tours in ica peru

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Tours & Treks in Ica

The Mysterious Nazca Lines

Ballestas Islands

Sandboarding at the Huacachina Oasis

National Reserve Paracas

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Paragliding in Paracas

Tours in ica — by destination.

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A desert, all experiences

Huacachina oasis, District of Ica Credit: Shakedown team / PromPerú

• Destinations

Due to its proximity to Lima, the capital of Peru, Ica is one of the ideal destinations to escape. This southern region is located approximately 4 hours away from Lima and offers a multitude of activities, as diverse as enjoyable, for travelers who venture to explore its territory.

In Ica, the dunes of its vast deserts safeguard the cultural and historical legacy of ancient civilizations and also serve as the location for an oasis that seems like it was taken from a movie or fairy tale. In Ica, there are many beautiful beaches with refreshing waters. That same sea that allows you to take a dip with your family and friends is also the habitat of stunning wildlife species eagerly waiting for you to visit.

On Ica, there is a different activity for every type of visitor. It is a place where time flies by because there is always something to do. Here we will mention plenty of experiences so you can choose those that best suit your travel itinerary.

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Life is tastier at the sea

In Ica, you can find two activities linked to the Pacific Ocean. Perhaps, the most striking one is a visit to the National Reserve System of Islands, Islets and Puntas Guaneras, where you have the chance to take a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, a magical place where you can live closely the experience of cohabitate with friendly marine species.

During this journey, which is an hour away from the Ica coast, you can see large families of sea lions welcoming your arrival with their natural chants. You may also come across pelicans fly over the rough waters as well as adorable Humboldt penguins.

Besides, Ica is home to a group of islands with fine sand, calm and crystal-clear waters. Among the most visited are La Mina, Roja, Mendieta, El Raspon, and Trompa de Elefante beaches. These beaches not only provide opportunities for playing with the ocean waves but also for activities such as artisanal fishing and water sports.

Not only enjoyed the sea

There is also fun in the sand and Ica's skies. One of the most visited tourist spots is the Huacachina Lagoon, surrounded by shops, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and hotels to suit every taste. This lagoon is located in the middle of the desert, making it a visually stunning location.

About the skies, you can take a small plane to have a unique view of the Nasca and Palpa Lines and Geoglyphs . In this aerial adventure, you can witness the magnitude and legacy of the ancient civilizations that once ruled this area of ancient Peru.

Carretera Panamericana Sur, Carretera Panamericana Sur

299.0 km, 4 h 24 min.

How to get to Ica?

Overland: 4 h approximately

Main attracions

Lake Huacachina Conservation Area

Emerald waters in the desert

Nasca Lines

Messages for the heavens

Paracas and Ballestas Islands

Sea lions, penguins and mystery

Experiences in Ica

Observing marine fauna in Paracas

Looking ahead

Yacht trip in Ica

Luxury on flamingo inhabited seas

Picnic in the Paracas desert

An unforgettable adventure

Fly over the Nasca Lines

Read the lines from the sky

Top destinations to explore in Perú

La libertad

Everything is about the sea

Land of ancient kingdoms, pyramids and forests

Home of the Amazon River

We help you plan your trip!

TRIPADVISOR

THE 10 BEST Ica Tours & Excursions

Tours in ica.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Paracas and Huacachina Sunset Tour - An Epic Experience!

2. Paracas, Ica and Huacachina with Buggies and Sandboard (From Lima)

3. 2-Hour Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding

4. Professional Sandboard & Sandski Tour in Ica, Peru

5. Full day PRIVATE to Paracas, Ica and Huacachina from Lima All Inclusive and Lunch

6. Wine, Pisco and Dune Buggy Experience

7. Full day | Paracas- Huacachina ALL included | From Lima

8. From Lima: Ballestas, Nazca Lines & Huacachina Oasis

9. Vineyard & Buggy tour in Huacachina / 1 day tour from Lima

10. Excursion to the pisco and wine distilleries

11. Sandboard and SandSki Experience in Huacachina

12. Visit to Paracas, Ballestas Islands and Huacachina

13. PARACAS! Ballestas Islands + Paracas National Reserve + Candelabro and much more

14. Nazca Lines and Dune Buggy (Huacachina) from Ica

15. Ballestas Islands & National Reserve of Paracas from Ica

16. Professional Sandboarding in Huacachina

17. From Lima, Paracas with cooking class Ceviche, Huacachina and buggy

18. Private Dune Buggy Tour with Sandboard or Ski / 2 hours

19. Glamping in Huacachina Desert

20. Huacachina from Lima, with the Ballestas Islands and sandboarding (Small Group)

21. From Lima : Huacachina Oasis & Paracas Day Trip ALL INCLUDED

22. Full Day Paracas - Ica - Oasis Huacachina

23. 3-hour Wine and Pisco tour / Tacama and El Catador

24. Guided Tour to the Museum of Ica, huacachina, buggy and sandboarding

25. Dune Buggy and Sandboarding Experience in Huacachina Desert

26. Ultimate Comfort: Lima to Huacachina, Ballestas and Vineyard

27. Pisco and wine route, Huacachina, Buggies, Sandboard and sunset

28. Experience and Tasting of Pisco and Peruvian wine

29. Full Day Tour Canyon of the Lost in Ica Desert

30. Cañón de los Perdidos Excursion

What travellers are saying.

• Full Day Paracas and Huacachina Sunset Tour - An Epic Experience!
• Sandboard and SandSki Experience in Huacachina
• 2-Hour Dune Buggy Tour and Sandboarding
• Professional Sandboard & Sandski Tour in Ica, Peru
• Paracas, Ica and Huacachina with Buggies and Sandboard (From Lima)
• Sam Travel Experiences
• Visitemos Perú
• Peru Travel Express
• Guia2 Peru Experience
• Margaritas Travel
• Huacachina Tours SAC
• Discover Peruvian Tours
• Viajes Paracas
• Cat Travel Peru
• Nazca Flights

Tours in Ica: Explore the South of Peru

Ica is famous for the Huacachina oasis, where travelers can enjoy activities such as sandboarding and buggy rides. In addition, the region is known for its wine and pisco wineries, offering tastings. The Paracas National Reserve, with its marine and terrestrial biodiversity, is also a highlight. Ica is a must-see destination for those seeking adventure, culture and natural beauty in Peru.

Best Ica Tours

¿WHY TRAVEL WITH ANDINO PERU TOURS?

We are a Peruvian Agency with Cusco roots, committed to providing you with unique tourism experiences. With our own transportation and a team of dedicated professionals, we aim to show you the best of Peru.

Striving to provide freedom in your travels , through specialized and quality service that ensures a worry-free experience. We take care of every aspect of your journey organization so you can fully enjoy.

We focus on creating unforgettable experiences through an expert team and carefully selected providers. We keep small groups to ensure exceptional service and that you make the most of each tour.

We are not just a travel agency; we are a passionate and dedicated family that prides itself on creating extraordinary experiences in one of the most fascinating destinations in the world: Peru.

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Ica Full Day Tour – Paracas and Huacachina – from Lima

About this tour

• Start: With the pick up of the tourist at his hotel in the city of Lima between 4.20 am and 5.30 am.
• Duration: 16 hours (Full Day).
• Tour guide: Professional tour guide in Spanish or English.
• Tourist attractions to visit Paracas spa, Ballestas island, Huacachina oasis, Ica vineyards (Wine route) and chocolate shop.
• Type of transport: Comfortable and safe tourist transportation.
• Reservations from 2 tourists.
• Tickets (included): Entrance ticket to all tourist attractions.
• Payment methods: Visa, American Express, Diners Club, PayPal, MasterCard.
• Immediate confirmation.

Description

• Take a complete tour of the main tourist attractions of Ica . The Ica Full Day Tour includes a visit to Paracas, Ballestas Island, the Huacachina oasis, as well as the main wineries and farms in the region (Wine Route). All of these are visited within an all-inclusive tour that offers: hotel pick-up, complete tourist transportation, professional bilingual guide (in Spanish or English), entrance to all tourist attractions, as well as first aid kit and snack on board. The tour begins in the city of Lima at approximately 5:30 am. It ends at 11:30 p.m. in the same city.

This is the experience

• The Ica Full Day tour from the city of Lima is a complete option to visit one of the most touristic regions of Peru from the ‘capital of Peru’. The tour is intense (it lasts 16 hours) but unforgettable and ideal for people with little time available in Peru . Includes a visit to the best tourist attractions in Ica: Paracas, Ballestas Island, Huacachina, Chincha and the main vineyards of the city. Includes everything you need: pick up, transportation, guide, tickets and return to the hotel. Does not include lunch, which will be at a recommended tourist restaurant in Ica.
• The tour begins with the tourist’s pick-up at their hotel in the city of Lima at approximately 5:45 in the morning.
• On board the comfortable tourist bus we will make a 259-kilometer trip along the Panamericana Sur highway (4-hour trip) until we arrive at the Paracas resort in the Ica region .
• Once in Paracas we will board the El Chaco pier to depart in a modern speedboat heading to Ballestas Island. After a 30-minute journey by sea, we will arrive at the island where we will appreciate the exuberant nature and marine life that inhabits the islands, such as: sea lions, Humboldt penguins, black or guanay cormorants, flamingos, parihuanas and more.
• The sea walk will take approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. During the tour we will also appreciate the famous Candelabro, a mysterious geoglyph in the sand of great dimensions (probably belonging to the Nazca culture).
• Back in the port of Paracas we will have time to enjoy a delicious lunch (not included in the tour) in one of the excellent tourist restaurants in the area. We will also enjoy the breeze and the beautiful seascape.
• After the visit to Paracas we will depart by tourist transport to the city of Ica (1 hour average trip). There we will visit the famous Huacachina oasis, which is located just 5 kilometers from the city center. In the small town we will be able to appreciate the beautiful lagoon formed in a desert. In addition, we can enjoy its simple streets surrounded by a beautiful landscape.
• Optionally we can do the sports activities offered in the Huacachina: sandboarding, buggy ride and more .
• Next, we will visit one of the famous chocolate shops in Ica where we can taste the famous sweets of the region: chocoteja, alfajores, jams, artisan cookies, stuffed mouse, etc.
• Once again aboard our tourist transport we will go on an excursion to the Nietto winery in Ica. There we will learn about the process of elaboration of pisco. In the Fundo Tres Esquinas winery, we will also learn about the winemaking process (includes tasting).
• Then we will continue the route towards the traditional city of Chincha. There, in addition to tasting different types of wines and piscos, we will visit a folk dance workshop where the Peruvian cajón is the main musical instrument.
• At around 6 in the afternoon we will board the tourist transport again to make the return trip to the city of Lima. The tour ends with the transfer to the tourist’s hotel at approximately 10:45 p.m.
• Pick up from the tourist’s hotel (in the city of Lima).
• Transport in a comfortable, spacious and safe tourist bus.
• Professional bilingual tour guide (in Spanish or English) .
• Entrance to all tourist attractions to visit.
• Snacks on board.
• First aid kit.
• Tour cancellation option.
• Option to change the tour date.
• Breakfast, lunch or dinner.
• Food not described in the tour.
• Sports activities in Huacachina.

