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  • OFFICIAL Huacachina Tour Operator Information

    Many travelers to Peru enquire about a Huacachina Tour and based on our years of experience as the Official Huacachina Information Website, we have expert insights into a Huacachina Tour.

    Tips & advice

    • Ensure you choose a formal tour operator (has a good website, 500+ Tripadvisor reviews, strong safety emphasis)
    • Huacachina is 4.5 hours from Lima, so travel with a company who have large, spacious buses
    • For Sandboarding, it is recommended to lie facing down, not standing up. Many travelers have ended up in local clinics with broken bones from falling when standing up
    • Book your tour in advance – Huacachina is getting fuller all the time, avoid disappointment!
    • Best Huacachina Tour Operators

      Peru Hop – Have gained a huge reputation amongst travelers and locals in Peru for having a high class service using luxury buses (most others use minivans). They offer day trips from Lima to Huacachina and trips from Huacachina to any other part of Peru.

      FindLocalTrips – Website that sells sandboarding tours in Huacachina and only work with reputable companies.

      Typical Huacachina Tour Itinerary (from Lima)

      06:00am: Get picked up directly from your accommodation in Lima. Once you get a quick run down of what the day awaits, you’ll more than likely fall asleep on the big, cushioned seats.

      10:00am: Arrive at Paracas, a picturesque beach town located just an hour away from Huacachina. A perfect stop to enjoy a 2-hour boat tour to the Ballestas Islands. Known as Peru’s Galapagos Islands, you’ll get up close to the rich marine wildlife such as sea lions and penguins!

      12:00pm: Free time to discover more of Paracas. We recommend eating some delicious sea food with great views of the ocean!

      1:30pm: Start making way on a quick drive directly into the Huacachina Oasis.

      2:45pm: Arrive at Huacachina and discover the natural oasis. The always-sunny desert town is one of those places where the pictures just don’t do it justice. It’ll be love at first sight!

      4:00pm: The most-awaited activity: sandboarding and dunebuggy tour! Hop onto the dunebuggies and ride up some of the biggest sand dunes in South America. Once up, it’s time to go down on the exhilarating sandboards. An unforgettable experience that finishes off by watching a beautiful sunset through the many dunes.

      Check out the full Huacachina tour itinerary and all the details here!

      Huacachina Tour ending with a beautiful sunset

      Summary

      A Huacachina tour is a MUST for anybody traveling to Peru. Ensure you choose the right company as it’s a long way from Lima and you want to travel in safety and comfort. Have a great trip and make sure you spread the word about this magnificent Oasis

  • Huacachina sunset: An unforgettable experience

    Huacachina sunset: An unforgettable experience

    Dare to travel to Huacachina and explore the desert admiring spectacular views to end up with a beautiful sunset in the dunes.

    huacachina sunset

    A few kilometers outside of Lima, there is one of the most important deserts in Peru. Huacachina is a place out of this world, this natural oasis surrounded by huge dunes is a destination that everyone has fallen in love with. Here you can do lots of activities and not to mention that  the fun will be always guaranteed.

    The warm weather makes this place the perfect spot to have a good time sitting by the pool while having a drink and relaxing by taking the sun, and why not do some outdoor activities in the dunes and taste delicious food. Nowadays, Huacachina is a popular stop for travelers en route from Ica to Nazca, mainly because it offers the opportunity to enjoy exciting buggy and sandboard rides.

    Buggys tour

    The main attraction in Huacahina is the buggys tour. There is no doubt this ride will blow your mind allowing you to feel the adrenaline and giving you a sensation of going on a rollercoaster. The dunes make this possible as the driver will take you to an adventure where you will be able to enjoy the views of the desert and practice sandboarding.

    For people who like this kind of activity, Huacachina will be ideal. There is no other place in the country that can offer you such an experience. Plus, at the end of the tour, you will be able to see an amazing view of the sunset. The sight is hard to describe but all we can say is that it will be a scenery you won’t ever forget.

    buggy huacachina

    Sandboarding

    Apart from going on a ride in a buggy, you can also practice sandboarding. Once you have your sandboard, you can choose to coast down the sandy slope just as you would on a snowboard, or you can go for an easier method and use the sandboard just like a sled.

    oasis huacachina

    Other attractions

    Huacachina is surrounded by restaurants with a tasty gastronomic offer and bars that especially at night are very lively. You can also take a nice walk around it and even navigate the lake, which is at the center, with pedal boats.

