Full day in Paracas with Yacht, Ica and Huacachina with Sunset

Experience the Best of Paracas, Ica, and Huacachina in a Single Day

If you’re looking to pack a variety of stunning landscapes and authentic experiences into a single day, this tour offers a compelling option. For around $150 per person, you’ll explore Lima’s southern coast, visiting the famous Ballestas Islands, learning to prepare ceviche, tasting Peruvian wines and piscos, and ending with an adrenaline rush in the Huacachina desert at sunset. The tour lasts roughly 18 hours, starting early in the morning and finishing late in the evening, with a well-paced itinerary that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation.

What we love about this experience is its diversity—from observing sea lions and penguins on the islands to sandboarding down dunes as the sun sets. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and the inclusion of wine and pisco tastings add delightful touches that elevate the trip beyond just sightseeing. Another highlight is the culinary element, where you get to participate in a ceviche cooking class, giving you a taste of local traditions.

A potential drawback? The length and packed schedule mean you’ll need to be prepared for an early start and a lot of activity. Travel fatigue could set in if you’re not used to full-day excursions. Also, the price point might seem a little steep compared to similar tours booked directly, as some reviews suggest. However, the convenience of transportation, guided commentary, and inclusions might offset this for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience.

This tour best suits those eager for a comprehensive day of exploration, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities, culinary experiences, and stunning natural scenery. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want a mix of wildlife, culture, and adrenaline in one streamlined package.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From marine islands to desert dunes, you’ll see some of Peru’s most iconic natural sights.
• All-in-one experience: Includes boat trips, culinary classes, wine tastings, and adventure activities—great value for a full day.
• Guided expertise: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Active but manageable: Activities like sandboarding and tubular rides are fun, but require some physical readiness.
• Early start: The tour begins at 3:30 AM, so prepare for a long day.
• Limited group size: Max 15 travelers, which allows for personalized attention.

A Complete Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early in Lima and Traveling South

The adventure kicks off around 3:30 AM, so expect a very early start. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Lima, and the journey south begins with a brief stop for breakfast—an important chance to energize before a full day. The drive to Paracas takes approximately four hours, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenery of coastal Peru. Given the early start, packing snacks and water is advisable.

The Iconic Islas Ballestas and the Marine Life Encounter

Once at Paracas, the highlight is the boat trip to the Ballestas Islands. The ride lasts about two hours and offers a chance to see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and guano birds. The boat departs from the dock, and the boat ride itself is an experience—feeling the sea breeze and watching seabirds soar overhead. The “El Candelabro” geoglyph is visible from the boat, adding an air of mystery to the trip.

The reviews praise the expert guidance during this part, with some noting that the bioluminescent sea lions are a highlight. The use of binoculars on board allows for closer views, making this a memorable wildlife encounter. The trip is short but packed with sights—a perfect balance of adventure and education.

Culinary and Cultural Delights in Paracas

After returning from the islands, you’ll have the chance to participate in a ceviche cooking class. This isn’t just about tasting; it’s about learning and participating in making one of Peru’s most famous dishes. The experience is fun and interactive, giving you a taste of local culinary traditions.

Following the cooking class, there’s free time in Paracas for a lunch break. This is a good opportunity to sample local dishes or relax before heading to the next stop. The tour includes a visit to the Paracas National Reserve, which boasts dramatic coastal landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Exploring Ica and Sampling the Flavors of Peru

Next, the journey continues to Ica, a region famed for its wines and piscos. You’ll have an hour to tastings of local wines and piscos, which some travelers find to be a highlight. The quality and authenticity of these tastings are often praised, giving you a true flavor of the region’s craftsmanship. An optional additional tourist menu for $10 offers a broader gastronomic experience, adding more local dishes to your meal.

Huacachina: Dunes, Dusk, and Daring Activities

After a satisfying lunch and tastings, it’s time for the Huacachina Oasis. Just a short drive away, this natural desert lagoon surrounded by towering dunes is something out of a storybook. The real excitement begins with the tubular rides and sandboarding at sunset—an adrenaline-filled activity that combines speed, dune-crossing, and great views of the setting sun.

The two-hour session begins around 4:20 PM, giving plenty of time to enjoy the dunes and twilight. Many reviews mention that this part of the tour is a thrilling highlight—the sensation of carving down the dunes on a sandboard or speeding in a tubular is unlike anything else.

Wrapping Up and Returning to Lima

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Lima, with a five-hour drive that offers time to rest and reflect. The tour concludes back at your starting point, around midnight or so, making it a long but fulfilling adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour merges adventure, culture, and leisure in a way that feels genuinely balanced. The boat trips and wildlife sightings offer a close connection with nature—something many travelers cherish. The culinary and wine tastings deepen your understanding of Peru’s renowned gastronomy.

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort during the long drives. The guide, who speaks both English and Spanish, is generally praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. However, keep in mind that tubular rides are only for those over 5 years old, so younger children may not participate in that activity.

While the price includes most activities and admissions, some reviews note that booking directly with local operators might offer cheaper options. Still, the convenience of a guided group with all logistics managed makes this a good choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day adventure is ideal for active travelers who want to see a wide variety of highlights without the hassle of planning individual activities. It suits those with an interest in wildlife, outdoor sports, and local cuisine. If you’re short on time but eager to see coastal, desert, and marine landscapes in one go, this trip delivers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

In summary, this tour offers full immersion into some of Peru’s most iconic sights, bundled into one packed day. The boat trip to the islands is a genuine highlight, offering close encounters with wildlife and stunning views. The culinary experience adds depth to your understanding of Peruvian culture, while the sandboarding and tubular rides provide a good dose of adrenaline.

The tour’s value largely depends on your desire to see a variety of sights in a single day, and your comfort with a busy schedule. For those who prefer a leisurely pace or multiple days for each experience, this might feel a bit hurried. But for adventurous souls wanting a comprehensive, exciting, and authentic taste of the coast, desert, and culinary traditions, it’s an experience worth considering.

If you’re comfortable with early mornings, enjoy outdoor activities, and want an all-inclusive package that covers wildlife, food, and adventure, this trip fits the bill.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 3:30 AM, so be prepared for an early start and a long day.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, it includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Lima.

Are meals included?
Breakfast can be purchased for about $6, but lunch is on your own, with options starting at $10. The tour also offers a cultural cooking class and wine and pisco tastings included.

Can children participate in all activities?
Children over 5 years old can participate in the tubular rides. The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but check individual activity restrictions.

Is the boat trip to the islands safe?
Yes, the boat trip is a standard excursion, with binoculars provided for better wildlife viewing. The ride lasts about 2 hours and is considered safe for most travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended, especially for the dune activities at Huacachina.

How long is the drive from Lima?
The drive from Lima to Paracas is approximately 4 hours each way.

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, so communication should be clear.

What happens if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

Is there WiFi available during the tour?
WiFi on board is not included, so plan accordingly.

This full-day adventure offers a compelling way to see some of Peru’s most striking landscapes and enjoy its flavors—all in one well-organized trip. Perfect for the curious traveler ready for a mix of wildlife, adventure, and cultural bites.