Paracas & Huacachina Day Trip from Lima (Sunset, Picnic & Bonfire Experience)
The most complete day trip from Lima — wildlife, desert adventure, and a magical sunset picnic with bonfire in Huacachina.
Discover the best of Peru’s coast and desert in one unforgettable day. Travel from Lima to Paracas to explore the incredible Ballestas Islands, then head to Huacachina for adrenaline-filled dune buggy rides and sandboarding.
But what truly makes this experience unique is how it ends — with a breathtaking sunset picnic in the desert followed by a cozy bonfire under the stars. A perfect, unforgettable way to close your adventure.
Day Trip Highlights
Enjoy our 8 amazing experience in One Day: Mini Buggy or Ballestas Island in Paracas, Gastronomic experience, Wine & Pisco tasting, Picnic & bonfire in the desert, Dune buggy with sunset and sandboarding
When
All Year
Price:
$ 105
How Long
1 Day
What´s Included
INCLUSION
- Lima Accommodation pick up & drop off:: San Isidro/Miraflores/Barranco
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Mini buggy in Paracas National Reserve or Ballestas Island. Optional upgrade
- Pisco & Wine tasting experience
- Lunch at Cultur Pisco, a vineyard awarded for having the best Pisco production in Ica. (vegetarian & vegan options available)
- Dune buggy & classic Sandboarding 2hrs with sunset
- Picnic, bonfire and sunset toast
- Luxury bus with USB ports, clean bathroom and air conditioning.
- All fees & taxes. BOOK NOW!
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
- Breakfast and Dinner
- Mini buggy – Paracas National Reserve. UPGRADE 20 USD
- Huacachina Optional rental: Pro Sandboard/Ski 15 USD / 55 SOLES at booking time – Only equitment
- Airport pick up. Ask at booking time. UPGRADE
Full Day Itinerary
Early Morning Departure from Lima
Meeting Point for Other Districts (5:00 am): If you’re staying outside our pick-up zones, meet us at Calle. Tarata 252, Miraflores. Your friendly Peru Bucket List Guide will welcome you aboard.
As the city sleeps, feel the excitement building for the day ahead. Settle into our comfortable private transportation and relax as we leave the hustle and bustle of Lima behind, watching the landscape transition from urban sprawl to coastal serenity.
Choose your perfect Paracas adventure! Set sail to the Ballestas Islands and get up close with incredible marine wildlife, or upgrade driving through the Paracas National Reserve in a mini buggy, surrounded by jaw-dropping desert-meets-ocean landscapes.
Paracas National Reserve Adventure
Get ready to explore one of Peru’s most thrilling natural playgrounds on a day full of adventure! Cruise through the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Paracas National Reserve, where golden desert dunes crash into the deep blue ocean. Hop into a mini buggy and turn the ride itself into part of the fun—because here, the journey is just as epic as the views waiting for you.
Ballestas Islands Wildlife Tour
Climb aboard a speedboat for a thrilling 2-hour adventure to the Ballestas Islands, a paradise for marine wildlife. As we cruise across the sparkling Pacific waters, keep your eyes on the desert cliffs—soon, you’ll spot the enigmatic Candelabra geoglyph, a massive ancient symbol etched into the hillside. Its origins remain a mystery, with theories linking it to pre-Inca cultures, navigational markers, or even extraterrestrial influences.
Pisco Vineyard Visit
Journey to Ica, the heart of Peru’s wine and pisco production, where tradition and flavor come to life. Visit a renowned vineyard to uncover the secrets of winemaking and pisco distillation, passed down through generations. Stroll through the vineyard, learn about the intricate process, and enjoy a guided tasting of exquisite wines and aromatic pisco, immersing yourself in the region’s rich culture and hospitality.
Huacachina Oasis – A Desert Adventure
Nestled among towering dunes, Huacachina is a stunning oasis steeped in legend. Its emerald lagoon, said to be home to a mythical mermaid, offers a serene escape, while the surrounding desert invites adventure. Feel the adrenaline on a dune buggy ride, glide down the sand on a sandboard, and witness a breathtaking sunset painting the dunes in fiery hues.
Huacachina Oasis & Desert Adventure
The Grand Finale: Sunset Picnic & Bonfire in Huacachina
5:30 pm – 6:00 pm
As the day winds down, we take you beyond the typical tour experience.
Deep in the Huacachina dunes, away from the crowds, you’ll enjoy a carefully prepared picnic while watching the sun set over the desert. As the sky fades into night, we light a bonfire — creating the perfect setting to relax, share stories, and truly take in the moment.
This is not just a tour. This is the kind of experience you remember for a lifetime.
Return to Lima
6:30 pm – 11:45 pm
Add Ons
Pro Sandboard / Sandski
Mini Buggy
Why this is the #1 Paracas & Huacachina Tour
Unlike standard tours, we don’t just show you the destinations — we create a full experience from start to finish.
Our sunset picnic and bonfire is designed to give you a deeper connection with the place, away from the crowds, turning a great day into an unforgettable one.
