Journey four hours south of Lima into a landscape of flamingo-fringed bays, prehistoric Nazca-era history and a turquoise desert oasis ringed by towering sand dunes. One of Peru's most visually astonishing day trips, bookable from the port.
What to expect
Depart Callao early and drive south through Peru's coastal desert to Paracas, where wind-sculpted red cliffs plunge into an azure bay thick with flamingos and pelicans. Board a speedboat to the Ballestas Islands ('the poor man's Galápagos') to witness sea lions, Peruvian boobies and penguins on volcanic arches. After lunch in Paracas, continue inland to Huacachina — a true desert oasis — where you board a dune buggy for the breathtaking ride up towering dunes before sandboarding back down at sunset.
Good to know
This is a 17–18 hour excursion; confirm your ship's all-aboard time carefully — best suited to ships with a late-night or overnight Callao call. Departs 06:00–07:00 from the port. Bring sunscreen, a windbreaker and sea-sickness tablets for the Ballestas boat. Pre-booking essential; spaces extremely limited on private departures.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Callao (Lima) — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.