The Great Southern Expedition

The Ultimate Coastal & Desert Discovery

Immerse yourself in the most comprehensive and thrilling journey through southern Peru. Over the course of three perfectly curated days, this expedition transitions effortlessly from the vibrant cityscape of Lima to the towering golden dunes of the Ica desert, culminating on the wildlife-rich shores of the Pacific Ocean. By combining seamless private transfers with select premium shared activities, this tour offers an optimal balance of exclusive comfort and exhilarating adventure.

Your journey begins with an adrenaline-fueled afternoon riding powerful V8 sand buggies and sandboarding across the spectacular Huacachina Oasis. On the second day, you will take to the skies for an unforgettable panoramic flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, followed by a scenic drive to the tranquil coastal town of Paracas. The expedition reaches its grand finale on the water, navigating the Ballestas Islands—a protected marine sanctuary teeming with Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and spectacular birdlife. Rest each evening in handpicked premium accommodations, ensuring you are fully recharged for each day's discoveries.

Expedition Highlights

Detailed Itinerary

From the Dunes to the Ocean

Overnight Altitudes: Ica (400 m) & Paracas (Sea Level)

DAY 1: Lima to Ica & Sand Buggies

Journey to the Desert

Your adventure begins early in the morning as we depart from the vibrant city of Lima. This comfortable, scenic journey south along the Pacific coastline will take approximately four hours before transitioning into the arid beauty of the Ica desert. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel to settle in.

The Huacachina Oasis & Buggies

In the afternoon, you will visit the stunning Huacachina Oasis, a beautiful emerald lagoon surrounded by towering dunes. Here, you will experience an adrenaline-pumping, unforgettably wild ride in a sand buggy. You will also have the opportunity to safely try sandboarding down the slopes. (Optional: If you prefer history over adrenaline, you may opt to visit the renowned Museo Regional de Ica instead).

DAY 2: Nazca Flight & Arrival in Paracas

The Enigmatic Overflight

In the morning, we will take you to the Ica Airport where you will board a light aircraft for a flight over the incredible Nazca Lines. During the flight, you will marvel at fascinating, massive figures such as the monkey, hummingbird, parrot, and astronaut—geoglyphs created between 400 and 650 AD whose true purpose remains a captivating mystery.

Coastal Transfer to Paracas

After viewing the spectacular lines from the sky, a private van will take you on a scenic drive to the coastal town of Paracas. We will drop you off at your premium hotel, leaving you with a free evening to relax by the ocean and enjoy delicious, freshly caught seafood at a seaside restaurant.

DAY 3: Ballestas Islands & Return to Lima

The Chaco Harbor & El Candelabro

In the morning, we will take you to the Chaco Harbor for a remarkable boat ride. As we navigate the waters of the Pacific, your first major sight will be 'El Candelabro,' a giant, mysterious geoglyph in the shape of a trident or candleholder etched directly into the coastal hills.

Marine Wildlife Observation

Upon arriving at the Ballestas Islands, you will observe a chaotic, beautiful flurry of marine life. From the comfort of the boat, you will see noisy but playful sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a massive number of seabirds including pelicans, Inca terns, and Peruvian boobies. We will travel closely around the rock formations for a spectacular view.

Return Journey to Lima

After thoroughly touring the islands and taking incredible photographs, we will begin our comfortable return journey up the Pan-American Highway, dropping you safely back at your hotel in Lima to conclude this epic three-day expedition.

Inclusions & Prices