Is Huacachina worth the hype, or is it just another tourist trap failing its promises?
Let us guide you through its best and worst activities.
Key Takeaways
- Location: Huacachina is a small desert oasis just 10 minutes from the city of Ica and about 307 km (191 miles) south of Lima, Peru.
- Activities: The best activities in Huacachina are sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and sunset hikes.
- Day Tour Cost: A full-day tour from Lima to Huacachina costs between $100 – $150 USD per person, including transport, sandboarding, and a Pisco winery visit (more information below the video).
Overview of China’s History
Huacachina is a small village in the Ica Desert of Peru, known for its unique oasis and huge sand dunes (200 meters or 650 feet).
The unique desert oasis has been a NATURAL FORMATION for centuries, surrounded by PALM TREES!
Legend has it that an Incan princess created this oasis…
Incan princess legend
In Quechua, the name Huacachina is said to mean “WEEPING WOMAN.”
Legend says that a beautiful Incan princess was grieving for her lost lover. Her endless tears formed the lagoon.
Then, while she was mourning, a warrior came upon her, scaring the princess, so she dove into the water to hide. As time passed, she tried to leave, only to discover that she had transformed into a mermaid.
Locals still believe she is in the waters, tempting swimmers to join her (you are warned).
Scientific sources say that the water in Huacachina came from a natural underground aquifer, which created the oasis in the middle of the desert.
Early 20th century: a health resort
Huacachina gained popularity in the early 20th century when it became a RESORT for wealthy Peruvians seeking better health.
It is said that the water of the oasis can cure ailments like rheumatism and arthritis.
As the village grew, many more hotels opened their doors, creating the sight of today.
Mid-20th century: environmental changes
However, during the 20th century, the oasis began to dry up, primarily due to water extraction for agriculture and urban development.
To preserve its appeal (and tourism), locals started pumping water back into the lagoon, maintaining it artificially to this day.
DID YOU KNOW: Huacachina is the only desert oasis in South America?
Modern Huacachina
Today, Huacachina is famous for its sandboarding and dune buggy rides.
I’m guessing you would also like to experience this and capture the Instagrammable moments (see below for tips and tricks).
For more details about Huacachina’s history, you can check the official tourism website.
DID YOU KNOW: The ecosystem in Huacachina is now protected by receiving the status of Regional Conservation Area which helps in preserving the region’s unique biodiversity.
Attractions and Activities (e.g., Sandboarding, Dune Buggy Rides)
The Huacachina Oasis is a great destination to add to your trip around Peru. But beware of the disadvantages (we cover them below).
The oasis offers a mix of adventure, like dune buggie rides, cultural experiences, and relaxing activities.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular activities you can enjoy in Huacachina Oasis Peru!
1) Sand boarding
Sandboarding is the NUMBER ONE adrenaline activity in Huacachina.
Unlike traditional snowboarding, sandboarding involves riding down the HUGE SAND DUNES surrounding the oasis on sandboards.
Tours include equipment rental, instructions, and some short practice runs to ensure a fantastic and safe experience.
- Features: sandboards provided, slide off a sand dune of different heights, professional guides, suitable for beginners and experts.
- Price: $15 to $30.
- Tips: Combine sandboarding with a dune buggy ride for a complete experience (see below).
“This guide was a lifesaver! We loved the sandboarding! The tips about the best time to visit were spot on!” John & Sarah, USA
2) Dune Buggy Rides
The dune buggy rides are another MUST-DO.
These dune buggies fly up and down the sand dunes, giving you an exciting (and a little bit nauseating) roller-coaster ride.
The tours last around 1-2 hours.
- Features: high-speed rides, photo stops, sunset views (on afternoon tours), and sandboarding stops.
- Price: $20 to $50 per person, depending on whether it’s a shared or private tour.
- Recommendation: Opt for a SUNSET dune buggy tour.
3) COMPLETE Sandboarding and Dune Buggy Ride Tours
For a full desert adventure, most tours combine sandboarding and dune buggy rides into one tour.
This allows you to experience the best of both activities, with different stops to sandboard down the surrounding sand dunes and then continue the adventure on the buggy.
- Features: combined thrill experience, scenic stops, sunset view options.
- Price: $30 – $60.
First you’ll do a buggy ride toward great dunes for sand boarding, the next 1-2 hours you’ll spend sand boarding and taking pictures. You’ll also see the SUNSET from the dune.
BE WARNED: you’ll return after sundown so the buggyride back is in the DARK. In the evening, the temperature drops (more below), so make sure to wear long PANTS, also good to not scrub your skin against the hot sand.
