Built around a small natural lake ‘oasis of America’, Huacachina is located 5 hours south of Lima and 3 hours North of Nazca. It is a unique adventure-filled tourist place, especially for backpackers. Home to the biggest sand dunes of the continent, Huacachina is the only natural oasis in South America.
The oasis is the result of the underground currents that generated the growth of plants and trees in the Ica desert. This natural oasis is the main reason why it is a popular tourist destination. Hence, work is being done to preserve this oasis and also the green vegetation around the area.
Tourists flock this place to enjoy the lovely climate and never-before views of sunsets and sunrises. Also, people want to have the once in a lifetime experience of being in the middle of a desert and right next to an oasis.
Get the thrill of various adventure-filled activities over the dunes like the views of the Nazca lines, sand dunes hiking, sandboarding, paddleboat rides and many more.
If you wish to spend a few days here, there are many unique types of accommodation on the offer. Right from adventure hostels offering a buggy tour and barbecue dinner, to Desert Night EcoCamp near the dunes with loungers and hammocks for relaxation, there is a lot to choose from.
Huacachina is a must-include in your Peruvian itinerary for a fun-filled and adventurous holiday.
• Dune buggy rides are one of the most popular activities here. Have an exhilarating experience of going up and down on the dunes and wind in your hair
• Looking for some adrenaline rush? Try some skiing down the sand dunes to get the thrill. Tour companies will need you to do a test run before getting to a start on the dunes
• Take a tour of the lake with the paddle boats. You can enjoy some quiet time with your partner and also enjoy some peace and tranquillity
• Enjoy the changing colours of the sand as the sun sets on the dunes. The spectacular views make you forget the effort of climbing uphill
• With the place popular among backpackers, be ready for some legendary parties on weekends. It is best to book accommodation away from the bars if you are averse to noise or are looking for some quiet time
• Ica, just a 10-minute drive from Huacachina is known for its vineyards. A tour of these vineyards as worth it as you will get to sample some of their finest preparations
• Charter a flight and get a glimpse of the famous Nazca Lines. Looking at these amazing geometric shapes and also shapes of birds and animals from the top is an experience by itself
• The rocky islands of Isla Ballestas are teeming with sea life, like the seagulls, penguins, pelicans and many more. This and the hundreds of gulls make the 2-hour boat ride worth it
• Another place to see some exotic sea life is The Paracas National Park. Get the thrill of walking on the red sand created by the erosion of the porphyry rocks.
Distance from Pisco Airport to Huacachina is 70.4 km
Taxi
Travel Time: 1 h 26 min
Fare: $ 42 to $ 52
Drive
Travel Time: 1 h 26 min
Fare: $ 7 to $ 12
• If you want to shop, check around in multiple shops for the best prices. Try and negotiate as well
• Before embarking on any adventure activities, ensure that the equipment is in order. Using old or sub-standard gear can be dangerous
• Ensure that your guide speaks and understands English
• It is best to check the online reviews of the tour operators before booking with one of them
• Remember the place is a desert. So dress appropriately in sunglasses, sunblock and comfortable clothing
• Make sure you wear comfortable sports shoes when setting out for the dunes. Wearing sandals might be a bad idea
• Also, carry a light jacket or a sweatshirt as it gets chilly in the evenings
• A swimsuit is a must if you plan to take a dip in the pool of your hotel
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
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