From Lima: Ica + Lost Canyon 2D/1N

From Lima: Ica + Lost Canyon 2D/1N — A Deep Dive into Peru’s Desert and Ancient Mysteries

If you’re longing for an adventure that combines beautiful landscapes, cultural history, and adrenaline-pumping activities, this 2-day tour from Lima to Ica is worth considering. For $209 per person, you’ll spend two days exploring some of Peru’s most intriguing sights — from the mystical hamlet of Cachiche to the exhilarating dunes of Huacachina, and the awe-inspiring geological formations of Lost Canyon.

What we love about this experience is how it balances authentic local culture with adrenaline-fueled fun. The visit to Cachiche gives you a glimpse into Peru’s mystical side, while the sandboarding in Huacachina offers a rush unlike any other. The highlight for many is the geology of Lost Canyon, where the natural sculptures and ancient fossils tell stories millions of years old.

One potential consideration is the tour’s schedule— it’s quite full and involves traveling on unpaved roads, so it might not be ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace. However, if you’re eager to pack in as much as possible and love diverse activities, this trip is a perfect fit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mixture of culture, outdoor adventure, and natural wonders—especially those with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to explore beyond typical tourist paths.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visiting Cachiche and the Witches Theme Park offers insight into local legends and mystical traditions.
• Adventure Activities: Sandboarding and dune riding in Huacachina provide adrenaline rushes and fun for thrill-seekers.
• Stunning Natural Views: Lost Canyon’s geological formations and the oasis scenery deliver unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Comprehensive Experience: Includes visits to a local winery, paleontological museum, and important archaeological sites.
• All-Inclusive Value: Bus tickets, guides, entrance fees, and accommodation are covered, making it a straightforward package.
• Group Size & Logistics: Tours run with a guide, and timing is tight but organized for maximum experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Ica + Lost Canyon Tour

The Journey Begins: Lima to Ica

Starting from Lima, you’ll hop on a bus, with options like Cruz del Sur or Peru VIP, heading south towards the Ica region. The journey’s about 11:30 AM, giving you the whole afternoon to begin exploring. Once in Ica, the experience kicks off with a visit to the Cachiche Hamlet, renowned for its legends of witches and mystical tales. The highlight here is the seven-headed palm tree and the Witches Park, which is both charming and a little spooky. Expect to learn about local folklore, which adds a layer of cultural depth to your trip.

A personal favorite is the visit to the House of Tiles — this is a chance to purchase authentic Ica tiles and chocolates, perfect little souvenirs that support local artisans. It’s a quick but pleasant stop to appreciate Ica’s craft traditions.

Wineries and Local Flavors

Next, you’ll visit an artisanal winery, where you can witness the traditional process of making wines and piscos. The tasting session gives you a chance to savor local flavors, including cachinas and other spirits, often enjoyed as part of Peru’s culinary heritage. The visit is not just about tasting but understanding the craftsmanship behind these drinks, which is a real highlight if you’re interested in local gastronomy.

Lunch is typically included or at least has time allocated for it, with local Ica dishes available. Expect a relaxed atmosphere where you can sample regional specialties, adding flavor to your experience.

The Oasis and Sandboarding

In the afternoon, the tour moves to the Huacachina Oasis, arguably Peru’s most iconic desert spot. Surrounded by towering dunes, the lagoon provides a surreal backdrop for photos. Here, the adrenaline kicks in with 4X4 dune buggy rides and sandboarding. The guide will give some quick instructions on how to slide down the dunes — it’s easier than it looks, but expect a few bumps and a good dose of fun.

Travelers have described it as a “spectacular experience,” with the dunes offering incredible scenic shots and an intense thrill. The driver will stop at different dunes to give you opportunities to practice and capture memorable pictures. Some reviews mention the “incredible adrenaline rush” and “spectacular shots,” making it clear this is a crowd favorite.

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Transition to the Night: Hotel Stay

After a busy afternoon, you’ll check into a 2-star hotel for the night. While not luxurious, it provides a comfortable base to rest before another early start the next day. The focus here is on convenience and value rather than extravagance.

Day Two: Lost Canyon and Ancient Fossils

Early Morning Departure

The next day begins early, with pickup around 6:45 AM, heading toward the Lost Canyon via a scenic drive along the Pan-American Highway. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the desert and the canyon’s entrance, which involves traveling on an unpaved road that adds a touch of adventure.

Exploring the Geological Marvels

Once at Lost Canyon, you’ll see formations that are truly jaw-dropping. The Plaza Caracol, on the fourth level of the canyon, offers sweeping views of the geological tapestry, with natural sculptures such as The Face of the Puma and other formations that look like they belong in a fantasy film. The landscape is a testament to the power of erosion over millions of years, creating striking shapes.

The canyon’s geological features are complemented by paleontological insights; there’s an optional visit to a paleontological museum where you can see fossils uncovered in the area. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past, appealing especially to those interested in natural history.

The Final Highlights

The tour also includes a visit to Ocucaje Square, a notable site for paleontological finds, and a walk through the canyon’s famous gorge. The natural beauty and fossil history provide a peaceful yet awe-inspiring end to your adventure.

Return to Ica and Lima

Mid-afternoon, it’s time to head back to Ica, arriving around 3:00 to 4:00 PM. The tour concludes with transportation back to Lima, with bus tickets and a guide included for the full hassle-free experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers great value for those wanting an all-in-one experience. Included are bus tickets, a guide, entrance fees, accommodation, and visits to key sites like the winery, Huacachina, and Lost Canyon.

However, extras like souvenirs or personal purchases are not covered, so budget accordingly if you plan to buy local crafts or snacks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers who want a well-organized way to see Ica’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities, local culture, and natural wonders, while not minding early mornings and full days.

If you’re traveling with a sense of curiosity and enjoy diverse experiences—from folklore to geology—this tour offers a balanced mix of everything.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Ica and Lost Canyon trip from Lima delivers an engaging mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. You’ll love the opportunity to see the mystical Cachiche, glide down dunes in Huacachina, and marvel at the dramatic formations of Lost Canyon. The included activities, like wine tasting and fossil museum visits, deepen your understanding of the region’s traditions and history.

While the schedule is packed and involves some rough roads, the value for the price — including transport, guides, and accommodations — makes it accessible and worthwhile for curious travelers eager to explore Peru’s desert side.

If your goal is to experience authentic local culture combined with outdoor thrills and striking scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable if you want a snapshot of Ica’s diverse attractions without the hassle of organizing each stop yourself.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, bus tickets from Lima to Ica and back are included, along with transportation during the tour such as the 4X4 rides in Huacachina.

How many days does the tour last?
It lasts for two days, with an organized schedule starting early on the first day and returning in the early afternoon of the second day.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available at a local restaurant during the day, and some stops may have options for purchasing food. Be sure to confirm if meals are included at booking.

What kind of accommodation do I get?
A basic 2-star hotel provides overnight accommodation, offering a comfortable place to rest after a busy day.

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

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most likely, yes. The activities are adventurous but generally suitable for families with older children, especially those comfortable with outdoor activities like sandboarding and walking in rugged terrain.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Some activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides require a moderate level of physical activity, but overall, the tour is accessible to most travelers with reasonable mobility.

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