3 Days in Huacachina and Ica

A dessert oasis and the wine city of Peru are located only a short drive from one another. Huacachina is a tiny pool of water surrounded by monumentous dunes with a thriving tourist scene. With several hostels holding a party every night to a sunrise hike up the dunes this little area attracts all types of backpackers. Ica, the wine city, offers endless wine tastings and a possible jumping off point to the Nazca Lines. In this post find information on how to spend 3 days in a desert oasis.

Sunrise or sunset hike up the dunes

Along the sides of Huacachina are two large sand dunes perfect for a sunrise or sunset view. Both dunes offer a great view of either the desert or Ica, and overlook the tiny oasis. Plan ahead to rent a board and sand board down the giant dunes, or run down the soft hill.

Sand boarding and dune bashing

Wait for an evening buggy tour to watch the sun set off in the middle of the desert. During a dune buggy tour, there are options to go sand boarding, take pictures with the buggies and bash through dunes. To go sand boarding with a more professional style board, a tour may cost more and require more research, but most tours include sand boarding or sledding. Don't be afraid to barter on tour prices with some companies or search around for competitive prices.

Pisco tasting in Ica

Ica is home of sweet wines, unique liquors and obviously pisco. There seems to be an endless opportunity to sample from different wineries and distilleries. Take a tour to learn about the distilling process and the history of pisco. Be sure the tour includes a place to eat because it is not uncommmon to end up a little tipsy. See the Favorite Drinks of Peru post for more beverage information.

Canon de los Perdidos

Take a walk through the middle of a desert to see bones of an ancient dolphin. This place truly feels off the beaten path and a miracle people know how to navigate this desert to get to the canyon. A tour guide is the only way to get to the canyon and offers great knowledge about the history of this area. Unfortunately, some bones were carved out of the rock and stolen by thieves. A friendly reminder to not be an ass to ancient remains.