What to bring?

• Passport or identity document.
• Light comfortable clothing (polo shirt, shorts, sunglasses).
• Photo camera.
• Cash for optional extra purchases .
• Personal hygiene items in backpack.
• Snacks and rehydrating drinks.

Where does the tour start and end?

• The tour begins with the visitor’s pick up at the door of their hotel in the city of Lima (pick up at approximately 5 am).
• The tour concludes with the return of the visitor at the door of his hotel in Lima at approximately 10:45 p.m.

How to prevent altitude sickness?

• Lima and Ica are regions that are at sea level, so there are no symptoms of altitude sickness .

Group or private services

• Do you want to do the Ica Full Day tour from Lima in private service? Contact [email protected] or (+51) 982 108 083.

Frequent questions

What are the tourist attractions included in the ica full day tour from lima.

The tour includes a visit to the Paracas spa, Ballestas Island, the Huacachina oasis, the Ica vineyards (Wine Route) and an Ica chocolate shop.

What are the services included in the tour?

The Ica Full Day tour from Lima includes pick up from the hotel in Lima, full transportation (round trip), entrance to the different tourist attractions, professional tour guide, first aid kit and snacks on board during the trip.

How long is the Ica Full Day tour from Lima? What time does it start?

The tour begins with the pick up of the tourist at the door of his hotel in the city of Lima between 4:20 am and 5:30 am. The tour lasts approximately 16 hours (ends at approximately 10:45 p.m.).

Can the tour be cancelled? As?

Yes, the Ica Full Day tour from Lima can be cancelled. To do this, a request must be sent by email to [email protected]. To cancel the tour you must pay a penalty of 25% of the value of the tour (75% refund).

Is the tour subject to change of date? How is it done?

Yes, the Ica Full Day tour from Lima can be modified on the date or holders of the service. To do this, a request must be sent by email (to [email protected]). The change has a penalty of 10% of the value of the tour. The sending of the request has a limit of 5 days before.

How is the payment made for the Ica Full Day tour from Lima?

The payment of the tour is made online by making the payment of 100% of the value of the tour. To do this, the first thing is to complete the information of the members of the tour . Then payment must be made with any Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club or PayPal credit or debit card. The tourist will receive the confirmation and details of the tour in his email.

Why choose the Ica Full Day tour from Lima?

The Ica Full Day tour from Lima allows you to discover the main tourist attractions of the Ica region, such as: Paracas, the Ballestas Islands and the Huacachina oasis. The tour lasts 16 hours. The starting and ending point of the tour is in the city of Lima. Thus the tourist saves time, which is ideal for visitors with little time available in Peru.

What other tours can I do in Ica?

Ica is one of the most touristic regions of Peru. During your visit it is recommended to take the tour: ‘Paracas Full Day’, ‘Nazca Lines Full Day Tour’, ‘Pisco Route Tour’, ‘Canyon of the Lost Tour’ and more.

Related tours

Nazca Lines Tour from Lima Full Day

Canyon of the Lost Tour in Ica Full Day

Nazca Lines Tour from Paracas

• Destinations
• Planning my trip

Ica, Peru: Huacachina Day Trip to Oasis + Sandboarding

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: July 29, 2023

Categories Adventure Travel , Peru , Travel Blog Post

If you are travelling from Lima to Cusco, a nice place to break up the journey is the town of Ica, Peru. Huacachina, is a tiny oasis in the desert a short taxi ride from Ica.

Hucachina was like nothing we have ever seen before or since. It’s easy to imagine how relieved you would be to stumble upon this oasis if you were really stuck in the desert without water for days.

In Hucacachina you can stroll around the lake in the middle of the desert and eat delicious Peruvian cuisine nearby. You can also sandboard the dunes and ride around in a dune buggy (crazy driver is optional – depending on your tour).

If you plan to visit Ica, Peru – Huacachina is an unmissable day trip.

Ica, Peru: Huacachina Day Trip

Like most travellers to Peru who chose to stop in in Ica, the drawcard was Huacachina. More particularly, the desert oasis and the opportunity to go on a sand-buggy/boarding tour.

We had heard only positive reports from our Uyuni Salt Flat buddies so we decided we just had to make the stop here!

How to Get to Huacachina from Ica, Peru

If you are arriving to the area by bus, your bus will most likely stop in the nearby town of Ica (only a 10-15 minute drive away from Huacachina).

The accommodation in Ica is generally a lot less expensive than the touristy town of Huacachina so we would recommend staying here if you are travelling on a budget.

We stayed at Diamond Monkey Lodge . It provided clean & comfortable accommodation with a light breakfast included for only $15 USD a night.

Booking a Huacachina Sandboarding Tour

In Ica you book a tour with your hotel. Our hotel offered the Huacachina sand buggy / boarding tour for 50 Soles per person.

However, we would recommend booking the tour yourself in the town of Huacachina.

Book a sand boarding tour in Huacachina, rather than in Ica, and you get get a deal for as little as 25 soles per person .

Note: it does require some negotiation with the vendors for this deal!

Incredible sunset in the Huacachina desert on our sandboarding tour near Ica, Peru

A cab or a tuk tuk can be purchased for around 4 soles per way to reach the town of Huacachina.

It’s really as simple as walking out from your hotel in Ica and hailing a passing driver. There are tonnes.

Tips for Negotiating a Huacachina Sandboarding Tour

Once you arrive in Huacachina, vendors will madly approach you trying to sell you their tour.

This can be a little overwhelming but on the plus side – the more vendors the better the deals!

The tours either go for 1 or 2 hours. We negotiated to go on the 2 hour tour which was split 50/50 between dune buddy riding and sand boarding.

I wouldn’t recommend going on the 1 hour tour as a 2 hour tour went very fast so I couldn’t imagine a 1 hour tour being enough time plus it would most probably cost you the same!

The dune buggys in Huacachina near Ica, Peru

Dune Buggy Huacachina Experience

The dune buggy ride was an exhilarating experience and definitely not one for the faint of heart.

I have heard it previously described as a roller coaster ride and this most certainly is true!

You zoom down extremely high sand dunes at a million miles per hour.

Our fellow dune buggy riders shrieked with excitement as the buggy went up and down the various sand dunes sometimes even being airlifted off the ground.

I often wondered if the buggy was going to make it or whether the whole thing was going to roll.

However, our group of adrenaline junkies loved this near death experience screaming at the driver “Vamos!!”

One thought that eased my mind is that the drivers are super experienced and have grown up in the area dune buggy riding and driving their whole lives. With that in mind, Vamos!!

A lovely Colombian couple we met on our Huacachina Sandboarding & Dune Buggy Tour

Huacachina Sandboarding Experience

And, if you are thinking the sand boarding element of the adventure is going to be more tame, think again.

This is definitely the highlight for adrenaline – junkies. During the tour, you take on about 8 mammoth sand dunes.

As I was peering off the cliff, all I was thinking was holllyyy hell this is steep.

However, if you manage to push through the initial fear, you don’t go half as fast as expected.

One tip I would give if you want to control your speed is to dig your feet into the sand.

Huacachina Sandboarding Tips

• Wear old clothes & shoes you are happy to get extremely sandy;
• Bring a camera case for your phone or camera if you wish to bring it down the dunes. Otherwise, it will get totally wrecked!
• There is potential to get injured so make sure you have adequate travel insurance.

A dune buggy driving up sand dunes in Huacachina

How to get to Ica, Peru?

From Cusco: If you are coming from Cusco, you can get the Civa cama overnight bus for 110 soles per person. This leaves Cusco at 6pm in the evening and arrives at Ica at 11am the next day.

From Lima: , it is a 4-6 hour bus ride away (depending if you take a direct service) and costs around 25 soles per person with Peru Bus.

More Peru Travel Blog Posts

If you’re visiting Peru from Cusco or Lima, make sure you check out these Peru travel posts to keep you occupied on the journey.

What’s the worst that can happen? They put you into a nice sleep!

How to travel from Lima to Cusco or Cusco to Lima: Yes, we recommend stopping in Ica on the way! But there’s direct bus options too.

How to Travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu : You don’t need a tour or expensive train to get to Machu Picchu. In fact, you can do it yourself for a couple of dollars.

Salar de Uyuni : Okay, this one isn’t actually Peru – it’s about one of the most iconic places on any South America itinerary – the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia. You know, the place where the endless white salt flats distort perceptions and make it possible to recreate cool optical illusions like being chased by a monster dinosaur toy.

Of course, we wouldn’t dangle that carrot in front of your without telling you how to get there from Ica or Machu Picchu/Cusco.

You should catch the bus from Cusco to La Paz (how to do it) > we recommend stopping at the awesome Copacabana (Bolivia, not Brazil) and Isla del Sol.

There’s even a crazy Bolivian festival where the Bolivians dress like Peaky Blinders and get drunk and perform choreographed dances around town. I digress …

So, you’ve reached the La Paz from Cusco. There’s tonnes of things to do in La Paz like visiting a witches market. But you want to know about the Salt Flats.

Well, you can reach Uyuni from La Paz by bus. In town, you can book a tour to explore the salt flats – this isn’t something you want to DIY. We did a 3 day / 2 night tour which was awesome. I could go on. But I won’t in this post.

