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Discover the best of the southern coast of Peru in an unforgettable one-day adventure. Sail through the waters of Paracas to observe the incredible marine fauna of the Ballestas Islands, taste the most representative flavors of Ica in a traditional winery, and be amazed by the spectacular Oasis of Huacachina, surrounded by gigantic sand dunes. A perfect experience that combines nature, culture, gastronomy, and adventure in a single tour.
Paracas, Ica and Huacachina tour overview
Discover the best of Peru's south coast in a single day: sail to the Ballestas Islands to see their marine wildlife and the mysterious Paracas Candelabra, enjoy a wine and pisco tasting at a traditional winery in Ica and be amazed by the Huacachina oasis, before riding the dunes in buggies and trying sandboarding.
Why choose this experience with us?
- Small groups and guaranteed departures: Travel in groups of up to 18 people, for a more authentic experience and quicker visits at each site. Departures are guaranteed from 1 passenger, so you can do the tour even if you are travelling alone.
- Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pickup to the end of the experience you will have our guide with you, answering your questions and providing information and safety along the way.
- Enjoy every destination without rushing: An itinerary designed to explore each highlight of the route calmly, taking in the natural scenery and the cultural richness of the destination.
- Adventure, nature and culture in one experience: Combine marine wildlife watching, a wine and pisco tasting, and the thrill of dune buggies and sandboarding.
Programme summary
Lima – Paracas – Ica – Huacachina – Lima
The Ballestas Islands and the Paracas Candelabra in the morning, a wine and pisco tasting at an Ica winery in the afternoon, and a finale of dune buggies and sandboarding on the Huacachina dunes.
Tour facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full day: approx. 17 hours |
| Departure from Lima | Approx. 4:00 a.m. |
| Return to Lima | Approx. 9:30 p.m. |
| Maximum altitude | Huacachina dunes: approx. 450 m / 1,476 ft above sea level |
| Minimum altitude | Paracas and the Ballestas Islands: 0 m above sea level |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperature | Between 16 °C and 28 °C / 61 °F and 82 °F, depending on the season |
| Service | Shared, maximum 18 passengers |
Highlights
- Ballestas Islands, Paracas (0 m above sea level): a natural refuge for sea lions, Humboldt penguins and a wide variety of seabirds.
- Paracas Candelabra (0 m above sea level): an enigmatic geoglyph carved into a coastal hillside, visible only from the sea.
- Ica (406 m / 1,332 ft): the land of Peruvian pisco and wine, known for its traditional wineries.
- Huacachina oasis (406 m / 1,332 ft): a spectacular natural oasis surrounded by imposing sand dunes, perfect for photographs and adventure activities.
- Huacachina dunes (450 m / 1,476 ft): the perfect setting for dune buggies and sandboarding.
Paracas, Ica and Huacachina tour itinerary
Lima – Paracas – Ica – Huacachina – Lima
A full day along Peru's south coast, with nature, culture, flavours and adventure.
| Pickup point | Time |
|---|---|
| Hotels and Airbnbs in San Isidro | 3:50 – 4:00 a.m. |
| Falabella Miraflores | 3:50 – 4:00 a.m. |
| Hotels and Airbnbs in Miraflores | 4:15 – 4:30 a.m. |
| Hotels and Airbnbs in Barranco | 4:30 – 4:55 a.m. |
| Parque Kennedy – Saga Falabella | Time to be confirmed |
Seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis and times are approximate: they may vary with traffic, road conditions and operational factors.
- The adventure sets off from Lima (154 m above sea level) towards the south coast with our specialist guide, who gives all the information you need to make the most of the experience. On the way we make a short stop at a well-known local bakery for breakfast (breakfast not included).
- 9:30 a.m. · Ballestas Islands (0 m above sea level). We arrive in Paracas and head to the pier to board modern boats bound for the famous Ballestas Islands. During the trip we see the mysterious Paracas Candelabra, a huge geoglyph whose origin remains an enigma.
- Further out to sea we admire the area's remarkable marine wildlife, with sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans and a wide variety of birds that make this one of the most important ecosystems on the Peruvian coast.
- 11:30 a.m. · Tasting of typical sweets. We try the traditional tejas and chocotejas, the region's emblematic sweets, known for their unique flavours and artisan making.
- 1:00 p.m. · Lunch at leisure (not included). Free time for lunch and to enjoy Peruvian cuisine. We recommend trying the famous ceviche, one of the country's most representative dishes.
- 2:00 p.m. · Ica, artisan winery and tasting (406 m above sea level). We visit a traditional winery, learn about the making of Peruvian wines and piscos passed down through generations, tour the facilities and take part in an enjoyable tasting of sweet wines, dry wines, borgoñas, piscos and macerated spirits.
- 3:00 p.m. · Huacachina oasis (406 m above sea level). We reach this spectacular natural oasis, a lagoon surrounded by immense golden dunes, with time to walk around it, take photographs and enjoy one of Peru's most surprising landscapes.