    At night, you can enjoy the starry sky from the water’s edge, or at the top of the dunes that surround it. There are also campsites in the desert where people have the most incredible experience.

    Also, the nightlife is pretty good due to the number of bars and party hostels that you can find. People like to party all night long meeting people and having some drinks. Everything is so much fun during the night so if you are a party person you will definitely love Huacachina.

    nightlife huacachina

    How to get to Huacachina

    The easiest way is to go with a tour operator. Departures are daily from Lima very early in the morning. If you are staying in Lima, you can easily do a full-day tour arriving back to Lima at around 22:00 pm. There are other options like using public transport, however, this is not very recommended as the access is limited and you will spend more time and money.

    night in huacachina

  • Hostels and Hotels in Huacachina Oasis Peru

    desert in peru

    Huacachina is one of the main tourist attractions and, without a doubt, the perfect getaway destination from Lima, which is why you cannot leave this famous oasis behind while traveling through Peru and South America. Ica has a lot of things to offer and Huacachina is one of its principal assets. Keep reading and find information about the best accommodation options in Huacachina.

    Huacachina is located 5 hours away from Lima, making it the best travel destination for a weekend getaway. In this natural oasis, you’ll find activities such as the dune buggy and sandboarding tour that will surely be the highlight of your trip.

    Ica is famous for being the second most visited department of Peru, attracting over 500,000 visitors per year to the whole region, which is why we highly recommend you to consider adding Huacachina in your to-do list!

    Please continue reading and get ready for the highlight of your trip. Below, you will find detailed information about the best accomodation options in Huacachina.

    Accommodation in Huacachina

    hotels in huacachina

    Huacachina gathers different hotels and hostels for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for a fun experience, or a place to get a good sleep and just relax in this not-so-remote location.

    For Budget Travelers we have gathered a few of the most recognized affordable and best hostels in the area:

    • Wild Rover Hostel – Huacachina

      If you wish to have fun and experience the best of Huacachina nightlife, then you must stay in the Wild Rover Hostel in Huacachina. This accommodation option from the famous Irish chain has one of the most popular bars in the area. It is located 5 minutes away from the Oasis, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Huacachina.

      The Wild Rover Hostel has pod-style dorm beds and private bedrooms, as well as a big swimming pool and chill area, Wi-Fi, travel desk, a bar, and a restaurant.

    • Wild Olive Guest House

      The Wild Olive Guest House is one of the most popular accommodations found just in front of the lagoon. If you’re looking for trendy decor facilities and a good sleep then don’t miss the opportunity of booking a room in this guest house.

      This guest house is located right in front of the lagoon, meaning that it’s close to the best restaurants, shops, and huacachina’s nightlife. This colonial house is ideal for solo travelers and groups. Its facilities include a kitchen for guests, an Italian restaurant, pool access, free Wi-Fi, Netflix, and a large family style living room.

    Quick Tip: The best way to get to Huacachina is with Peru Hop; a bus company recognized for its safety and travel experience since 2013. Peru Hop offers day trips from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina, don’t miss this chance and find out everything about it!

    If you’re willing to pay a little more, then check these hostels and hotels we have gathered for you!

    • Curasi 3-Star Hostel

      Some travelers prefer to relax and spend some quality time with family and friends, which is why the Curasi Hostel is the perfect accommodation option for those looking for high-end facilities and a peaceful experience.

      The Curasi 3-Star Hostel has private rooms with views to the oasis and its surroundings, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. If you wish to have a good sleep after a whole day filled with exciting activities then this is the place for you!

    • Hotel Mossone

      This is one of the most recognized hotels in Huacachina since it is located just in front of the Oasis, it counts with upmarket facilities and one of the best restaurants in the area. The Mossone Hotel is recognized for its good service and comfortable bedrooms, ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful and relaxing experience.

    These are a few of the many different hotels and hostels in the area. Huacachina is, without a doubt, the perfect travel destination for many local and foreign travelers that look to escape from the crowded city of Lima.

    what to do in ica

    In this natural oasis and its surroundings you’ll find a variety of activities that you simply can’t miss. Are you ready for your next adventure? Learn everything about Huacachina and its surroundings and make the most of your experience through Peru!

