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2 Days / 1 Night

Coastal Wonders: Paracas, Huacachina & Nazca Lines (2 Days)

From $By Request / per Person

Overview

The Ultimate Southern Coast Expedition

Embark on a high-contrast journey through Peru’s southern coastal corridor with Apple Travel Peru. This 2-day expedition from Lima bridges the sharp contrast between the marine abundance of the Pacific Ocean and the desolate, wind-sculpted expanse of the Ica desert.

Marine Wildlife, Desert Adventure & Ancient Mysteries

From the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands to the towering golden dunes of the Huacachina Oasis and the world-famous geoglyphs of Nazca, this tour is crafted for travelers who want to experience the absolute highlights of southern Peru in a condensed, seamlessly organized timeframe. Experience the adrenaline of a 4×4 desert buggy ride, the tranquility of a palm-fringed oasis, and the wonder of an overflight above one of archaeology’s greatest unsolved puzzles.

Highlights

  • Ballestas Islands Speedboat Tour: Cruise past the mysterious “Candelabro” geoglyph etched into the coastal cliffside to reach marine sanctuaries teeming with sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and vast seabird colonies.
  • Paracas National Reserve: Explore the striking collision of golden desert cliffs and Pacific waters at Playa Roja (Red Beach) and dramatic coastal rock formations.
  • Huacachina Oasis & Sandboarding: Traverse South America’s only natural desert oasis before riding 4×4 dune buggies across massive sand dunes for a sunset sandboarding session.
  • Nazca Lines Scenic Overflight: Take to the skies for a 30 to 35-minute aerial flight over the desert floor to decipher ancient geoglyphs, including the Hummingbird, Monkey, Condor, and Astronaut.
  • Pan-American Highway Scenic Drive: Journey along one of the world’s iconic coastal highways, cutting through fertile river valleys, desert plains, and ocean cliffs.

Is This Tour For You?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time outside of Lima without adding high-altitude physical strain. It requires minimal walking, making it suitable for families, couples, solo travelers, and photography enthusiasts. If you are drawn to cinematic landscapes, marine wildlife, and ancient mysteries, this coastal circuit is your ideal fit.

About this activity

TYPE SERVICE

Small Group or Private

ACTIVITIES

Adventure

GROUP SIZE

Maximum 8 participants (Guaranteed small group experience)

ACCOMMODATION

3-Star Desert Hotel in Huacachina or Ica (1 Night)

DIFFICULTY

Easy

DURATION

2 Days / 1 Night

Coastal Wonders: Paracas, Huacachina & Nazca Lines (2 Days)

From $By Request / per person
  • GROUP SIZE: Maximum 8 participants (Guaranteed small group experience)
  • DIFFICULTY: Easy
  • DURATION: 2 Days / 1 Night
Book Now Enquire Now

Tour Itinerary

Itinerary

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Lima – Paracas Marine Sanctuary – Huacachina Oasis & Sunset Dunes

  • Primary Destinations & Elevation: Lima (Sea Level) to Paracas (Sea Level) & Huacachina Oasis (400 m / 1,312 ft)

Early Departure & Coastal Drive

Your guide and driver pick you up directly from your hotel in Miraflores, San Isidro, or Barranco between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. Travel south along the Pan-American Highway as dawn breaks over the Pacific coast.

Ballestas Islands Speedboat Excursion

Arrive at the El Chaco pier in Paracas and board a modern, speed-motorboat equipped with life jackets. En route to the islands, pause in Paracas Bay to observe the Candelabro, a 150-meter-tall prehistoric geoglyph carved into the sand face. Continue to the Ballestas Islands to view wild sea lion colonies, endangered Humboldt penguins, boobies, and pelicans occupying the rock arches.

Paracas National Reserve Circuit

Return to mainland Paracas for a ground tour through the Paracas National Reserve. Visit key viewpoints including the Cathedral rock formation lookout and Playa Roja (Red Beach), famous for its reddish volcanic sand and deep blue ocean contrast.

Huacachina Oasis, Dune Buggy & Sandboarding

Drive 1.5 hours inland to Huacachina, a natural lagoon surrounded by palm trees and high sand dunes. After time for lunch overlooking the oasis, board a specialized 4×4 dune buggy with an experienced desert driver. Navigate the massive rolling dunes of the Ica desert, stop at designated peaks for sandboarding, and watch the sunset over the desert horizon.

  • Meals Included: None (Independent dining; your guide will recommend top coastal seafood spots in Paracas and Huacachina)
  • Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Huacachina or Ica (e.g., Hotel Curasi, Hotel Carola Lodge, or similar)

Day 2: Huacachina – The Enigmatic Nazca Lines Flight – Return to Lima

  • Primary Destinations & Elevation: Huacachina (400 m / 1,312 ft) to Nazca (520 m / 1,706 ft) to Lima (Sea Level)

Journey to the Nazca Valley

Following breakfast at your hotel, depart early southward through the desert plains of the Nazca region (approx. 2.5 hours). Upon arrival in Nazca, head directly to the Maria Reiche Aerodrome for flight check-in and security protocol.

Nazca Lines Overflight (30–35 Minutes)

Board a licensed Cessna aircraft operated by experienced pilots. Each seat has a dedicated window for optimal viewing and photography. As you soar over the Pampa de Nazca, your pilot maneuvers the aircraft on both sides so all passengers can spot the giant geoglyphs etched into the ground by the ancient Nazca culture (200 BCE – 600 CE). Look out for figures including the Hummingbird, Monkey, Spider, Condor, Tree, and the mysterious “Astronaut.”

Return Drive to Lima

After landing, receive your official Nazca Flight Certificate. Pause for lunch in Nazca or Ica before beginning the journey back to Lima along the Pan-American Highway. Arrive back at your Lima hotel in the mid-to-late evening (around 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM depending on traffic).

  • Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel
  • Accommodation: None (Returns to your designated Lima hotel or airport transfer on request)

What Is Included

  • For the Sun: High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and a wide-brimmed hat. The desert sun is exceptionally strong.
  • For the Flight: If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking medication before the Nazca flight, as the plane makes sharp turns to show the figures.
  • Clothing: Light layers for the day and a windbreaker or hoodie for the evening/early morning boat rides.
  • Essentials: Your original passport (required for the Nazca flight check-in).

What Is Not Included

  • Nazca Local Taxes & Fees: Airport Tax (TUUA) + Tourist Ticket (~S/ 77.00 / $20 USD total, paid directly in cash at Nazca Aerodrome).
  • Meals & Beverages: Lunch and dinners (allows complete freedom to select your preferred dining spots).
  • Travel Insurance: Personal medical and trip cancellation insurance.
  • Driver & Guide Gratuities: Discretionary tipping for tour staff.

Why Choose Apple Travel Peru?

Apple Travel Peru is a 100% Cusqueñian, family-owned tour operator based directly in Cusco. Operating without corporate middlemen or third-party brokers, we deliver authentic, high-quality mountain and cultural journeys while directly supporting local Andean communities.

  • Ultra-Small Group Guarantee (Max 8): We cap our trekking groups at just 8 participants. This ensures safety on the trail, personal attention from your guide, and a smaller environmental footprint.
  • Licensed Trekking & History Guides: Our guides are certified local professionals fluent in English, holding university degrees in Tourism and History, with specialized wilderness first-responder training.
  • Ethical Staff Treatment: We treat our guides, drivers, and field staff like family, paying fair living wages immediately following every trek.
  • Official Permits Included: We manage all official government permits for the Inca Trail network and Machu Picchu citadel directly from our Cusco head office.

Pricing & Options

Service FormatGroup DynamicsPrice per PersonBest For
Small Group TourGuaranteed Max 8 TravelersBy RequestSolo travelers, couples, and budget-conscious adventurers seeking structure and small-group comfort.
Private ExpeditionExclusive to your partyBy RequestFamilies, private groups, and photographers wanting custom pacing, flexible departure times, and direct personalized service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year for this coastal tour?

You can travel to Peru’s southern coast year-round. The coastal desert features sunny, dry weather most of the year. The warmest months run from December through March (Peruvian summer). June through September brings cooler coastal morning mist to Paracas, while Huacachina and Nazca stay warm and bright.

How does Apple Travel Peru handle group size on this tour?

We cap our group departures at a maximum of 12 passengers. This approach ensures fast check-ins at boat docks and airfields, personalized attention from your guide, and ample room inside our tourist vans.

What local taxes must I pay on-site for the Nazca flight?

Peruvian aviation and municipal regulations require you to pay two local fees directly at the Maria Reiche Aerodrome in Nazca before boarding: the Airport Tax (TUUA) of S/ 30.00 and the Nazca Tourist Ticket of S/ 47.00 (Total ~S/ 77.00 Soles / approximately $20 USD per person). You must pay these fees in cash (Soles preferred).

