A single-day loop from Lima that pairs a wildlife cruise to the Ballestas Islands and Candelabro geoglyph with vineyard tasting in Ica and dune-buggying and sandboarding in Huacachina. Long travel hours reward you with seabirds, penguins, pisco, and sweeping desert dunes.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Before dawn a private van eases out of Lima, headlights cutting into the cool desert air as the coast slides into view. By midmorning the yacht slips from Paracas harbor; sea spray and the cry of seabirds announce the Ballestas Islands. The granite stacks rise like rough forts against the Pacific and the Candelabro geoglyph looms on the sloping sand—an ancient mark visible from the water that dares interpretation.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
16 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness—must be able to climb dunes and board a small yacht
Wildlife
History
The coastal upwelling supported a historic guano economy; the Candelabro geoglyph predates modern maps and has attracted theories from sailors to archaeologists.
Conservation
Boat tours follow set approaches to minimize disturbance; avoid feeding or approaching wildlife and carry out all trash—coastal ecosystems here are fragile and recovering from past exploitation.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day Paracas - Ica - Oasis Huacachina today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early and confirm pickup
Departures are typically before dawn from Lima; verify your exact pickup point and allow time for traffic.
Protect against sun and wind
Desert and sea reflect strong UV—use broad-spectrum sunscreen, sunglasses, and a windbreaker for the boat and dunes.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
The Ballestas boat trip can be choppy; take medication or use acupressure bands if you’re prone to seasickness.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Closed-toe shoes for dunes and a spare pair of sandals for shore stops keep feet comfortable and protected.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen
High UV exposure on water and sand makes sunscreen essential.
summer
Motion-sickness medication or bands
Useful for the open-water boat trip to the Ballestas Islands.
Light windbreaker
Blocks wind and cooling spray during the boat leg and on exposed dunes.
spring
Closed-toe shoes
Protects feet on dunes and during short walks at sites and vineyards.