Peru
Desert dunes, wild islands, and coastal Peruvian flavors
Highlights
Glide past sea lion colonies and seabird cliffs on a scenic boat ride from Paracas.
Photograph the mysterious coastal geoglyph carved into a desert hillside above the bay.
Ride a dune buggy and sandboard towering golden dunes surrounding a natural oasis lagoon.
Capture glowing desert light and palm-fringed reflections as the sun sets over Huacachina.
Savor fresh ceviche and grilled fish in relaxed beach-town restaurants.
Good to Know
2 picks
Simple Packing for a Coast-and-Desert Day
For a Paracas and Huacachina combo, wear comfortable quick-dry clothes, closed-toe shoes or secure sandals (for the dunes), and bring a light windbreaker for the boat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and a small daypack with water and a buff or scarf to cover your face if the dunes get dusty.
Booking and Safety for Tours
For stress-free logistics, consider booking a combined Lima–Paracas–Huacachina day trip with a reputable operator (like those found on GetYourGuide or Viator) that includes transport, guides, and tickets; if arranging locally, verify life jackets on the boat, choose dune buggy operators with visible safety briefings and seat belts, and avoid heavy drinking before high-speed desert rides.
Best For
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