Adventure, Mysticism, and Marine Nature in 3D
DESCRIPTION
Experience a fascinating journey through the desert, the sea, and history
This 3-day, 2-night tour invites you to discover the magical contrasts of southern Peru: from the golden sands of the Ica desert to the astonishing biodiversity of the Paracas coast. On this trip, every place has a story to tell, and every experience is designed to connect you with the unique energy of the ocean, ancestral culture, and the adrenaline of the desert.
You’ll explore the mysteries of Cachiche, the village of the witches; enjoy the Huacachina oasis with its endless dunes and try sandboarding like in a movie. Later, you’ll sail the Pacific Ocean to the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions and Humboldt penguins, and explore the Paracas National Reserve, one of the country’s most important ecosystems. All this, with time to relax, savor artisanal piscos and experience natural beauty in its full splendor.
ITINERARY
🗺 Itinerary
🧙♀️ Day 1: Mysticism and Adrenaline Among the Dunes
The adventure begins with an immersion into the most enigmatic side of Ica: the hamlet of Cachiche, a place steeped in legends where mystery still lingers. There, you’ll discover the famous Seven-Headed Palm Tree and explore the Witches’ Theme Park, where stories of healers and ancestral rituals come alive.
Afterward, you’ll visit the traditional House of Tiles, ideal for those seeking authentic souvenirs such as artisanal chocolates, decorative tiles, or regional piscos. Then, you’ll head to a traditional winery where you can taste wines, piscos, and cachinas (a type of fermented beverage), as well as learn about their traditional production process.
The day continues in the legendary Huacachina Oasis, surrounded by gigantic dunes that seem to belong to another planet. Here, you’ll hop into a 4×4 dune buggy and speed across the desert. You’ll stop atop the dunes for sandboarding and enjoy unforgettable sunset views reflected in the lagoon.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to your accommodation to rest and recharge for the next day.
🐧 Day 2: Marine Wildlife and Otherworldly Landscapes
The following day, you’ll trade the desert for the sea. Very early, you’ll depart for Paracas Bay, where you’ll board a boat to the Ballestas Islands. Along the way, you’ll see the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph, etched into a desert hillside and still without a definitive explanation.
Upon arriving at the islands, you’ll be immersed in a natural spectacle: colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans, and many other birds coexist on imposing rock formations, among caves, arches, and cliffs. The wild beauty of the place is perfect for unique photographs.
Back on land, you’ll have free time to enjoy breakfast overlooking the sea, purchase local handicrafts, or simply relax.
In the afternoon, you’ll continue to the stunning Paracas National Reserve, where you’ll visit pristine beaches like Supay and Playa Roja (Red Beach), the latter boasting a striking contrast between its reddish sand and the blue ocean. You’ll also see the viewpoint where the now-vanished rock formation of “La Catedral” once stood, and finish at Playa Lagunillas, a charming fishing port surrounded by desert hills, perfect for lunch by the sea.
After this day immersed in nature, you’ll return to your hotel in Ica.
🌄 Day 3: Relax at the oasis or optional excursion
The last day is designed for you to enjoy at your own pace. You can relax at the hotel, unwind by the pool, or explore the oasis again.
For the more adventurous, there’s the option of taking a tour to the enigmatic Cañón de los Perdidos (Canyon of the Lost), a unique geological formation in the heart of the Ica desert. This canyon, carved by erosion over millions of years, is perfect for photography and geology enthusiasts.
Finally, we’ll arrange your transfer to the bus terminal for your return trip to Lima.
INCLUDES
✅ What’s Included in the Tour?
Full Tourist Transportation:
Includes all transfers from your arrival point in Ica (hotel or bus terminal) to each of the tourist attractions and back, in comfortable, safe, and air-conditioned vehicles.
Pick-up from the bus station or hotel in Ica:
From the moment you arrive, our team will be waiting to welcome you and ensure a hassle-free transfer.
Professional Tour Guide (Spanish):
Constant accompaniment during the main activities, with enriching explanations about local history, culture, nature, and traditions.
Entrance to the village of Cachiche and the Witches’ Park:
Discover one of the most mysterious places in Ica and be amazed by its legends and its seven-headed palm tree.
