Ica: Haucachina |Sandboarding + Buggy |

Experience the thrill of the desert in Huacachina with a two-hour combo tour of sandboarding and buggy rides. For just $29 per person, you’ll get to zip through the dunes in a powerful buggy, then glide down the sands on a sandboard, all with a friendly bilingual guide. The tour begins in the late afternoon, around 3:30 pm, making it a great way to enjoy the desert during cooler hours and catch some beautiful sunset views.

What we love about this experience is the exhilarating buggy ride, which is not only a chance for adrenaline but also a fun way to see the vast, dramatic desert landscape. Plus, sandboarding offers an authentic taste of adventure, letting you slide down the dunes like a pro—at least for a few minutes! The tour’s inclusion of a professional guide ensures safety and interesting commentary about the oasis’s history, adding depth to the fun.

A possible consideration is that this tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to Huacachina, which could be a minor inconvenience if you’re staying outside the area. Also, the duration is limited to about two hours, so if you’re seeking a longer, more relaxed experience, you might want to look at other options.

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers, travel fans wanting a quick desert thrill, and those interested in capturing stunning photos of the desert dunes and Huacachina oasis. It’s also perfect for travelers on a budget who want a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Just $29 per person, offering great value for a thrilling desert adventure.
• Half-Day Experience: About 2 hours in total, making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.
• Authentic Activities: Includes a buggy ride across the dunes and sandboarding on the sands.
• Bilingual Guides: Knowledgeable guides who provide insights about Huacachina’s history.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stops at dunes provide excellent photo opportunities and scenic views.
• No Hotel Pickup: You need to make your own way to Huacachina, which is worth considering for planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Adventure in Huacachina

Starting Off: Meeting in Huacachina

The tour kicks off in the charming oasis town of Huacachina at 3:30 pm. This timing is perfect for avoiding the midday heat and catching the desert as it transitions into a more atmospheric, golden hour. You’ll meet your guide—who speaks both Spanish and English—and get a brief introduction to the area’s history. Huacachina is a small, lively spot surrounded by towering dunes, famous for its stunning landscape that looks like something out of a desert movie.

Learning About the Oasis

Before heading into the dunes, the guide shares a bit about Huacachina’s origins—a small natural oasis that’s been a local retreat for decades. While you won’t get a detailed history lesson, this context enhances the experience, giving you a sense of connection to the landscape.

Buggy Ride: Speed and Spectacle

The highlight of the tour is the buggy ride across the dunes. You’ll hop into a robust buggy, driven by a skilled guide, who weaves in and out of the dunes with a sense of adventure. We loved the way the buggies bounce over the sand, creating a thrill that’s both exciting and safe. The ride offers panoramic views of the vast desert landscape, with multiple stops at dunes for photos.

Reviewers often mention the adrenaline rush of the buggy, along with the chance to see the desert from a different perspective. One traveler noted, “The buggy ride was a roller coaster—so much fun and exhilarating.” It’s a great combination of scenery and speed, perfect for those who love a bit of adventure.

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Sandboarding: Gliding Down the Dunes

After the buggy ride, the group swaps vehicles for sandboards. This is perhaps the most memorable part for many: actually sliding down the dunes, feeling the rush of wind and sand beneath your feet. You don’t need previous experience—your guide will give pointers on how to balance and descend.

Sandboarding here is straightforward, and it’s a great way to get a taste of a sport that’s both challenging and amusing. Some might find their initial attempts a bit wobbly, but that’s all part of the fun. One review mentions, “I never thought I’d be able to do it, but with the guide’s help, I was happily sliding down the dunes like a pro.”

Returning to Huacachina Lagoon

After the sandboarding, you’ll have a chance to relax and take photos at the Huacachina lagoon, a natural oasis surrounded by palm trees—an ideal spot for capturing your desert adventure. The guide might share some local stories, and you can enjoy the peaceful view before heading back.

End of the Tour and Return to Ica

The tour wraps up around 6:30 pm, with transportation provided back to Ica or your hotel if you’re staying nearby. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll want to plan how to get to Huacachina ahead of time, but the town itself is compact and easily accessible.

Practical Tips for Your Desert Adventure

• Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to shield from the strong sun.
• A camera is a must: the dunes and oasis are stunning, especially during sunset.
• Cash is recommended for paying the tourist tax (S/. 3.60). It’s a small fee, but it’s good to have on hand.
• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes if possible, especially for sandboarding.
• Prepare for some bumps during the buggy ride—hold tight and enjoy the thrill!

What You’re Not Allowed

• Alcohol and drugs are not permitted, maintaining safety and decorum during the adventure.

When to Book

Since the tour runs on availability, it’s wise to confirm your spot in advance, especially for last-minute plans. The provider, Sputh America Travel, contacts travelers via WhatsApp the day before to confirm details, which helps avoid confusion.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This activity is best suited for thrill-seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a quick but memorable desert experience. It’s perfect if you want to combine scenic beauty with an adrenaline rush, all at a reasonable price. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy active outings, this tour offers a fun, group-friendly environment.

It’s also good for travelers with limited time in Ica or Huacachina, as the two-hour duration fits well into a busy schedule without sacrificing excitement.

Final Thoughts

This sandboarding and buggy tour in Huacachina offers an accessible, exciting way to experience the desert landscape of Peru. It combines speed, stunning scenery, and authentic adventure at an attractive price point. The inclusion of a bilingual guide and the opportunity to snap some incredible photos make it a well-rounded experience.

While it’s a short trip, it packs in enough adrenaline and scenery to leave you with lasting memories. The lack of hotel pickup might be a minor inconvenience, but the town’s compact nature makes it easily manageable. If you’re looking for an active outing that combines fun with fantastic views, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own sandboard?
No, the tour includes a sandboarding board, so you can just focus on having fun and trying out the sport.

Is there any age restriction?
The provided information doesn’t specify age limits, but given the activities involved, it’s best suited for older children and adults comfortable with active pursuits.

How long does the buggy ride last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it’s part of the total 2-hour experience, including stops for photos and sandboarding.

Do I need to pay extra for the tourist tax?
Yes, the tourist tax of S/. 3.60 per person is not included in the price and needs to be paid on-site.

Can I cancel the tour later?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if plans change.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’re responsible for getting to Huacachina, but the town is small and easy to reach independently.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection gear, and closed shoes if possible. Bring a camera for the scenic views.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
Late afternoon is ideal, especially for sunset views and to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Is there a group size limit?
The provided info doesn’t specify, but typically tours like this are small to medium groups, ensuring personalized attention.

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, stunning desert vistas, or memories of sliding down dunes, this tour delivers a balanced dose of fun and scenery. It’s an adventure that captures the essence of Huacachina and Ica’s captivating landscape.

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