Paracas and Huacachina tour from Lima

Included / Not Included

Tour Paracas, Ballestas Islands & Huacachina includes:

• Transfers from Lima (Miraflores or Isidro)
• Return to hotel Lima
• Ballestas Islands Tour + entrance ticket
• Port embarkation tax
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Official Spanish-speaking guide
• Travel assistance

Tour Paracas, Ballestas Islands & Huacachina does not include:

• Guide in other languages (available at additional cost).

What to bring

Tour to Paracas, Ballestas Islands and Huacachina:

ID or Passport: Required for identity verification.

Cash: Not all places accept cards.

Light and comfortable clothing: Preferably cotton.

Windbreaker or jacket: There are strong breezes during the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands.

Cap or hat: The sun can be intense.

Sunglasses with UV protection

Comfortable sneakers: For walking and riding the dune buggies in Huacachina.

High SPF sunscreen

Lip balm with sun protection

Reusable water bottle

Light snacks: Cereal bar, nuts.

Camera or phone with free storage space: For photos of landscapes and wildlife.

Portable battery (power bank)

Small towel or scarf: Useful in case you get wet on the boat.

Change of clothes: In case you get sandy while sandboarding.

Personal medication: If you suffer from motion sickness, bring motion sickness pills.

Travel Information

Shared Service.

When a tour is shared, it means you’ll be joining other travelers from different nationalities. You’ll use the same means of transportation whether a bus or minivan and a professional bilingual guide (usually Spanish and English) will accompany and guide the entire group, offering explanations and coordinating the activities. This type of tour is operated either by Ausangate Adventure or trusted partner operators with the same standards. It's a great opportunity to connect with people from all over the world.

Paracas.

Paracas is a renowned coastal region located in the Ica department in southern Peru. It’s a popular tourist destination, famous for its incredible marine biodiversity, unique desert landscapes, and rich pre-Columbian heritage. Just 260 kilometers south of Lima, Paracas is easily accessible and notable for its peninsula that stretches out into the vast Pacific Ocean. The heart of this area is the Paracas National Reserve, one of Peru’s most important protected natural areas, which includes desert, sea, and islands a vital refuge for wildlife.

Within the reserve, you’ll find the iconic Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the "Peruvian Galápagos." These rocky formations are home to thousands of sea lions, a wide variety of guano birds such as boobies and cormorants, and the small Humboldt penguins. On the way to the islands, you’ll also spot the mysterious Paracas Candelabra, a massive geoglyph carved into a coastal hillside whose origin and purpose continue to fascinate scientists.

Huacachina.

Huacachina is a stunning natural oasis located in the heart of the Ica desert, on Peru’s southern coast. This enchanting destination is known for its emerald-green lagoon surrounded by tall palm trees and massive sand dunes that completely enclose it. The beauty of Huacachina is almost surreal like a living postcard in the middle of the desert. It’s a hotspot for adventure tourism, attracting visitors from around the world seeking thrills and striking scenery. The main activities here revolve around the dunes, featuring high-speed buggy rides (sand dune buggies) packed with adrenaline, and sandboarding, which allows you to glide down the sandy slopes.

Location.

This unforgettable coastal experience takes place in the southern region of Peru. Our tour invites you to explore the captivating destinations of Paracas, the Ballestas Islands, and the Huacachina Oasis strategically located between the departments of Ica and Pisco. Conveniently situated just south of Lima, the entire journey takes about 3 to 4 hours by car from the capital. It’s the perfect adventure to discover desert landscapes, thriving marine life, and thrilling outdoor activities.

Weather.

Ica’s climate is predominantly desert-like warm and dry year-round with little to no rainfall. The region enjoys clear skies and sunny days in nearly all seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring Huacachina, surfing, or vineyard tours.

During summer (December to March), temperatures are high and can easily reach 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F) during the day, with milder nights. It’s essential to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing due to the persistent dry heat.

In the fall and winter months (April to August), the climate becomes slightly milder. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), while nighttime temps can drop to around 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F). A light jacket or sweatshirt is recommended for early mornings and evenings. Nevertheless, the days are usually sunny and pleasant.

During spring (September to November), the weather is very favorable, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 30°C (64°F to 86°F). With no extreme heat or cold, it’s one of the best seasons to visit.

Protests and Strikes.

We do our best to maintain your original itinerary, even if it means departing the night before. In some cases, trips may need to be canceled. Protests and strikes are common in Peru and can affect travel plans, including roadblocks. However, our operations team will keep in close contact with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the necessary steps to protect you in any unexpected situation.

Lost Items.

Please take special care of your personal belongings and ensure that you take everything with you when leaving our vehicles, hotels, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items throughout the tour.

Tour Price

Shared Tour Service.

This group service means you'll do the tour with other people. This standard service operates with a group of 12 to 16 person. We have confirmed departures every day, so if you're traveling alone or with just one other person, don't worry, you can join one of our existing groups.

• Starting from: $ 85 USD.

Private Tour Service.

This service offers an exclusive way to experience the trip, where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary based on the number of people in your group. Please inquire at info@ausangateadventure.com or WhatsApp +51 914201334.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is included in the full-day tour to Huacachina and Paracas?

Generally, the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Lima (Miraflores/San Isidro) or a centrally located meeting point, bus or minivan tickets, the boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, a visit to the Paracas Reserve (if included), the dune buggy ride and sandboarding in Huacachina, and a bilingual guide (Spanish/English). Some tours may also include lunch or a pisco tasting. It is important to check your specific tour description when booking.

How long does the tour last?

It is a full-day tour, lasting approximately 16 to 18 hours, including round-trip transfers from Lima. Departure is very early in the morning (around 4:00 AM), and return is in the evening (around 10:30 PM - 11:30 PM).

Is it a private or group tour?

Full Day tours are usually group services, meaning you will share transportation and activities with other travelers. If you prefer a more personalized experience, private tours are available at a higher cost.

Is it suitable for all ages?

The tour is generally suitable for most age groups. However, the dune buggy and sandboarding activities in Huacachina are not recommended for seniors, pregnant women, or individuals with heart, back, or mobility issues due to the intense movement. The boat trip to the Ballestas Islands is suitable for all ages.

Where is the pick-up or meeting point?

Pick-up is typically from your hotel if you are staying in Miraflores or San Isidro. If your accommodation is outside these areas, a central meeting point will be provided.

Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Yes, there are planned stops at locations with restroom facilities, such as the morning rest stop, Paracas pier, a restaurant in Ica, and in Huacachina.

Is there a guarantee of seeing sea lions and penguins at the Ballestas Islands?

Although the Ballestas Islands are a natural refuge for many sea lions and birds, including Humboldt penguins, wildlife sightings cannot be 100% guaranteed as these are wild animals. However, the chances of seeing them are extremely high.

Can I swim with sea lions on this tour?

This tour generally does not include swimming with sea lions. That is a different experience offered by specific tours such as "Swimming with Sea Lions in the Palomino Islands," which depart directly from Callao (Lima).

Is the buggy and sandboarding activity safe?

Yes, the buggy and sandboarding activities are conducted by experienced drivers in designated safe areas. All necessary equipment for sandboarding (board) is provided. Always follow the instructions of the guide and driver.

What happens if the Ballestas Islands activity is canceled due to weather?

In rare cases, port authorities may cancel the boat tour to the Ballestas Islands due to unfavorable weather conditions (high tides, strong waves) for safety reasons. In such situations, most operators replace this activity with a land tour to the Paracas National Reserve, offering the opportunity to explore its stunning desert landscapes and beaches.