If you have any questions about Ica, Peru, Huacachina or Dune Buggy Tours, Sandboarding Tours or just about travelling in South America, let us know in the comments below and we’ll get back to you ASAP.

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

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Tours in Ica

Get to know the best places to visit in Ica , Peru with us! We will take you through unique and unforgettable experiences.

Our main purpose is to create unique, local and affordable tours , which are also beneficial to the local communities and their families. Remember a big percent of the money from tours go towards helping local families and children of Lima with less resources.

Buggies & Sandboarding Tour (From Huacachina)

Traditional Ica City Tour (From Ica)

Polaris Buggies Tour (From Huacachina)

Ballestas Islands & Huacachina with Buggy and Sandboard (From Lima)

Ballestas Islands & Paracas National Reserve (From Lima)

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10 Best Ica Wineries, Wine Tours & Wine Tastings 2024

Everything You Need to Know about Wine Tasting in Peru’s Ica Wine Region

Located on the sun-drenched coast of Peru, Ica is the country’s foremost wine region. Known for its dry, desert-like climate and fertile soils, Ica offers optimal conditions for cultivating a range of grape varieties. From its origins during Spanish colonial times to its present-day standing, Ica’s winemaking tradition has evolved to become an integral part of Peru’s cultural fabric. Ica’s wines and the renowned Peruvian Pisco are not merely products of the region; they represent its rich history, resilient spirit, and continuous innovation.

With tips from local experts and insights into Ica’s best wineries, this guide will help ensure #Winetravelers are well-prepared to explore Ica’s wine scene with confidence. Let’s dive in, and discover all that Ica has to offer to wine enthusiasts and adventure travelers alike.

Quick Tips for Wine Tasting in Ica

• Getting to Ica
• Where to Stay in Ica
• Best Tours & Experiences in Ica

Fly into the Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima. Check current flight prices here . From Lima, Ica is approximately 200 miles to the southeast. We recommend renting a car through Kayak ahead of time for flexibility and to digest the coastal views along the way.

If it’s your first time visiting Peru or you simply prefer using a private transfer, book one with Plan Travel Peru to get to Ica.

Once in Ica, especially in Huacachina, you’ll also find that taxis and mototaxis (small rickshaw-like vehicles) are prevalent, offering an easy way to navigate around and to the local wineries if you don’t rent a car. Additionally, some wineries in the region offer transportation as part of their tours, providing pick-up and drop-off services from your accommodation in Ica.

For a stay that combines luxury, local culture, and the region’s best offerings, we highly recommend booking accommodations on a vineyard or winery resort. Hotel Viñas Queirolo is an ideal example, standing as Peru’s only hotel located directly within a working vineyard.

The property contains over 500 hectares vineyards in the Ica valley, located at the foothills of the rising Andes. These vineyards contribute to the Santiago Queirolo Winery, particularly to their acclaimed Intipalka line.

The hotel features a range of amenities for #Winetravelers. The opportunity to learn about wine is complemented by serene relaxation opportunities, such as a poolside pisco cocktail or indulging in local cuisine at their restaurant. You can also hop on a bike and ride around the vineyards. The desert oasis Huacachina is also close by, providing easy access to fun experiences like dune buggy rides and sandboarding in the desert.

Alternatively, you can arrange for a glamping experience in the Huacachina desert with Huacachina Tours.

Go on a sandboarding or sand-ski tour in the desert with Dito Sand xSports

Take an all-inclusive group tour of Ica , including a visit to Haucachina, dune buggies, sandboarding and visit local wineries with Sam Travel Experiences

Rent your own private dune buggy and explore the desert near Haucachina with iPeruano

Go on a guided wine and pisco tasting experience to both Caravedo and Tacama wineries in Ica with Buganvilla Tours

Best Wineries to Visit in Ica

Embarking on the Ica Wine Route is an exciting journey, full of sensory delights, learning experiences and unexpected outdoor activities. This route is peppered with both age-old, historic vineyards and contemporary, forward-thinking wineries, each contributing a unique verse to Ica’s wine narrative. As we chart this path, we’ll highlight five standout Ica wineries that encapsulate the region’s diversity and dynamism. We will also delve into practical tips to optimize your visit, and share advice on how to elevate your wine tasting experience. Strap in (literally, if you decide to go for a dune buggy ride nearby), for an unforgettable exploration of Ica’s viticultural wonderland.

RELATED: 25 Epic Things to Do in Peru for an Adventurous & Immersive Vacation

Take a look at our recent Instagram reel for a quick preview of the kind of scenery and experiences you can expect in Ica.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Winetraveler ® ✈️ (@winetraveler_com)

Tacama Winery

Cam. Real 390, Ica 11004, Peru

+51 997 542 481

As the oldest winery in all of South America , Tacama exudes a rich history from the moment you step foot on its grounds. With tours that guide you through vineyards and age-old cellars, Tacama takes you on a journey back in time. Their tastings offer a delightful range of wines and piscos, providing a taste of tradition passed down through generations. Tacama also offers a unique on-site gastronomic experience in their classy restaurant, providing a delightful blend of local cuisine and their exquisite wines.

Bodega El Catador

Fundo Tres Esquinas # 102, Ica 11000, Peru

+51 912 772 920

This winery is a shining example of a family business done right. Their rustic charm makes for an inviting and intimate setting where you can feel the love poured into every bottle. El Catador combines traditional and innovative winemaking methods to create a memorable tasting experience. The guided tours provide insights into their unique processes and end with a curated selection of their best wines.

Hotel Viñas Queirolo

Km 11 de la carretera a San José de los Molinos, Ica, Peru

+51 965 397 086

More than just a winery, Queirolo offers a complete escape in their resort-style hotel. You can relax in comfortable accommodations, enjoy local cuisine in their in-house restaurant, and take a refreshing dip in the pool. Of course, their true star is the wine. The winery tour reveals their innovative viticulture practices, and sit down tastings in a stunning courtyard. The winery’s specialty is creating memorable moments, whether through a romantic dinner in the vineyard or a celebratory toast in their wine bar by the pool.

Check current prices at Queirolo on Tripadvisor and book your stay on Booking.com .

Caravedo Winery

Altura del Km 291 de la Panamericana Sur, poblado de Guadalupe., Cam. de Reyes, Peru

+51 981 249 789

Located in Ica, Caravedo Winery, officially known as Hacienda La Caravedo, is an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the history and tradition of Peruvian spirits. This storied property holds the title of the oldest distillery in the Americas, with operations dating back to 1684.

Caravedo sits on an expansive 90-hectare estate, with each part meticulously maintained to respect both its historic significance and its active role in the production of exceptional Peruvian pisco. The vineyards thrive in the desert climate, fostering the growth of eight grape varieties including Quebranta, Torontel, and Italia.

A visit to Caravedo Winery isn’t just a tour—it’s a journey through time. From the centuries-old ‘Casona’, or manor house, to the traditional ‘Falconeria’ where the Peruvian practice of falconry is kept alive, every corner of the estate tells a story.

Caravedo is renowned for its dedication to quality and tradition, producing its highly-acclaimed Pisco Portón and Pisco Caravedo exclusively from estate-grown grapes. This commitment is recognized on a global scale, as Caravedo’s piscos have received numerous international awards.

RECOMMENDED: Book a Guided Tour that Includes a Visit to Caravedo

Bodega Tres Generaciones

Fundo Tres Esquinas Subtanjalla, Carr. Jorge Chavez 152, Ica 11000, Peru

+51 56 403565

As Ica’s first organic winery, Bodega Tres Generaciones is a testament to sustainable winemaking. Their commitment to eco-friendly practices extends beyond the vineyard to their entire operation. A visit to this winery is as educational as it is enjoyable, offering insights into organic viticulture and tastings of their boutique wines that taste of Ica’s terroir and Tres Generaciones’ dedication to preserving it.

Best Ica Wine Tours

A guided wine tour in Ica provides a practical and enriching way to experience this renowned wine region. With transportation and logistics often taken care of, you’re free to immerse yourself in the captivating stories and stunning landscapes that make Ica’s wine culture so unique. These tours range from walking through the hallowed cellars of Tacama, to engaging in adrenaline-filled dune buggy rides and sandboarding adventures, with the setting sun as a spectacular backdrop.

Winery and Pisco Distillery Tour with Sam Travel Experiences

Experience the rich tradition of Ica’s wineries on this guided tour. Venture into some of South America’s oldest wineries and an artisanal establishment to learn about the wine and Pisco production process. Enjoy tastings of these distinctive beverages right from their source.

This tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Ica or Huacachina, and multiple tour times for your convenience. With small group sizes, expect personal attention from your guide.

Reserve your spot today as these do tend to sell out.

Wine, Pisco and Dune Buggy Experience

Elevate your Ica experience by blending wine tasting with thrilling outdoor experiences. On this meticulously planned tour, you’ll not only visit a local winery and a Pisco distillery, but you’ll also get a kick of adrenaline as you glide over Huacachina’s majestic sand dunes on a dune buggy and try your hand at sandboarding.

With your guide at the helm, you’re free to indulge in the breathtaking scenery. The tour, which keeps group sizes small for a more personalized experience, includes convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and exhilarating Peruvian adventure. Book the tour here .

Not sold on a dune buggy ride? Here’s a sample of one of our recent experiences:

Pisco Route: La Caravedo, Tacama and Nietto Vineyard

This tour, led by guides with Peru Your Trip , takes you to some of the most exclusive and historic distilleries in South America, where you’ll gain deep insights into the history of Peru’s national drink and the origin of its name. For just $66.00, the tour package includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided visits to each cellar, welcome beverages at La Caravedo vineyard, and pick-up service from your accommodation.

Go Glamping in Huacachina Desert

Winetravelers seeking a more sophisticated adventure in the Huacachina desert oasis should consider this unique glamping experience . It offers all the exciting activities of regular desert tours, such as sandboarding and dune buggy rides, while also allowing you to spend the night in a roomy tent among the dunes.

Experience hotel-like comforts in the mesmerizing desert landscape. Enjoy the enchanting desert sunset, unparalleled views of stars with minimal light pollution, and included meals and cocktails, making this a truly unforgettable, all-inclusive desert escapade.

