A day tour from Huacachina that takes you into a 3-kilometer, 150-meter-deep canyon carved from ancient seabed deposits. Expect sandy approaches, short scrambles, desert flora and clear guidance from local guides.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of Huacachina’s mirage of palms and sand and into a landscape that reads like an atlas of time. The road narrows, dust rises, and the canyon opens—a 3-kilometer ribbon carved through ochre rock, its 150-meter walls shading pockets of life. Wind and sun have shaped alcoves, ledges and narrow gullies that seem to hold fossils of an ancient seabed.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–8 hours
Fitness Level
Basic walking fitness; able to handle several hours of uneven terrain and short rock scrambles.
Wildlife
History
The canyon exposes marine sediments from when the area was under the sea; local discovery and public interest grew in the late 20th century as tourism from Huacachina increased.
Conservation
Erosion and foot traffic threaten fragile sandstone features; stick to established paths, avoid climbing soft rock, and pack out all waste to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the Canyon of the Lost Tour of Ica from Huacachina today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate Early
Carry at least 2 liters of water and sip frequently—desert heat builds quickly even if mornings feel cool.
Protect Against Sun
Wear a wide-brim hat, sunglasses and SPF 30+; shade is limited once you leave oasis areas.
Footwear Matters
Choose grippy hiking shoes or trail runners—sand and loose rock are common on approaches and in the canyon.
Follow the Guide
Stay on marked routes and listen to local guides to avoid fragile rock formations and private farmland.
2+ liter water bottle or hydration bladder
Sustains hydration across the full-day desert outing.
Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners
Provides traction on sand, loose gravel and rocky scrambles.
Sun hat and UV sunglasses
Protects head and eyes from intense desert sun and glare.
summer
Light windproof layer
Useful for cool mornings, wind in narrow canyon corridors, and evening return.
winter