Huacachina Oasis
A palm-fringed lagoon in the middle of the desert, circled by some of the tallest sand dunes in Peru.
- Address: Huacachina, Ica
- District: Huacachina, Ica
- Category: oasis
Huacachina is a small natural oasis on the edge of the city of Ica, a green lagoon framed by palm trees and a handful of hotels, restaurants and houses, and surrounded on every side by enormous sand dunes. It sits only a few minutes from Ica, which makes it an easy stop between Paracas and Nazca. Local legend tells of a young woman who fled a hunter, and whose reflection or tears became the lagoon, and the pool has been a retreat for travelers for generations. A promenade runs along the water, with cafes and restaurants, and from the top of the dunes the whole oasis opens beneath you, especially at sunset, when the light turns the sand gold. The dunes are the main attraction. Open-sided dune buggies take visitors for a roller-coaster-style ride across the dune field, with stops to sandboard down the slopes, and the late afternoon departures end with sunset over the desert. If you prefer something calmer, you can walk the promenade, take a lagoon-side lunch or simply climb a dune on foot (the sand is soft, so allow time and carry water).
Highlights
- A lagoon oasis ringed by palm trees and giant dunes
- A lakeside promenade with cafes and restaurants
- Dune buggy rides and sandboarding across the dune field
- Sunset over the dunes, with the whole oasis spread out below
- An easy stop between Paracas and Nazca
Ideal for
- travelers on the Paracas-Ica-Nazca route
- families and groups looking for an adventure afternoon
- photographers, especially at sunset
Practical information
- Hours
- The oasis and promenade are open at all times; most buggy tours run in the late afternoon, to catch the sunset -- confirm times with the operator
- Price
- Free to walk around; buggy and sandboarding experiences are priced separately -- see the tour
- Good to know
- Bring sunglasses, a hat and water, and a scarf for the wind. Wear clothing you do not mind getting sandy. The dune ride is bumpy and fast, so tell the driver if you prefer a gentler pace, and take care with children and anyone with back problems. Huacachina is quietest in the morning and busiest at sunset.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Huacachina from Ica?
It is on the edge of the city, only a few minutes by car from central Ica.
Is the lagoon swimmable?
The lagoon is mainly for walking beside and photographing. Most visitors come for the dunes, buggy rides and sandboarding.
What is the best time to go?
Late afternoon, for the buggy ride and the sunset over the dunes. Mornings are quieter and cooler.
What should I bring?
Sun protection, water, sunglasses and clothes you do not mind getting sandy.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes for most families, though the buggy ride is bumpy and fast. Tell the driver if you prefer a gentler pace.
Can I combine it with other places?
Yes, it fits naturally between Paracas and Nazca, and the Paracas, Ica & Huacachina day trip includes it.