Nazca Lines and Dune Buggy (Huacachina) from Ica

We love working with Sam Travel Experiences because their customer service is not only top-notch, but they also offer some really unique blended experiences. This full-day tour takes you on an aerial adventure over the Nazca Lines , a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring massive ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert soil. From there, the journey moves to the Huacachina Oasis, where you can embrace the thrill of dune buggy rides and sandboarding. With round-trip transfers from your Ica hotel included and small group sizes ensuring personalized attention, this tour offers an exciting, well-rounded exploration of Peru’s desert wonders.

What is Pisco?

Pisco is a type of brandy that is made by distilling fermented grape juice into a high-proof liquor. Named after the Peruvian port of Pisco, from where it was first shipped out during colonial times, this spirit is a cornerstone of the nation’s culinary identity. Pisco is produced only in specific regions of Peru and Chile (there is fierce debate between the two countries as to who actually “owns” Pisco) and it’s often savored neat or used as a base for cocktails, with the most famous one being the Pisco Sour.

The production of Pisco involves several grape varieties, which are broadly classified into aromatic and non-aromatic types. The aromatic types include Italia, Moscatel, Torontel, and Albilla. Non-aromatic types consist of Quebranta, Negra Criolla, Uvina, and Mollar. Among these, Quebranta, a non-aromatic grape variety, is the most commonly used in Peru for Pisco production due to its robustness and resistance to diseases. Each grape variety imparts a unique flavor and character to the Pisco, making this spirit a diverse and versatile component in the world of spirits.

RELATED: Best Places to Visit in Peru Beyond Machu Picchu

Wine Grape Varieties Produced in Ica

Despite the region’s arid, desert-like climate, the soils are particularly fertile due to the alluvial deposits from the Andes. These alluvial soils, composed of sand, silt, and clay, are rich in minerals that contribute to the growth of high-quality vines.

However, it’s important to note that ‘fertile’ in the context of winemaking doesn’t necessarily mean lush and verdant. For our purposes today, it refers to the soil’s ability to provide just enough nutrients to stress the vines, which is actually desirable in viticulture. Stressed vines tend to produce fewer but more flavorful grapes, as the plants focus their energy on fruit production rather than vegetation growth.

Adding to this, Ica’s unique combination of plentiful sunshine, little rainfall, and significant temperature variations between day and night, known as diurnal range, make it an ideal region for growing a variety of wine grapes.

Peru has become a fascinating player in the global wine industry and is still very much up-and-coming, despite hosting the oldest winery in South America. While the list below predominantly features internationally renowned grape varieties, it’s worth noting that this is far from the full spectrum of Peru’s viticulture. The Peruvian wine scene also includes a number of lesser-known but equally intriguing grapes, such as the aromatic Petit Verdot and the deep, dark Tannat.

Cabernet Sauvignon

In the Ica region, the Cabernet Sauvignon variety is cultivated under the hot sun, allowing for optimal ripening. The resulting wines are complex and rich with cassis and dark cherry notes, balanced by a distinctive earthiness that is uniquely Peruvian. The intense sunshine and cooling coastal breezes lend these wines a structured tannin profile that distinguishes them from their counterparts in other wine regions.

Sauvignon Blanc

The Ica region’s cool nights and coastal influence are particularly beneficial for the Sauvignon Blanc grape, allowing it to maintain its acidity while developing a rich, tropical fruit character. The Peruvian interpretation of this variety often exhibits a uniquely expressive minerality, reflecting the desert terroir of the Ica region.

While most associate Malbec with Argentina, the variety also thrives in Peru’s Ica region, where the high altitude and stark temperature differences between day and night allow the grapes to develop a deep color and intense flavor. The Ica Malbec is known for its soft tannins, ripe red fruit flavors, and a hint of Peruvian spice, a departure from its Argentinian cousin’s more robust structure.

In Ica, Chardonnay vines bask under the bright sun while being cooled by the Pacific breezes, allowing for full maturation and optimal sugar levels. The resulting wines are balanced and rich with tropical fruit and citrus flavors, and often exhibit a subtle saline minerality reflective of the nearby sea. Unlike the heavily oaked styles of some regions, Peruvian Chardonnay is often fermented in stainless steel or used barrels, preserving the grape’s natural flavors.

Syrah finds a comfortable home in Ica’s hot, dry climate and sandy soils. The region’s Syrah wines are renowned for their powerful structure and deep, dark fruit flavors complemented by a characteristic peppery spice. Winemakers in Ica often age their Syrah wines in oak barrels, adding a layer of complexity and an enticing note of sweet spice to these uniquely Peruvian expressions of the grape.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ica Wine Region

What are the best wineries to visit in ica.

The Ica region of Peru is a vibrant hub for both wine and Pisco production, home to several remarkable wineries that offer memorable experiences for visitors. Some of our favorites include Tacama, Queirolo and Caravedo. Read our detailed Ica wine tasting guide to learn how to visit.

Can you do wine tours in Ica?

Yes, wine tours are a popular activity in Ica and are an excellent way to experience the region’s rich viticulture led by locals. Several wineries in the area offer tours. Additionally, wine tour packages are offered by local companies like Buganvilla Tours and Peru Hop. These tours go beyond wine tasting, and include fun experiences in the nearby desert like dune buggy rides and sandboarding. Research and book these tours by reading our guide to the Ica wine region .

What is the best time of year to visit Ica for wine tasting?

The best time to visit Ica for wine tasting is during the grape harvest season, which generally falls between February and April. This is when the vineyards are in full bloom, the weather is pleasant, and you can observe the wine-making process firsthand.

What types of wines and spirits are produced in the Ica region?

Ica is especially known for its production of Pisco, a traditional Peruvian spirit made from distilled grape wine. Besides Pisco, Ica vineyards also produce red, white, and rosé wines, with the most popular grape varieties being Malbec, Quebranta, Italia, Sauvignon Blanc, and Torontel, among others.

Do I need to book a tour to go wine tasting in Ica?

While you can independently visit many wineries in Ica, booking a tour can enrich your experience. Tours offer guided tastings, information about the wine-making process, and potentially access to areas of the winery not usually open to the public.

What should I wear for a wine tasting tour in Ica?

Comfortable, casual attire is recommended for wine tasting in Ica. Since Ica has a desert climate, it can get quite warm during the day and cool down significantly in the evening, so layering is advisable. Comfortable shoes are also a must for vineyard tours.

Can I buy wine directly from the vineyards in Ica?

Yes, most vineyards and wineries in Ica have shops on-site where you can purchase their wines and Pisco. This is a great opportunity to take home a bottle of your favorite tasting as a souvenir or gift. Some wineries may also offer shipping services.

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Machu Picchu Tours

• Machu Picchu Full Day Tour
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Machu Picchu the Lost City of the Incas

Visit this wonder of the world on these tours to machu picchu..

The tourist packages to Machu Picchu are one of the best decisions to travel through the Andes of Machu Picchu and the outstanding tourist circuits of the Cusco region, with extensions to other tourist destinations like Puno and Arequipa. Outdoor tours among Inca ruins, archeological parks, and short nature walks in the Andes are the perfect vacation for your next travel destination in Peru, South America.

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Rainbow Mountain Treks

In the Andes Mountains, Rainbow Mountain, often called Vinicunca Mountain, soars 5,200 meters (17,100 feet) above Cusco. The mountain is well known for its vivid colors, which are brought on by various minerals. Red, yellow, orange, and green represent the hues that create a truly captivating display.

The Rainbow Mountain Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. The views from the mountain’s peak make the challenging walk up there worthwhile. The views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and glaciers are visible from the summit.

Our journeys include lunch, a professional guide, and transportation. Also, we provide a range of departure times to work with your schedule.

A breathtaking view of this incredible mountain

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Cusco Day Hikes

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Peru’s Best Sacred Valley Tours

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BEST Inca Trail Tours

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Inca Trail Enhanced Packages

• Trek The Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail
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Inca Jungle Trips

• Inca Jungle Trek – 2 Days
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• Inca Jungle Trek + Short Inca Trail 4-Day

Salkantay Treks

• Salkantay Trek 3 Days
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• 2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu
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Choquequirao Treks

• Choquequirao Trek – 3 Days
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Lares Treks

• Lares Trek Full-Day
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Ancascocha Treks

• Ancascocha Trek – 3 Days
• Ancascocha Trek – 4 Days
• Ancascocha Trek – 5 Days
• Ancascocha Trek + Short Inca Trail 5 Days
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Huchuy Qosqo Trek

• Huchuy Qosqo Trek Full Day + Via Lamay
• Huchuy Qosqo Full Day
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Ausangate Treks

• 7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek Full-Day
• Ausangate Trek 5 Days
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Spiritual Sessions

• Andean Wedding Ceremony (Kasaracuy)
• 1 Day Private Ayahuasca Retreats Cusco
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Spiritual Experiences in Cusco Tours

If you are interested in learning more about Andean cosmology and traditions or looking for a spiritual experience, then a spiritual tour in Cusco is a great option. Many different experiences are available, so you can find one that fits your interests and needs.

During these spiritual sessions, individuals may engage in various activities and ceremonies to establish a connection with the spiritual realm and foster personal growth and healing. These practices often draw inspiration from the natural elements, mountains, lakes, and other sacred sites that hold significance in the Andean culture.

Amazon Rainforest

• Puerto Maldonado Amazon Tour 4-Day
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The Amazon of Peru is a unique and mysterious place. The diversity and fantastic flora of the Amazon rainforest have long drawn us in, and our photographer’s hearts have yearned to capture stunning images of the abundant wildlife there. Visiting the Amazon Rainforest in Peru is one of the best travel experiences, “it has something to offer everyone,” whether you’re exploring it from a lodge or on a boat.

Enjoy the diversity of nature while exploring trails, looking for caiman and river otters, and standing on platforms in the thick canopy of the Amazon rainforest.

After spending the day exploring the most biodiverse region on earth, our Amazon vacation packages include transfers, knowledgeable local guides, and a cozy jungle lodge to unwind in.

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Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tours

• Colca Canyon Tour in Arequipa Full Day
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Ica and Nazca Lines Tours

• Nazca Lines Flight from Pisco
• Nazca Lines from Lima
• Nazca Lines Flight from Ica
• Nazca Lines Tour 2 Days
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• Nazca Lines Flight
• Flight Over Palpa Lines
• Ballestas Islands Tour
• Paracas National Reserve

Huacachina Sand Buggy

Titicaca and puno tours.

