The desert oasis of Huacachina is nestled between giant sand dunes in Southwestern Peru. The tiny town is famous for its palm-tree lined lagoon and sandboarding. It’s a must for any trip to Peru!
Climb the dunes for a great view of the natural lagoon.
Tips for Sandboarding in Huacachina
Getting to Huacachina. The tiny desert oasis is a 4km taxi ride ($2-3 USD) from the town of Ica, which is on a major bus route. It is easy to get to Lima (4-5 hours) and Nazca (2 hours) from Ica by bus. Fares for Lima are $12-21 and $11-15 USD for Nazca. The VIP class is not worth the extra money and offers no extra comfort for these short trips. It is worth it for longer trips in Peru because nicer buses are used. Snacks (ham/cheese sandwiches) are usually provided.
Use Safe Transport. Bus and taxi hijackings are safety concerns in Peru. Take a safe bus company like Cruz Del Sur. In Lima, they have their own private stations with safe taxis, which charge flat rates. Ask at the station in Ica for safe radio taxis. Hostels in Huacachina can set up a taxi and recommend companies. Traveling during the day is best.
Sandboarding. A dune buggy/sandboarding trip can be booked at any hostel in town. I recommend Banana’s Adventure Hostel. It was very clean. Plus, the food and staff were great. Accommodation, breakfast and a dune buggy/sandboarding trip are $28.76 USD. Book in advance because the hostel fills up quickly. An additional entrance fee of $1.19 USD must be paid to access the dunes except for those entering by foot. There is also an extra fee to rent professional sandboards. Tours are optional – rent a board and go out on your own.
Don’t Miss: Climb the giant dunes behind the town at sunset for an amazing view and a great leg workout. Tours to Ica wineries, Paracas and Islas Ballestras are available from Huacachina.