What to Bring
DOCUMENTS & MONEY
- Passport
- Travel insurance
- Cash for meals, snacks, or optional purchases
ESSENTIAL RECOMMENDATIONS
- Light jacket or windbreaker (Paracas can be windy)
- Sunglasses & sunscreen (strong desert sun)
- Comfortable clothes & closed shoes
- Small backpack for personal items
- Cash for meals, snacks, or optional purchases
- Extra clothes (sandboarding = sand everywhere)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Paracas & Huacachina day trip from Lima worth it?
Yes, this is one of the most popular and rewarding day trips from Lima. It combines coastal wildlife at the Ballestas Islands, desert adventures in Huacachina, and cultural experiences like Pisco tasting—all in one full day
How long is the Paracas & Huacachina day trip?
The tour is a full-day experience, typically lasting 16–17 hours, including round-trip transportation from Lima.
What wildlife can I see at the Ballestas Islands?
During the Ballestas Islands boat tour, you may see sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans, flamingos, and other marine birds in their natural habitat.
What will I see if I choose the mini buggy tour in the Paracas Reserve instead of the Ballestas Islands tour?
If you choose the mini buggy tour inside the Paracas National Reserve, you’ll explore stunning desert landscapes with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, unique rock formations, pristine beaches, and scenic viewpoints within the reserve. This experience focuses on scenery, light adventure, and photography.
Is sandboarding in Huacachina included?
Yes, sandboarding and dune buggy rides in Huacachina are included. (NO STAND UP) – Handmade classic board .
Can I rent professional sandboards, and who are they recommended for?
Yes, professional sandboards are available for rent for travelers looking for a more advanced sandboarding experience. These boards are recommended for experienced riders or adventure seekers who want greater speed and control on the dunes. Beginners can still enjoy standard boards, while pro boards are ideal for those with prior boarding or snowboarding experience.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
This tour is suitable for most travelers; however, it is not recommended for older adults, especially for activities such as the dune buggy ride in Huacachina, which can be physically demanding. Older travelers are still welcome to join the tour and may skip the buggy activity, relaxing instead at a designated rest area while others participate.
Please note that this is a long day with an early departure, which may also be tiring for very young children. To ensure comfort throughout the journey, we operate with comfortable, modern vehicles designed for long-distance travel.
Are meals included in the tour?
Lunch is included in the tour and features vegetarian and vegan options. Breakfast and dinner are not included. Thanks to our well-organized logistics, meal times are carefully planned so you can relax and enjoy your food without rushing, making the overall experience smooth and enjoyable throughout the day.
Does the tour include hotel pickup in Lima?
Yes, hotel pickup is available from Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, the main tourist districts in Lima. Travelers staying outside these areas will need to go to our meeting point at Calle Tarata 252, Miraflores, at the time coordinated with our logistics team.
If needed, we can assist with arranging private transportation for an additional cost. Uber is also an excellent and reliable option for getting to the meeting point.
What should I bring for the Paracas & Huacachina day trip?
We recommend bringing:
- Comfortable clothing
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- A hat
- Water
- Snacks
- Cash for meals and souvenirs
- A light jacket for the early morning
Is this a small-group tour?
Yes, this is a small-group tour (2 – 28), offering a more personalized experience with better service and attention from your guide.
Is the Ballestas Islands boat tour safe?
Yes, the boat tour is operated by licensed providers and follows safety regulations. Life jackets are provided for all passengers.
What is Pisco tasting, and is it included in the tour?
Pisco tasting is a visit to a local vineyard where you’ll learn about Peru’s national spirit and sample different varieties of Pisco. This experience is included in the tour. Travelers who prefer not to participate may wait in a designated rest area during this activity.
Please note that the tour follows a set itinerary and shared group schedule. Choosing not to participate in a specific activity is completely understandable; however, non-participation does not qualify for a refund.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Cancellation policies depend on the booking terms. Please check the specific cancellation policy at the time of booking.
Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the Paracas & Huacachina day trip from Lima operates year-round, though weather conditions may affect the Ballestas Islands boat tour on rare occasions.
How far are Paracas and Huacachina from Lima?
Paracas is approximately 4 hours south of Lima, while Huacachina is located near Ica, about 1 hour from Paracas.
Why book this Paracas & Huacachina tour with Peru Bucket List?
Peru Bucket List offers:
- Carefully curated itineraries
- Small-group experiences
- Expert local guides
- Trusted reviews
- A focus on safety, comfort, and authentic experiences
Can this tour be arranged as a private experience?
Yes, private tours are available. If you’re interested in a private Paracas & Huacachina day trip, please contact us for more details and personalized options. You can reach our team via email or WhatsApp, and we’ll be happy to assist you with a customized experience.
Book Your Paracas & Huacachina Day Trip from Lima Today
Limited spots available — this exclusive sunset & bonfire experience is not offered by standard tours.
