FROM LIMA TOUR OASIS HUACACHINA BUGGIES,PARACAS,PISCO AND WINES,PENGUINS.

Discover the Wonders of Ica: A Full-Day Tour through Nature, Culture, and Adventure

Planning a day trip from Lima that combines natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and adrenaline? This full-day tour from NIMBUS takes you on an energetic journey through Huacachina, Paracas, and local vineyards, all for $400 per group (up to two people). Starting early, you’ll explore South America’s only desert oasis, see fascinating marine animals at the Ballestas Islands, taste authentic Peruvian wines and piscos, and get your adrenaline fix with sandboarding and buggy rides.

What truly makes this tour appealing is its blend of diverse experiences. We loved how the guided boat tour offers close-up wildlife encounters, especially with the penguins and sea lions, and how the visits to the vineyards give insight into local traditions. Plus, the dunes of Huacachina provide enough thrill to satisfy even the most adventurous travelers.

One consideration is that you’ll need to pay additional fees for the Ballestas Islands boat tickets (around 17 dollars) and buggy and sandboarding activities (about 14 dollars). This means the advertised price covers mainly transportation and guides, so budget accordingly. This tour suits those who want a full, active day—perfect for travelers interested in nature, wildlife, and hands-on adventure rather than purely cultural or relaxed experiences.

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Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: Combines wildlife viewing, wine tasting, dune adventures, and boat trips.
• Full-Day Flexibility: Expect a packed schedule with multiple stops, from early morning pick-up to evening drop-off.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide context and ensure smooth transitions between activities.
• Adventure and Culture: Excellent mix of adrenaline-filled activities and local traditions.
• Additional Costs: Be prepared for extra fees for boat tickets, buggies, and sandboarding.
• Private Group: Personalized experience with a private guide in either English or Spanish.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pick-up options in Lima, including districts like Miraflores, San Isidro, Barranco, or Lima itself. We appreciated the private transportation, which eliminates the hassle of navigating public transit, making the early start much more comfortable. You’ll be picked up in a vehicle you’ll recognize thanks to pre-tour info and coordination from your guide.

The journey from Lima to Ica typically takes around 4 hours. While that’s a longer drive, it’s worth it for the variety of sights packed into this day. The vehicle is private, which means you can relax, chat, or just enjoy the views of Peruvian desert landscapes rolling by.

Exploring the Ballestas Islands – Wildlife Heaven

The highlight of the trip is the visit to the Ballestas Islands, often called “the Galápagos of Peru.” You’ll hop on a boat (costs about 17 USD, including tax), and the guided tour provides insights into the islands’ ecology. Expect to see sea lions lounging on rocks and Humboldt penguins waddling around—an absolute treat for wildlife lovers.

Travelers often comment on the abundance of birdlife, with thousands of birds soaring above. The “Candelabro,” a mysterious giant figure etched into the desert sands visible from the boat, adds an intriguing touch. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating facts about the islands’ ecosystem and history.

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Vineyards and Traditional Peruvian Beverages

Next, the tour takes you to local vineyards in Ica, where the focus is on wine and pisco tasting—a must-try for any traveler wanting to connect to Peruvian culture. You’ll learn about the traditional process of wine and pisco production, with guides explaining the significance of these beverages in Peruvian life. Tasting opportunities are included, allowing you to sample fresh, locally produced drinks right at the source.

Travelers have mentioned that the wine tasting is a highlight, especially if you appreciate learning about local customs. The visit offers a deeper understanding of Peru’s agricultural traditions, making it more than just a quick stop.

The Dunes of Huacachina – Adventure on the Sand

After the vineyards, excitement ramps up at Huacachina, the only desert oasis in South America. Surrounded by towering dunes, this spot is famous for sandboarding and buggy rides. You can choose to slide down the dunes on a board or hop into an adrenaline-pumping buggy that whips through the desert at exhilarating speeds.

Many reviews mention the thrill of sandboarding—“It’s a lot of fun, and the guides make it accessible even for beginners.” The buggy ride offers a different kind of adrenaline, with the driver expertly navigating the dunes’ steep sides. Keep in mind, additional costs apply for these activities (around 14 USD), but most find the investment worth the fun.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Clothing: Wear clothes that can get dusty or wet from the sea spray. Pack warm clothes for the cooler desert evening.
• Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, or caps—sunproofing is essential in the desert.
• Money: Budget for extra tickets and activities not included in the base price.
• Early Start: The tour’s early pickup means you’ll get a full day of experiences, but be prepared for a long day if you’re not used to early mornings.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This experience offers value for money by combining several key attractions into one day. With the private transport, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of wildlife, cultural insights, and adrenaline, it’s a well-rounded way to see some of Peru’s most exciting sights outside Lima. The small group setting ensures a personalized experience, and the flexible schedule gives you a chance to ask questions and customize your day.

Travelers rave about the guides’ expertise, often describing them as “friendly and very knowledgeable,” which adds confidence and context to each stop. Wildlife enthusiasts particularly enjoy the close-up views of penguins and sea lions, while adventure lovers thrive on the dune activities.

However, it’s important to recognize that extra fees can add up, so budgeting around 30 USD for tickets and activities is wise. Also, the long drive means this isn’t a relaxed sightseeing day but rather a full-immersion experience.

If you’re seeking a dynamic, active day that mixes adventure, nature, and culture, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want authentic, small-group insights into Peru’s diverse landscape.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager for a mix of wildlife encounters, adrenaline-fueled activities, and cultural insights. If you enjoy sightseeing with a hands-on twist, the opportunity to sandboard, and tasting local piscos and wines, you’ll find this day trip rewarding.

It’s also ideal for those who appreciate well-organized guided tours and prefer private transportation over public transit. The tour’s flexibility and focus on authentic experiences make it particularly attractive for travelers wanting to see a different side of Peru—away from the crowds but close to nature and tradition.

In short, this tour offers a compact, exciting window into Peru’s desert landscapes, marine wildlife, and local traditions—an experience that you’ll find both fun and enriching.

FAQ

Is the price of $400 per group a good value?
Considering it covers private transportation, a guided tour in two languages, and includes wine and pisco tastings, it offers good value. Keep in mind the extra costs for boat tickets and activities, which are not included.

How long does the drive from Lima to Ica take?
The trip takes roughly 4 hours each way, making this a long but manageable day trip with comfortable private transport.

Do I need to pay for the boat or activities separately?
Yes, the boat to the Ballestas Islands costs around 17 USD, and bugging/sandboarding activities are about 14 USD, payable on the spot.

What should I bring?
Dress for the desert and water splashes—clothes that can get wet, layers for cold weather, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s not recommended for people over 95 years, and activities like sandboarding and buggy rides are best for those comfortable with some physical activity and adventure.

What language are guides available in?
Guides are available in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated adventure that balances nature, culture, and adrenaline, perfect for those who want a packed but rewarding day outside Lima. Whether you’re wildlife enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or a culture lover, it promises a memorable experience full of unique sights and authentic flavors.

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