South of Lima: Paracas Reserve and Huacachina Oasis

South of Lima:
Paracas Reserve and Huacachina Oasis

About the tour

Lima is a very diverse city. Besides being the capital of Peru and having a rich culinary scene, it is located on a desert coast, which gives it an added attraction. It’s possible to embark on an adventure exploring the southern coast, where the Paracas National Reserve stands out with its incredible landscapes of uninhabited (protected) beaches. This area was also inhabited by pre-Incan cultures, whose main legacy includes extraordinary textiles.

A bit further south lies Huacachina, an oasis located in Ica, a region neighboring Lima. This curious natural phenomenon attracts many visitors who want to explore its dunes either riding a buggy (sand buggy) or directly sandboarding.

A day filled with nature, history, and fun.

Itinerary

Paracas National Reserve

Our first stop will be the Paracas National Reserve. It is one of Peru’s protected areas and is home to a vast variety of marine wildlife and birds. First, we will visit the Reserve’s interpretation center, and then take a tour inside the Reserve itself. It is a remote and mysterious place, featuring extraordinary landscapes of the Peruvian coast. Remember, we will stop at Yumaque beach, so don’t forget your swimsuit!

After the visit to the Reserve, we will go for lunch at a local restaurant.

Huacachina Oasis

In the afternoon, we will continue our journey a few kilometers further south to visit Huacachina, an oasis with deep local tradition, where even a small residential community has been built around this natural phenomenon. Huacachina is surrounded by immense dunes reaching up to 500 meters in height. We will have the opportunity to ride in a buggy and explore the desert. The more adventurous can try sandboarding—riding a board down the dunes from great heights.

After our visit to Huacachina, we will return to Lima via the Panamericana Sur highway. We expect to be back around 8 pm.