DON’T FORGET a scarf and sunglasses against the sand blowing in your face!
4) Pisco Winery Tours
We also recommend doing a more relaxed experience, like a pisco vineyard tour in the region.
DID YOU KNOW: Pisco is Peru’s national drink, a type of brandy made from grapes?
The winery tour we did, taught us about pisco production, from vineyard to bottle, and included an amazing tasting session of different Pisco varieties. Don’t drink it all or you’ll come back tipsie!
- Features: Learn about Pisco history, vineyard tours, tasting sessions, and buying options.
- Price: $10 – $15.
- Best Winery: Visit Tacama Winery or El Catador for a top-notch Pisco tasting experience.
5) Lake Huacachina Pedal Boats
If you prefer a calmer activity, rent a pedal boat on the lagoon. Who else of your friends and family can say they have been in a pedal boat in an oasis in a desert in South America?
During the pedal boat ride, you can take in the views of the sand dunes, and watch the sunset over the oasis. This is perfect for families and couples to take a moment and relax.
- Price: Around $5 – $10 per hour, depending on the rental company.
- Tip: Go during early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
6) Walking Tours Around Huacachina
You can also take a short walking tour around Huacachina village.
The giant sand dunes create great photo opportunities in landscape mode, and you can also see some of the historic hotels built during the 1920s.
7) Sunset Hike on the Dunes
If you want a bit of exercise and breathtaking views, a SUNSET HIKE to the TOP of the dunes is a must!
The hike is steep and challenging, but the reward is an unforgettable sunset over the Ica Desert.
It’s a very romantic activity for couples!
- Price: Free; just bring water, sunscreen and a blanket.
- Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight if you plan to come back after dark.
- Please remember to stick to the Leave No Trace Principle and leave no garbage in the desert oasis!
Huacachina Itinerary (1 Day)
Below, we give you our itinerary, based on our experience of Huacachina.
Morning
We started our day with a walking tour around the oasis. We stopped to take some photos of the iconic lagoon.
Next, we headed to a nearby Pisco winery for a morning tour. We discovered how Peru’s national drink is created and enjoyed a tasting session.
Afternoon
After having a lovely lunch, we went on a sandboarding and dune buggy tour. We tested our skills as we sandboarded down the towering dunes but let’s not say that we are experts.
After the tour, we took some time to relax. We rented a pedal boat and relaxed at the Huacachina Lagoon, taking in the views of the oasis.
Evening
We ended the day with a sunset hike to the top of the dunes. We enjoyed a panoramic view of the oasis (one of the best views alongside the Machu Picchu during our 3-week journey in Peru).
Finally, we chose a local restaurant by the lagoon for dinner. We enjoyed the local dish Lomo Saltado and raised a glass of Pisco Sour to toast to an incredible day.
Best Time to Visit Huacachina
The interesting thing is that Huacachina is an excellent year-round destination. WHY?
Huacachina Peru has a consistent desert climate.
Huacachina oasis village enjoys sunshine and dry weather almost every day of the year (we wish we had that in Belgium), making it a great destination for your Peru itinerary no matter the season.
Best Months to visit: September, October, April, and May
The shoulder months of September, October, April, and May are the IDEAL TIME to visit Huacachina.
During these months, the temperatures are at their most comfortable, with daytime HIGHS between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F) and evening LOWS dropping to 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F).
This makes activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides more enjoyable without the extreme heat of the summer months.
Check out this live weather report for Huacachina to get real-time temperature, humidity, and wind conditions.
Crowds
Another benefit of visiting Huacachina Oasis Peru during the shoulder seasons is fewer people and lower prices.
The peak tourist season is typically from June to August, coinciding with the North American and European summer holidays.
Avoid the Hottest Months: December to February
If you’re not a fan of scorching temperatures, it’s best to avoid visiting during December, January, and February, when the desert heat can be intense, making daytime activities unpleasant.
Temperatures can climb to 40°C (104°F) or more.
Day trips and tours
Huacachina is not just a standalone destination; it is a perfect base for day trips and tours to explore other attractions in the Ica region.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the other visit-worthy destinations in the area.
1) Nazca Lines Tour
The Nazca Lines are one of Peru’s most mysterious and iconic attractions.
These ancient geoglyphs, etched into the desert floor, depict various animals, shapes, and even human-like figures.
The best way to see them is by aerial tour, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the giant designs.
- Price: $80 – $150.
- Tour Option: Check out Travel Buddies Peru for their tour packages.
