From Ica || Los Perdidos Canyon Excursion Full Day ||

Location: Ica Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8 (based on traveler feedback)
Price: $50 per person
Supplier: Latitudes

Quick Overview: A Desert Adventure Steeped in Natural Wonders

This full-day tour takes you into the mysterious Los Perdidos Canyon, a little-known natural marvel in the heart of the Ica desert. Starting around 6:00 to 7:00 a.m., you’ll be picked up from your hotel and whisked away on a journey that combines stunning desert scenery, fascinating fossil sites, and unique geological formations. The price is quite reasonable, especially considering the diverse sights packed into this trip.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it balances nature, history, and scenic beauty. The stops at the Pampa de las Piedras to see shapes like toads and horses, along with the walk at the canyon’s mouth, offer a real sense of discovery. Plus, the guide’s bilingual commentary provides valuable context—making the trip accessible for both Spanish and English speakers.

A small downside to keep in mind: food and museum entry fees are not included, so you’ll want to budget for a snack and the $1.30 museum visit. Also, because the group size is limited to ten, booking ahead is wise if you want a spot. This tour suits travelers craving authentic desert landscapes and fossil tales, especially those interested in geology and natural formations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Landscape: Experience the curved natural formations and fossil-rich depths of Los Perdidos Canyon.
• Cultural Stops: Visit Ocucaje’s monuments and the Paleontological Museum for a quick glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past.
• Wildlife: Expect to see native fauna like owls, gallinules, and lizards during the canyon walk.
• Scenic Views: Capture perfect shots from the famous magic eye viewpoint and along the canyon’s mouth.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines geology, natural scenery, and local culture in one day.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Exploring the Ica Desert’s Hidden Treasure: Los Perdidos Canyon in Depth

When we think of Peru, images of Machu Picchu and the Andes might come to mind, but the Ica region reveals a different kind of wonder—a landscape shaped over millennia by wind, water, and time itself. The Cañon de los Perdidos, or Canyon of the Lost, remains a lesser-known jewel, perfect for travelers eager to experience something off the beaten path.

Starting Your Journey: From Ica to the Desert

The adventure begins early, around dawn, to beat the desert heat and maximize daylight. Your guide picks you up from your hotel, whether you’re staying in the city center or a more remote location, with the tour accommodating various hotels. The transport is comfortable, usually a minibus or small bus, and shared with a small group—just ten travelers—ensuring a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

As you leave the urban surroundings behind, you’ll pass through the main square of Ocucaje, famous for its striking monuments depicting a shark, a farmer, and fighting cocks. These sculptures are more than just roadside attractions—they symbolize the region’s fossil finds and agricultural history. During this stop, you’ll have a chance for a quick breakfast or visit the Paleontological Museum on your own (entry fee approx. $1.30). This adds an informative touch, especially if fossils fascinate you.

Scenic Stops En Route: Natural Formations and Views

The journey south is as much about visual wonder as reaching your destination. The guide points out Aspírales de Callango and Delfín, natural formations resembling marine creatures or other shapes, carved by wind and sediment. These formations lend a sense of whimsical artistry to the barren desert landscape.

Next, you’ll visit the Pampa de las Piedras, a site where natural erosion has created shapes resembling a toad, horse’s head, turtle, or Chihuahua dog. These formations are great for photography and spark the imagination—”You’ll love the views from the magic eye viewpoint,” as many travelers say. This viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the desert, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

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Entering Los Perdidos Canyon: Natural Sculptures and Fauna

Arriving at Los Perdidos Canyon, it’s easy to see why it remains a hidden gem. The canyon’s curved natural shapes were formed over millions of years, sculpted by wind, water, and mineral deposits. Your guide offers a quick explanation of the formation process, but the real pleasure is in seeing the extraordinary shapes and the rough grandeur of the landscape.

You’ll be encouraged to take a walk along the canyon’s mouth, right where the Ica and Seco rivers meet. This walk isn’t strenuous but offers a close-up view of the native flora and fauna, including owls, gallinules, and lizards. The chance to observe wildlife in its natural desert habitat adds a rewarding layer to the experience.

The Waterhole and Final Photos

The tour concludes at a picturesque waterhole, a rare patch of moisture amid the arid surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for snapping final photos of the canyon’s silhouette, with reflective waters and a backdrop of rugged cliffs. Afterward, the bus heads back towards Ica, arriving between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m.

Authenticity and Value

Reviewers consistently highlight the authenticity of this trip, praising how it offers genuine desert landscapes and fossil insights—not just a touristy quick stop. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing more personal attention from the guides and better opportunities for questions.

While the price of $50 is quite fair for a full-day adventure, keep in mind that meals and museum entry are extras. Packing a snack and some water is advised, especially given the desert’s heat. The guide’s bilingual commentary ensures clarity whether you speak Spanish or English—an appreciated detail for international travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for geology buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers craving a quiet escape into the desert’s secrets. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and photography. If you’re looking for a full-day, affordable adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural touches, this tour delivers.

Travelers who prefer luxury or elaborate dining experiences might find this simpler, but for an authentic taste of the Ica desert’s lesser-known facets, it’s hard to beat.

The Sum Up

The Los Perdidos Canyon Full-Day Tour offers a richly rewarding journey into one of Peru’s most underappreciated landscapes. It provides an excellent balance of natural marvels, geological insights, and cultural references, all within a manageable day trip budget. The stunning views and fossil sites make it a memorable experience for those eager to see the desert in a different light.

If you’re visiting Ica and want to explore beyond the vineyards and dunes, this tour is a perfect choice. It’s best suited for travelers with a sense of adventure, patience for a day outdoors, and an interest in the natural world. Expect to leave with great photos, fresh insights, and a new appreciation for how nature shapes the earth over millions of years.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Tours generally begin between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., allowing you to make the most of daylight and cooler temperatures in the desert.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a minibus or bus suitable for small groups, providing a comfortable ride through the desert landscape.

What’s included in the tour?
The guide, transportation from your hotel in Ica, and the return trip are included. Food and museum entry fees are not; you should bring snacks and a small budget for admission.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, typically wrapping up around 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to explore and relax afterward.

Can I visit the Paleontological Museum?
Yes, you can opt to visit the museum during the stop in Ocucaje, with an entrance fee of about 5 S/. (roughly $1.30).

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if your children enjoy outdoor walks, nature, and photography. The walk along the canyon’s mouth is not strenuous.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. A snack might be handy since food isn’t included.

Does the guide speak English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for international visitors.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This full-day adventure to Los Perdidos Canyon combines scenic desert views, geological intrigue, and wildlife sightings, making it a compelling choice for curious travelers wanting an authentic experience in the Ica region.

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