  • The Best Things to Do in Paracas Peru

    The Best Things to Do in Paracas Peru

    Unquestionably, Ica is the second most visited region of Peru, which is why you cannot leave behind the beautiful Paracas region, located just within this famous department. Paracas is, without a doubt, one of the perfect destinations to escape from Lima’s stress and crowded streets; learn everything about this small beach town full of adventure and wonders ready to be discovered!

    Receiving more than 500,000 visitors per year, Paracas has become a must-go destination for most travelers in Peru, which is why we have decided to teach you about the many different things to do in this outstanding town and its surroundings.

    Paracas is located only 4 hours away from Lima, which makes it easily accessible for a weekend short trip, here you’ll learn about the main attraction within this small town and we’ll teach you how to make the most of it!

    As aforementioned, Ica is one of the most visited departments of Peru by local and foreign travelers, this region comprehends a significant part of the Peruvian desert and the pacific coast, apart from being home to Huacachina also known as the only natural oasis in South America, and the Nazca Lines, the most famous mystery in the world!

    Paracas has a lot to offer, keep reading and find out about the best activities in Paracas and make the most of your experience while traveling through Peru!

    Ballestas Islands

    ballestas islands paracas

    The Ballestas Islands or Islas Ballestas are a group of 3 islands and different rock formations home to a diverse wildlife that includes humboldt penguins, sea lions, and exotic birds such as the red footed guanay cormorants. Besides having a vast biodiversity, on the way to these famous islands you’ll be able to glance at one of the mysteries within this region, El Candelabro de Paracas, which is often related to the Nazca Lines.

    Long ago, Peru used to rely on these islands since they are a Guano deposit, which is basically bird poop, which is extracted to make fertilizers due to its high concentration of nutrients.

    The Ballestas islands are often referred to as “the poor man’s galapagos”, which is why they have remained as a protected area in order to preserve its ecosystem. If you wish to see the peruvian galapagos, you will have to take a boat tour. Keep in mind that since this is a protected area, you won’t be able to swim with the animals but you can see them from up close.

    Paracas National Reserve

    The Paracas National Reserve is one of the main tourist attractions in Paracas, recognized for being the place where the desert meets the sea, giving you a visually striking spectacle that you simply can’t miss. In 1975 was declared a National Reserve since it is home to over 400 species of flora and fauna.

    This natural wonder in southern Peru expands over 3,350 km² and it’s located only 10 minutes away from the small town of Paracas. Keep in mind that for visiting this protected area you must purchase the entrance fee, but most tour operators offer excursions to this location and include this additional cost.

    paracas national reserve

    Paracas nature will continue to amaze you, one of the predominant assets of this national reserve is Playa Roja, a part of the Paracas Peninsula that will surely captivate you with its astonishing scenery since its sand has a reddish coloration due to the concentration of red sediments and different minerals.

    To visit the Paracas National Reserve, we encourage you to go on a guided tour so you don’t miss anything about this spectacular area. Here you’ll find different activities such as going on a Quad Bike Tour or even a regular excursion through the place.

    Kitesurfing in Paracas

    kitesurfing in paracas

    This is one of the most in-demand activities in Paracas since the wind speed in this region could reach 14.9 km/h making it the perfect location to practice this adventure sport. Compared to other water/wind-sports kiteboarding is relatively easy to learn, which is why many companies offer classes or quick lessons to master this exciting activity.

    If you wish to practice Kitesurfing in Paracas, we advise you to take the necessary time to compare prices and tour operators so you can have a safe experience throughout the whole activity. FindLocalTrips.com is a platform used to compare tour companies and prices in Peru and South America, make sure to check it out while you’re here.

    How to Get to Paracas?

    Paracas is currently accessible by bus since the nearest airport is in Lima. Therefore, if you’re planning to visit this beautiful beach town, you’ll have to take a public bus ride to Paracas. Keep in mind that if you’re planning to start your trip from Lima, you’ll find different bus companies so take the necessary time to compare prices and quality.

    Unfortunately, in Lima there is no central bus terminal, each company owns its private terminal and sometimes it could be a hassle to find them. If you’re planning to do this on your own, be aware that most bus companies make stops on the way to collect new passengers which could be unsafe.