- 3:30 p.m. · Dune buggies and sandboarding. The adventure reaches its peak aboard the buggies, riding the giant desert dunes with thrilling climbs and descents and sweeping panoramic views. We also try sandboarding, sliding down the sand in one of the most famous deserts in South America.
- 4:30 p.m. · Return to Lima. We set off on the journey back, with a short stop in Chincha, land of Afro-Peruvian traditions, where you can taste regional products such as wines, macerated spirits and typical sweets.
- Approx. 9:30 p.m. · Arrival in Lima. We arrive in the evening, with drop-off at the service's established points, completing a day full of nature, culture, flavours and adventure.
What the Paracas, Ica and Huacachina tour includes
Guaranteed entrance fees
- Entrance and boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, with the ticket arranged by us so you can skip the long queues.
Adventure activities
- Dune buggies: a ride across the impressive Huacachina dunes aboard vehicles designed for the desert.
- Sandboarding: slide down the dunes in one of Peru's most spectacular deserts.
Culinary experiences
- Wine and pisco tasting at a well-known Ica winery, with sweet and dry wines, borgoñas, piscos and macerated spirits, and an explanation of how they are made.
- Tasting of tejas and chocotejas, the region's emblematic sweets.
Support and safety
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English), trained in history, culture and tourist information.
- Information and prior coordination by phone or WhatsApp: the day before the trip our team contacts you with all the details of the service.
- First-aid kit. Our guides receive ongoing first-aid training.
- 24/7 customer service, with an emergency number available from start to finish.
Transfers
- Pickup in tourist transport from your hotel in Lima, if it is within the established pickup points.
- Tourist transport by minibus or sprinter van throughout the tour.
Not included
- Breakfast: there is a stop at a local bakery, where you can buy it according to your preferences.
- Lunch: there is a stop at a tourist restaurant in the area, with a variety of typical dishes to choose from.
- Return to your hotel: at the end of the tour, drop-off takes place at the service's established points; individual transfers to each hotel are not included.
- Travel insurance (recommended): cover for flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays and medical assistance.
- Tips (optional).
- Expenses arising from causes beyond the agency's control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, strikes, political instability or changes in government policy.
Paracas, Ica and Huacachina tour price
Rates
| Rate | Price per person |
|---|---|
| General rate Shared service, from 1 traveller | 75 USD |
The rate covers transport, the entrance and boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, the tasting at the Ica winery, the tasting of typical sweets and the dune buggy and sandboarding activities. Breakfast and lunch are not included.
Plan your visit
Seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis and places are limited, so we recommend booking in advance, especially on public holidays and in high season. For safety and comfort, every passenger from the age of 3 occupies their own seat.
Upgrade your experience
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup outside the covered areas | On request | If your hotel is outside Miraflores, San Isidro or Barranco, we arrange a meeting point or an additional pickup, subject to availability and cost. |
| Private service | On request | More flexible timings and the option to request guiding in French, German, Portuguese or Italian, arranged in advance. |
Before you book
The tour runs all year round. It is a long day: departure is at around 4:00 a.m. and the return to Lima at about 9:30 p.m., and times may vary with traffic and road conditions. Between December and March we recommend light clothing, sunscreen and staying well hydrated, because of the high temperatures on the coast. Cancellations or date changes can be requested up to 48 hours before departure, with an administrative charge.
What to bring to Paracas, Ica and Huacachina
These are the most important items for this day on the south coast.
Required documents
- Original, valid passport or ID card.
- A digital copy of your document, recommended as a backup.
Luggage and personal items
- A small or medium backpack to carry your belongings comfortably during the tour.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Cash in Peruvian soles, preferably in small notes, for meals and personal expenses.
- Personal medication, if you need it.
- Tissues or wet wipes and hand sanitiser.
- An extra bag for clothes or items that come into contact with sand.
Clothing and footwear
- Comfortable, light clothing suitable for the warm daytime temperatures on the coast.
- A light warm layer for the start of the tour, because of the early departure.
- A light or windproof jacket for the boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, where the wind is stronger.
- Comfortable closed shoes, suitable for walking and for the activities on the dunes.
- Cap or hat and sunglasses with UV protection, which also protect your eyes from the sand.
- A change of clothes, recommended after the activities on the dunes.
Personal protection
- Sunscreen, essential because of the sun exposure throughout the tour.
Equipment and accessories
- Mobile phone or camera to capture the landscapes and the marine wildlife.
- A waterproof case or zip-lock bag to protect your devices from spray on the boat and from sand on the dunes.
- Power bank, recommended because of the length of the day.
Important considerations
- The tour starts at around 4:00 a.m., so a light warm layer is useful for the first hours of the morning.
- You will be exposed to the sun during the day, especially in Paracas, Ica and Huacachina: use sunscreen, a cap and sunglasses.
- On the boat trip to the Ballestas Islands there may be wind and spray; protect your electronic devices.
- The buggies and sandboarding involve direct contact with sand: protect your belongings and always follow the instructions of the guide and the activity operator.