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Sand Buggy Huacachina Overview Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled adventure through the dunes of Huacachina, Peru! Our sand buggy tour takes you on a thrilling ride through the desert, with stops for sandboarding and breathtaking views of the oasis below. DAY 1: Lima, Ballestas and Sand Buggy Huacachina DAY 2: Pisco Route Tour, Paracas Reserve, […]

Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day

Huacachina Sand Buggy: Enjoy the fantastic desert oasis of Huacachina near Ica in Peru, experience the dune buggy ride, and complement spectacular sandboarding. The motorized Sand Buggy experience occupies half the tour, speeding up and down the dunes with professional drivers. The other half of the excursion consists of a sandboarding adventure through the Peruvian desert, “similar to snowboarding but on the fine sand of the desert.

Organize the Sand Buggy Huacachina and sandboarding in the afternoon, “the best time for the sunset.” We also organize in the morning to feel the breeze of the Pacific coast in Peru with a radiant sun. Prepare the cameras to take beautiful panoramic views of the Ica desert; at the end of the experience, in the vicinity of the Huacachina oasis, there are handmade ice creams to celebrate at sunset.

If you’re looking for an adventure that will get your heart racing, a Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour in Peru is a perfect choice. This thrilling experience takes you on a high-speed ride through the stunning desert landscape as you explore the dunes in a powerful buggy.

Sand Buggy Huacachina Overview

Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled adventure through the dunes of Huacachina, Peru! Our sand buggy tour takes you on a thrilling ride through the desert, with stops for sandboarding and breathtaking views of the oasis below.

• DAY 1 : Lima, Ballestas and Sand Buggy Huacachina
• DAY 2: Pisco Route Tour, Paracas Reserve, Lima

Sand Buggy Huacachina Highlights

Why You’ll Love the Sand Buggy Huacachina

• Participate in the wild adventure of Huacachina, Peru! Explore the Peruvian desert by sand buggy and enjoy this thrilling outdoor activity.
• Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience on Huacachina’s off-road sand buggies. Jump on for some dune bashing and sightseeing around the famous oasis in Peru.
• Hit the sandy slopes of Huacachina with a sand buggy excursion! Get ready for an exciting off-road adventure and discover breathtaking views of one of Peru’s gems!

Huacachina Sand Buggy Itinerary

Sand Buggy Huacachina Presentation: Take a Sand Buggy Excursion to see the incredible Huacachina dunes. Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Enjoy the breathtaking views and adrenaline rush of this memorable experience.

Lima – Ballestas – Sand Buggy Huacachina

• At 6:00 , our tour guide and vehicle driver go to the client’s hotel in Lima to start the trip to the Paracas boardwalk following the Panamericana Sur highway, which takes 3 hours and 15 minutes of travel.
• At 10:00 , enjoy the guided tour of the Ballestas Islands in the Peruvian Sea, observing the varied marine life, the Inca trident, and the beautiful panoramic views.
• 14:00 to 16:00: Free time in the Huacachina Oasis to walk or have an ice cream refreshment before entering the Ica desert.
• At 16:00 , begin your adventure through the Huacachina oasis on an exhilarating ride in a sandbox at full speed through the dunes, then venture out on boards through the dunes surfing.

Huacachina Overnight

Physical Level

Walking distance.

A light walks

Hiking Time

15 to 35 minutes

Starting Altitude

Lima: 79m (259 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Ballestas Island: 7m (22,9 ft)

Highest Altitude

Huacachina: 406m (1,332 ft)

Pisco Route Tour - Paracas Reserve - Lima

At 9 a.m. , we start with the Ica excursion with guided tours of the Pisco route through the vineyards of Ica to explore the Paracas National Reserve towards its beaches and incredible places on the southern Peruvian coast.

EXPLORE AROUND ICA:

• Visit the colonial square of Ica
• Luren Cathedral
• LA CARAVEDO: Industrial Winery: Producer of Pisco Porton
• El CATADOR: Artisan Winery and Piscos

EXPLORE AROUND PARACAS:

• Visit the Monument of Independence (obelisk).
• The cathedral rock formation
• The Supay Beach viewpoint
• Julio C. Tello Museum
• Lagunillas Bay.
• Visit the square of the mines in Paracas.

PM return trip to Lima, “approximately 3.5 hours of travel.”

15 to 20 minutes

Paracas: 7m (22,9 ft) on road

Huacachina Sand Buggy INCLUSIONS

• Personalized trips and tours ( 2-Day )
• Active itinerary with unique cultural experiences
• HOTEL 3 stars : 1 night of accommodation in Ica + breakfast: Hotel DM MOSSONE ICA (***), Las Dunas, OR similar, based on a double or matrimonial room). Check-In: 11:00 hrs.; Check-Out: 09:00 hrs.
• English-speaking tour guide (s)
• Private transportation with fuel and driver
• All tickets to tourist attractions
• Ballestas Islands Excursion: Shared
• Buggies Tour and Sandboarding in Huacachina: Shared
• Tour of the Pisco and Peruvian Wine Cellars and Paracas National Reserve
• All taxes (Peru)
• Travel Insurance
• Spending money: allow approximately US$40–90 per day to cover meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips, personal expenses, and extras.
• Tipping is a personal gesture: “guide (S) and driver.”

What to Bring for the Sand Buggy Huacachina?

• You must bring your original passport.
• Water bottle, “bring reusable bottles.”
• Good, sturdy shoes or walking boots
• Hat (to protect yourself from the sun)
• Essential Sunglasses
• For Huacachina Oasis: Optional mask
• Windbreaker jacket
• High-SPF sunscreen “In cream.”

Notes on the Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour:

* Kondor Path Tours: A Travel Tour Operator 100% for the Sand Buggy Huacachina

Travel Guide

What is the super huacachina sand buggy tour 2-day.

The Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day is an adventure-packed excursion that takes you to the stunning desert oasis of Huacachina in Peru. It includes thrilling sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and overnight accommodation in Huacachina.

How long does the Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day last?

The Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day typically lasts two full days and one night. It involves a full day of activities in Huacachina on the first day and other experiences on the second day before returning to your original starting point.

What can I expect to see and do during the Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day?

During the tour, you can expect to experience thrilling dune buggy rides across the dunes of Huacachina, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness breathtaking desert landscapes. You will also have the chance to go sandboarding, sliding down the sandy slopes on a board. Additionally, depending on the tour package, you may enjoy beautiful sunsets, visit wineries, and participate in other optional activities.

How do I get to Huacachina for the Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day?

Most tours depart from Lima or nearby cities like Paracas or Ica. Transportation is usually provided by the tour operator, either in a private vehicle or a shared bus. The journey to Huacachina takes approximately 4-5 hours by road, depending on the starting point.

Is sandboarding suitable for beginners during the Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day?

Sandboarding during the Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day is suitable for beginners. The tour guides will provide instructions and guidance on sandboarding, including tips on technique and safety. You can start with more accessible slopes and progress to more challenging ones as you feel comfortable.

What should I pack for the Super Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day?

Packing comfortable clothing, including lightweight and breathable attire suitable for warm desert conditions, is recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a refillable water bottle. You may also want to bring a swimsuit to dip in the oasis. Packing a small bag or backpack with your items, toiletries, and necessary medications is essential.

Pricing Breakdown

2-day huacachina sand buggy price information.

PRICES PER PERSON [U.S Dollar]  2024

Soon, we will update the prices!

• Solo Travel USD$000.
• 02 participants USD$000. “Prices reduce if more people are in your group.”
• 03 participants USD$000.
• 04 participants USD$000.
• 05 participants USD$000.
• 06 participants USD$000.
• 07 participants USD$000.
• 08 participants + USD$000.

INQUIRE ABOUT THE HUACACHINA SAND BUGGY

Huacachina Sand Buggy Tour 2-Day: Discover the attractiveness of the Peruvian desert with a sand buggy excursion in Huacachina, Ica, Peru. Get ready for an exciting adventure that you’ll never forget!

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Tours in Ica

Dreamy Tours – Ica and Nazca are two great places in Peru, come and discover this 2024, a natural, cultural and marine beauty that has this paradise on the coast of Peru.

In Ica there is a desert and thousands of experiences. Let’s start with the most common ones: a glider ride on the Ballestas Islands, a flight over the Nazca and Palpa Lines geoglyphs, an afternoon in front of the Huacachina Lagoon, sandboarding in the dunes or a luxury picnic in the desert. All the experiences in Ica and Nazca are amazing and unique.

Packages and Offers in Ica

Nazca lines flight tour.

Ballestas Islands, Ica Vineyards & Huacachina

Lima – Paracas – Ica – Nazca – Cusco 9 Days

Lima – Paracas – Ica – Nazca – Cusco 10 Days

Best Tours in Ica

Ballestas islands – full-day tour.

Sandboarding & Dune Buggy – Full-Day Tour

Paracas – Full-Day Tour

Frequently asked questions from our customers

How to get from lima to ica – nazca.

From Lima the usual way to get to Ica – Nazca is by:

By transport: 6 h 32 min (446,6 km) by Carr. Panamericana Sur/Road 1S

By air: Flight from Lima to Pisco.

 Ica has an international airport in the province of Pisco, (Capitán FAP Renán Elías Olivera).

Best time to travel to Ica and Nazca?

The best time to visit Ica, Nazca and Paracas is in spring or winter, from January to December, the weather is very good and it almost never rains.

The average maximum temperature in Ica is 25 °C in January and 23 °C in June.

Where is Ica located?

The department of Ica is located on the south coast, Ica, the city of the eternal sun and cradle of famous wine cellars, among others.

Ica has a hot desert climate of a dry subtropical type, with an average summer temperature of 27 °C and an average winter temperature of 18 °C. Normally, the maximum temperature does not exceed 30 °C and the minimum does not fall below 8 °C.

A characteristic of its climate is related to the strong winds known as “paracas”, which often blow up large clouds of sand.

La Mina Beach. Located in the middle of the Paracas National Reserve. Its turquoise-coloured water tones down the beige of the surrounding hills.

