Paracas, Huacachina and Nazca: 2Day/1Night Tour from Lima

Exploring the South Coast of Peru in Two Days: Paracas, Huacachina, and Nazca

When we think of Peru, images of Machu Picchu often come to mind, but the southern coast offers equally compelling sights that are perfect for a quick, immersive adventure. For travelers eager to experience marine wildlife, desert dunes, and mysterious geoglyphs, this 2-day/1-night tour from Lima hits all the right notes. Priced at $550 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but with a schedule packed full of memorable moments, you’ll find it delivers good value.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and comfort—from early morning pickups to private transportation, it feels tailored without sacrificing authenticity. The boat ride to the Islas Ballestas offers a fantastic chance to see Peru’s diverse birdlife and sea mammals up close, while the sandboarding and buggy rides in Huacachina are pure adrenaline fun. Plus, the overflight of the Nazca Lines provides a rare glimpse at some of the world’s most intriguing geoglyphs.

A potential consideration is the early start—departing from Lima at 4:00 AM might be tough for some. Also, given the packed schedule, those seeking a leisurely, unhurried pace might find it a bit fast. Still, if you’re keen on squeezing in these iconic sites in a short timeframe, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy diverse experiences, from nature and wildlife to adventure sports and archaeological marvels.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves authentic landscapes, scenic boat rides, and adrenaline-pumping dune activities, this adventure will suit you perfectly. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive snapshot of Peru’s south coast highlights.

Key Points

• Early mornings are part of the package; be prepared for 4:00 AM pickups.
• Private transport makes for a comfortable, efficient experience.
• The combination of wildlife viewing, adventure sports, and archaeological sights offers great variety.
• The Nazca overflight is a major highlight, with a 30-minute flight over mysterious geoglyphs.
• The tour’s small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures more personalized attention.
• Included meals and activities add value, but optional costs like large luggage storage are available.

The Full Experience: An In-Depth Look

Starting Early for a Big Day

The tour kicks off with an early pickup from your Lima hotel or Airbnb at 4:00 AM. While this sounds brutal, it’s necessary to make the most of the two days. Early mornings also mean cooler temperatures, which is especially helpful when you’re out in the desert or on a boat. The organizers do well by confirming pick-up times and locations the day prior.

Day 1: From Lima to Paracas and Huacachina

The drive from Lima to Paracas takes about three hours, giving you a chance to rest or enjoy the scenery along the way. Once at the Port of Paracas, you’ll have a brief break to grab breakfast (included), stretch your legs, and prepare for the boat trip. This is a good time to apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring a waterproof jacket—marine weather can be unpredictable, and the boat rides can get a bit splashy.

Boarding the modern boats to the Islas Ballestas around 9:30 AM is a highlight. As you glide past the rocky formations, keep an eye out for sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and an incredible variety of seabirds. The rock formations are rugged and photogenic, making for great photos. The ballestas are often called “The Poor Man’s Galápagos” for their abundant wildlife, and many reviews mention how close you can get to the animals—“It is a good experience to explore the Huacachina,” noted one traveler.

Afterward, the journey continues to Ica, where you’ll visit Lazo Winery for a taste of local pisco and learn about the production process. Lunch at El Catador Restaurant provides time to relax and enjoy regional cuisine (meals not included in the price). This stop is an excellent chance to appreciate Peru’s famous wine and spirit culture.

The afternoon involves a drive to Huacachina, the desert oasis renowned for its sand dunes and world-class adventure activities. You’ll check into the Curasi Hotel and have free time to stroll around and take in the stunning views of the lagoon. Many reviews praise the lodging as comfortable and conveniently located, right at the edge of the oasis.

Day 2: Nazca Overflight and Dune Adventures

The second day starts early again, with a pickup from Huacachina around 7:00 AM. Expect a roughly two-hour drive to Nazca. Your arrival at María Reich aerodrome marks the beginning of the iconic Nazca Lines overflight. Bringing your passport is mandatory for registration, and the flight lasts about 30 minutes, offering a bird’s-eye view of the mysterious geoglyphs. Many travelers describe the experience as “amazing,” with one noting the pilot guides’ informative commentary.