- Breakfast and lunch are not included; there are stops along the way so you can buy your meals.
- Bring plenty of water and only the items you need to enjoy the experience comfortably.
- The times given are approximate and may vary with traffic, road conditions or operational factors.
Frequently asked questions about Paracas, Ica and Huacachina
Which places are visited on the tour?
The Ballestas Islands and the Paracas Candelabra, a winery in Ica with a wine and pisco tasting, the Huacachina oasis and its dunes, where the buggy ride and sandboarding take place.
How long does the tour last?
It is a full-day experience of about 17 hours. The service starts at around 4:00 a.m. and the return to Lima is at about 9:30 p.m. Times may vary slightly with traffic and road conditions.
How many passengers are in the group, and what is the minimum for a departure?
We work with small groups of up to 18 passengers, which makes the visits quicker and lets you enjoy each site more. Departures are guaranteed from 1 passenger, so you can do the tour even if you are travelling alone.
Where is the pickup from?
From the established points in Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco, between 3:50 and 4:55 a.m. depending on the area. You will find the detailed times in the Itinerary tab. For other areas of Lima we arrange a meeting point or an additional pickup, subject to availability and cost.
Does the tour include the return to my hotel?
No. At the end of the tour, drop-off takes place at the service's established points; individual transfers to each hotel are not included.
Does the tour include breakfast and lunch?
No. On the way there is a stop at a local bakery for breakfast and, at midday, a stop at a tourist restaurant in the area, where you can choose from a variety of typical dishes. We recommend trying the traditional Peruvian ceviche.
Is the entrance to the Ballestas Islands included?
Yes. The tour includes the entrance and the boat trip to the Ballestas Islands.
Are the dune buggies and sandboarding included?
Yes. The programme includes the buggy ride and the sandboarding experience on the Huacachina dunes.
Is the wine and pisco tasting included?
Yes. During the visit to the winery you will take part in a tasting of wines, piscos and macerated spirits traditionally made in the Ica region.
How difficult is the tour?
It is easy. The experience is designed for travellers of all ages and requires no previous experience, although it is a long day.
What are the maximum and minimum altitudes of the route?
The highest point is the Huacachina dunes, at about 450 m / 1,476 ft above sea level; the oasis and the city of Ica are at 406 m / 1,332 ft. The lowest point is Paracas and the Ballestas Islands, at sea level.
Can children and older travellers take part?
Yes. It is ideal for families, couples and travellers of all ages. Children take part under the supervision of their parents, and older travellers can enjoy the tour provided they can move around independently during the visits and activities.
Do children pay for a seat?
Yes. For safety and comfort, every passenger from the age of 3 must occupy their own seat during the tour.
Which wildlife can I see at the Ballestas Islands?
Depending on the season, sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans, boobies, cormorants and various seabirds. The Ballestas Islands are one of the most important natural refuges on the Peruvian coast.
What is the Paracas Candelabra?
It is a huge geoglyph carved into a sandy hillside facing the Pacific Ocean. It can only be seen from the sea and its origin remains a mystery.
What should I wear?
Light, cool clothing, a light warm layer for the early morning, a windproof jacket for the boat trip, comfortable closed shoes, a cap or hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle and cash for your personal expenses. You will find the full list in the What to bring tab.
Does the tour run all year round?
Yes. Between December and March we recommend light clothing, sunscreen and staying well hydrated, because of the high temperatures on the coast.
In which languages is the guiding provided?
Our professional guides give explanations in Spanish and English. For other languages, such as French, German, Portuguese or Italian, we recommend requesting a private service in advance.
What happens if I feel unwell during the tour?
Our guides carry a first-aid kit and are trained to provide basic assistance during the trip. In any situation, our team will arrange the necessary support.
What is the booking process?
Step 1. Availability enquiry. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check available dates. We will send you a booking form for each participant to complete.
Step 2. Passenger details. To arrange the tour we need, exactly as they appear on your passport, your full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
Step 3. Deposit and confirmation. Once we receive the forms, we request a guarantee per person to secure your place. We recommend booking in advance, especially on public holidays and in high season.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once the services are confirmed, you will receive the official invoice and your booking will be 100 % guaranteed.
Can I cancel or change the date?
Yes. You can cancel or change the date of your booking up to 48 hours before departure. In these cases an administrative fee applies, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.
Why choose this tour?
Because it brings together the best of Peru's south coast in a single experience: the marine wildlife of the Ballestas Islands, the winemaking tradition of Ica, the wine and pisco tasting, the impressive Huacachina oasis and the thrill of dune buggies and sandboarding. It is the perfect option for making the most of your time.
Any further questions?
You can contact our sales team on WhatsApp at +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % local Peruvian company specialising in adventure and cultural travel experiences in Peru's main destinations. We have a team of certified guides and operations staff committed to delivering unique, safe and high-quality experiences.
We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personalised attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee standards of excellence in every detail of the operation, from planning through to the tour itself.
With Sakura Expedition, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