Visit to a traditional winery with tasting:
Explore the traditional processes of Ica wine and pisco production. Includes a tasting of products such as cachina, pisco, and dry and sweet wines.
Huacachina Tour + 4×4 Dune Buggy Adventure and Sandboarding:
Experience the thrill of the desert. Includes dune buggy rides and supervised sandboarding.
Ballestas Islands Boat Tour:
Enjoy a speedboat trip to the islands, spot marine wildlife (Humboldt penguins, sea lions, guano birds), and a panoramic view of the Candelabro geoglyph.
Paracas National Reserve Land Tour:
Explore its most famous beaches, such as Supay, Roja, and Lagunillas, and admire Peru’s unique desert-marine landscapes.
Entrance to all tourist sites:
Includes all necessary entrance tickets for each attraction listed in the itinerary (winery, Huacachina, Paracas, Ballestas Islands, National Reserve).
2 nights’ accommodation in Ica:
Stay in selected accommodations with private bathrooms, hot water, and convenient locations. Ideal for relaxing after each day.
Ongoing assistance throughout the trip:
Our team will be in constant contact for any needs, questions, or coordination.
Optional: Tour to the Lost Canyon (Day 3):
Available at an additional cost. Includes transportation, guided tour, and a visit to the incredible canyon carved into the desert.
NOT INCLUDED
❌ What’s not included?
Bus tickets from Lima to Ica and vice versa:
Interprovincial transportation is not included. However, arrangements can be made with companies such as Cruz del Sur or Bus VIP Perú.
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner):
These are not included in the package, except for wine tastings. Free time is provided to choose restaurants of your choice.
Personal expenses and tips:
Expenses for souvenirs, additional drinks, or gratuities for the guide or driver are not included in the service.
Travel insurance:
It is recommended that you purchase your own travel insurance for medical and accident coverage during the tour.
Entrance to the Lost Canyon (if this option is chosen):
This tour is optional and has an additional cost of approximately 100 soles per person.
RECOMMENDATIONS
🌟 Recommendations
Wear light and comfortable clothing: Ica and Paracas have a mostly warm and dry climate, so it’s recommended to bring cool clothing, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. A light jacket might be useful for the evenings.
Don’t forget your camera or cell phone with a charged battery: During the tour, you’ll visit breathtaking landscapes, such as the Huacachina Oasis, the Ballestas Islands, and the desert. You won’t want to miss a single photo!
Wear appropriate footwear for sand and short walks: For activities in the dunes and the Paracas National Reserve, it’s best to wear comfortable sneakers or closed sandals.
Bring your ID or passport: It will be necessary for check-in at accommodations and for boarding, especially if you are a foreigner.
Don’t leave without trying the local cuisine:
Take advantage of your free time to enjoy typical dishes like carapulcra with sopa seca, cachina, black clam ceviche, or sweets like tejas and chocotejas.
If you take the tour to the Cañón de los Perdidos (Canyon of the Lost):
Bring water, snacks, a hat, and a light backpack, as it’s a desert route with some walking in the sun.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the tour start?
The tour starts in the city of Ica. Pick-up from the bus station or your accommodation within the city is included.
Can I depart from Lima?
Yes, although transportation from Lima to Ica is not included, you can arrive by bus on your own (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, or Bus VIP). We will pick you up upon your arrival in Ica.
Is it suitable for children and seniors?
Yes. It’s a family tour, but some activities (like dune buggy rides and sandboarding) may not be suitable for people with health or mobility issues.
Are hotels included? What category are they?
Yes, it includes 2 nights’ accommodation in tourist-class hotels (hostels or 2- or 3-star hotels, depending on availability). We can help you upgrade your hotel if you wish.
Is the boat tour weather dependent?
Yes. The Ballestas Islands tour may be affected by adverse sea conditions. In case of cancellation due to bad weather, you will be offered an alternative activity or rescheduling.
Can I change the third day’s tour to the Lost Canyon?
Yes, day 3 is free by default, but you can choose to do the Canyon tour for an additional cost. It’s best to confirm this in advance.
What language does the guide speak?
All our tour guides provide the experience in Spanish. If you would like a guide in English or another language, please contact us to arrange it in advance (an extra charge may apply).