From Lima: Ica and Nazca Huacachina + Wines + Overflight

A Practical and Authentic 2-Day Adventure in Ica and Nazca

If you’re looking for a taste of Peru that mixes adventure, culture, and some of the most iconic sights, this 2-day tour from Lima hits the mark. For around $519 per person, you’ll visit the mystical Nazca Lines, enjoy the wild dunes of Huacachina, experience local wines and piscos, and explore charming spots like Cachiche and the Witches Park. It’s designed for those who crave a quick yet immersive taste of southern Peru’s highlights.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it balances adventurous activities—like sandboarding and dune buggy rides—with cultural stops that tell stories of local legends and traditions. Plus, the included Nazca Lines flyover makes the experience all the more memorable.

A potential consideration is the early start and the busy schedule, which might feel rushed for some. But if you’re eager to see a lot in a short time, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, history, and good local food, all packaged into a small-group experience that feels personalized.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: Visit Cachiche, known for its mystical legends and Witches Park, plus local artisan wineries.
• Adventure Elements: Sandboarding and dune buggy rides in Huacachina deliver an adrenaline rush.
• Iconic Sights: Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines to see the famous figures like the Monkey and Astronaut.
• Full Package: Includes bus transfers, accommodations, entrance fees, and a small-group setting.
• Authentic Experiences: Tasting local wines and piscos at an artisanal winery adds a flavorful local touch.
• Time Management: The itinerary is packed, requiring early mornings and efficient transitions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Ica and Nazca Tour

Day 1: From Lima to Ica – Culture, Dunes, and Local Flavors

The tour kicks off with a comfortable bus ride from Lima, either via Cruz del Sur or Peru VIP, giving you scenic views as you head south. Your first stop is the Cachiche hamlet, famous in Peru for its legends about witches and mystical palms. Here, you’ll see the 7-headed palm tree, a quirky sight that makes for great photos, and visit the Witches Park, where stories of local folklore come alive.

Many travelers appreciate this stop for its unusual charm. One review mentions, “The Witches Park was unexpectedly fun and quirky, a perfect intro to Ica’s mystical side.” It’s a reminder that small places often pack a punch when it comes to local stories.

Next, you’ll visit the House of Tiles, where you can browse and buy handcrafted Ica tiles and chocolates—a sweet souvenir and tasty treat. Then, the highlight of the morning: a visit to an artisanal winery. Here, you’ll see the traditional methods of making wines and piscos, and get to taste some for yourself. Many visitors love this part, noting, “The wine tasting was informative and delicious, giving us a real sense of Ica’s local craftsmanship.”

After lunch, you’ll head to the Huacachina Oasis, a true desert jewel. Surrounded by massive dunes, the lagoon offers both stunning scenery and high-energy activities. You can choose to try sandboarding or hop into a 4×4 dune buggy ride, both of which deliver plenty of thrills. The guides are usually good at explaining techniques, making even newcomers feel confident. Expect plenty of adrenaline—and some incredible photo opportunities.

As the sun sets over the dunes, the landscape turns magical, perfect for those postcard shots. The evening ends with a transfer to your hotel in Ica, where a basic but comfortable accommodation awaits.

Day 2: Nazca Lines – Flying Over Ancient Secrets

Early in the morning, you’ll be transferred to the María Reiche Aerodrome for your flight over the Nazca Lines. The process involves weighing passengers and managing scheduling, so patience is key. The flight lasts about 30 minutes, giving you a sweeping view of the giant figures etched into the desert floor.

The Nazca Lines are truly a sight to behold. Many travelers find the flight exhilarating, and the chance to see the Monkey, Hummingbird, and the mysterious Astronaut up close is a rare experience. One review states, “Seeing the figures from the air was surreal. It’s one of those bucket-list moments that lives up to the hype.”

After the flight, you’ll have some free time for lunch before heading back to Lima by bus. The total experience captures a great mix of history, geography, and adventure—all in one compact tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This experience offers a well-rounded package for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. The combination of cultural stops, adventure activities, and the Nazca Lines flight means you get a variety of memorable moments, all without feeling overly rushed.

The small-group format—limited to 10 participants—creates a more personalized atmosphere, allowing guides to tailor their insights and ensure you’re not just another face in a crowd. The inclusion of hotel transfers, entrance fees, and a night’s accommodation adds convenience and value, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local logistics.

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The Balance Between Adventure and Culture

What really makes this tour special is its balance. You’ll learn about Ica’s legends and local craftsmanship, then step into the desert for high-energy dune activities. The wine tasting adds a relaxed, cultural layer, grounding the day in authentic local traditions. The Nazca Lines flight, though brief, is undeniably a highlight and offers a perspective impossible to get from the ground.

Price and Value

At $519, the price might seem steep, but considering that it covers bus travel, entrance fees, a night’s hotel, activities, and a scenic flight, it’s a fair deal. Many travelers comment on how the tour’s organized, efficient, and inclusive nature makes it easy to focus on enjoying the sights rather than logistics. “The price felt justified for the quality of experiences and the convenience,” one reviewer noted.

Possible Drawbacks

The most common concern is the packed schedule—early mornings, short stops, and a lot of driving. For some, the busy itinerary might feel a bit exhausting, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Plus, the Nazca Lines flight depends on weather conditions; delays or cancellations can happen, which might affect your experience.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple highlights in a short time, and who appreciate a mix of cultural, natural, and historic sights. It’s perfect for first-timers to Peru wanting a well-organized introduction, as well as those who enjoy small-group travel with a personal touch.

FAQ

How long is the bus ride from Lima to Ica?
The bus ride is part of the scheduled transfer, typically a comfortable journey that allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are not included, but you’ll have opportunities to try local cuisine during the day, especially at the winery and in Ica.

What is the size of the group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, making it a more intimate experience than large coach tours.

Is the Nazca Lines flight included?
Yes, the aerial overflight is part of the package, giving you a 30-minute view of the famous geoglyphs.

What should I wear for the activities?
Comfortable clothing suited for the desert and outdoor activities, along with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, are recommended.

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

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the adventure components and early start might be better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor activities.

To sum it up, this 2-day Ica and Nazca tour provides a rich mix of adventure, culture, and iconic sights in southern Peru. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to maximize their time, enjoy authentic local experiences, and see some of the world’s most mysterious geoglyphs—without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Whether you’re into adrenaline-filled dune rides, exploring legends, or flying over ancient symbols, this trip offers a well-crafted snapshot of what makes Peru truly unique.

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