From Ica: Full Day Canyon of the Lost

Exploring the Canyon of the Lost from Ica

If you’re visiting Peru’s Ica Region and craving a day of breathtaking scenery and geological marvels, the Full Day Canyon of the Lost tour offers an engaging experience. For $59 per person, you’ll spend about six to eight hours exploring a canyon often compared to the Grand Canyon — but with a uniquely Peruvian twist. The tour takes you from the bustling town of Ica along the Pan-American Highway, into the arid desert, and into the heart of this natural wonder where dramatic formations and lagoons await.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning geological features like La Plaza Caracol on the canyon’s fourth level and the captivating Face of the Puma rock formation. Second, the small group setting, limited to just ten participants, ensures a more personalized experience and better opportunities for photos and questions.

A possible consideration? The tour involves some walking, hiking, and trekking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate outdoor activity. Also, the unpaved roads to the canyon mean a bumpy ride, but it’s all part of the adventure.

This tour is ideal if you’re a traveler eager to see natural landscapes off the beaten path, enjoy geological wonders, and prefer a manageable, well-organized day trip that balances activity with comfort. Overall, it offers good value, especially for those seeking authentic experiences without the fuss of larger tour groups.

Key Points

• Stunning Geological Formations: The canyon features impressive rock formations, including La Plaza Caracol and the Face of the Puma.
• Unique Natural Features: Explore two beautiful lagoons and marvel at dramatic landscapes comparable to the Grand Canyon.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and better photo opportunities.
• Comprehensive yet Manageable: A full-day tour that balances sightseeing, light hiking, and cultural insights — perfect for active travelers.
• Value for Money: At $59, it’s an affordable way to experience one of Ica’s most striking natural sites with guided insights.
• Practical Logistics: Includes transportation, guide (Spanish-speaking), police security, and emergency first aid, making it a safe, hassle-free adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Canyon of the Lost: An In-Depth Review

The Route and Logistics

Starting early around 6:30 to 7 am, this tour gets you out of Ica and into the desert swiftly. The drive, about 30 minutes along the Pan-American Highway, is smooth, but we found the real journey begins once you leave the paved roads. The detour onto an unpaved road leads into the desert landscape, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

A quick stop at Ocucaje Square for bathrooms and supplies is a practical addition, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and prepare for the rugged part of the trip. Once at the entrance to the canyon, the real exploration begins. The tour involves walking, hiking, and trekking, so bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for some physical activity.

Inside the Canyon: Geological Wonders and Unique Landmarks

The star of this trip is undoubtedly the Canyon of the Lost itself, which plunges about 400 meters deep, revealing layers of sediment and unusual rock formations caused by centuries of erosion. We loved the way the canyon’s walls twist and turn, creating a dramatic and almost otherworldly landscape.

La Plaza Caracol is a highlight—located on the fourth level of the canyon—offering a natural amphitheater-like space that’s both fascinating and photogenic. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the formations looked like they belonged to another planet.”

Equally intriguing is the Face of the Puma, a natural sculpture that resembles a predator’s face. It’s a perfect spot for photos and marveling at nature’s artistry. Visitors often comment on how these formations seem sculpted with purpose, though they’re entirely the product of natural forces.

Lagoons and Additional Stops

The tour also includes visits to two lagoons, which add a splash of serenity amidst the stark desert landscape. These lagoons reflect the sky and surrounding rocks, creating peaceful spots to rest and admire the scenery. Sometimes, you might have the chance to see local wildlife or enjoy a quiet moment away from the crowds.

An optional visit to the paleontological museum at Ocucaje Square is available, which appeals to those with a curiosity for fossils and ancient life. While not included in the base price, it’s a worthwhile add-on if you’re interested in the prehistoric side of the region.

More Great Tours Nearby

Guides, Safety, and Group Dynamic

The guide, speaking in Spanish (with some English), provides helpful commentary, though travelers with limited Spanish might want to brush up on some basic phrases. The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention, and the presence of police security adds peace of mind.

We appreciated the included emergency first aid kit, which shows the tour provider’s attention to safety. The transportation is comfortable, and the entire experience is well-organized, with pickup times and itinerary clearly communicated.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $59, this full-day experience offers good value, especially considering the inclusions like transportation, guide, security, and safety measures. The tour does not include food or souvenirs, so bring snacks and money if you wish to buy anything at the stops.

The physical activity involved might be a consideration for some travelers, but the moderate level of hiking and the manageable pace make it accessible for most active travelers. The unpaved roads can be bumpy, so a bit of patience is needed, but the payoff is witnessing some of Peru’s most stunning geological features.

Authenticity and Experience

What sets this tour apart is the authenticity of the landscape. Instead of crowded tourist sites, you’ll be immersed in a natural environment that feels remote and untouched. Many reviewers mention feeling like explorers rather than travelers, which is exactly what we look for in an adventure like this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are curious about geology and natural formations, and want a manageable, guided day trip from Ica. If you’re comfortable with some walking and looking for striking landscapes without the crowds, this tour will suit you well. It’s also a good choice for photography enthusiasts eager to capture unique geological features.

However, if you prefer relaxed sightseeing with less physical activity, or if you’re not comfortable with unpaved roads, you might want to explore other options. The tour’s focus on natural beauty and geological marvels makes it especially appealing to those who value authentic, hands-on experiences in the desert landscape.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Canyon of the Lost tour from Ica presents a compelling mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insight. It’s a cost-effective way to see a landscape that has the grandeur of the Grand Canyon but with the added charm of Peru’s desert environment. The stunning formations like La Plaza Caracol and the Face of the Puma are unforgettable sights, and the lagoons provide peaceful respites in a stark landscape.

The small group size, guided commentary, and safety measures make it a well-organized adventure with a personal touch. While it involves some physical activity and bumpy roads, these are minor hurdles compared to the reward of witnessing such unique geological sights firsthand.

This tour is best suited for active, curious travelers who want to connect with the natural world and capture memorable photos. It’s not ideal for those seeking a leisurely, low-effort experience, but for the adventurous at heart, it’s a memorable day in Peru’s desert wilderness.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pick-up is typically between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, so be ready early to make the most of your day.

What is included in the price?
The $59 fee covers transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, police security, personalized attention, and a first aid kit.

Are there opportunities for photos?
Yes, the tour is designed for photography, especially at La Plaza Caracol and the Face of the Puma. The small group size helps you get good shots without too many travelers in the frame.

Is physical activity required?
Yes, expect walking, hiking, and trekking around the canyon, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some exertion.

Can I visit the paleontological museum?
Yes, visiting the museum at Ocucaje Square is optional and can be added to your itinerary.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and comfortable shoes. Remember to wear layers, as desert temperatures can vary.

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