and history — from watching sea lions and penguins up close to marveling at ancient geoglyphs. The professional guides make the experience smooth and engaging, and the small group size (limited to 17 people) keeps things personal.

One thing to consider is that the itinerary is tightly packed, meaning you’ll spend much of your time on the move. If you prefer slow mornings or ample downtime, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those who want to make the most of a short trip and love a mix of outdoor activities and cultural exploration, this tour is a solid choice.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy wildlife viewing, unique landscapes, and a bit of adventure—especially if you’re comfortable with a fast pace and want to see as much as possible in two days.

Key Points

• Includes visits to the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina Oasis, and Nazca Lines over two days.
• Wildlife lovers will enjoy seeing penguins, sea lions, and seabirds up close.
• The scenic overflight of the Nazca Lines offers a rare perspective of the famous geoglyphs.
• The tour balances adventure activities like sandboarding with cultural experiences such as wine tasting.
• Small group size ensures a more personal and engaging experience.
• The tour price covers most major sights and transportation, making it good value for the highlights.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Lima to Marine Wildlife and Huacachina

The tour kicks off with an early pickup from your hotel in Lima—whether you’re staying in Miraflores, San Isidro, or Barranco, the pickup is included and straightforward. From there, it’s about a two-hour scenic drive south to Paracas. This leg is mostly a transit, but it sets the stage for the stunning coastal scenery ahead.

Once we arrive at Paracas, we meet our guide, who takes us to the pier for the Ballestas Islands tour. As we set sail, the real highlight begins: rock formations that look like sculptures rise from the sea, and the waters teem with marine wildlife. We loved the chance to see sea lions lounging on rocks, penguins waddling around, and countless seabirds soaring overhead. One reviewer noted, “Seeing the sea lions and penguins so close was a real treat—this part felt like an authentic wildlife safari.”

After roughly two hours of wildlife viewing and photography, we head inland to Ica. Here, the visit to a local vineyard offers a wine tasting experience—a nice touch that gives you a taste of Peruvian wine culture, often overlooked by travelers. The included lunch provides a good break and fuel for the afternoon ahead.

The afternoon takes us to the Huacachina Oasis, a surreal spot where towering dunes surround a natural lagoon. We loved the photo opportunities and the chance to try sandboarding or go off-road dune bashing in Tubulares. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great mix of natural beauty and adventure. The free time here is generous enough to relax or explore before heading back to Ica for the overnight stay.

Day 2: Nazca Lines and Return to Lima

The second day starts early with breakfast at the hotel—important since we’ll have a full day. We’re transported about two hours north to Nazca, where the famous Nazca Lines await. The aerial view in a small plane reveals 13 key geoglyphs, including animals and human figures, in the desert floor. We found this flight to be the highlight, providing a perspective you just can’t get from the ground.

The flight duration is approximately 40 minutes, which is enough to see the major figures without feeling too rushed. The plane’s window seats are small, but the views are worth it. After landing, the tour returns to Lima by evening, closing out a busy but rewarding two days.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses tourist transport with comfortable seating, crucial for the two-hour drives between locations. The small group size (capped at 17) means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guides, which makes a big difference in understanding the sites and navigating the busy schedule.

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Value and Practical Considerations

For $380, the tour covers most meals, tickets, and activities—the only thing not included is food in Nazca and personal expenses. It’s a fair price considering the amount of ground covered and the unique experiences. The overflight, wildlife tour, and sandboarding activities are all included, offering a good value for travelers seeking an adventure-packed experience.

However, it’s worth noting that weighing over 95 kg incurs an additional fee for the Nazca flight, which can add $60–$80. Also, the tour is not suitable for those uncomfortable with heights or who prefer a relaxed pace, given the tight schedule and early start times.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to pack a lot into two days and enjoy a mix of nature, history, and adrenaline. It’s perfect if you’re interested in seeing wildlife up close, flying over ancient geoglyphs, and experiencing iconic desert landscapes—all in a short timeframe. If you prefer leisurely mornings or extensive downtime, you might find this tour a bit fast-paced.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Peru’s coastal and desert marvels. From the wildlife of Paracas to the mystery of the Nazca Lines, and the dunes of Huacachina, you’ll get a taste of the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.

The small group size and included activities make it an engaging adventure, and the guides’ professionalism helps navigate the logistical complexities. The price is reasonable given the breadth of sites visited and the experiences offered—especially the scenic flights and wildlife encounters.

For anyone wanting a rich, active visit that balances nature, history, and adventure, this tour delivers more than enough to justify its cost. It’s a perfect choice for travelers eager to maximize their short time in Peru without sacrificing authenticity or excitement.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from hotels located in Miraflores, San Isidro, and Barranco.

How long is the travel between sites?
The trip involves several bus/coach segments, each lasting roughly 1-2 hours, making transportation an integral part of the experience.

What wildlife might I see?
You should expect to see sea lions, penguins, boobies, and pelicans, as these are the key animals highlighted during the boat tour at the islands.

What does the Nazca Lines overflight involve?
It’s a 40-minute scenic flight over the Nazca Lines in a small plane, providing a bird’s-eye view of 13 geoglyphs.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes one breakfast and one lunch during Day 1, with no included food in Nazca on Day 2.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year, or for those over 80 or weighing more than 220 lbs, due to the physical demands and height considerations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sun hat, water, camera, sunscreen, passport/ID, and cash. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour offers a dynamic way to see some of Peru’s most unforgettable sights in just two days. Whether it’s your first visit or a quick return, it’s a lively, packed experience that leaves you with plenty of stories—and photos—to share.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby