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
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
- Food and Beverages
- Accomodation
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Any Private Expenses
Packing list
- Camera and film, fully charged & extra batteries (batteries drain quicker in the cold)
- Water bottle and snacks
Small Group Tour (Personalized Experience) :
2 -3 People – 270US$ Per person
4+ People – 250US$ Per person
Children/students 220US$ Per person
Frequently Asked Questions - 2 days 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.
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.
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.
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.
