From Paracas: Candelabro Route, Reserve, to the Oasis with Dune Adventure

Huacachina Oasis, Peru



Depart from Paracas on a route that links the ocean, the coast, and the desert. Sail around the Ballestas Islands, explore the landscapes of the National Reserve, and finish off among the dunes of Huacachina with a dune buggy ride.

Highlights

  • Cruise around the Ballestas Islands and see marine life in its natural environment.
  • Tour the National Reserve and discover the contrast between the desert and the ocean.
  • Explore the dunes of Huacachina in a dune buggy and enjoy sandboarding.

Description

7:45 a.m. – Starting point in Paracas
Meet at our Like Xplorer Perú office.

8:00 AM – First stage: the Pacific (1 hour and 30 minutes)
We'll set off by boat across Paracas Bay to see the Candelabro from the sea. The cruise continues to the Ballestas Islands, passing by their rock formations and areas inhabited by sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various seabirds.

10:00 a.m. approx.– Drop-off on land
Return to the jetty in Paracas and a short period of free time before starting the overland route.

10:45 a.m. – Second stage: coast and desert
We'll enter the Paracas National Reserve to discover how the desert reaches the ocean. The route includes landscapes such as La Catedral, Supay Beach, Red Beach, and La Mina Beach.

Lagunillas – Free time for lunch
Arrival at the Lagunillas sector. You'll have time to choose where to have lunch and enjoy the view of the coastline. Lunch is at the traveler's expense.

3:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. – Third leg: On the way to the oasis
We'll leave Paracas and continue on to Huacachina. During the transfer, you'll be able to admire the change in landscape from the Pacific coast to the Ica Desert.

5:00 p.m. – Huacachina Dunes
Hop into the dune buggy to explore the desert among dunes, slopes, and natural vantage points. Along the route, you'll make a stop to try sandboarding with a classic board.

6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Arrival at the oasis
We'll wrap up the adventure back in Huacachina.

Note

- The order and times are for reference only and may be changed due to sea conditions, traffic, instructions from the authorities, or operational reasons.
- You can store your luggage at our office while you take part in the activity.

Includes

Speedboat sightseeing tour to the Ballestas Islands.
Tourist transportation through the Paracas National Reserve.
Transfer from Paracas to Huacachina.
Dune buggy and classic sandboarding in the dunes of Huacachina, approx. 1 hour.
English and Spanish-speaking guide.

Excludes

Tourist entrance fee to the islands and reserve: S/22 per person. Cash
Tourist entrance fee to Huacachina: S/8.10 per person, cash
Lunch, drinks, and personal expenses.
Travel insurance.

Important Information

  • If the Port Authority closes the Ballestas Islands for security reasons, an alternative route may be offered, subject to availability.
    Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and wear comfortable clothing.
    You can store your luggage at our office during the activity.
    If you have any questions, you can contact us via WhatsApp on 955 533 2429. We will be happy to help you.
    Return to Paracas is available at an additional cost. Please contact us in advance to arrange your transfer.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a boat cruise around the Ballestas Islands, a visit to the Paracas National Reserve, and dune buggy and sandboarding activities in Huacachina.
The tour begins at the Like Xplorer Perú office in Paracas at 7:45 a.m.
The boat cruise takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes across Paracas Bay.
Yes, you can observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and various marine birds in their natural habitat.
Yes, sandboarding is part of the activities offered along with the dune buggy ride in Huacachina.
The tour starts early in the morning at 7:45 a.m., but check the website for current schedules and availability.
No prior experience is needed; guides provide instructions and support for both dune buggy rides and sandboarding.
After the boat tour, the itinerary continues by land to explore the Paracas National Reserve’s desert and coastal landscapes.
The tour is generally suitable for families and most fitness levels, but minor physical activity is required for dune buggy rides and sandboarding.
Yes, bringing a camera is encouraged to capture wildlife on the boat cruise and the desert scenery in Huacachina.

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