From Ica: Dune Buggy at Sunset & Sandoboarding offers a unique way to explore the vast, breathtaking sands of southern Peru. This 10-hour adventure, priced at $29 per person, takes you into the Ica desert for an afternoon of high-energy fun and spectacular scenery. Led by friendly guides (mainly in Spanish, but with English options), the tour promises an unforgettable experience amid rolling dunes, ending with a mesmerizing sunset that paints the sands in vivid orange hues.

What we love most about this tour is how accessible and engaging it is — you don’t need prior experience to enjoy the sandboarding, and the small group size (limited to 15 participants) means you get personalized attention and plenty of chances to try sliding down the dunes as many times as you want. Plus, the stunning vistas of the desert at sunset are truly a highlight, offering perfect photo opportunities and a moment of tranquility after the adrenaline rush.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour is quite long — 10 hours in total — so it’s best suited for travelers with a full day to spare and a sense of adventure. Also, the activity is primarily guided in Spanish, which might be a factor for non-Spanish speakers, although English explanations are available.

This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures, striking landscapes, and a taste of local desert culture. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply a lover of scenic views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

Stunning Desert Scenery: Experience beautiful, sweeping sand dunes during a sunset backdrop.
Accessible for Beginners: Sandboarding is easy to learn, with multiple chances to slide down.
Small Group Setting: Limited to 15 participants, allowing for a more personalized experience.
All-Inclusive Transportation: Buggy rides through the dunes are included, making navigation easy.
Authentic Local Guide: Guided in Spanish with English options, providing local insights.
Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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Starting Point: Huacachina Oasis and the Desert

The adventure kicks off around 4:30 p.m. at Huacachina, a small, picturesque oasis known as the only natural desert lake in South America. This setting alone makes the beginning special — the lush greenery surrounding a striking desert backdrop offers a stark contrast that’s worth capturing. From here, you’ll board a buggy with a guide, ready to explore the vast Ica desert.

Traveling in a rugged, open-sided buggy, you’ll ascend and descend the towering dunes, feeling the thrill of bouncing over uneven terrain. This part of the tour is as much about scenery as it is about adventure, with views stretching endlessly across the dunes, often shimmering under the late afternoon sun. The guides are knowledgeable, explaining the area’s geology, local flora, and why this desert is so captivating.

Sandboarding: Simple, Fun, and Exciting

Once you reach the designated sandboarding spot, the real fun begins. After a brief tutorial, you’ll get your sandboarding equipment — a board similar to a snowboard but designed for sand — and start sliding down the dunes. Expect to descend several times, with the freedom to go again and again, which is a highlight for many visitors.

Reviews note that sandboarding in Ica isn’t just for the seasoned pros — most find it straightforward and accessible, even if you’ve never done it before. The sensation of sliding down the warm, orange sands as the sun begins to set is both exhilarating and oddly peaceful. It’s an activity that combines adrenaline with natural beauty, creating a memorable moment.

Sunset in the Desert

As the day winds down, the group will hop back into the buggy for a scenic ride back through the dunes. During this return trip, your guide will stop in a particularly scenic spot for spectacular sunset views — a time when the orange sands glow with warm, shifting hues.

Many travelers describe this moment as magical — the colors change quickly, and the quiet of the desert amplifies the experience. It’s a perfect time to take photos or simply soak in the serene beauty of the landscape.

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Practical Aspects and What’s Included

The tour includes buggy transportation, a guide (mainly in Spanish, with some English), and sandboarding equipment. The price of $29 is quite reasonable considering the length and the activities involved, especially since the buggy ride alone is a substantial part of the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that services not mentioned are not included, so some travelers may want to bring extra snacks, water, or a hat for sun protection. The activity runs for about 10 hours, making it suitable for travelers who are comfortable with full-day excursions and eager for a mix of adventure and scenic beauty.

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Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic desert landscapes and adventure activities. It’s not a theatrical show but a genuine experience in one of Peru’s most striking natural environments. Many reviewers appreciate the value — for just $29, you get a well-organized, lively tour that combines thrills with beautiful scenery.

While the guides primarily speak Spanish, the tour’s friendly atmosphere helps bridge any language gaps, and the visuals speak for themselves. It’s a straightforward experience that offers plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a different perspective on the Ica region. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy outdoor activities and aren’t shy about getting a little sand in their shoes. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a lively, scenic activity will find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts

From Ica: Dune Buggy at Sunset & Sandoboarding provides a straightforward yet exciting way to explore the stunning desert landscapes of southern Peru. The combination of off-road buggy rides, sandboarding, and a scenic sunset makes for a memorable outing that balances adventure with natural beauty.

The tour’s reasonable price, small group size, and the opportunity for multiple sandboarding runs make it a great value. While it’s mostly guided in Spanish, the visual and physical aspects transcend language barriers, and the experience itself is accessible to most.

If you’re after a fun-filled afternoon that offers spectacular views and a taste of local desert culture, this tour is a solid choice. Perfect for those who crave a mix of adrenaline, scenery, and authentic outdoor fun in the beautiful Ica desert.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting around 4:30 p.m., which makes it a full-day adventure.

What is included in the price?
Your price covers buggy transportation, a guide (mainly in Spanish), and sandboarding equipment.

Is it suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes, sandboarding is described as easy to learn, and the tour is accessible to those new to the activity. It’s suitable for families with older children and anyone looking for a fun, low-pressure activity.

Do I need to bring anything?
While not explicitly mentioned, it’s wise to bring sun protection, water, and comfortable clothing suited for outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

What language is the guide in?
The primary guide speaks Spanish, but some explanations are provided in English.

Will I have time to take photos?
Absolutely. The sunset stop is an ideal photo opportunity, and the entire tour offers plenty of beautiful vistas.

Is transportation comfortable?
The buggy rides are part of the adventure; they are open-air and suited for experiencing the desert breeze and views.

What if I want to do this at a different time?
Check actual availabilities, as the starting times can vary. Afternoon and sunset are the standard times offered.

Whether you’re craving a thrill, stunning scenery, or a taste of Peru’s desert landscape, this tour offers a practical, fun, and memorable way to spend an evening in Ica. Just pack some sense of adventure — the dunes are waiting.