2) Ballestas Islands Day Trip
Known as the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” the Ballestas Islands are a must-see if you like wildlife.
Just a short drive from Huacachina, this archipelago is home to sea lions, penguins, and seabirds.
- Features: Boat ride around the islands, wildlife viewing, and stops at the famous Candelabra geoglyph.
- Price: $20 – $40
- Tip: Book a morning tour to see the wildlife at its most active.
How To Get To Huacachina?
Huacachina is 307 km south of Lima within the Ica region.
Reaching the Huacachina oasis takes 3-5 hours, depending on the traffic.
But what are the best options to get there? We’ll highlight all the different ones!
1) By Bus from Lima
Taking a public bus is the most cost-effective way to get to Huacachina.
From Lima, buses to Ica depart from the La Victoria district. Some of the most reliable bus companies are Cruz del Sur, Oltura, and Soyuz. Peru Hop is the only bus company direct to Huacachina, others go to Ica
The journey will take around 5 hours, and buses leave a few times each day. After arriving in Ica, you will need to take a short taxi ride (around 10 minutes) to reach the oasis.
- Features: Comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and, in some cases, onboard entertainment.
- Price: $10 to $20 USD
- Book Online: Reserve your bus ticket in advance through 12GO, one of the most popular options for bus travel in Peru.
2) Private Transport from Lima
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, you can book private transport from Lima.
You can also do this as a day-tour from Lima.
One of the best tour operators is Travel Buddies Peru, a local agency that specializes in day trips to Huacachina, you can expect:
- Private transport from Lima to Huacachina and back.
- Sandboarding and dune buggy rides in the Huacachina desert.
- A visit to a local pisco vineyard with tastings.
- Professional guide to provide insights and support throughout the day.
3) Renting a Car from Lima
If you prefer flexibility and want to explore the Ica region at your own pace, you should rent a car.
The Panamericana Sur is a well-paved highway, and the drive from Lima to Huacachina takes around 4-5 hours.
- Features: Flexibility to stop at viewpoints, local restaurants, or nearby attractions like Paracas or Nazca.
- Price: $40 to $70 USD per day, plus fuel.
- Book Online: Use Discover Cars to find the best deals on car rentals and book in advance to secure a vehicle suited to your travel needs.
You can use our widget below to find the perfect car for you!
Accommodation Options in Huacachina
Huacachina has a few accommodation options to suit your every need and budget.
Here are some of the top places to stay in Huacachina:
Luxury Option: Hotel El Huacachinero
- Features: swimming pool, restaurant, and garden views. Located close to the oasis, it provides a serene environment perfect for relaxation after a day of dune activities.
- Price: $76 per night.
- Booking Link: Hotel El Huacachinero
Mid-Budget Option: Banana’s Adventure Hostel
- Features: A popular choice for adventure seekers, it includes daily tours like sandboarding, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant.
- Price: $45 per night.
- Booking Link: Banana’s Adventure Hostel
When we travel, we always use Booking.com to book all our accommodations. It has the best prices and flexible cancellation policies. Use our widget below to find the hotel of your liking!
Budgeting for Huacachina Oasis Peru
We made a breakdown of all the different costs to help you plan your budget:
- Accommodation: Hotels cost between $50-100 per night.
- Food: Meals at local restaurants cost around $10 per meal.
- Activities: Sandboarding and dune buggy rides cost $20-50 per person.
- Transportation: Bus tickets from Lima to Huacachina are affordable, starting from $10-20 per person. A taxi ride from Ica to Huacachina is short and costs around $5-10.
Photography Tips
We understand how important it is that you can share your beautiful pictures via Instagram. So let us give you some tips and tricks!
- Golden Hour: Capture the sand dunes during sunrise or sunset for lighting and long shadows.
- Dune Peaks: Climb the tallest dunes for views of the oasis and desert.
- Reflections: Use the lagoon to capture mirror-like reflections of the surrounding palm trees.
- Action Shots: Get low angles for sandboarding and dune buggy shots to focus on speed and motion.
- Night Photography: Try long exposure shots to capture the star-filled sky over the desert.
- Foreground Elements: Include palm trees or boats in your shots to add depth and context.
Tourist facilities and services
There are a few other things you should know about the small oasis town.
Wi-Fi
Luckily, there is Wi-Fi in most hotels, hostels, and restaurants, but the quality can vary. We recommend you to download maps and necessary apps before arriving, as connections may be unreliable, especially during peak tourist times.
ATMs
There are no ATMs in Huacachina. The closest ones are in Ica, about a 10-minute taxi ride away. Bring enough cash for restaurants and activities.