After the flight, you’ll have free time for lunch (on your own), before heading back to Huacachina. The afternoon is dedicated to adventure sports, including buggy rides and sandboarding. This activity is the tour’s adrenaline highlight, with many reviewers emphasizing how fun and exhilarating it is. You’ll ride over the dunes, feeling the wind in your hair, and slide down the sandy slopes—“The sunset buggy ride and sandboarding were the best part,” exclaimed a happy traveler.

The final evening sees you returning to Lima, arriving around 11:00 PM. It’s a long day, but packed with unforgettable sights and activities.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of marine wildlife, desert adventure, and archaeological marvels ensures variety. The private transportation makes logistics smoother, especially considering the early starts and busy schedule. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized interaction and flexibility.

The boat trip to the Ballestas Islands is a real highlight, giving you a close-up look at wildlife you might not encounter elsewhere. The Nazca Lines overflight offers a rare aerial perspective—something truly unique to the region. And the dune bashing and sandboarding turn the desert into a playground, a perfect adrenaline-pumping finale.

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the excursions and the comfortable lodging in Huacachina. One added advantage is the tour’s inclusivity of meals and activities, helping you plan your budget and expectations.

Considering the Costs and Value

At $550 per person, this tour might seem steep at first glance. However, when you factor in all included activities—boat rides, overflight, adventure sports, meals, and accommodation—it begins to look like fair value for a two-day adventure packed with diverse experiences. Independent planning for all these components could be more complex and expensive, especially with transport, entry fees, and guides.

The optional fee for large luggage storage (adding $30) is worth considering if you plan to stay longer in Huacachina afterward. This flexibility can make your trip more comfortable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who want to hit multiple highlights in a short time. If you enjoy wildlife, scenic boat trips, and the thrill of dune sports, you’ll be right at home. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate organized, guided tours that handle logistics, freeing you to enjoy the sights without worry.

However, those looking for a slower-paced, more relaxed experience might find the schedule too tight. The early mornings and quick transitions between sites require a good level of energy and enthusiasm.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with a pickup at 4:00 AM from hotels in Lima, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast on the first day and lunch on the second day are included in the tour price.

What is the main highlight of the trip?
The Nazca Lines overflight is a key highlight, offering a unique aerial view of the mysterious geoglyphs. The boat ride to Islas Ballestas and dune adventure in Huacachina are also major attractions.

Can I bring large luggage?
Yes, but there is an optional fee of $30 to store a large suitcase. The standard capacity allows only a small backpack or suitcase up to 10 kilos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the early starts and adventure sports may not suit very young children. Check with the provider if in doubt.

How long is the Nazca overflight?
About 30 minutes, giving enough time to see and appreciate the geoglyphs from the air.

What should I bring for the outdoor activities?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and waterproof jacket are recommended. For sandboarding, closed shoes are advisable.

Is transportation private?
Yes, the tour uses private vehicles, which adds comfort and efficiency, especially for the early departures and transfers.

Can I continue staying in Huacachina after the tour?
Yes, you can extend your stay, but note that the tour’s transportation is limited, and additional luggage storage might incur a fee.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Peru’s southern coast. From the wildlife-rich Islas Ballestas to the mysterious Nazca Lines and thrilling dune rides, it’s a package designed for those who crave variety and authenticity. The private transportation, included meals, and small-group setting make it a practical choice for travelers eager to see a lot without the hassle of solo planning.

While the early mornings and busy schedule aren’t for everyone, those who thrive on adventure, discovery, and scenic beauty will find this tour highly rewarding. It’s perfect if you want to check off multiple bucket-list items in just a couple of days, and you’re comfortable with a somewhat fast-paced itinerary. If you’re looking for a memorable, action-packed Peruvian experience, this tour delivers on many levels.

Ready to explore the south coast of Peru? This tour packs in wildlife, archaeology, and adventure sports, all wrapped in an organized, comfortable package. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to make the most of limited time and enjoy a variety of iconic sights—without the stress of planning every detail themselves.