SANDBOARDING IN HUACACHINA: PERU
There's a point on your travels where your bucket list goes out the window and you start partaking in random activities purely because they're there. Arriving at my hostel after a pretty long overnight bus and an amazing few days in Arequipa, I quickly found out that Huacachina is the kind of place where you can explore the whole town in 20 minutes.
Thankfully my hostel offered a free activity. One of them being sand boarding down the sand dunes. I signed up and before I knew it what I thought would be sliding down a hill on my bum became full-on whizzing down giant dunes flat on my belly.
Sandboarding in Huacachina
It's a strange feeling, to be whizzing down a sand dune. Letting go and losing control, the speed really gets you.
The tour lasts around an hour during which you'll have the chance to slide down 3-4 dunes, each one increasing in size. The last dune is absolutely insane!!
At first it's pretty nerve-racking and that get's worse! I almost chickened out, but so glad I gave it a go!
Sandboarding in Huacachina
Sunrise over Huacachina
If you're up for waking up early, the sunrise over the little desert oasis is beautiful! Unfortunately it was cloudy when I did it but still worth it.
You'll have to climb the massive mountain of sand behind the city. There is a vague path to get up there. It's a good work out for your calfs and worth it when you get to the top!
Where to eat
If you're looking for a place to eat that's got great food, there's an Argentinian pizza place that often has special offers, including buy one get one free on certain pizzas. It goes by the name La Rotiseria. You'll spot it easily from the large Argentinian flag hanging outside.
Sand dunes!
Where to stay
There are a number of hostels in the area. I'd personally recommend one with a pool with you're looking to chill out for a couple of days. Banana's Adventure Hostel has an activity included with every night you stay, including a mouthwatering barbeque.
The Wild Olive Guest House also comes highly recommended. You can also organise your tours and activities at the hostel.
How to get to Huacachina
If you're coming in on Peru Hop, then you'll be dropped off directly at your hostel. If you're using a local bus service such as Cruz del Sur, you'll arrive in Ica. A taxi from Ica to Huacachina should cost around 6-8 PEN.
Planning a trip or fancy a freebie? These are some websites and services I love:
Booking.com: For the best hotel deals! 🏝
World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎
Airbnb: For the best apartment deals!🏡
Affiliate links above!
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