Clean Water
Tap water is not safe to drink in Huacachina. You must stick to bottled water to avoid dysintery or use a filtering system. Hotels and some restaurants may provide filtered water.
Shops
There are a few small stores and souvenir shops around the oasis, with snacks, bottled water, and essentials. There are also a few shops renting out sandboarding equipment.
There are NO public restrooms, but you can always go to a restaurant or hotel.
Staying connected to the internet is now possible with AIRALOs TRAVEL E SIM. Just download the app and choose Iceland for roaming. Then, you are ready to show the world your Instagrammable pictures!
Where To Eat In Huacachina
Although the town is very small and can be walked around in just 20 minutes, there are a lot of restaurants around.
If you want to try local authentic Peruvian cuisine, we suggest heading to Restaurante Claudia.
Here, they do all kinds of tasty local dishes such as Sopa a la Minuta, Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, and Chaufa.
You can also find international restaurants. The Wild Olive Trattoria is a great option that cooks up hearty pizzas and pastas and also serves a variety of vegan dishes.
Nearby Attractions (e.g., Ica, Nazca Lines)
There are a few beautiful destinations nearby, like Ica, the famous Nazca lines, and the Ballestas islands.
Ica
Ica is the nearest city to Huacachina, just a 10-minute drive away.
It’s famous for its wine and pisco production and offers several vineyards and bodegas where you can enjoy wine and pisco tasting tours.
The real highlight is the Tacama Winery, one of the OLDEST VINYARDS in South America.
Nazca Lines
You should also make sure you don’t miss out on the ancient Nazca Lines. They are one of the world’s most mysterious attractions, 2 hours from Huacachina.
The GEOGLYPHS, spread over 500 sq km, show over 300 geometric shapes and 70 animal and plant figures. The best way to view them is through a SCENIC FLIGHT or using a drone.
Paracas National Reserve & Ballestas Islands
About 1.5 hours from Huacachina, the Paracas National Reserve and Ballestas Islands offer a completely different landscape.
The reserve is home to red-sand beaches, and the Ballestas Islands are known as the “Poor Man’s Galápagos” due to their rich marine life.
Take a boat tour to see sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds.
Travel Safety Tips for the Huacachina Oasis
- Avoid night travel: Roads between Lima and Huacachina can be risky after dark.
- Personal belongings: Keep valuables secure, especially during sandboarding tours.
- Hydration: Always carry bottled water; the desert heat can be intense.
- Choose reputable tours: Use trusted local agencies like Travel Buddies Peru for guided tours.
Packing Checklist
As you can imagine, as a city in the desert, Huacachina is very dry and hot year-round, so it’s essential to pack for both daytime heat and cooler nights.
Below is a packing list to help you prepare for your trip.
- Light clothing: breathable shirts, shorts, and sundresses for the hot daytime temperatures.
- Warm Layers: A thick jumper or coat for chilly evenings.
- Sunscreen: SPF 30+.
- Hat and sunglasses: For added sun protection.
- Comfortable Footwear: sandals for walking around and closed shoes for sandboarding.
- Daypack: For water, snacks, and personal items during desert activities.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated in the desert heat.
- Camera and Power Bank: Capture the sand dunes and ensure devices stay charged.
- Selfie Stick: For unique photos on top of the dunes.
- Extra Shoes: An extra pair since sand can easily damage your main shoes.
See what our readers have to say: “I would have been lost without this guide. The packing list alone saved me from the chilly desert nights. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Huacachina!” Julia, Germany
Environmental Concerns in Huacachina
However, there are also some environmental concerns about Huacachina’s.
- Water Depletion: The natural water level of the lagoon has dropped due to over-extraction for agricultural purposes. To keep the oasis from drying up, water is now pumped in artificially, affecting its natural ecosystem.
- Tourism Impact: The rise in tourist numbers has put pressure on local resources. Activities like dune buggy tours contribute to sand erosion, altering the landscape’s natural water level.
These concerns show the balance between tourism growth and environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
So to answer our question from the introduction: is Huacachina just another tourist trap failing its promises?
No! Its an amazing destination that is worth visiting during a day trip or spending one night in the village. Especially the activities like dune buggy and sandboarding make the destination visit worthy!
However, this does not mean that Huacachina is not controversial. The oasis is not real, there are many, many tourists all year round, there are only basic amenities in the city…
But, lucky for you, you can enjoy day trips to the nearby Nazca Lines and Paracas National Reserve, making Huacachina an ideal base for exploring the Ica region. The oasis is a great year-round destination, but the shoulder months of September, October, April, and May provide the best temperatures for exploring.
