Huacachina and Paracas Tour (2 Days)

Huacachina is home to a great variety of plant species, which include palms, huarangos, and eucalyptus. It is one of the few oases that exist in South America.

Home / Huacachina and Paracas Tour (2 Days)

Duration

Full day

Difficulty

Moderate

Recommended age

12 years

Language

Spanish, English, Portuguese

Max Altitude

3200 msnm

Group size

2 people minimum

Huacachina is an oasis located 5 km west of Ica city, in Peru. Huacachina is home to a great variety of plant species, which include palms, huarangos, and eucalyptus. It is one of the few oases that exist in South America. The dunes that surround Huacachina are perfect for practicing dune buggying and sandboarding.

This tour includes a visit to the famous Ballestas Islands on the first day. The Ballestas Islands are located in the Paracas National Reserve, a conservation area dedicated to protect the environment of Peru’s west coast. During this short visit, you will spot penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat.

On the second day, you will explore a local Pisco vineyard. The region of Ica, where Huacachina is located, is famous for the numerous vineyards that produce high quality Pisco, an alcoholic beverage which is the main ingredient of the delicious Pisco sour.

Hundreds of tourists visit Huacachina during the Peruvian independence day celebrations, on July 28th. However, this place is worth visiting at any time of the year. Also, Huacachina and Paracas are located just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Lima. Therefore, they are a really good place to visit before exploring the rest of Peru.

Day 1: Lima - Paracas - Huacachina

We will pick you up from your hotel in Lima. Then, we will board our private bus to Paracas town. Paracas is located on Peru’s west coast. It is famous for its beautiful beaches and islands.

We will arrive at Paracas around 10 am. Then, we will have a 2 hours guided tour of the Ballestas Islands. You will spot different animals during the tour, including sea lions and Humbold penguins. The Islas Ballestas are located inside the Paracas National Reserve, a sanctuary dedicated to protect the biodiversity of Peru’s west coast.

After our guided tour of the Ballestas Islands, we will board our bus to travel to Huacachina, a small oasis located in the middle of the desert. In the afternoon, you will have a dune buggy tour through the sands that surround Huacachina. You will also have time to practice sandboarding.

Then, we will transfer you to your accommodation in Huacachina. The accommodation is not included in the tour price. If you want, you can have a drink at one of the numerous pubs and bars located near Huacachina.

Day 2: Huacachina - Lima

We will pick you up from your accommodation at 11:00 a.m. Then, we will visit a nearby Pisco Vineyard to have a guided tour. You will have the chance to try lots of free samples of locally produced Pisco and wine. Afterwards, we will return to Huacachina. You will have the rest of the afternoon to explore this beautiful oasis and relax while watching the sunset.

At 7:00 p.m., we will board our private bus to return to Lima city. We will be arriving there around 11:45 p.m. Then, we will drop you off at your hotel or hostel.

Departure & Return Location
Lima Hotel Transfer

Departure Time
5:30 a.m.

Price Includes

Professional tour guide
Transportation in our private bus
Hotel pick ups and drop offs
Boat tour to Ballestas Islands
2 hour dune buggy tour
Sandboarding
Pisco vineyard tour
Entrance fees

Price Excludes

Food and Beverages
Accomodation
Travel insurance
Tips
Any Private Expenses

Packing list

Original Passport (same as used at time of booking for permits/ tickets)
Camera and film, fully charged & extra batteries (batteries drain quicker in the cold)
Sunglasess and Sun hat or cap
Protect & hydrate sunscreen lotion (factor 60 or 70+ is recommendable)
Water bottle and snacks
Some Peruvian Soles in cash

Frequently Asked Questions - 2 days Huacachina tour

Where do we stay overnight on the 2 day Huacachina tour?

Most packages include one night in hotels or hostels inside or near the oasis, with options ranging from budget dorms to boutique stays with lagoon or pool views. Spending the night is a highlight, as the oasis becomes peaceful after day visitors leave.

What is the nightlife like in Huacachina?

At night, the oasis turns into a laid-back, bohemian spot with bars and restaurants lit up around the lagoon. Visitors enjoy strolling the boardwalk under the stars, sipping pisco cocktails, and listening to live music. Staying overnight also means you can hike the dunes later, when they’re empty and the sky is full of stars.

Can I watch the sunrise from the dunes?

Yes! One of the main advantages of the 2-day tour is the chance to see sunrise from the top of the dunes. It’s a magical and quiet moment with soft colors and no crowds perfect for photography and enjoying the desert’s calm atmosphere.

Is this tour good for families with kids?

Yes, as long as children are active and can handle buggy rides (drivers go slower with families). There are family-friendly accommodations and restaurants. Staying overnight can be an exciting and safe adventure for families.