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Illapa Peru Trip

Full Day (Lima Paracas Ica)

1 Day from US $ 70.00

Full Day (Lima Paracas Ica)

1 Day from US $ 70.00
Illapa Peru Trip
Physical Level
Easy
Illapa Peru Trip
Trip Style
Adventure, Nature, Cultural
Illapa Peru Trip
Max Altitude
406 m. (1,332 feet)
Illapa Peru Trip
Group Size
15 People

The perfect tour for those who wish to explore two of the country’s most stunning destinations in a single day. This journey takes you from the bustling city of Lima to the dazzling landscapes of Paracas Bay and the oasis of Huacachina, offering a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and culture.

 

Trip Summary

ITINERARY: FULL DAY ADVENTURE & ADRENALINE

  • 4:30 – 5:00 AM: Departure from various pickup points (Los Olivos, Plaza Norte, San Miguel, San Isidro, Miraflores).
  • 9:00 AM: Embark on boats, put on life jackets, and begin the guided maritime tour of the Ballestas Islands and observation of El Candelabro.
    • Approx. 2-hour enriching tour through whimsical natural rock formations housing significant marine fauna, including large colonies of Guaneras birds, Humboldt penguins, playful sea lions, dolphins, Guanayes, Peruvian boobies, and more.
  • 11:00 AM: End of the boat tour. Enjoy 1 hour of free time to stroll around Paracas Bay, take photos, purchase handicrafts, and explore.
  • 11:30 AM: Travel by tourist vehicle to Ica.
  • 12:30 PM (Approx.): Arrival in Ica and visit to the winery “El Catador” for a wine and pisco tasting.
  • 3:30 PM: Visit Huacachina, where you will have free time to stroll, have lunch, and engage in activities such as boat rides on the lagoon (additional activity suggested).
  • 4:00 PM: Start the adventure circuit in the Huacachina dunes, including adrenaline-pumping buggy rides and sandboarding. The circuit lasts approximately one hour. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the oasis, take boat rides, snap photos, and purchase handicrafts.
  • 6:00 PM: Transfer from Huacachina to the bus departure point.
  • 6:30 PM: Return journey from Ica to Lima.
  • 10:00 PM (Approx.): Arrival in Lima at the initial departure point.

Itinerary

DAY 1:

TOUR ICA PARACAS

We begin the day very early with a pickup from your hotel in Lima to start our journey towards the beautiful Paracas Bay. Upon arrival, you will embark on an exciting boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, renowned for their incredible marine wildlife. Here, you can observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat while marveling at the famous rock formation known as El Candelabro, an enigmatic geoglyph visible from the sea. Our expert guides will accompany you throughout the experience, sharing fascinating facts about the region’s biodiversity and history.

After exploring the Ballestas Islands, we continue our journey to Huacachina, an oasis located in the Ica Desert, surrounded by towering sand dunes. Here, you will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of sandboarding and buggy rides—unique adventures amidst the dunes. Alternatively, you can relax by the Huacachina lagoon and enjoy the spectacular scenery this desert oasis offers.

Throughout the tour, you will be assisted by our expert guides and enjoy 24-hour tourist support, ensuring your experience is seamless from start to finish. The Full Day Ica Paracas offers a unique opportunity to discover the incredible nature and exciting activities these regions have to offer.

At the end of the day, you will return to Lima with unforgettable memories of your visit to the southern coast, having explored both the biodiversity of the Ballestas Islands and the adventure in the Huacachina Desert. Welcome to an exceptional tourism experience!

Inclusions

  • Transfers: Lima-Paracas, Ica-Lima
  • Paracas Visit
  • Ballestas Islands Tour by Boat
  • Life Jackets
  • Visit to Winery and Tasting
  • Transfer Paracas-Huacachina (Ica)
  • Huacachina Visit
  • Sandboarding and Buggy Circuit
  • Certified Guide
  • Personalized Assistance
  • Hotel Transfer to Departure Point in Lima: Can be requested as an additional service
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  • IGV (VAT): If you require an invoice, add 18%
  • Entrance Tickets: Ballestas Islands S/ 16.00 per person, Huacachina S/ 3.60 per person (paid on-site with the guide’s assistance, in cash)

Why to Choose

Why choose “Illapa Peru Trip”?

“Illapa Peru Trip” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Illapa Peru Trip,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Illapa Peru Trip,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Illapa Peru Trip” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Illapa Peru Trip” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

  • Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
  • Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
  • Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
  • Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
  • Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
  • Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Illapa Peru Trip” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Pricing

PRICES PER PERSON:

  • Weekday: S/ 230.00
  • Weekend: S/ 250.00
  • Children (4 to 10 Years): S/ 20.00 discount
    • “Prices are not valid for holidays, Holy Week, national celebrations, New Year, some public holidays, and long weekends.”

Faqs

What does the Full Day Ica Paracas from Lima include?

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Lima, a boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, free time in Paracas Bay, a visit to Huacachina, and activities such as sandboarding and buggy rides through the dunes.

What time does the tour start and end?

The tour typically begins between 4:00 and 5:00 AM with a pickup in Lima and concludes around 7:00 or 8:00 PM when you return to the city.

Is the tour safe for children?

Yes, the tour is safe for children. However, activities like sandboarding and buggy rides are recommended for children older than 8 years. Younger children can enjoy the lagoon in Huacachina.

What type of clothing should I wear?

It is recommended to wear light and comfortable clothing, a windbreaker for the boat ride, and closed, comfortable footwear for walking through the desert. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

What can I see on the Ballestas Islands?

On the Ballestas Islands, you can observe a wide variety of marine wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, dolphins, and birds such as pelicans and Peruvian boobies.

