Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Oasis

Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Oasis (Full Day)

ITINERARY:

Pick-Up: From Miraflores Hotel between 4:50 AM and 5:00 AM

5:30 AM: Departure to Paracas Beach, approximately a 4-hour journey in a comfy tourist vehicle.

9:30 AM: Arrival at Paracas! We’ll head to the El Chaco pier to board modern speedboats for an amazing tour of the Ballestas Islands, located in Paracas Bay. Get ready to see stunning natural beauty and wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, black cormorants, flamingos, and various seabirds. You might even have sea lions swimming close to the boat and tons of penguins splashing around!

Thousands of seabirds fly overhead and you’ll likely spot their nests on the rocks. Plus, don’t miss the famous Candelabro! Our guide will share some cool stories about its origins (approx. duration 1 hour 45 min). Those who want to chill can soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze at this beautiful beach, where good restaurants serve delicious local dishes!

11:30 AM: Off to Ica!

12:30 PM: Arrive at Huacachina.

Join us for an excursion to the Huacachina Oasis, just 5 km from downtown Ica. Enjoy the peacefulness of this picturesque lagoon, stroll around looking for the best selfies, and get ready for some thrilling desert fun on buggies and sandboarding!

Visit Chocolatería Noelia nearby, where we’ll taste traditional treats like chocotejas, alfajores, artisanal jams, cookies, and delicious mousse!

1:30 PM: Head to Bodega Nietto to learn about grape aguardiente, famously known as Pisco. Explore the Fundo Tresesquinas winery, where we’ll show you how traditional Peruvian wine and Pisco are crafted since 1856, guided by an experienced winery staff member. You’ll also see some ancient artifacts like clay pots and copper presses still used today!

After the winery tour, you’ll get to taste their iconic products: wines, piscos, creamy liqueurs, macerates, and more, all while enjoying lively Ica-style banter! Lunch is on your own.

3:00 PM: Time to wrap up our tour and head toward Chincha.

4:30 PM: Optional stop in Chincha at Bodega Racimo de Uvas for some wine and pisco tasting, plus indulge in popular cachina and varieties of wines and macerates. We’ll also enjoy a friendly folkloric dance workshop with traditional Cajón music, fun contests, and tasty Chincha treats.

5:00 PM: Depart for Lima.

10:00 PM: Return to your Lima hotel in Miraflores.