From Lima: Visit Paracas, Ballestas Islands, Huacachina and Vineyard in Ica.

A comprehensive day exploring Peru’s southern highlights — from wildlife-filled islands to desert dunes and vineyard visits. For $360, this full-day journey offers a taste of adventure, nature, and culture.

We start early with a pickup from downtown Lima, heading south to the Ica region. One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is its ability to pack diverse landscapes and experiences into just one day. We loved how seamless the transfers felt, thanks to the small-group setup—limiting us to just seven participants, which makes for a more intimate, relaxed experience. Our guides, who spoke fluent English and Spanish, made sure we were well-informed and comfortable throughout.

Two things really stand out: First, the boat tour around the Ballestas Islands, where we saw Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and a variety of migratory birds. The second highlight is the visit to Huacachina, with its surreal desert scenery and dunes perfect for sandboarding and dune bashing.

A possible drawback? The entire day involves quite a bit of travel—around 3-4 hours each way—so it’s not for those seeking a slow, relaxed sightseeing pace or a quiet day. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple highlights in one go and those who don’t mind a packed schedule.

Ultimately, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Peru who want a broad overview of the country’s coastal and desert landscapes, combined with some cultural flavor through a vineyard visit.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From coastal islands teeming with wildlife to the vast dunes of Huacachina, the scenery is varied and captivating.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the significance of each stop, making the experience more meaningful.
• Authentic experiences: Sandboarding and dune bashing add an adventurous touch, while the winery visit offers local flavor.
• Value for money: For $360, you get transportation, a boat tour, lunch, and multiple sightseeing stops—offering good value for a full-day experience.
• Small group size: Limited to just 7 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention and easier interaction.
• Time management: A tightly scheduled day means you’ll see a lot, but it also requires a willingness to stick to the timetable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Lima

We begin early in the morning, with the convenience of a hotel pickup in downtown Lima. From there, we hop onto a comfortable bus that takes us south along the coast, giving us a glimpse of Peru’s diverse landscapes even before we arrive at our first stop. The drive takes approximately 3 hours, but the scenery is part of the journey’s charm, with views of arid plains and distant mountains.

Paracas and the Candelabro

Our first official stop is the paracas Peninsula, famous for its Candelabro, a mysterious geoglyph carved into the sand that dates back centuries. The guide explains the various theories about its origins—ranging from ancient navigation aid to alien origin—though no definitive answer exists, adding an element of intrigue.

The town of Paracas itself is laid-back, with a small harbor and waterfront. We get a quick photo stop here before heading to the pier for our boat ride.

The Ballestas Islands

The highlight of the day is the boat tour around the Ballestas Islands. During the roughly two-hour voyage, we’re thrilled to spot hundreds of sea lions basking on rocks, and flocks of migratory birds swooping overhead. The boat is well-equipped, and guides point out the notable wildlife and formations, including the famous “Candelabro”—a massive, hillside geoglyph that’s best viewed from the sea.

The tour is well-paced, and the guide shares interesting stories about the islands’ ecology and conservation efforts. Many reviews note that the wildlife viewing is impressive, especially if you’re lucky with the weather.

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Lunch in Ica

After returning to the mainland, we head to Las Dunas Hotel in Ica for a hearty lunch. The restaurant offers local specialties, and many travelers find this break welcome after the morning’s busy activities. The food is generally described as good quality, with some reviews mentioning the regional flavors.

Exploring Ica’s City and Culture

Post-lunch, we take a walking tour of Ica’s Plaza de Armas, where the blend of colonial architecture and modern touches creates a charming atmosphere. The guide points out key sights and shares local stories, enriching the experience.

The Huacachina Oasis

Next, we visit the Huacachina Oasis, a striking desert lagoon surrounded by towering dunes. Here, we have a chance to capture stunning photos of the landscape. The oasis feels like stepping into a mirage, with the sun casting long shadows over the sand.

For the adventurous, the highlight is sandboarding and dune bashing. We climb the dunes on a small vehicle called a tuber, then slide down on boards, which is as fun as it sounds. Many travelers appreciated the thrill of racing down the dunes and the opportunity to get some fantastic photos. Dune ascents can be strenuous, so comfortable clothing and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Pisco and the Vineyard

The day concludes with a visit to an artisanal winery, where we learn about the production of wine and pisco, Peru’s national spirit. Guides, like Juan or Maria, are knowledgeable and passionate, making the tasting session enjoyable and educational.

You’ll get to sample various wines and a traditional pisco sour, which many describers found delightful. The wine’s quality and the guide’s expertise are often praised, making this stop a highlight for lovers of good drink and authentic local craftsmanship.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Transport and timing: The bus ride is comfortable but long. Expect the day to be quite full, with about 3-4 hours on the bus each way.
• Group size: With only 7 spots, the group is intimate, but this also means booking in advance is wise.
• What to bring: A passport is necessary for identification, and sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are a good idea for the outdoor activities.
• Pace of the day: Be prepared for a busy schedule—there’s a lot to see and do, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a slow, leisurely day.
• Weather: Check the forecast, as desert and coastal weather can vary; hats and water are recommended.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a balanced view of Peru’s coast, combining wildlife, nature, and cultural experiences. The inclusion of local guides adds a layer of authenticity, making the history and ecology of each site more accessible.
The wine and pisco tasting is an added perk, especially if you’re eager to sample regional specialties with knowledgeable guides.

In terms of value, $360 covers transportation, all tours, activities, and lunch, making it a convenient, all-in-one option for those with limited time but a desire to experience a broad spectrum of what Ica and Paracas offer.

Who is this tour best suited for?

Travelers who enjoy active, full days filled with diverse sights will find this tour perfect. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Peru’s coastal highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips.
Those interested in wildlife, adventure activities like sandboarding, and local wines will find plenty to love. However, if you prefer a relaxed, unhurried experience or are sensitive to long travel times, you might find this schedule a bit tiring.

The Sum Up

This tour from Lima provides an excellent way to see some of Peru’s most iconic coastal sights in a single day. It balances adventure, wildlife, and culture in a way that feels authentic and engaging. The small-group format, guided expertise, and inclusion of activities like sandboarding and wine tasting make it a memorable experience worth considering.

It’s especially suited for travelers eager to maximize their time in Peru and those curious about the country’s landscapes beyond Lima’s urban scene. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and traveling on a bus, you’ll find this trip offers a well-rounded, exciting glimpse of the Ica region’s natural beauty and cultural treasures.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy outdoor activities like sandboarding and wildlife watching will have fun, but they should be comfortable with a long day and bus travel.

How early do we need to start?
The tour begins early in the morning, with pickup at your hotel. Exact starting times vary, so check with the provider when booking.

Is the boat tour at the Ballestas Islands included?
Yes, the boat tour, which is a major highlight, is included in the price.

What should I bring for the sandboarding activity?
Wear comfortable clothes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and possibly a camera to capture the dunes.

Can I buy souvenirs at the vineyard or in Ica?
Yes, the tour includes visits to arts and crafts markets in Ica, where you can purchase local products.

Are meals included?
A lunch is included at Las Dunas Hotel, featuring regional dishes.

What languages are available during the tour?
The tour is led by guides fluent in English and Spanish, accommodating most travelers comfortably.

This full-day adventure from Lima offers a well-balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor. It’s a fantastic way to experience the diversity of Peru’s coast and desert landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple trips yourself.

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