From Lima Discover the mysterious Nasca Lines.

If you’re heading to Peru and want to see two of its most iconic attractions—the mysterious Nazca Lines and the lively Huacachina Oasis—this full-day tour from Lima might just be your best bet. Priced at around $450 per person, it packs in early starts, long hours, and a fair amount of adventure—all in approximately 16 hours. Led by professional, bilingual guides, it’s designed for travelers eager to experience these sights without the hassle of planning transport or logistics.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances offering a comprehensive experience—from overflight to sandboarding—while maintaining a small-group atmosphere that allows for more personalized attention. We also value the inclusion of local food and the opportunity to try things like traditional tapas at Huacachina. However, keep in mind this is a long, physically demanding day that might not suit everyone, especially those sensitive to motion sickness or with limited stamina. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a packed schedule, this tour offers a memorable, action-packed introduction to the Ica region.

Key Points

• Early Start and Long Day: Starts at 4 am, returning around 8 pm, so prepare for a full-day adventure.
• Small Group Comfort: Semi-private service with up to 15 travelers, ensuring more personalized guidance.
• Inclusion of Overflights: 35-minute flight over the Nazca Lines, a highlight for many travelers.
• Adventure Activities: Sandboarding and buggy rides in Huacachina add an adrenaline rush.
• Local Cuisine: Time for lunch with local specialties after exploring Huacachina.
• Flexible and Punctual Service: Professional drivers and guides committed to a smooth experience.

Exploring the itinerary in detail

The Early Departure from Lima

We begin our adventure at around 4:00 am, leaving from Lima to beat traffic and maximize our time at the sites. While early mornings aren’t everyone’s favorite, this timing ensures we arrive at Nazca in the late morning. The five-hour drive is broken with a quick stop for bathroom breaks and snack shopping—perfect for stretching your legs and grabbing water, juices, or snacks. The bus is comfortable enough for a long haul, and the punctuality of the transfer sets a positive tone for the day.

The Nazca Lines Overflight

Arriving at the Mario Reiche airfield, we’re greeted with the buzz of anticipation. After passing through controls and showing passports, we board small planes—typically 3 to 6 passengers—to fly over the enigmatic Nazca Lines. This flight lasts around 35 minutes, giving us a bird’s-eye view of the massive geoglyphs etched into the desert floor.

This overflight is undeniably the tour’s star feature. As Elena from the review mentions, “It was great, but took 18 hours. Quite exhausting.” The flight’s brief duration means you get an unforgettable perspective without overtaxing your day, though it’s worth noting that some travelers might find the long drive and early start tiring. For those prone to motion sickness, it’s advisable to take medication beforehand, as one reviewer pointed out.

The Drive to Ica and Lunch Break

After the flight, we hop back on the bus for a two-hour drive to Ica. Along the way, there’s time to relax and enjoy the desert scenery. Once in Ica, we pause for a proper lunch, often featuring local Peruvian dishes. This is a chance to savor the flavors that make these regions famous—something many travelers appreciate, especially as the day is packed with activities afterward.

Huacachina Oasis and Desert Adventure

Post-lunch, we arrive at Huacachina, a small desert town centered around a stunning oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. Here, you can take a break, explore the area, and enjoy the scenery. Many travelers mention the food here as a highlight—some even raving about the tasty local options.

Then it’s time for adventure sports—sandboarding and buggy rides. The experience of sliding down dunes on a board, or bouncing over the sand in a buggy, adds a thrill that many find worth the earlier early wake-up. One reviewer noted that “we practiced sandboarding and bought buggies for about an hour,” which is enough to get a taste of desert adventure without it consuming your whole afternoon.

Returning to Lima

After the adrenaline rush, we head back toward Lima. The return trip lasts roughly two hours, with another stop for bathroom breaks and snacks. The day wraps up with arriving in Miraflores around 8:00 pm, giving you time to unwind or explore some of Lima’s vibrant nightlife if you’re not too exhausted.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers with a good level of physical fitness, given the early start, long hours, and active options like sandboarding. It’s ideal if you’re eager to see the Nazca Lines from above—an unforgettable highlight—and enjoy a mix of cultural, natural, and adrenaline-filled activities. However, if you’re sensitive to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find the day quite demanding. The small group size and professional guides help keep the experience personalized and engaging, making it suitable for those who appreciate detailed explanations and a friendly atmosphere.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Lima offers a balanced combination of iconic sights, adventure, and local flavor. The overflight over the Nazca Lines, often singled out as the highlight, provides a rare perspective on these mysterious geoglyphs that you won’t forget. Pairing that with sandboarding and buggy rides in Huacachina guarantees an exciting, active day. The inclusion of local food adds a nice authentic touch, making it much more than just a sightseeing trip.

While the long hours and early start might be a stretch for some, the professional guides, small-group setting, and well-organized itinerary help justify the effort. We believe it’s a worthwhile experience for those keen on adventure and iconic sights, especially if you’re looking for a full-day, all-in-one trip that captures the essence of Ica’s highlights.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:00 am, requiring an early wake-up call but allowing for a full day of sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation, the Nazca Lines overflight, and the guided experience. Lunch and adventure activities are typically paid for separately or included depending on the package.

How long is the flight over the Nazca Lines?
The flight lasts approximately 35 minutes, offering a great aerial view of the geoglyphs.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness and may not be suitable for very young children due to the early start and long hours.

What is the group size?
The service is semi-private, with a maximum of 15 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing full refunds.

Are there any weather considerations?
The experience depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What kind of transportation is used?
Comfortable buses for the long drives, with small planes for the overflight.

How physically demanding is the tour?
You should have a moderate fitness level, as it involves long drives, walking, and active activities like sandboarding.

Is there free time during the tour?
Most of the day is scheduled, but there is some flexibility during lunch and at Huacachina for exploring or relaxing.

This well-rounded day trip from Lima offers a chance to tick off two of Peru’s most compelling sights while enjoying some exciting activities and local flavors. It’s a robust option for travelers craving a full day of adventure, stories, and stunning views—just be prepared for a long, energetic ride that delivers plenty of memorable moments.