Red Beach. Located in the National Reserve of Paracas Ica, this beach of red sand, unique in the world, is the result of volcanic activity after millenary eruptions that hit the Pacific.

Yumaque Beach. The rock formations are one of the main attractions of this destination.

The dunes are elevations, several metres high, creating a unique and representative landscape of the south of the country. They are formed by sands, like fine clay particles, transported by the wind.

Ica and its dunes are a great attraction for adventurers and lovers of new sensations and unique moments.

Huacachina Lagoon

The Huacachina Lagoon is an oasis located five kilometres west of the Peruvian city of Ica, with emerald green waters, emerged due to the upwelling of underground currents.

It is recommended to visit this wonderful place between February and March, when the weather is warmer, although it is a perfect destination for any time of the year.

Sandboarding

Sandboarding is a sport you can’t miss on your itinerary. An adventure that starts in the powerful tubulars or sand buggies, which take you to the top of the dunes at high speeds.

Sandboarding can be done standing up or lying on your chest. (Recommended)

Where is Nazca located?

It is located in the province of the same name, in the region of Ica. This city is the capital of the province in which it is located.

Nazca, as a city, presents an important variety of tourist attractions, among which are, its main square; the main square of the city of Nazca, among others.

It has a warm and mild climate. The temperature in summer exceeds 35 °C (January-March), and in winter the minimum temperatures are generally around 9 °C (48 °F).

Due to the warm weather all year round, Nasca is known as the city of eternal summer.

When is the best time to visit the Nazca Lines?

They can be visited all year round, as Nazca has a kind of eternal summer, but the best months are from October to March for several reasons: The weather is somewhat warmer and the skies are usually clearer.

Nazca Lines

It was concluded that it was a “gigantic solar and lunar calendar for the ancient Peruvian astronomers, who used them to predict the best time to harvest crops and when the rainy season was. From the sky, the Hummingbird, the Monkey, the Chaucato, the Heron and the Spider are clearly distinguishable.

Ica Travel Guides

Get ready for an immersion into the wonderful history and culture of Ica. Our travel guide will help you plan your trip to this city, rich in history with one of the best food scenes in the Americas.

Transportation in Ica

Dreamy Tours, has years of experience in tourist transport in Peru. This allows us to guarantee the quality of our service. We offer tourist, corporate, luxury, business and private transportation to meet all your requirements.

Start planning now!

Accommodation in Ica

Find your new favourite accommodation in Ica, Peru. We have a variety of options for your accommodation in Ica, from Superior to standard, in the best area of Ica, with access to tourist sites, easy access to transportation and entertainment.

What Our Clients Says

What to visit in Peru? Lima, Ica, Nasca, Arequipa, Cusco, Machupicchu, Puno.

5 Reasons to visit Peru in South America.

The Ballestas Islands, Paracas.What to see and do?

7 BEST Things To Do In Ica Peru You Can’t Miss!

Ica, a small city located 4 hours south of Lima, is often overshadowed by its neighboring towns, namely Paracas and Huacachina. While those towns do have their own unique flair, they tend to be overrun with tourists, making the prices extremely high.

Many travelers believe there are no attractions in Ica and skip the town. However, they cannot be more wrong.

Stunning oasis, beautiful oceans, desolate deserts , those are just some of the best places to see in Ica. The town itself is also one of the best places to observe local Peruvian lives and culture , something that is hard to do if you stay on the “gringo trail”

If you have just arrived and you’re not sure what to do in Ica, don’t worry. We have prepared a personal list of the  7 best things to do in Ica, Peru . Enjoy!

Attractions In Ica Peru Map

Located above is a tourist map of the best places to visit in Ica. Using this map, you will be able to properly plan your visit to Ica and suitably allocate your time. As you can see, there are many things to do in Ica but they are spread out apart.

Click on the star next to the name of the map and you can save the map onto your own personal device. This way, you can use it on your phone when planning your Ica itinerary!

What To Do In Ica: 7 Top Things To Do In Ica, Peru

1. see the mysterious nazca lines.

Located about 2 hours away to the southeast of Ica lies  one of the biggest mysteries of the universe – the Nazca Lines. Figures of animals, plants, and various objects are drawn into the sand, covering an area as big as 50 sq km (19 sq mi).

Debates have been going on for centuries regarding  the mystery of the Nazca Lines . When were they drawn? What purpose did they serve? Were they from extraterrestrial beings?

Archaeologists, scientists, and historians have been trying to determine the actual purpose of this UNESCO World Heritage Site for years. Yet to this present day, the  mystery has not been solved and remains one of Peru’s most famous icons .

How to Get to The Nazca Lines From Ica?

There are actually two ways to see the Nazca Lines. The best way, though the most expensive, is to see it  from the air in a plane . Up in the skies, you will have the best views of the different figures. Your tour guide will also explain to you how they are made and what they believe happened here.

There are many places where you can find tour companies for Nazca Lines, in Ica, Huacachina, or Paracas. You can also find tour companies online, which is definitely much more convenient!

The other option to get to the Nazca Lines is a  DIY option . If you do pick this option, you will need to take a bus from the bus station to the Nazca Lines. I recommend taking  Soyuz  because they are economical and clean.

Note: Soyuz is no longer in operation and has been replaced by PeruBus. We recommend checking busbud.com to find the best bus for you.

Once you arrive, you can climb the  observation deck  which takes you 13 meters (42 ft) up. It is not the best but you will get a good idea of what these Nazca lines are about! If you are adventurous, there are several hills nearby that offer better views from the top!

2. Explore The Paracas National Reserve (By Bicycle)

My favorite thing to do in Ica is definitely visiting the  Paracas National Reserve . It is a place unlike any other place I have seen in the world, a place where the  turquoise ocean meets the orange, desolate desert .

The Paracas National Reserve is a protected area of 335,000 hectares. Located in the arid zone, the Paracas National Reserve rarely gets any rain. Hence, the majority of the reserve is a  desert .

You can find many  tours in the town of Paracas . These tours are usually the ones that drop you off at the viewpoints, give you 20 minutes, then you get on the bus, and they take you to the other viewpoints.

If you are adventurous and reasonably fit, consider  renting a bicycle and riding it across the desert .

How many people can say they have ridden a bike across a desert to reach the ocean? It is an  unforgettable experience in Peru  that will last a lifetime.

How to Get to The Paracas National Reserve From Ica?

To get to Paracas National Reserve from Ica, you will first have to get to the town  Paracas . Luckily for you, Paracas is only a  little more than an hour from Ica .

Many bus companies have buses that go from Ica to Paracas but I’ve found  Soyuz (no longer in operation) to be the most economical company and their buses depart frequently.

Once you arrive at Paracas, you will see many different tour companies offer tours to the Paracas National Reserve as well as places to rent bicycles. Paracas is a small town so you will not have any problems finding them!

3. Visit The Isla Ballestas And See Wildlife

Ballestas Islands, otherwise known as the  “Poor Man’s Galapagos” , are a group of rocky islands located 24 km (15 mi) off the coast of Paracas.

Home to many animals such as  Humboldt penguins, sea lions, blue-footed boobies , and many more, the Ballestas Islands are some of the best places to catch a glimpse of the various species of wildlife in South America.

A visit to Ballestas Island will take you on a 2-hour boat journey where you will get very close to the Ballestas Islands. However, no personnel is allowed to set foot on the islands because they are protected environments. An intrusion from humans can affect such a delicate ecosystem. 

How to Get to Isla Ballestas from Ica?

All tours for Isla Ballestas leave from Paracas at either  8 AM or 10 AM . There are times where there are tours at 12 PM but that depends on the weather. You will find an ample amount of tour agencies on the main street of Paracas, the street where you will most likely be dropped off.

To get to Paracas, you would have to take a bus from any of the bus companies in Ica. I recommend Soyuz because they are economical and comfortable, and their buses depart frequently.

We recommend securing your tour beforehand, especially if you are not staying in Paracas.

4. Visit The Huacachina Oasis to Sandboard And Ride Dune Buggies (My Favorite Attractions in Ica)

Huacachina Oasis is the only desert oasis in South America and definitely one of the  top things to do in Peru.  After backpacking in Peru for 2.5 months, I can say I liked the Huacachina Oasis more than  Machu Picchu  (but the  Salkantay Trek  was amazing).

Connected only by one tiny road with the city of Ica, Huacachina feels like you are in the  middle of the desert . You are completely surrounded by beautiful sand dunes on all sides.

Dune bashing on the dune buggies and sandboarding in Huacachina are some of the most popular activities. Tours for both can be found throughout the oasis. However, if you want a more comprehensive sandboarding experience, I recommend you rent out just the sandboard gears and do it on your own.

You can also take the sand buggy taxis as far out as you want and be in complete isolation! It is a surreal experience that must be on any  Peru itinerary .

📚 Read More: Best Things To Do In Huacachina Peru

How to Get to Huacachina Oasis from Ica?

Take any mototaxi from the city of Ica to Huacachina. Mototaxis (tuk tuks) are cheap and the ride is only 15 minutes. You can also take a proper taxi but that will be more costly.

5. Go to El Catador For a Free Winery Tour

The region around Ica is one of the best places for wine and pisco production.  Pisco  is a liquor that originated in Peru and is one of the  drinks you must try when visiting Peru . 

For that reason, there are many amazing wineries in that area. 

My favorite one to visit was definitely  El Catador . Not only do they offer a  FREE tour  of their winery, but they also offer you  FREE tasting  at the end. That is a win-win-win situation right there. 

At the end of the tour, you can purchase their exclusive types of wine with flavors you have never tasted before. Some were definitely strange but some were good. Either way, you can’t complain about free alcohol!

How to Get to El Catador from Ica?

El Catador is located 15 minutes away from Ica. Take a mototaxi from anywhere in the city and the driver should be able to take you there.

6. Explore The Canyon of The Lost (Cañon de Los Perdidos)

Discovered recently, Cañon de Los Perdidos (or Canyon of the Lost) is one of the  best natural attractions in Ica . It is a place that won’t be in most of the guide books. Located around 2 hours away by car, the only way to reach this place is either through a  tour agency or a rental car .

When you visit Cañon de Los Perdidos, you will feel like you are in a desert. With nothing around you for miles, a sense of isolation rushes over you. You are alone with one of the most magical places in the world.