Does the tour include visits to wineries or pisco distilleries?

Some tours offer an optional stop at wineries or pisco distilleries in Ica, where you can taste and learn about the production process. This depends on the agency organizing the tour.

Do I need prior experience to do sandboarding?

No prior experience is necessary for sandboarding. Instructors will guide you and offer options for both beginners and those who have already practiced the sport.

Is it possible to participate if I get seasick?

If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended to take preventive medication before the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands, as the wind can cause waves and sudden movements.

Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Restrooms are available in Paracas before embarking on the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands and at the Huacachina lagoon. There are no restrooms during the boat excursion.

Can I bring my own food, or should I buy it during the tour?

You can bring snacks and water for the journey, but there will also be free time in Paracas and Huacachina to purchase food or have lunch at a local restaurant.

How long do you spend on the Ballestas Islands?

The boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the wildlife and scenery.

Is it necessary to book in advance?

Yes, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during the high season or on weekends, to secure your spot on the tour.

Are there any restrictions for adventure activities in Huacachina?

Activities like sandboarding and buggy rides are not recommended for individuals with heart problems, back issues, or pregnant women due to the intense nature of the activities.

What type of transportation is used for the tour?

Transportation is provided via comfortable buses or tourist minibuses equipped with air conditioning to ensure a pleasant journey from Lima to Paracas and Huacachina.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?

The tour can be done year-round, but the best time is between March and December when the weather is more stable and temperatures are pleasant in both Paracas and Ica.

Travel Guide

Recommendations for the Full Day Ica Paracas from Lima

The Full Day Ica Paracas from Lima is an excellent option for those seeking a one-day getaway filled with nature and adventure. Here are some key tips to make the most of this experience:

Book in Advance

Since this tour is very popular, especially on weekends and during peak season, it is advisable to book your tour well in advance to secure your spot.

Early Departure

The tour starts very early as it involves a long journey from Lima. Be prepared to wake up early and arrive punctually at your meeting point to make the most of the day.

Enjoy the Mix of Activities

This tour is ideal if you enjoy a combination of experiences: from exploring the Ballestas Islands and their wildlife to the adrenaline of the Huacachina dunes—there is something for every taste!

Climate in the Full Day Ica Paracas from Lima

The climate in Paracas and Ica is generally warm and sunny year-round, making this tour feasible in any season.

Climate in Paracas

Paracas has a desert climate, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day. The area is known for its strong winds, especially in the afternoon, which can make the sea a bit more rough.

Climate in Ica and Huacachina

In Ica and Huacachina, temperatures are warmer, ranging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the day. It is advisable to be prepared for the heat, especially around noon when the sun is most intense in the desert.

Dressing Tips for the Full Day Ica Paracas

Since you will spend time both at sea and in the desert, it is important to dress appropriately for each part of the journey.

Light and Comfortable Clothing

Wear light and comfortable clothing, preferably made of cotton or breathable materials. For the Ballestas Islands, we recommend bringing a lightweight windbreaker or waterproof jacket, as the boat can be windy and cool.

Comfortable Footwear

It is essential to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for land activities, especially for walking through the dunes in Huacachina. Avoid sandals, as the hot sand can be uncomfortable for walking.

Necessary Accessories

Bring a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen, as you will be exposed to UV rays both at sea and in the desert.

Restrictions for the Full Day Ica Paracas

It is important to be aware of certain restrictions or considerations before joining this tour.

Minimum Age for Adventure Activities

For activities like sandboarding or buggy rides in Huacachina, a minimum age of 8 years is recommended. Younger children can enjoy the lagoon in Huacachina, but adventure activities may not be safe for them.

People with Mobility Issues

The tour is not ideal for individuals with mobility problems, as both the boat ride and dune activities require a certain level of physical agility.

Physical Preparation for the Full Day Ica Paracas

This tour is not especially physically demanding, but some activities require a moderate level of energy and movement.

Walking on the Dunes

Sandboarding and walking through the dunes can be somewhat challenging due to the sandy terrain and high temperatures. It is advisable to be in good physical condition to fully enjoy these activities.

Boat Ride

The boat ride to the Ballestas Islands is relaxed, but the wind and rough sea can affect those prone to seasickness. If you are susceptible to motion sickness, consider taking preventive medication before embarking on the boat ride.

Health Recommendations for the Full Day Ica Paracas

Staying hydrated and protected from the sun is key to enjoying a day in both the desert and the sea.

Constant Hydration

Carry enough water to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially in the Huacachina dunes where the heat can be intense.

Sun Protection

The sun in Paracas and Ica is strong, even on cloudy days. Make sure to apply sunscreen frequently and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Precautions at Sea

If you are prone to seasickness, bring motion sickness tablets for the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands, as the wind can generate waves and sudden movements.

Altitudes During the Full Day Ica Paracas

Unlike tours in the Cusco highlands, this tour takes place at sea level and does not involve altitude concerns.

Altitude in Paracas

Paracas is at sea level, so no acclimatization is necessary before the visit.

Altitude in Huacachina

Ica and Huacachina are also at low altitudes, so there will be no issues related to altitude sickness during this tour.

Temperatures During the Full Day Ica Paracas

Temperatures can vary slightly between Paracas and Ica, but generally, both destinations are warm.

Temperatures in Paracas

During the day, temperatures in Paracas range between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F), but the ocean wind can make it feel cooler, especially in the morning.

Temperatures in Huacachina

In the Huacachina desert, temperatures can easily rise above 30°C (86°F) around noon, so be prepared for hotter and drier conditions.

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