Ica and Huacachina

Lima’s modernity makes one crave a getaway to Peru’s hinterland. Ica and Huacachina is a four-hour bus or car ride away. As soon as you leave Lima, you will start seeing vast stretches of desert with Incan temples punctuating barren lands. Once you are in Huacachina, it’s time for the fun to begin. The little dessert oasis offers tons of activities that will make your weekend getaway fun. Begin your weekend by going for a walk in the sand dunes—stick around for sunset because the vision of the sun setting over these surreal Peruvian sand dunes is really special. Start the next day with a wine tasting session at one of Ica’s vineyards. We love Vinas Queirolo for a spot of wine tasting and an introduction to Peruvian wine. Continue your day with fun adventure sports. Huacachina is famous for sand boarding—get yourself a board and slide down sand dunes while you scream your lungs out. If you don’t want to get covered in desert sand from top to toe, then opt for a buggy ride on the dunes. It will give you an adrenalin rush without dirtying your clothes and shoes. Wrap up your weekend getaway with a meal and a few drinks at one of the many restaurants around the oasis in Huacachina.