    Peru Hop is a bus company recognized for its travel experience, flexibility, and safety while going on a road trip through Peru. This bus company offers short trips from Lima including Paracas, Huacachina, and even some stops on the way. Don’t be a typical tourist and dare to uniquely experience the best of Peru in the safest way possible!

    desert in peru

    Paracas is one of the main tourist destinations near Lima that you cannot leave behind while going south of the country. Ica gathers, without a doubt, the best activities in Peru such as the Huacachina oasis, another location worth visiting in this area. Don’t miss this opportunity and find everything about this natural wonder while you’re here.

  • Lima to Huacachina: Everything you Need to Know in 2025

    Lima to Huacachina: Everything you Need to Know in 2025

    The best way to get from Lima to Huacachina is the Peru Hop bus. All other bus companies go to Ica (you will then need to take a taxi to Huacachina) and there is no airport near Huacachina.

    Lima to Huacachina takes around 4.5 hours if you are traveling directly, but a stop in Paracas is highly recommended. The Secret Slave Tunnels in Chincha are also a must-do for anyone traveling between Lima and Huacachina.

    Day Trips from Lima to Huacachina are becoming increasingly popular as well, and might be ideal for those who plan to fly between Lima and Cusco for example. There are 1, 2 & 3 day trips that combine Huacachina, Paracas, Nazca and Chincha. Please click here for more info.

    Below, read much more detail about the various ways to get from Lima to Huacachina.

    Private car

    The least recommended way to travel to Huacachina. The high cost per rent added to the sometimes complicated and confusing roads, it can make what’s meant to be a fun trip a stressful one. If you were to choose this option you’ll have to go through the Panamericana Highway until reaching kilometer 256 (Ica city), a 4 hour drive.

    Public bus company

    travel by bus

    This option is way more complex as you will need to take more than one vehicle. The first thing to do is to take a taxi from your hotel/hostel to the bus terminal. Bear in mind that is no central bus terminal, so the location will depend on the bus company (these terminals tend to be far away from major hotels/hostels). Then you will have to take the bus from the terminal towards Ica. Once in Ica, you have to take a taxi to Huacachina as buses are not allowed to enter the oasis. The bus ride lasts approximately 4:30 hours. Note that you will have to repeat this process for the way back.

    Although this is a very common way to get to Huacachina, it could become somewhat confusing for a tourist. Plus, you risk getting lost along the way if you don’t know the place very well.

    Among the costs you have to consider are:

    • Taxi to the terminal: $7 USD (might vary depending on your location)
    • One way bus ticket: $15 USD (might vary depending on the bus company)
    • Taxi from Ica to Huacachina: $4 USD
    • Taxi from Huacachina to Ica: $4 USD
    • Return bus ticket: $15 USD (might vary depending on the bus company)
    • Taxi from the terminal to your hotel/hostel: $7 USD (might vary depending on your location)

    Peru Hop bus

    One of the easiest and best ways to get to Huacachina is traveling with this company. First off, it’s the only bus company with DIRECT access to the Huacachina Oasis. Peru Hop is a bus company focused on providing quality services to its passengers. Apart from having certain benefits, the company makes the trip very rewarding.

    peru hop bus

    They have daily departures from Lima and the tour they offer is perfectly set for people who travel for the first time in Peru. Here is a list of what is involved in your trip to Huacachina

    According to many travelers, the best features of traveling with Peru Hop is the direct entry to Huacachina, hotel/hostel pickups and being able to meet other travelers from all over the world..

    Pickups and dropoffs:

    There is no need to worry about taking a taxi to get to a terminal. Peru Hop provides pickups from hotels/hostels in Miraflores, Barranco, and some parts of Lima center and San Isidro. On the way back, they also drop you off at your hotel/hostel.

    Total package tour:

    The company offers this tour as a total package, therefore, once you get the ticket you will have everything set for that day. This includes transport, pickups and drop offs, tours, and a guide on board. This way, you can save time and you don’t have to worry about missing a tour or forgetting to book something. Plus, you can get to meet other travelers along the way as the tour always runs with a big group of people each day.

    Guide on board:

    There is no better way to know a place than with a local guide that takes you to those hidden places. With Peru Hop, you can travel along with a guide that will give you the tips and assists you in anything you might require. More than a guide is a friend that talks about his culture and traditions. This is one of the factors Peru Hop has gained popularity lately and you can confirm that as its users post excellent reviews every day.

