Practical information
Discover Ica, Huacachina and Paracas with our exciting tours! Explore the best attractions in Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas.
- Getting to Ica, Huacachina or Paracas from Lima
- Ica: Located about 300 kilometers south of Lima, Ica is easily accessible by bus, taking approximately 4-5 hours.
- Huacachina: This desert oasis is just 10 minutes from downtown Ica.
- Paracas: Around 75 kilometers from Ica, Paracas is accessible via a short bus ride, which takes about an hour.
- Bring: sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the sun. Carry cash, as ATMs can be scarce.
- Duration of stay: About 3 days are perfect for exploring Ica, Huacachina and one day in Paracas.
Top attractions in Ica, Huacachina and Paracas
- Sandboarding and dune buggy rides: The sand dunes around Huacachina are great for sandboarding and high-speed buggy rides.
- Ballestas islands: Often referred to as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” take a boat tour to see vibrant wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and various birds.
- Pisco tasting: Explore and taste some pisco breweries/vineyards
- Tacama vineyard: Explore Peru’s oldest vineyard to learn about traditional wine and pisco production.
Ica and Huacachina tours
Paracas tours
Paracas, Ica and Huacachina in one day tour
For which tour/attraction should you visit Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas?
When planning a trip to Peru, three destinations stand out for their unique attractions: Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas. Each offers distinct experiences that cater to different interests.
Ica is a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It’s a great place to explore Peru’s famous vineyards where Pisco, the national drink, is made. You can tour these vineyards and taste different types of Pisco.
Huacachina is an oasis in the desert and a haven for adventure seekers. Here, the main attractions are the dune buggy rides and sandboarding on some of South America’s largest sand dunes. It’s a thrilling experience that combines beautiful desert landscapes with exciting activities.
Paracas is perfect for nature lovers. The Paracas National Reserve is a stunning area of natural beauty, offering beaches, ocean, and desert landscapes all in one spot. You can also visit the Ballestas Islands, sometimes called the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” where you can see a variety of marine wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and birds.
More about Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas
Ica is a city with a deep historical background, showcased in its museums like the Regional Museum of the city, which displays artifacts from the ancient Paracas and Nazca cultures. The city provides a glimpse into the diverse cultural fabric of Peru.
Huacachina offers more than sand-based adventures. This small village wraps around a natural lagoon, ringed by palm trees, making it a picturesque place to relax and enjoy the view. Besides adventure sports, you can take leisurely boat rides on the lagoon or simply enjoy the local cuisine at various restaurants overlooking the water.
Paracas is a versatile destination where you can, besides exploring its natural reserve, also engage in various water sports and beach activities. The reserve itself is a protected area, ensuring that its pristine beauty is preserved. It’s an excellent spot for photography, hiking, and even just sitting back to watch the spectacular sunsets.
Visiting Ica, Huacachina, and Paracas offers a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, nature, and culture. Whether you’re looking to get your adrenaline pumping, enjoy stunning natural landscapes, or delve into the history and culture of Peru, these destinations have something special to offer.