👉 Book now and turn your day trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Very Important
Booking & Payment Policy
To confirm a reservation for the Epic Paracas & Huacachina Day trip from Lima, full payment (100% of the total amount) is required at the time of booking and no later than 10 hours prior to the scheduled start of the tour.
For last-minute reservations, please contact us directly via WhatsApp at: +51 913 965 587 / +51 920 853 520. Availability is subject to remaining spaces at the time of inquiry. A booking is considered confirmed only once full payment has been successfully processed.
Changes & Cancellations
Cancellations
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Cancellations made up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled activity (before 5:00 PM Peru time, one day before the tour) are eligible for a refund, subject to a 15% administrative fee.
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Cancellations made after 5:00 PM (Peru time) one day prior to the tour, or failure to appear (no-show), will incur a 100% cancellation fee, with no exceptions.
Changes
Any request to modify the tour date must be submitted before 5:00 PM (Peru time), one day prior to the scheduled activity, and is subject to availability.
All cancellation or change requests must be submitted in writing to: contact@perubucketlist.com
Requests are considered valid only once confirmed in writing by Peru Bucket List.
Ballestas Island
If the sea is too rough to allow a boat trip, we will proceed with a tour of the Paracas National Reserve, which includes visits to iconic sites such as the Cathedral, the Isthmus, and the famous Red Beach. This is a panoramic photography tour that offers unique landscapes and natural beauty despite the bad weather.
Please note that weather conditions can change rapidly. In some cases, a short wait has allowed us to resume the Ballestas Islands tour. However, this isn’t always guaranteed. Your safety is our priority, and we appreciate your patience and understanding, especially if you’re traveling in Peru on a time-sensitive basis.
Dune Buggy & Sandboarding
If you prefer a more relaxed ride, you may request a private buggy for an additional cost—please inform us in advance. For children (over 1 year old) and senior travelers, a private buggy will be used so the driver can moderate the speed for comfort and safety.
Sandboarding is done using a traditional board, designed for sliding lying down. If you wish to sandboard standing up, a professional board is available for rent at USD 15. Please inform your guide when departing from Lima.
The buggy adventure and sandboarding offer a dynamic, combined experience. You’ll enjoy both exciting activities in a single 2-hour tour, with special breaks to capture stunning photos of your journey.
Lunch Stop & Pisco Tasting
We all stop at Cultura Pisco for lunch (included). This stop has been specially designed to help travelers discover and enjoy Peruvian gastronomy, offering a selection of traditional Peruvian dishes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and the pisco tasting is optional.
Refund Policy
Where a refund is applicable:
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Refunds will be processed exclusively through the original booking platform or via PayPal.
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Clients acknowledge that third-party platforms (including payment gateways and booking systems) may apply transaction or processing fees.
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Peru Bucket List is not responsible for, nor does it assume, any additional charges, currency exchange differences, or transaction fees imposed by such platforms.
Additionally, all approved refunds are subject to a 22% administrative and tax processing fee, which will be deducted from the refundable amount.
By confirming a reservation, the client expressly accepts these conditions and any associated deductions.
Public Holidays & Site Access
During peak holiday periods such as Holy Week (April 6–9) and July 28–30 (Peru’s Independence Day celebrations), pick-up times will be one hour earlier than usual to avoid traffic and ensure a smooth day.
On these dates, the Ballestas Islands boat tour will have a duration of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes (all operators), and the dune buggy & sandboarding experience in Huacachina will last about 1 hour (all operators). Thank you for your understanding— These adjustments help us make the most of the day during Peru’s busiest travel seasons!
Please note that some public holidays may involve temporary closures or restricted access to certain tourist sites. Peru Bucket List is not responsible for itinerary changes caused by these events. We appreciate your understanding, as these situations are beyond our control.
Health & Participation Notice
Each traveler is solely responsible for ensuring that they are in adequate physical and medical condition to safely participate in the booked activity.
This activity involves physical exertion and is not recommended for:
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with spinal or back problems
- Individuals with hip conditions
- Individuals with joint disorders or musculoskeletal issues
- Anyone with medical conditions that may be aggravated by physical impact, vibration, or intense movement
Peru Bucket List shall not be held liable for any injuries, health complications, pre-existing medical conditions, or physical limitations that may affect participation in the tour.
By confirming the reservation, the participant acknowledges that they have assessed their own physical condition and voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation in the activity.
Unforeseen Circumstances
In the event of circumstances beyond our reasonable control — including but not limited to adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, road closures, government restrictions, social unrest, force majeure events, or other unforeseen situations — Peru Bucket List reserves the right to modify, reschedule, or cancel the activity for safety and operational reasons.
In such cases:
- Clients will be informed as soon as reasonably possible.
- Alternative options may be offered where feasible.
- Refunds will be issued only when applicable and in accordance with the refund terms stated above.
Peru Bucket List shall not be liable for additional expenses incurred by clients as a result of such circumstances.
Time Notice
All published schedules are approximate and may vary due to operational or external factors.
Clients agree to maintain flexibility and understanding in the event of minor delays or adjustments.
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