5 Reasons to Visit the Huacachina Desert in Peru

From all the tourist attractions you could use to escape from Lima’s stress, Huacachina should be your N° 1 option! Learn everything you need to know about the only natural oasis in South America, tips for travelers, what to bring, and more!

Huacachina is the perfect destination for those looking for fun and adventure. This place is home to the biggest sand dunes in the continent where you can do activities such as dune buggy and sandboarding.

The Peruvian desert will amaze you by its beautiful sunsets and dream-like scenery. This natural oasis has been preserved by many years, and we are proud to show you all the details and reasons why this is a must-go destination while traveling through Peru.

1. Ica is a small town located 15 minutes away from Huacachina, well known because of its Pisco Vineyards. If you are planning to go to Huacachina, this is one of the attractions that you don’t want to miss! You will learn how they make Pisco, and if you desire, you could taste some of the drinks and buy Pisco bottles, which they prepare in these locations. There are some Vineyards in Ica that date back to the 80s, considered to be the oldest distilleries in America!

2. If you didn’t do the Dune Buggy and Sandboarding activity, did you actually go to Huacachina? This activity is everyone’s favorite attraction while visiting the Huacachina desert, something that you definitely can’t miss in this beautiful location! This tour will take you on a fun ride through the dunes, where you’ll feel as if you were on a roller coaster, and then you’ll have the opportunity to do sandboarding, yes, like snowboarding but on the sand.

   

   But don’t be afraid, this is not as scary as it sounds. Although you must consider that not all companies are the safest, make sure to select the best tour operator to enjoy this experience at its fullest!

Quick Tip: The best way to get to Huacachina is with Peru Hop, allow yourself to discover the best of Peru in the safest way possible! If you’re planning to do the Dune Buggy and Sandboarding tour, Peru Hop offers short trips from Lima where you can enjoy the best activities!

3. Huacachina is the best place to relax during the day and party at night. If that is what you are looking for, this is the right place for you. After a day of being under the desert’s sun, there is nothing more refreshing than a beer under the palm trees next to the Huacachina lagoon.

   In the night, its chilly weather will get you in the mood for more. Luckily for you, there are some party hostels in this remote location, which are going to take your worries away. Allow yourself to be captivated by Huacachina’s nightlife, something you surely won’t regret!

4. You might be wondering, what else is there to do? Well, don’t worry, you’re caught in the middle of the action since Huacachina is near the outstandings Nazca Lines, an experience you cannot miss while being in this part of the country.

   It only takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to get to this small town. The Nazca Lines are one of the most significant historical attractions in Peru, this UNESCO World’s Heritage Site will blow your mind with its mysteries. You can easily organize a trip to this jaw-dropping location, as well as booking the flight to see 15 marvelous carved figures in the desert.

5. Give yourself the chance to experience Huacachina at its fullest. Since there is no other place like this on the continent, Huacachina has become a key destination for travelers in Peru and South America. Whether you are taking a full-day tour or spending the night in this location, allow yourself to get carried away by this natural wonder.

What to Bring to Huacachina?

It is always summer in Huacachina, make sure to be prepared for this tropical-like weather, and follow these recommendations we have for you.

• Wear sunglasses and a sunhat!
• Protect your skin from the sun! Try applying sunscreen every 40-50 minutes.
• Carry your passport or I.D. with you.
• Cash. Make sure you have enough Soles, the local currency since in Huacachina, there is only one ATM!
• Wear comfortable shoes. Flip flops are great for the warm weather in Huacachina but not for the dune buggy and sandboarding activity. You don’t want to lose them!
• Bring your swimming suit! Some hotels and hostels have pools, trust us, you’ll be craving for this after a whole day of walking under the sun.
• Don’t forget your Camera! You’ll be stunned by the beautiful landscapes Huacachina has to offer, besides you would love to immortalize the otherworldly sunsets in this location.

Definitely, Huacachina is the best destination for those looking to escape from Lima’s stress, don’t leave this place behind while traveling through Peru. Since you are here, make sure to know everything about Huacachina, and make the most of it!