From Lima: Nazca Lines and Ica Desert Day Trip

Exploring the enigmatic wonders of Peru’s southern desert region is a captivating experience not to be missed. This day trip from Lima takes travelers on a journey through the awe-inspiring Nazca Lines and the enchanting Ica desert, promising an immersive glimpse into the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. From the early morning aerial overflight of the mysterious geoglyphs to the thrill of dune buggies and sandboarding in the serene Huacachina Oasis, this comprehensive tour offers a chance to uncover the hidden gems of this captivating part of the world. What secrets will this adventure reveal?

Key Points

• Depart from Lima at 3:00 AM and journey to Nazca, a 5-hour drive, where travelers can enjoy an aerial overflight of the enigmatic Nazca Lines.
• After the Nazca Lines flyover, the group explores the Huacachina Oasis, experiencing thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding on the desert sand dunes.
• The tour includes a delightful Peruvian lunch in Nazca, allowing travelers to savor local cuisine and recharge for the next adventure.
• Witness a captivating sunset at the Huacachina Oasis, a picturesque end to the day’s activities before the return journey to Lima.
• The day-long tour is designed to maximize time at the key destinations, providing a comprehensive experience exploring the Nazca Lines and Ica desert region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure From Lima

The tour departs from Lima at 3:00 AM, providing an early start to the day’s exploration. Travelers are picked up from their hotels in the Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro districts of Lima.

The journey to Nazca takes around 5 hours, so the early departure ensures ample time to experience the highlights of the day.

Along the way, the guide will share insights about the Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Ica desert region.

The trip is designed to maximize the time spent at the key destinations, giving participants a comprehensive introduction to these remarkable natural and cultural wonders.

Arrival in Nazca

Arriving in Nazca, the tour group enjoys a hearty breakfast before embarking on the highlight of the day – the aerial overflight of the Nazca Lines.

At 8:00 AM, the group reaches their destination and is greeted by the aroma of freshly-prepared local cuisine. After fueling up, they head to the nearby airfield, where a 35-minute flight awaits.

From the sky, they’ll gaze upon the enigmatic geoglyphs that have puzzled historians for decades. These mysterious designs, etched into the desert floor centuries ago, offer a unique perspective that’s only accessible from above.

With cameras at the ready, the group prepares to uncover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Nazca Lines Flyover

After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, the group heads to the nearby airfield, eager to embark on the 35-minute flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines.

The small planes take off one by one, offering breathtaking aerial views of the massive geoglyphs etched into the desert floor centuries ago. From this privileged vantage point, they can clearly discern the famous figures, including the hummingbird, monkey, and spider.

The guide points out the various shapes and shares insights into the theories surrounding their creation and purpose. It’s a thrilling experience that allows the travelers to fully appreciate the scale and mystery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lunch in Nazca

Once the exhilarating Nazca Lines flyover concludes, the group heads to a local restaurant in Nazca for a well-deserved lunch.

The menu showcases a variety of Peruvian cuisine, including:

1. Ceviche – fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices and seasoned with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro.
2. Lomo Saltado – a stir-fried dish of beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries.
3. Aji de Gallina – a creamy chicken dish flavored with yellow chili peppers, walnuts, and parmesan cheese.

Lunch provides an opportunity to refuel and savor the local flavors before heading to the next destination, the enchanting Huacachina Oasis.

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Journey to Huacachina

The group then heads off towards the enchanting Huacachina Oasis, a natural desert lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. The journey from Nazca takes around 2.5 hours, providing ample time to admire the stunning Ica desert landscapes along the way.

What to Expect	Duration	Highlights
Travel by Minivan	2.5 hours	Panoramic desert views
Comfort Break	15 mins	Stretch your legs
Arrive at Huacachina	4:30 PM	Welcome to the Oasis!
Free Time to Explore	30 mins	Soak in the serene atmosphere
Prepare for Adventure	30 mins	Get set for dune buggies

Once they reach the picturesque Huacachina, the group is free to explore the charming surroundings before gearing up for the exhilarating dune buggy and sandboarding adventure.

Huacachina Adventure

Participants eagerly hop aboard the awaiting dune buggies and set off on a thrilling adventure through the towering sand dunes surrounding the Huacachina Oasis. The drivers expertly navigate the vehicles, providing an exhilarating ride as they race up and down the steep, undulating slopes.

Upon reaching the top of the dunes, the group is given the opportunity to try their hand at sandboarding, gliding down the golden sand on specialized boards.

The oasis itself offers a serene and picturesque setting, where travelers can take in the stunning sunset and enjoy the tranquility of this unique desert destination.

The Huacachina adventure offers three key experiences:

1. Dune buggy ride
2. Sandboarding
3. Sunset viewing at the oasis

Sunset at Huacachina

As the Huacachina adventure winds down, travelers gather along the edge of the oasis to witness the captivating sunset over the desert landscape. The vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple paint the sky, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle that draws visitors to this unique destination. Visitors can find the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of the moment, whether it’s atop a dune, by the water’s edge, or from one of the nearby restaurants. The sunset at Huacachina is a fitting end to a day filled with adventure and exploration in this enchanting desert oasis.

Time	Activity	Location
6:00 PM	Watch sunset	Huacachina
6:30 PM	Explore oasis	Huacachina
7:00 PM	Depart for Lima	Huacachina

Return to Lima

After their thrilling dune buggy and sandboarding adventures, travelers depart Huacachina Oasis at 7:00 PM for the return journey to Lima.

The drive back to the capital city takes approximately 4 hours.

Along the way, travelers can:

1. Reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences at the Nazca Lines and Huacachina.
2. Enjoy the scenic countryside views as the van travels through the Peruvian landscape.
3. Rest up for the remainder of their stay in Lima, ready to explore more of the city’s vibrant culture and cuisine.

Arriving in Lima around 11:00 PM, the day-long tour from Lima to the Nazca Lines and Huacachina Oasis comes to a close, leaving travelers with memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The minimum age requirement for this tour is not specified. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the early departure time and strenuous activities like dune buggying and sandboarding. It’s best to check with the tour operator.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

This tour does not offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is $480 per person, regardless of age. However, the tour may be suitable for families, as it includes adventure activities suitable for all ages.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?

The tour can generally accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies if notified in advance. Guests should communicate any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure the appropriate arrangements are made.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trip or Add Additional Activities?

The tour company offers options to extend the trip or add additional activities, such as a visit to a winery or a longer stay in Huacachina for more dune buggy and sandboarding. Guests should inquire about these customization possibilities when booking.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Customers will receive a full refund if they cancel within this timeframe. Any cancellations made after this period may incur fees or be non-refundable.

Recap

This day-long tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s southern desert landscapes.

Travelers depart Lima at 3 AM, marvel at the Nazca Lines from the air, and venture to the stunning Huacachina Oasis for dune buggy rides and sandboarding.

The tour culminates in a breathtaking sunset over the serene surroundings, providing an immersive glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: