From Lima: Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour offers a lively escape from the hustle of Peru’s capital, taking you south to see some of the country’s most captivating natural sights. For $89 per person, you’ll spend about 16 hours enjoying a mix of wildlife, desert thrills, and scenic beauty. Guides like Juan or Maria lead the way, making sure you get the most out of every stop.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how well it balances wildlife encounters and adventure activities—you get to see sea lions and penguins up close on the boat trip, then hit the dunes for bumpy buggy rides and sandboarding. Plus, the included lunch offers a tasty break in between. A small downside? The early start—leaving at 5:30 AM—means some travelers may find the long day tiring, especially with a late return around midnight.

Ultimately, this tour suits those who crave a full-day adventure in nature, want to see iconic wildlife, and enjoy a bit of adrenaline. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences and are comfortable with a packed schedule. If you’re seeking a relaxed, slow-paced trip, you might want to consider other options. But if a day of diverse sights and activities sounds exciting, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

Wildlife at Ballestas Islands: See sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and an array of seabirds in their natural habitat.
Scenic Coastal Views: Experience the rugged beauty of Peru’s coastline along the way.
Adventure Activities: Enjoy buggy rides and sandboarding on some of South America’s largest dunes.
Tasty Included Lunch: Take a break with a local meal, adding value to the day.
Early Start & Long Day: Prepare for a 5:30 AM departure and late return, which may be tiring but rewarding.
Flexible Booking & Guides: Reserve with ease, enjoy live guides in English or Spanish, and have options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day trip from Lima is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of what the southern coast of Peru offers in one action-packed day. Starting early at around 5:30 AM, the bus departs Miraflores, heading south toward the Ica region. The four-hour drive might seem long, but it’s a chance to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead. During the ride, guides often share local insights, keeping the atmosphere lively.

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The Ballestas Islands: Wildlife and Coastal Charm

Once in Paracas, the highlight is the two-hour boat tour of the Ballestas Islands. Often called a “mini Galapagos,” these islands are teeming with sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and numerous seabird species. We loved the way the boat glided through the water, giving us close views of the wildlife in their natural environment. Keep your camera ready—photographers will appreciate the chance to snap shots of playful sea lions lounging on rocks or penguins waddling along the shore.

Guides like Juan often point out notable features and share stories about the animals’ behaviors, enhancing the experience. Many reviews highlight how the boat ride is both scenic and informative, offering a nice balance of wildlife viewing and stunning coastal scenery. Expect to see the famous Candelabra geoglyph etched into the hillside, visible from the sea, adding an extra layer of intrigue.

Lunch Break: Tasting Local Flavors

After the boat tour, a hearty lunch is usually included, giving you a chance to recharge. While the menu options aren’t specified, many travelers mention that the meal is tasty and satisfying, often featuring local ingredients. It’s a good opportunity to discuss the morning’s adventures and plan the next part of your day.

From Paracas to Huacachina: Dunes and Desert

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Huacachina, a desert oasis famous for its massive sand dunes. The drive itself is scenic, with stretches of arid landscape giving way to the shimmering dunes. We found the atmosphere here to be surprisingly lively, especially with the anticipation of dune buggy rides.

Once in Huacachina, you have some free time to explore. The town is small but charming, with plenty of vendors offering sandboarding rentals and dune buggy adventures. Many travelers find this part the most exhilarating—climbing up the dunes in a buggy and then gliding down on a sandboard. The buggies are often quite bumpy, but that’s part of the thrill, and the views from the top of the dunes are spectacular.

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The Buggy and Sandboarding Adventure

The actual activities are adrenaline-pumping but safe when guided by experienced operators. Guides typically take you up the dunes in a sturdy, open-air buggy, and then it’s your turn to try sandboarding. For many, this is the highlight—a chance to feel like a desert explorer with an added rush of excitement. Several reviews note that the experience is fun and well-organized, and that the dunes are some of the biggest and most impressive in South America.

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Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After a few hours in Huacachina, the bus departs back to Lima. The return trip is a good chance to rest, reflect, and enjoy the scenery. Expect to arrive around 11:45 PM—an late finish, but with plenty of memories to take home.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour package covers roundtrip transportation, a guide (in English or Spanish), the boat trip, and the dune activities. You’ll also get hotel pickup and drop-off in Miraflores, which simplifies logistics. Local taxes are included, though food and drinks are not, so budget accordingly.

Some points to keep in mind:
– Bring a passport or ID, especially for the boat trip.
– Pack comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for after the activities.
– Carry cash for souvenirs, tips, or extras.
– The tour is quite packed, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a long day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those craving a full-day escape. It suits people who want a mix of wildlife viewing, scenic coastlines, and desert activities—all in one trip. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a busy schedule, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or dislike long bus rides, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, those looking for detailed cultural or historical insights might be disappointed, as the focus is on nature and adventure.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the From Lima: Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Full Day Tour offers an exciting snapshot of southern Peru’s natural beauty and outdoor thrills. The wildlife at the islands is delightful, with plenty of opportunities for photos, while the dunes provide a high-energy adventure that leaves many travelers smiling. The included lunch and guided commentary add value, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking an active, memorable day away from the city.

This tour packs a lot into one day but is best suited for those prepared for an early start and late return. If you’re after a balanced mix of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and desert fun, it’s a fantastic way to see some of Peru’s most iconic natural sights in just one trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most families find the activities enjoyable, especially the boat trip and dune bashing, but check with the provider for age restrictions on sandboarding and buggy rides.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some walking and sitting on bumpy buggies, but most activities can be enjoyed by those with moderate mobility. Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are recommended.

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

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, a change of clothes, sunscreen, comfortable attire, and cash for extras. Restroom facilities are available on the bus and during stops.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included in the tour price, but drinks and additional food are not. Many travelers recommend bringing bottled water.

How long is the boat tour at the islands?
The boat ride lasts approximately two hours, giving you ample time to see the wildlife and enjoy the coastal scenery.

What language are guides available in?
Guides operate in both English and Spanish, so specify your preference when booking if possible.

This full-day tour combines the best of coast, desert, and wildlife, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a lively and varied experience in Peru.