    Safety first:

    There is no doubt we always look for to get the best experience. Safeness is a very important factor nowadays and this is what Peru Hop has provided all these years of operation. All drivers, guides, operators that work with this company are trained professionals who make every trip the best.

    huacachina oasis ica peru

    Day Trips from Lima

    For many it’s the best way to enjoy what Huacachina has to offer in just 1 to 4 days. Most depart daily from Lima and combine activities in Huacachina and nearby locations for an unforgettable experience. From our expert travel team, and from travelers themselves, the best choice are Peru Hop’s Day Trips from Lima. They have a variety of top-rated options and are all-inclusive, having the best bits of Huacachina, Paracas, Nazca and Chincha in their trip price. The most liked aspects mentioned by travelers is the comfort of traveling in a spacious bus, the activities included compared to other companies and the hassle-free experience with the help of the fluent, bilingual guides onboard. Make sure to check out all the options here!


    Experience the amazing experience that Huacachina offers

    Find the best information related to desert oasis and the best things to do in our Huacachina Info page and discover why it’s the best spot to visit in Peru!

  • Cantalloc Aqueducts in Nazca: Everything You Need To Know!

    Cantalloc Aqueducts in Nazca: Everything You Need To Know!

    From all the things to do in the Peruvian desert, the Cantalloc Aqueducts are one of the hidden gems that you shouldn’t miss. Located in the Nazca desert, these ruins played an important role in the ancient Nazca culture. Today they often go unnoticed, but still offer an unforgettable experience to those who visit. Keep reading to find out everything about this significant piece of the Nazca culture engineering.

    Planning to go to Nazca? We strongly recommend checking out the Peru Hop buses, ranked #1 for travel in Peru on Tripadvisor! Click here for more info.

    The Cantalloc Aqueducts

    cantalloc aqueducts

    Located 4 kilometers away from Nazca center lie the Cantalloc Aqueducts, an impressive example of ancient engineering that dates back to more than 1,500 years ago. These aqueducts were used to ensure the supply of water to the city and the crops lands, which local farmers used to cultivate potatoes, beans, corn, and more plant species. 46 aqueducts were found around the area, from which only 32 are currently functioning.

    The Cantalloc aqueducts comprehends a system of 35 aqueducts called “Puquios”, characterized by their spiral shape and their 12 meters of depth. They were made up of materials such as flagstones and huarango trunks – a tree that grows in this arid lands recognized by its resistance to water erosion.

    These are others of the aqueducts found within the Nazca region, known by its different designs and purpose: Bisambra, Achaco, La Gobernadora, Aja, Curve, Orcona, Santo Cristo, El Pino, El Pampon, and Ocongalla.

    How to Get to the Cantalloc Aqueducts?

    To visit the Cantalloc Aqueducts one must be in Nazca since this city is located 7 hours from the capital. Unfortunately, the airport in Nazca is mainly used for tourism, specifically for the flight over the Nazca Lines. At the moment, the only way to get to Nazca is by bus. Luckily for you, there are many bus routes that go to Nazca everyday.

    We recommend Peru Hop buses to travel to the main destinations in Peru such as Nazca and Huacachina. This company is known because of their safety, flexibility, and comfort while traveling in Peru; offering a variety of passes, allowing you to discover the real Peru without missing any of the attractions in-between.

    Nazca is only 2.5 hours away from Huacachina, learn everything about it while you’re here, from how to get there, what to do, and more!

    Nazca lines viewing tower

    As aforementioned, the desert in Peru gathers lots of different attractions that you simply can’t miss. Experience the best adventures within these remote locations and make the most of your time in Peru!

  • Find the Best Lima Souvenir Market 2025

    Find the Best Lima Souvenir Market 2025

    indian market miraflores

    Discover the top 5 souvenir markets in Lima. What you can buy. Know how to find them. Do not miss the chance to take with you the most amazing souvenirs of the city.

    In every adventure, we always get that feeling of taking a piece of the place we had the most incredible experience. Getting some stuff for our friends and family will be hanging around our heads too. Surely nobody wants to head off to the next destination without a souvenir.

