Experiencing the Unique Beauty of Huacachina, Peru:
Have you ever witnessed the raw beauty of a desert oasis? The idea of such an ecosystem typically conjures images of Northern Africa or the Middle East. However, we were pleasantly surprised when a fellow traveler recommended visiting the giant sand dunes of Huacachina, located south of Lima on the Pacific coast of Peru. Sandboarding in Peru? It sounded intriguing, and we were eager to explore this hidden gem.
Discovering Huacachina’s Unique Dunes:
The Huacachina sand dunes stand out as the highest in South America, reaching towering heights of up to 500 meters. These dunes offer a fantastic opportunity for sandboarding, making it a thrilling way to experience this unique landscape. If you’ve never tried sandboarding and are considering giving it a shot, read on to learn about our adventure and how you can embark on this exhilarating activity in Peru.
Where Can You Go Sandboarding in Peru?
When thinking of Peru, iconic images like Machu Picchu and the Amazon Rainforest usually come to mind, not vast sand dunes and arid deserts. However, Huacachina is not only the best place for sandboarding but the only place for it. This desert oasis, located just a 4.5-hour bus ride from Lima, is a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers. Our skepticism about the sandboarding experience quickly dissipated when our newfound friend shared jaw-dropping photos of himself against the backdrop of the massive sand dunes.
Getting to Huacachina:
To reach Huacachina, your first stop is the nearby city of Ica, just a short 10-minute taxi ride from the oasis. Most travelers opt for the 4.5-hour bus journey from Lima, but you can also take an overnight bus from Arequipa. Additionally, if you’re coming from Cusco, you can take a 20-hour bus ride to Huacachina. While we chose a first-class bus with Oltursa, you can opt for a public bus for a more budget-friendly option. Upon arrival in Ica, you’ll be in the hub for reaching Huacachina, your final destination.
Our Sandboarding Experience in Huacachina:
The charming village of Huacachina is nestled around a small natural lake in the Peruvian desert. It has become a popular spot for adventure seekers interested in sandboarding and high-speed dune buggy rides. Though we love lazy poolside afternoons, our primary goal in Huacachina was to play in the sand.
Several tour operators in the village offer trips into the dunes during both morning and evening when the sand is cooler. We chose a tour that included both sandboarding and a dune buggy ride, as this allowed us to explore multiple dunes and find the best spots for sandboarding.
The dune buggy ride was an exhilarating experience, providing an adrenaline rush like no other. The thrill of speeding toward the edge of a sand cliff is akin to that roller coaster moment just before the plunge. However, in the desert, it’s not a simulation; it’s real. Our driver, with a devilish yet gentle grin, reveled in scaring the wits out of his passengers.
We zipped across the dunes, occasionally stopping to test our sandboards. While sandboarding doesn’t match the speed of traditional snowboarding, it’s a fantastic way to spend an evening. The only downside was the trek back up the sandy slopes. For those finding it challenging to stay upright on the board, there’s the option to lie on your stomach and go sand sledding or even try sand skiing if you prefer not to have your feet strapped together.
The Ideal Time for Sandboarding in Huacachina:
Sandboarding tours operate year-round, but the best time to visit is from May through November, which coincides with Peru’s winter months. During this period, you can enjoy cooler temperatures and less rainfall. Sunset is the most popular time for sandboarding, thanks to the milder sun.
What to Bring for Sandboarding in Huacachina:
If you’re wondering what to pack or wear for sandboarding, consider the following:
Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the dazzling sun and sand.
A GoPro or adventure sport camera to capture the excitement without blurry photos.
Sunscreen to shield yourself from the strong daytime sun.
Loose-fitting clothes for maneuverability on the board.
Sturdy shoes for sandboarding; make sure they can be strapped onto the board.
Long socks to protect your ankles when renting sandboarding shoes.
FAQs About Sandboarding in Huacachina:
Visitors often have questions about sandboarding in Huacachina. Here are some common queries:
How long do I need in Huacachina?
You can experience all that Huacachina has to offer in a single day.
Can you swim in the Huacachina lagoon?
Yes, you can swim in the lake or take a leisurely boat cruise.
Is Huacachina worth visiting?
Absolutely. Huacachina Oasis, as the only desert oasis in South America, is a unique and beautiful destination, offering a thrilling sandboarding experience. It’s a must-visit place.
How much does sandboarding cost in Huacachina?
Sandboarding typically costs around 100 Peruvian Soles ($25 USD) for a two-hour session, which includes a guide/instructor and equipment. You can also find guided tours from Ica that combine sandboarding with dune buggy rides, costing around $25 USD, in addition to a $3.7 Soles entrance fee.
Final Thoughts on Sandboarding in Huacachina:
Huacachina Oasis is a stunning destination that combines relaxation by a freshwater pool with the excitement of sandboarding. It offers a truly unique experience, and it’s clear that Peru has much more to offer beyond the famous Machu Picchu. Huacachina’s breathtaking landscapes and sandboarding adventures make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exhilaration in a distinctive setting.