Is motion sickness common on the Nazca flight and Ballestas boat ride?

The Nazca flight involves 30–35 minutes in a light aircraft banking left and right so passengers on both sides can view the figures clearly. If you are prone to motion sickness, we strongly recommend taking non-drowsy motion sickness medication (such as Dramamine) 30 to 45 minutes before both the boat tour and the flight.

Are meals included in this package?

Your package includes breakfast on Day 2 at your hotel. We exclude lunch and dinner to give you complete dining flexibility. Your guide will take you to trusted, high-quality restaurants in Paracas (fresh seafood and ceviche), Huacachina (oasis views), and Nazca.

Where can I store my heavy luggage during the trip?

You are welcome to bring your luggage with you. It stays securely inside our private vehicle or in the hotel trunk during day activities. Alternatively, if you are returning to the same hotel in Lima, most hotels offer complimentary luggage storage.

What is the cancellation policy?

You must submit cancellation requests in writing. We retain initial deposits as non-refundable payments to cover pre-committed hotel, flight, and entrance reservations. If you cancel 7 to 15 days before departure, you will receive a 50% refund of the remaining balance. Cancellations made within 48 hours of departure receive no refund. If Apple Travel Peru cancels an outing due to safety or force majeure, we will issue a full refund or reschedule your trip free of charge.

What are the passenger weight limits and passport requirements for the Nazca flight?

You must present your original physical passport at airfield check-in. To ensure proper aircraft balance, light passenger planes enforce a standard weight limit of 95 kg (210 lbs) per person. Airlines require passengers who exceed this limit to purchase an extra seat per safety regulations.

Can Apple Travel Peru drop me off directly at the Lima Airport (LIM) on Day 2?

Yes. Our standard drop-off service covers hotels in Miraflores, San Isidro, or Barranco. However, we can arrange direct transfers to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) for Day 2 evening departures, making this 2-day circuit an ideal final excursion before you fly home.

Is this tour suitable for young children and seniors?

Yes. This circuit involves zero high-altitude trekking and requires minimal physical exertion. The Ballestas boat tour provides adult and child life jackets, and our drivers can tailor the Huacachina dune buggy ride into a gentle scenic drive without high-speed sandboarding.

2 Days / 1 Night Days

$ By Request USD per person Book Now
Traveler feedback

Read Our Reviews

Excellent 5.0 16 traveler reviews Write a review
A

Aracely c

January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru

TA

The best agency

It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.

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D

Davide

October 21, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru

TA

Incredible service and experience in Inca trail

Incredible service and experience in Inca Trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch. Thanks Ivanoe, my guide.

Read more
S

Smileybpk

October 19, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru

TA

2 day trek to Machu Picchu was so amazing

The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable.

Read more
E

Edward A

October 11, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru

TA

The best trip on Cusco

It was a great experience with all the team Apple Travel. I enjoyed my whole trip. Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation in Cusco.

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A

Anna R

Mar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru

TA

Fantastic 4 Day Salkantay Trek

A very organized Salkantay experience with caring guides, strong support at altitude, and memorable food after long hiking days.

Read more
G

Georgia Hayes

Mar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru

TA

Great experience with Sam Travel Peru

The guide and chef made the trek feel safe, enjoyable, and personal, even when altitude made the journey challenging.

Read more
D

Danielle Nikka T

Mar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru

TA

2 day Inca Trail with Sam Travel

A difficult hike became possible thanks to a patient guide who encouraged the group and helped through the hardest sections.

Read more
D

dave d

Mar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru

TA

Two day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour

The guide adapted the pace and itinerary well, combining knowledge, courtesy, and flexibility throughout the tour.

Read more
M

Matt Ward

Jan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru

Wonderful Cusco and Sacred Valley days

A smooth multi-day trip with patient guiding, careful logistics, clean transport, and thoughtful help at every site.

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T

Tess Edwards

Jan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru

Outstanding 3-day Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour

The experience exceeded expectations with a local guide whose knowledge and enthusiasm made the journey feel meaningful.

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N

Nina Shen

Oct 29, 2025 · SAM Travel Peru

Amazing Machu Picchu experience

The guide brought history and culture to life while keeping the group comfortable and helping capture great memories.

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M

Marcelle James

Feb 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru

Excellent Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu guide

The team handled planning easily and adjusted the route around weather and walking ability without losing key highlights.

Read more

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