    Now then, when visiting Lima we’ll come across a large number of souvenir shops or artisan markets. And the main problem will be to pick high-quality ones. That being said, let’s find the best lima souvenir market to not leave Peru empty-handed.

    Miraflores Indian Market

    The most popular souvenir market in Lima. Here you can find all sorts of things such as silver jewelry, a wide variety of clothing, gorgeous paintings, artisanal backpacks, and everything you can imagine. You can seriously spend a few hours browsing around here. Visit the whole market and you might discover pretty cute stuff.

    How to find it: Start at Ovalo de Miraflores in direction to Ricardo Palma Avenue. You will find Petit Thouars Avenue. From there, just walk 4 blocks straight ahead. The market is right in front of The Inka Plaza Gallery.

    indian market miraflores

    Gran mercado Artesanal, Tesoros del Inca

    Even though you can get the same gifts and souvenirs, the prices will be a bit affordable in comparison to the ones in Miraflores. If you want to save some money, this could be a good option. Note that you will have to take public transport or a taxi to get here.

    How to find it: Located at Av. La Marina 790, Pueblo Libre. Take public transport to Pueblo Libre district and get off at Sucre Avenue. Walk 2 blocks along La Marina Avenue and you will find a big sign of the market.

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    San Francisco Galería Artesanal

    If you are touring around the historical center, do not miss the chance to visit this famous market. Here you are going to find some of the cheapest souvenirs in Lima with no doubt. Maybe after enjoying the colonial streets and balconies, you can head over here. Just look around and try to get some great discounts.

    How to find it: The market is at the Plazuela San Francisco in Lima Historical Center. The address is Jirón Lampa 216, Cercado de Lima. As the main reference, this gallery is one block away from Lima’s Plaza de Armas.

    Mercado Artesanal

    When going shopping in this market, you will find lots of local craft and artisan galleries. Take your time to pick up some souvenirs and see what you can find. There is plenty of good jewelry and clothing like baby alpaca sweaters, mittens, leg warmers, and more. Get some interesting stuff like little chess games of the Incas versus the Spaniards or even coca leafs and coca candies.

    How to find it: If you have already visited The Indian Market, this market will be on the way as it’s located on the next block. The entrance is at Calle Belisario Suarez 315 near the Francisco de Miranda Park, Miraflores.

    artisan markets lima

    Dédalo Arte y Artesanía

    If you are looking for very high-quality stuff, this market will be ideal for you. Dédalo Arte y Artesanía is a beautiful place where you can find the best artesian work mixed with exclusive designs. Even though it could be a bit pricey, there is no doubt the products you will find here are unique pieces of pure art.

    Here you will find accessories, furniture, clothing, toys, and much more. All these traditional items are very polished and fancy. No matter if it’s handicraft, the designs are pretty exclusive. We can guarantee you will be leaving this shop place with at least one piece.

    Apart from that, there is a small back patio where you can relax while taking a drink and having a snack. Surrounded by the magnific art of great Peruvian designers. With no doubt a must-visit place in your adventure to Lima.

    How to find it: The market is a bit difficult to find if you are not a resident. The Plaza Barranco will help as a reference. Walk 6 blocks to the north by the Almirante Miguel Grau Avenue until reaching Sáenz Peña street. From there the market will be 1 block away.

    local markets lima

    Remember that you can also open Google Maps to help you get more detailed references or simply ask around. All these markets are well-known so you won’t have any problem finding them.

    We hope this information was helpful to find the best Lima Souvenir Market for you. Now that you know where to get the best and unique souvenirs. Do not miss the opportunity to explore the city and have fun looking for traditional Peruvian stuff.

    Lima comprehends a variety of attractions and activities that you simply can’t miss, make sure to know everything about Peru’s capital and make the most of it. Although you could find almost everything in Lima, this city is also known because of being so busy and crowded most times, that’s why you can’t leave Huacachina behind.

    Quick Tip: The best way to get to Huacachina is with Peru Hop as you can see the best of Peru in the safest way possible. If you’re planning to do a short trip to Huacachina, Peru Hop has the best option for you!

    huacachina oasis

    After a few days in Lima, you’ll realize how much you’ll need a break from the street’s traffic and stress or like many, just disconnect from the world. Huacachina is the best destination for those looking for fun and peaceful moments, make sure to know everything about it while you’re here.

