These Ica tours pack serious adventure into manageable day trips. The standout experiences include zooming across sand dunes in buggies at the Museum of Ica (perfect for thrill-seekers) and exploring ancient fossils at Canyon of the Lost (great for nature buffs). The Morón Lagoon tour offers a refreshing desert oasis experience, combining dune walks with a cooling swim. For the most comprehensive experience, I especially love the full-day Canyon of the Lost excursion from either Paracas or Ica – it showcases the region’s best geological formations and cultural sites in one efficient trip. Let’s check out the top tour options in detail.
Good To Know
- The Museum of Ica Tour offers a comprehensive experience with a guided buggy ride and sandboarding in the desert, recommended by 100% of travelers.
- The Canyon of the Lost Guided Trek provides a 2.5-hour journey through the Ocucaje Desert, showcasing fossil spotting and stunning canyon views.
- The Morón Lagoon Desert Guided Tour offers a 6-hour exploration of the desert landscape, including dune walking and swimming in the lagoon.
- The Canyon of the Lost Day Trip is a guided excursion from Paracas or Ica, lasting 6-8 hours and featuring the Ica River, natural arch, and golden rock formations.
- The tours in Ica cater to adventurous travelers seeking unique experiences, focusing on the region’s natural wonders and geological formations.
Guided Tour to the Museum of Ica, Huacachina, Buggy and Sandboarding
A comprehensive guided tour takes visitors through the Museum of Ica, the oasis town of Huacachina, and an exhilarating buggy and sandboarding experience.
The tour includes admission tickets, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional guide. Lasting approximately 1 hour, the buggy and sandboarding portion is a highlight, with 100% of travelers recommending it based on 10 reviews.
The tour operates Tuesday through Sunday, with a maximum of 13 travelers. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with certain medical conditions should avoid it.
Pickup is available, and the experience ends back at the meeting point in Ica. Advance booking is required, with no refunds for cancellations.
Read our full review: Guided Tour to the Museum of Ica, Huacachina, Buggy and Sandboarding Review
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From Ica: Canyon of the Lost Guided Trek
Departing from Ica, this guided trek takes adventurous travelers through the Ocucaje Desert, renowned for its abundance of marine fossils.
The experience begins with a hotel pickup between 6:15 and 6:30 am, followed by a stop for drinks and food before entering the desert.
Trekkers will then embark on a 2.5-hour guided journey along sandy roads, with opportunities to spot fossils and saltpeter.
The highlight is the viewpoint of the Canyon of the Lost, showcasing its impressive extent and depth.
Priced at $79 per person, the tour includes transportation, entry fees, a professional guide, and a first aid kit.
It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those over 95 years old.
Read our full review: From Ica: Canyon of the Lost Guided Trek Review
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6-Hour Moron Lagoon Desert Guided Tour From Ica
This 6-hour guided tour from Ica takes visitors to the stunning Morón Lagoon, nestled within the desert landscape.
Up to 10 travelers can enjoy group transfers, free time for dune walking and swimming, and a return transfer, all for $64.20 per person.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. It’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions, though most can participate.
Pickup is available at Ica hotels, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour.
With a 5-star rating from 1 review, this desert adventure is a great way to explore Ica’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: 6-Hour Moron Lagoon Desert Guided Tour From Ica Review
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From Paracas/Ica: Canyon of the Lost Guided Day Trip
Set out on a captivating guided day trip from Paracas or Ica to the enigmatic Canyon of the Lost, where you’ll discover fossils dating back millions of years and marvel at the awe-inspiring natural formations.
This 6-8 hour excursion, priced from $89 per person, offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
Witness the Ica River’s path through the arid landscape, pass under a towering natural arch, and capture stunning photos of the golden rock formations and whale fossils.
Along the way, your bilingual guide will share local stories and insights into the intriguing geology of this remarkable natural wonder.
Read our full review: From Paracas/Ica: Canyon of the Lost Guided Day Trip Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tours?
Many tour operators offer transportation to the starting point of their guided tours. Visitors can inquire about pickup locations and schedules when booking their tour to ensure a seamless start to their excursion.
What Should I Bring for the Outdoor Activities?
For outdoor activities, it’s best to bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks, and any necessary gear or equipment. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture the scenic views.
Are There Any Age/Fitness Requirements for the Tours?
Most guided tours don’t have strict age or fitness requirements, but some activities may have limitations. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for your abilities and interests.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, most tour operators allow you to customize the itinerary to your preferences. This gives you the flexibility to focus on the activities and sights that interest you most during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Many tour operators offer discounts and package deals to attract customers. These can include group rates, multi-day tours, or combined activities. It’s worth asking about any special offers when booking a guided tour to get the best value.
The Sum Up
Ica offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s rich history, natural wonders, and unique activities. From visiting museums and oases to trekking through canyons and experiencing desert adventures, these tours provide an immersive experience for travelers. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or thrill-seeking, Ica has a guided tour to suit your interests and make the most of your time in this captivating Peruvian destination.