The geological formations of the canyon will tell you stories about what happened there many years ago. You don’t want to miss this place in Ica.

How to Get to Cañon de Los Perdidos from Ica?

Cañon de Los Perdidos is located about 2 hours away from Ica. The safest way to go there is through the tour agencies located in Ica, Huacachina, or Paracas. Though it is possible to reach by yourself with your own vehicle, I wouldn’t recommend doing so because you will be in a desert with no service.

7. Visit The City of Pisco (The City Named After The Liquor Pisco)

Located a little more than an hour away from Ica, a visit to the port city of Pisco is a great day trip idea. Many people that come from Lima to Ica will often pass Pisco on the way, but not many tourists actually visit Pisco.

Why? I am not so sure. The national drink of Peru, Pisco, is named after the city Pisco. You will find many stores and bars serving up some of the finest local Pisco sours.

Other than getting drunk, Pisco beach is quite a nice place to relax. If you are into archaeological ruins, pay a visit to Tambo Colorado. If you didn’t get a chance to try the  seafood in Lima , the ones in Pisco are good alternatives.

How to Get to Pisco from Ica?

To get to Pisco from Ica, take any bus headed towards Pisco. My favorite company for that route is still Soyuz because they are economical and have frequent departures. But since Soyuz is no longer in operation, the new PeruBus is the better alternative. You can get the ticket online here .

Where To Stay In Ica Peru

Some of these recommendations might be in Huacachina because of the abundance of high-quality accommodations there. To get to Huacachina from Ica, simply take a mototaxi (tuk tuk) for 15 minutes.

Best Hostel in Ica –  Ica Adventures II

Located in the center of Ica, Ica Adventures II is a great budget accommodation with lots of local activity around. An amazing breakfast is included, the rooms are spacious and clean, the beds are comfortable, and it even has a bar on the roof. A great choice for budget travelers and backpackers.

Best Luxury Hotel in Ica –  Hotel Las Dunas

Hotel Las Dunas is like its own oasis inside Ica. 3 swimming pools, a tennis court, gym and spa facilities, and on-site bars, it has pretty much everything you need. If you have the money, I would recommend you to stay for at least one night, it is an experience you won’t forget.

How Many Days To Stay In Ica, Peru

I recommend staying around 2 days in Ica . It all depends on what you want to do.

For example, if you only want to visit Paracas and Huacachina, you can do it in one busy day.

If you want to visit more places in Ica such as the Nazca Lines or El Catador for a winery tour, then you will have to stay for at least 2 days.

I stayed a total of 3 days in Ica when I was backpacking Peru. 

Visiting Ica FAQs

Is ica worth visiting.

Ica might be one of the hidden gems in Peru, but the city is definitely worth visiting. The city offers visitors a glimpse into the local lives and access to some of the best attractions in the region, including Huacachina, Paracas, and Nazca Lines!

Is Ica Safe?

Ica is generally a safe city, though it does have dangerous parts. But if you stay on the tourist paths and near the city center (Plaza de Armas), you are less likely going to run into trouble.

Like this post? Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest! 🙂

There you have it, the 7 best things to do in Ica, Peru. Many travelers that immediately jump into the Huacachina Oasis miss the numerous wonderful things you can do around Ica. Don’t be one of those! As always, if you have any questions, leave a comment or send us an e-mail!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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Pisco Route

• Salidas diarias
• Servicio grupal
• Guía de turismo
• Recojo desde hotel

¿Por qué amarás el Pisco Route?

• Let yourself be carried away by the charm of Peruvian pisco.
• Taste and tour the best wineries in Ica
• We are 100% local operators

Start of the Pisco Route Ica Tour:

At the agreed time our tour driver will transfer you from the door of your hotel in Ica or bus station to the Pisco Route.

Tacama Vineyards: The first vineyard in South America and will be our second place to visit. Here you will be able to see and appreciate the hectares of vineyards from the viewpoint as well as the production plant of the best wines of Peru. We recommend tasting the dry and sparkling wines.

Bodega El Catador: It will show us the traditional process of making Pisco, a tradition that has been preserved for more than 150 years and that takes place every year during the month of March.

Bodega Lazo: It is also a rather strange museum. Travelers and locals often visit this strange winery to enjoy an authentic local experience.

14:00 hrs. End of Pisco Route Tour – Wineries and Vineyards in Ica.

Our tour driver will transfer you to the door of your hotel or bus station in the city of Ica.

¿Qué incluye?

• Transfer from and to the door of your hotel (in Ica).
• Bilingual professional driver tour (ES/ENG).
• Entrance fees to Viña Tacama.
• Guided visit to Viña Tacama.
• Guided visit to El Catador Winery.
• The wineries offer free tastings.

¿Qué no incluye?

• Bus tickets.
• Extra expenses.

Recomendaciones

Before you book

• You can book this tour up to 12 hours in advance.
• A minimum of 03 participants is required.
• The excursion is conducted in two languages: English and Spanish.
• Level of demand: No high physical level is required.

Before the tour

• Camera/film camera.
• Camera cover.
• Light clothing.
• Windbreaker (in winter).
• Sunglasses.
• Requisitos legales y de seguridad antes de viajar

Preguntas frecuentes

What is the weather like in ica, what other activities can i do in ica, which is the best pisco in ica, what is our cancellation policy.

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The Ultimate Guide to Ica and Paracas, Peru

As per my plan, after my stay in Cusco , I wanted to visit the city of Ica in Peru. I put my adventures, impressions, and travel tips in a post called ‘The Ultimate Guide to Ica and Paracas, Peru’. You can read more about my stay at Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca city, here . The most exciting moment of the trip to Machu Picchu was the Peru Rail train ride .

Paracas was the next city after Ica to visit. I prepared mentally and logistically for the long bus trip, which took nearly 14 hours. Cruz del Sur is the best bus from Cusco to Ica.

Planning a trip in Peru? Plan it better with Cruz del Sur ! However, I decided to pack my backpacks as best I could. My problem as a traveler is that I get more and more new things in my rucksacks. That can’t happen under any circumstances. Of course, I don’t have a space for anything new anymore. In Peru, I decided to buy a drone.

But I explain this fact by the fact that it’s every traveler’s must-have these days. Without a quadcopter, you won’t show many magnificent places from different perspectives, you won’t shoot aerial video, and you won’t take pictures. I started looking for information on bus routes to Ica. I found the bus station in Cusco.

The best idea to get to the Cruz del Sur bus terminal in Cusco was a cab . I would not have been able to walk or take the bus there. The distance from the hotel to the bus terminal is over 3 km.  

Things to do in Ica

There are many things you can do in Ica. For me, one of them was to visit the Ica desert. Without a doubt, I will admit that I have not seen such a phenomenal place before. It was quite a challenge to find a hotel in Ica . This city has not a very developed hotel base. Eventually, I managed to book a hote l in the suburbs. Thanks to this, my distance from Ica oasis significantly decreased. So I am on my way!

Finally, my journey begins at the exit door from the hotel. I take a cab to the Cruz del Sur terminal.  

Bus from Cusco to Ica, Peru

The bus from Cusco to Ica, Peru left at 3:15pm. The cab ride didn’t take long. After a few minutes, I am at the Cruz del Sur bus terminal. I am just going inside. All that was left to do was check in my luggage and pick up my tag. I don’t have a ticket for the ride, just a voucher. Cruz del Sur service informed me I should go to the ticket office. There they will print out my bus ticket. So I do as he told me and go to the showed place.

The staff informed me I had to wait 15 minutes because they had other tasks. Waiting in South America is nothing unusual, everyday life. The bus was about to leave. The lady from the ticket office was still not there. I walked around the bus terminal and asked where the woman was.

Finally, she came to the office, and I got my tickets. There was already a large bus, Marco Polo G7, Cruz del Sur, at the exit. A characteristic bus, an icon of many routes in South America. A queue of passengers is forming. I already knew that shortly after I got on.

Cruz del Sur

For instance, I was surprised by the spacious and large-scale seats in Cruz del Sur bus, with countless legroom. Already noted on my ticket a VIP class ride. I took a seat on the upper deck of the bus. I put one big backpack in the luggage compartment. The seats turned out to be very comfortable and adjustable.

Thanks to that, later, it was possible to take a comfortable sleeping position. A complete surprise turned out to be the onboard entertainment system. There is a small monitor mounted at each seat. You can watch TV series and movies on it and listen to music. 

However, small refreshments are something usual on buses in Peru. These are usually a bottle of water, fruits, granola, or crackers. I can safely say that this trip has exceeded my expectations. 

Several hours of travel passed, and I felt no pain in my spine. The seats were very comfortable. I found that this was the best bus I have traveled on in my entire life. It was late evening, basically bedtime. I unfolded my seat to a comfortable semi-reclining position. I don’t know when I fell asleep. 

The falling rain woke me up a few minutes after 5 am. I grabbed my phone to see how far I was from Ica. It turned out that there were about two hours left until the end of the trip. After that, I couldn’t fall asleep anymore. 

Finally, the Cruz del Sur bus from Cusco to Ica was approaching Ica, Peru. Cruz del Sur employees opened the gate to the terminal. After a moment, the bus stopped. The unloading of luggage lasted a few minutes. I received my luggage and proceeded to explore Ica.

What to see and do in Huacachina, Peru?

I couldn’t leave Huacachina when I was planning my Peru trip. Huacachina is a small village built around an oasis and surrounded by dunes in southwestern Peru. You will definitely like this place if you are into extreme sports. Sandboarding is the most popular sport that has developed in Huacachina Oasis.

Every evening crowds of tourists head to the desert to watch Huacachina at dusk. That’s one of the driest places on the planet, I learned from local tourist guides. When we look at the weather forecast for Huacachina, there is almost no chance of rainfall.

The place lies in a desert climate zone. Due to its location, Huacachina is the point of many tours. A small settlement lies in the Atacama desert. You can see on the map below that it is a vast desert that stretches from Chile to Peru. You may be wondering why the Atacama desert is so dry.

The cold ocean current cools the air above it. Cold air can’t hold as much water vapor as warm air so it dries out any water left in the air.