Despite its appeal, Huacachina faces significant environmental challenges. Issues such as water depletion, tourism impact, and pollution are affecting its ecosystem. Awareness and sustainable travel practices are essential to help preserve this unique landscape.
With proper planning, you can enjoy Huacachina’s beauty while minimizing their environmental footprint. By following our packing list, safety tips, and recommended itinerary, you’ll be well-prepared to experience everything Huacachina has to offer—responsibly and comfortably.
Let us know in the comments about your experience!
FAQ
Is Huacachina Peru worth it?
Yes, Huacachina is definitely worth visiting! It’s one of only five natural desert oases in the world and offers unique experiences such as sandboarding and dune buggy rides across towering dunes reaching up to 200 meters (656 feet) high. The Oasis has also been featured in travel guides like Lonely Planet and recognized as a top destination for adventure tourism.
Is Huacachina a real oasis?
Yes, Huacachina is a real oasis located in the Ica Desert of Peru. Historically, it formed naturally around a freshwater spring. However, due to over-extraction, water levels started dropping significantly. Today, the lagoon is artificially maintained to support tourism, using water pumped in periodically to sustain its appearance (source: Lonely Planet).
Can you swim in the Huacachina oasis?
No, swimming in the Huacachina lagoon is not recommended. The water quality is poor, and algae buildup makes it unsuitable for bathing. According to local tourism boards, the lagoon is primarily kept for its scenic value rather than recreational use.
How do I get to Huacachina?
To reach Huacachina, first travel to Ica by bus from Lima, which takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic. Some reliable bus companies include Cruz del Sur and Oltursa. From Ica, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride to Huacachina. Alternatively, book a full-day tour from Lima for direct private transport.
How many days do you need in Huacachina?
You need around 1 to 2 days in Huacachina to fully experience its highlights. Spend one day exploring the oasis, trying out sandboarding, and riding a dune buggy. If you have more time, dedicate the second day to nearby attractions such as Nazca Lines or Paracas National Reserve (source: Lonely Planet).
How much should a taxi cost from Ica to Huacachina?
A taxi from Ica to Huacachina should cost around 10-15 soles ($3-$5 USD). Taxi rates can vary slightly depending on time of day and demand, but generally, the ride is short and affordable.
Can you do a day trip to Huacachina from Lima?
Yes, you can do a day trip to Huacachina from Lima. It involves a 3-5 hour drive each way. Several tour operators provide day tours that include transport, dune buggy rides, and even vineyard visits. Consider companies like Travel Buddies Peru, which offer all-inclusive packages.
How long is the bus from Lima to Huacachina?
The bus journey from Lima to Ica takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. From Ica, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride to Huacachina. Total travel time is around 5-6 hours, making it possible to reach Huacachina in half a day.
Can you fly from Lima to Huacachina?
No, there are no direct flights to Huacachina. The closest airport is in Pisco, but it only serves domestic flights and is not a practical option for reaching Huacachina. It’s best to take a bus or book a private transfer.
How far is Huacachina from Cusco by plane?
Huacachina does not have an airport, but you can fly from Cusco to Lima (a 1-hour flight) and then take a 4-5 hour bus to Ica. There are no direct flights from Cusco to Ica. The entire journey typically takes around 7-8 hours.
Why do people visit Huacachina?
People visit Huacachina for its unique landscape, which includes a desert oasis surrounded by massive sand dunes. Popular activities include sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and pisco winery tours. The oasis is one of the last remaining natural desert oases in the Americas, making it a rare and sought-after destination.
How do I get from Cusco to Huacachina?
To reach Huacachina from Cusco, fly from Cusco to Lima, then take a bus to Ica and a 10-minute taxi to Huacachina. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Cusco to Ica, but the journey takes 16–18 hours, making it less convenient.
Are there mosquitoes in Huacachina?
Yes, there are mosquitoes in Huacachina, especially around the lagoon and in the evening. Bring insect repellent to avoid bites, particularly if you’re sensitive to mosquito bites (source: Health Travel Guide).
Is Huacachina man-made?
No, Huacachina is a natural oasis that formed around a natural freshwater spring. However, due to water depletion, it’s now artificially maintained with pumped water to keep it full (source: Lonely Planet).
What is the architecture like in Huacachina?
The restaurants and hotels in Huacachina feature old Spanish colonial revival architecture, evoking a sense of the town's rich history and former elegance. This architectural style appeals to both tourists seeking adventure and those appreciating its cultural heritage.
