Experience the magic of the Ica desert with a sunset dune buggy ride and sandboarding adventure. For just $29 per person, this 2-hour tour offers a lively mix of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and authentic desert scenery. Led by a Spanish-speaking guide, you’ll explore the dunes in a rugged buggy, then slide down sandy slopes on a board as the sun dips behind the horizon.

What we love most is how the tour combines the thrill of sandboarding with breathtaking desert landscapes—it’s a dynamic way to see Ica’s natural beauty. Plus, the sunset stop is a highlight, offering a picture-perfect moment of orange sands illuminated by the fading light.

A potential consideration is the activity’s duration; two hours might feel brisk if you’re eager for more time on the dunes. Also, since the guide speaks only Spanish, some travelers might prefer bringing a translation app or joining with someone who speaks the language.

This tour is well-suited for adventurers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a splash of excitement to their trip to Ica. If you enjoy outdoor activities and spectacular landscapes, this experience will likely be a memorable highlight.

Key Points

Affordable adventure at $29 per person with everything included.
Spectacular sunset views blending vibrant colors with the orange sands.
Active fun with multiple sandboarding descents on the dunes.
Guided tour in Spanish, with a knowledgeable driver and equipment provided.
Two-hour experience ideal for a quick yet memorable desert outing.
Stops in Huacachina and the surrounding desert scenery, perfect for photos and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Dune Buggy & Sandboarding Tour

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Starting Point: Huacachina Oasis

Your adventure begins at Huacachina, a small desert oasis often called the “oasis of America.” It’s a surreal spot, with palm trees and a shimmering lagoon surrounded by towering dunes. Meeting here at 4:30 p.m., you’ll gather your group and hop into a robust dune buggy. This vehicle is the heart of the tour, designed to handle the steep, shifting sands with ease.

The Desert Ride: Up and Down the Dunes

Once underway, the buggy climbs and glides down the sand dunes—a thrilling ride that offers constant moments of excitement and awe. The driver, often a local expert, will take you on a route that showcases some of the most visually striking parts of the desert. The feeling of ascending a dune, then racing down the other side, is pure adrenaline, combined with the chance to shoot photos of the expansive landscape.

Reviewers mention that the desert scenery is breathtaking, especially as the sunlight hits the sand in the late afternoon. “We loved the way the dunes changed color with the setting sun,” one traveler shared. This part of the tour illustrates why Ica is often called one of Peru’s most beautiful desert regions.

Sandboarding: Sliding Through the Dunes

The core of the experience is the sandboarding. After reaching the starting point, you’ll receive basic instructions—no prior experience needed—and then it’s your turn to slide down the slopes. The boards are easy to handle, and you can descend multiple times if you’re feeling adventurous. Many reviews highlight the fun of multiple runs and the thrill of gliding down the dunes.

For those who have never tried sandboarding, the activity is approachable and surprisingly exhilarating. As one guest put it, “It’s a lot easier than I thought, and so much fun.” The dunes offer a variety of slopes, from gentle to challenging, so everyone can find a suitable spot.

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Sunset Stop: A Magical Moment

The final part of the tour is a stop in the desert to watch the sunset. As the sun dips behind the dunes, the landscape transforms into a canvas of oranges and reds. This is when you’ll want your camera ready, as the desert’s colors become truly spectacular. Many travelers say this moment is worth the price alone, with some describing it as a “magical” or “breathtaking” scene.

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Return Journey

After enjoying the sunset, you’ll hop back into the buggy for the return to Huacachina. The ride back offers one last chance to take photos of the desert as the daylight fades, making for a fitting end to this lively outing.

What’s Included and Practical Details

The tour covers buggy transportation, sandboarding equipment, and a Spanish-speaking guide. The price of $29 is quite reasonable considering the transportation, equipment, and the unforgettable scenery.

The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, with checkable starting times—usually around late afternoon—perfect if you want to combine it with other activities in Ica or Huacachina.

A helpful note is the flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—making it easier to plan your trip confidently.

Authenticity and Experience Value

This tour offers a genuine taste of desert adventure, with its combination of desert landscapes, active sandboarding, and sunset views. It’s a terrific way to experience the natural environment outside the usual tourist spots, and the guides’ local knowledge adds depth to the experience, even if they speak only Spanish.

Many reviews highlight the stunning sunset views as the tour’s highlight, and the consistent feedback suggests that this activity delivers on fun and scenery. The fact that you can slide down the dunes multiple times makes it feel more like a personal adventure rather than a quick photo op.

Why the Price Matters

At $29, this experience strikes a good balance between affordability and value. You’re getting a chance to explore the desert in a lively manner, with transportation, equipment, and expert guidance included. It’s a reasonable expense for an activity that offers adrenaline and awe-inspiring views in one go.

Potential Drawbacks

The main limitation is the Spanish-only guide, which might be a barrier if you don’t speak the language. Also, the two-hour duration may leave some travelers wanting more, especially if they’re eager to spend extra time on the dunes or exploring Huacachina.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, photographers, and outdoor lovers who want an authentic desert experience without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those seeking a quick but exhilarating escape into the dunes, especially if catching a sunset is a priority.

The Sum Up

In summary, the From Ica: Dune Buggy at Sunset & Sandoboarding tour offers a lively, visually stunning adventure for a modest price. You’ll experience the thrill of riding over towering dunes, sliding down sandy slopes, and watching an unforgettable sunset—an experience that captures the essence of desert beauty in Peru.

If you’re seeking a fun activity with spectacular scenery, this tour delivers. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, are comfortable with Spanish-language tours, and want a memorable story to tell about their trip. For travelers eager to combine excitement with the chance to see a truly beautiful sunset, this experience hits the mark.

While it might be brief and language-specific, the combination of adrenaline, scenery, and authentic desert charm makes this a worthwhile addition to your Ica itinerary.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting around 4:30 p.m., which is perfect for catching the sunset.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers buggy transportation, sandboarding equipment, and a guide who speaks Spanish.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your travel planning.

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the sandboarding instructions are basic, and the activity is accessible to beginners. Children who are comfortable with active outdoor activities should enjoy it.

What are the best times to do this tour?
Late afternoon around 4:30 p.m. is ideal to enjoy the sunset; check availability for specific starting times.

Will I need any special gear or clothing?
No special gear is necessary beyond what’s provided. Wear comfortable, sun-protective clothing, and bring sunglasses and sunscreen for the desert sun.

Is the guide available in English?
No, the guide speaks only Spanish. Consider bringing a translation app or joining with someone who understands Spanish.

Is there an age limit for participating?
The data does not specify age restrictions, but adult supervision is recommended for children, especially on the buggy ride and sandboarding.

This lively desert adventure combines natural beauty, adrenaline, and unforgettable sunset views—a perfect way to add some spice to your Ica trip.