This mix of mountains, winds, and ocean currents makes the Atacama incredibly dry. Temperatures vary depending on the season, altitude, and time of day. There are highs of 32⁰C/89⁰F at the height of summer, to -2⁰C/28⁰F on a winter’s night. 

In the last decade, Huacachina has evolved into one of the top backpacker destinations in Peru. This unique town, located among the moving dunes, attracts its picturesqueness. 

Dune buggy and sandboarding

Of course, the oasis is beautiful, with its lagoon surrounded by palm trees and restaurants, but the main tourist attraction of Huacachina is its dunes that you can ride down in buggy and sandboard! All around the lake, you will find dozens of small agencies offering buggy tours , but I advise you to opt for the one at 4 pm because you will be able to admire the sunset from the dunes!

At 4 pm sharp, with three other couples of travelers, we embark in our buggy and harness ourselves well under the driver’s supervision. As soon as we climb the first dune, we understand that our driver intends to offer us a lot of thrills. Here I go for the succession of ascents, descents, and turns at full speed.

Huacachina sand dunes

Everyone starts to scream and laugh at the same time, and it’s excellent! I arrived at the top of a Huacachina sand dunes, and the driver stopped us because these immense dunes offered the possibility of practicing sandboarding. I take each one our board, and after some advice of the pilot on the position to adopt not to hurt ourselves, it is time to dash.

Although the driver specified that it is a small dune, the height is impressive, and the descent is done at high speed and shouting. Once I arrived at the bottom, I found myself entirely covered with sands, but I had only one desire: to start again! And I am  going to be served because during one hour, I will make five descents from the most petite dune to the highest.

It was one of the best experiences of my life.

A buggy + sandboard tour lasts 2 hours and costs around 30-40 soles per person. There are also private tours, a bit more expensive.

It is possible to rent only a sandboard (3 soles for one hour)

See the sunset on the dunes

Then comes the time of the sunset. The driver brings me back to a point where all the buggies converge, probably the best place to admire it.

The view is simply superb, and I was fortunate to enjoy this exceptional moment which unfortunately does not last long!

And know that you can also go up on the dunes for free to enjoy the sunset. In the desert, it is always incredible!

Take a boat ride on the lake

If you want to relax, you can rent a pedal boat for 2 people (20 soles) or a small boat with oars for 5-6 people (30 soles).

You can also swim in the lake, but… I don’t recommend it because it is not clean!

Visit a vineyard

Ica is the region of wine and pisco in Peru! So why not take the opportunity to visit a winery? You can visit wineries on your own or take a day trip.

Alone (without an agency)

The best option is probably Tacama, the oldest vineyard in South America for those on a budget! It costs 15 soles by cab from Ica.  The entrance is free, a tour of the winery (with three tastings) costs ten soles. On weekends there is a free Peruvian Paso horse show. 

With a guided tour

That’s a half-day tour with pick-up from your hotel in Ica or Huacachina. It takes you to visit two bodegas, including Tacama, to discover the process of making wine and pisco, with tastings included, and lunch on-site (optional).

What to see and do in Ica, Peru? 

After spending time in Huacachina, it’s time to check out the sites and attractions in Ica! You’re probably wondering what there is to see and do in Ica? The possibilities are many. It also all depends on your preferences and time. 

Ica is a small city located in southwestern Peru. The drive from Lima usually takes about 4 hours. Are you planning an extended trip to Lima? Be sure to check out my guide about Lima . Ica is very often overlooked by tourists who choose Paracas and Huacachina.

Without a doubt, these cities have their magic and fantastic location. However, it seems to me that they are very crowded with tourists. That makes the prices in these places very high. I know this from my own experience. A night in a hotel in the suburbs of Ica turned out to be twice as cheap as in Huacachina. 

I chose the hotel Hospedaje Villa del Sol , located in the southern part of Ica. The reservation turned out to be a good compromise on price. The distance between the hotel and Huacachina Oasis is only 3 km. You can get there by tuk-tuk, which costs only five soles.

Admire the natural wonders of Paracas National Reserve by booking one of the tours

Admire the natural wonders of Paracas National Reserve by booking one of the tours from Paracas.  

Paracas is a small tourist town called “El Chaco,” which is mainly the starting point for excursions to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve.

In itself, the city is not particularly attractive. It is relatively deserted unless you are there in high season, and most of the restaurants have somewhat limited opening hours, so there is not much to do in Paracas itself.

But there are many activities to do around! Here is my little guide to organize your visit to Paracas and not to miss anything of the must-sees, with practical information and my best suggestions for hotels and restaurants and tours. 

Paracas National Reserve – a place you will long remember

Created in 1975, the national reserve of Paracas covers the desert of the Peruvian coast. On a territory of 65% maritime and 35% terrestrial, the reserve is an essential natural sanctuary for numerous species of plants, more than 200 species of birds, 193 species of fish, and numerous species of mammals and reptiles.

But it is also an important place for the protection of the historical and cultural heritage of Paracas as it contains several archaeological sites of the Paracas civilization and other vital cultures of the region. All this without forgetting the unique landscapes of the desert coast that we find there.

Here are the main attractions of the Paracas National Reserve :

The interpretation center 

It is a small space that first projects a video -not necessarily very interesting-, then presents what the Reserve of Paracas contains: fauna and local flora, archaeological remains, geological structure, etc. From the 2nd floor, we obtain a beautiful view of the bay of Paracas, one of the most important of the Peruvian coast, thanks to its rich biodiversity. 

With a bit of luck, you can even see flamingos. Let’s be clear, it’s a pretty simple space and not necessarily a must-see, but it’s often included in organized tours, so expect to stop by for an introduction.

Julio C. Museum Tello

Inaugurated in 1964, completely rebuilt in 2012, and then re-inaugurated in 2016, the Julio C Tello Museum is today a beautiful structure that presents the artifacts of the Paracas culture, recovered by archaeologist Frederic Engel. There are 120 pieces in its permanent collection dating from the beginning of the Paracas civilization until 200. There is also a video about the Paracas, their arid environment, worldview, and everyday life.

The Cathedral

It is a rock formation located on a cliff facing the sea, given this name because of its imposing arch. Unfortunately, the great earthquake of 2007 (which affected the region enormously) destroyed most of it, and it is now just a rock. It may not be worth a detour today, but it is often part of the organized tours in the Paracas reserve. In any case, you will hear about it on the spot at one time or another.

The beaches of the reserve of Paracas

As the reserve is on the coast, there are inevitably several kilometers of beaches, which always offer a beautiful view, but are not always suitable for swimming. Playa Roja is an excellent place to take pictures, but the water is not particularly clean since it is next to Lagunillas -a fishing port. It is not the best place to swim.

El Raspon beach is smaller, and the water is cleaner and quieter. It is an excellent place to swim! The Ballestas Islands are a group of three islands, Ballesta Norte, Ballesta Centro, and Ballesta Sur, home to important colonies of sea lions and marine birds. There are about 4,000 sea lions, about 60 species of birds and 180 species of fish, and ten varieties of dolphins.

It is, therefore, a privileged place for nature lovers who wish to observe the local fauna up close. On the way, the boat makes a stop at El Candelabro, another must-see in Paracas, which takes its name from its shape, which resembles a candlestick or a trident. It is a geoglyph of 150m of length and 50m of width traced in the ground, and it is perfectly preserved thanks to the constant winds that sweep its surface and remove the excess sand.

How to visit the Ballestas Islands

You can get there with a 2-hour boat trip (30 minutes to go, 1 hour on the spot, 30 minutes back) starting from the pier in Paracas. Several agencies will request you as of your arrival by bus. That can be convenient if your hotel is outside the center of Paracas and you need transportation to get to the pier or enjoy a package with other activities. Alternatively, you can go directly to the tourist pier to buy the tickets on the spot.

The price is 40 soles (25 soles for the tour + 10 soles for the access to the reserve + 5 soles boarding tax). There is an exit at 8 am and another at 10 am. If possible, take the one at 8 am because the sea is less rough. You can book here the Ballestas Islands tour, which includes the tourist tax. 

Visit unique places in Peru with Peru Hop

Traveling in Peru can sometimes give you a headache. But there is a way! The primary means of transportation around the country are buses. Generally, they are very modern and comfortable with many amenities. Without a doubt, it’s the easiest way to travel around the country. An example is Peru Hop , a company that offers tours and flexible travel arrangements in Peru.

So how did I find Peru Hop? My idea was to travel around Peru to several destinations and on different dates. I wanted my stays in various places in Peru to be varied in time. I found this company on google. That’s why Peru Hop is the only company in Peru that offers flexible travel arrangements. What does that mean?

Peru Hop is the first bus service that offers hop-on and hop-off service from Lima to Cusco and back. Tickets offered by Peru Hop are available in many variations and combinations. Peru Hop also operates in Bolivia. It is possible to ride from La Paz to Lima in many combinations. 

You can find a map of Peru Hop connections below: 

Peru Hop Bus is not a traditional bus company like most. The company focuses all its attention on travelers

Peru Hop Bus is not a traditional bus company like most. The company focuses all of its attention on travelers. Trips are quick, and importantly, the company avoids bus stations. Travelers get off at their place of accommodation. That makes traveling with Peru Hop very safe. This aspect of travel has left me very positively enamored.

MY OVERALL EXPERIENCE: 

Overall, I would highly recommend Peru Hop. The trip with this company was at a high level. It is a great convenience to have a guide on board the bus. I visited all the places I had planned and made the trip in a very comfortable Peru Hop bus. All the company employees were accommodating, answering my questions and keeping me informed.

Did you like the post ‘The Ultimate Guide to Ica and Paracas, Peru’? What places in Peru would you like to visit? Share in the comments. I also invite you to read my other posts from Peru. On the blog, you will find posts from Lima , Machu Picchu , and the train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu .

Did you know…. When you buy something after clicking on one of my links, I get a small commission. However, you continue to pay the same amount!

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I’m Magdalena – Globetrotter, Free Spirit, and your personal travel guide. Since 2017, I’ve been calling France my home while exploring and falling in love with 35+ diverse countries, from the frost-kissed ski towns to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica and El Salvador. Thrive and Wander is a testament to my adventures, filled with destination guides, travel itineraries, and tips for solo female travel. So grab your backpack, let go of your fears, and join me on this journey to explore our beautiful world!

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