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  • The BEST Huacachina Tours & Things to Do in 2025

    The BEST Huacachina Tours & Things to Do in 2025

    Known for its stunning oasis and adrenaline-pumping activities, Huacachina offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager to sandboard down towering dunes, or someone looking to unwind by the tranquil lagoon, there’s an activity for everyone. Let’s dive into the best Huacachina Tours!

    Sandboard down the dunes

    If you’ve ever been snowboarding, you know how thrilling it is. Imagine that same rush of adrenaline, but with warm, sunny weather and sliding down huge sand dunes — that’s sandboarding in Huacachina!

    The sandy slopes actually make the board glide faster, adding an extra layer of excitement. And don’t worry if you’ve never been on a board before; you can still enjoy the thrill by lying down on the board and sliding down the dunes. It’s just as exhilarating and much safer, making it a perfect adventure for everyone.

    Sandboarding - Huacachina Tours

    Ride the exhilarating dune buggies

    Usually part of the sandboarding activity, riding a dune buggy is an experience like no other. You’ll travel at full speeds up and down the hills, in what will feel like a rollercoaster ride (imagine Mad Max style). It’s perfect for those looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure with incredible desert scenery.

    Dune buggies in Huacachina

    Full Day Trip to Huacachina

    By far the best way to enjoy Huacachina to the fullest in a short amount of time. These 1 day trips combine Huacachina tours with other nearby attractions, creating an unforgettable adventure.

    Starting in Lima, you’ll first visit the Ballestas Islands, Peru’s Mini-Galapagos located in Paracas. Just 1 hour away from Huacachina and famed for it’s abundant marine wildlife, it’s a town you’ll quickly fall in love with. After which you’ll head to Huacachina, where you go on the exciting dunebuggy & sandboarding tour, finishing off with a beautiful sunset on the dunes.

    Among the top choices, we highly recommend this Full Day Trip from Lima which has been voted as the #1 thing to do in Lima. It’s constantly praised for the one-of-a-kind and hassle-free experience, all while traveling in comfort on huge, spacious buses.

    Best Huacachina Tours

    Paddle boat around the Huacachina lagoon

    If you’re looking to spend a relaxing afternoon, rent one of the paddle boats and cruise around the serene Huacachina lagoon. As you slowly paddle, you can take in the stunning surroundings and enjoy the tranquility of the oasis. It’s the perfect way to unwind and watch the world go by – a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline-pumping activities on the dunes.

    paddle boat in huacachina lagoon

    Hike the dunes

    Walk to the top of the sand dunes and have a bird eyes view of the oasis. Although these sand dunes are huge, you can easily (kinda) walk all the way up. Head to the oasis and once there, you’ll see the path and multitude of people make their way up different dunes. You can sit and enjoy the view, have an unforgettable chat or just gaze at the dune buggies from afar.

    Mostly everyone does it on their own or with a group of friends, but make sure to always follow the recommended security measures. Take water with you, wear comfortable clothes and shoes, put on some sunscreen and don’t wander off too far.

    Nazca Lines Flight

    Although technically not in Huacachina, for many it’s the starting point to the mysterious Nazca Lines. Located a little less than 2 hours away, these 3,000 year old geoglyphs of shapes, animals and lines are etched into the desert ground and can only be seen from above. The 30 minute Nazca Lines Flight will show you all these drawings which will leave you with more questions than you had before.

    nazca lines flight

    Best Huacachina tours operators

    • Peru Hop: Best for full-day trips to Huacachina from Lima. Top-rated and most reviewed company.
    • Arenas: Best dunebuggy and sandboarding tour operator.
    • Nazca Airlines: Best Nazca Lines Flights tour operator.

    Summary

    Even though the town is small, there are a variety of Huacachina Tours to enjoy! Make the most by experiencing the ones mentioned for a memorable time in the oasis! Need more information related to desert oasis? Check out our Huacachina Info page and discover why it’s the best spot to visit in Peru!

  • 5 Reasons to Visit the Huacachina Desert in Peru

    5 Reasons to Visit the Huacachina Desert in Peru

    huacachina oasis

    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.

      sandboarding-huacachina

      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!

    3. 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!

    4. 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!

    5. 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.

    6. 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.

    dune buggy huacachina

    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.

    dune buggy huacachina

    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!