From Ancient Sands to the Pacific Ocean
Experience the ultimate two-day coastal contrast. This premium shared expedition seamlessly blends the profound archaeological mysteries of the arid Peruvian desert with the vibrant, teeming life of the Pacific Ocean. Designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of southern Peru, this journey offers first-class transportation, premium overnight lodging, and perfectly orchestrated logistics.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive down the Pan-American Highway to the sun-drenched city of Ica, where you will take to the skies to witness the enigmatic Nazca Lines—colossal geoglyphs carved into the earth whose origins baffle experts to this day. After a restful night in your chosen premium hotel, the adventure shifts to the coastal reserve of Paracas. Aboard a speedboat, you will navigate the spectacular Ballestas Islands, widely known as the "Galapagos of Peru." Here, you will witness thousands of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and an astonishing array of seabirds in their natural, protected habitat before returning comfortably to Lima.
Expedition Highlights
The Nazca Lines Flight
Take to the skies in a specialized light aircraft to marvel at massive, mysterious geoglyphs including the Hummingbird, Spider, and Monkey.
The Ballestas Islands
Explore the rugged rock formations of Peru's premier marine sanctuary, observing thousands of sea lions, penguins, and possibly playful dolphins.
The Enigmatic Candelabro
View an enormous, trident-like geoglyph carved into the sloping sandy hills of the Paracas peninsula, visible only from the sea.
Premium Coastal Lodging
Relax and recharge in the warm desert climate of Ica. Choose from handpicked 3-star boutique hotels, 4-star premium lodges, or 5-star luxury resorts.
Detailed Itinerary
The Sky and The Sea
Overnight Altitude: 400 m / 1,312 ft
DAY 1: Lima to Ica & The Nazca Lines
First-Class Journey South
Your day begins at 06:00 AM with a private transfer from your Lima hotel to the bus station. You will board a highly comfortable, first-class bus alongside other travelers, enjoying the transitioning coastal landscapes as you travel down the Pan-American Highway toward the desert region of Ica.
The Panoramic Overflight
Upon arriving in Ica at approximately 12:00 PM, you will be transferred directly to the aerodrome. Aboard a light aircraft, you will embark on an exhilarating flight over the famous Nazca Lines. The pilot will perform banked turns, allowing you to clearly spot and photograph the incredible animal and geometric designs created by the ancient Nazca culture over 1,500 years ago.
Arrival at Your Hotel
After your spectacular aerial experience and a delicious traditional lunch, you will be transferred to your selected premium hotel in Ica. You will have the rest of the afternoon and evening at your absolute leisure to relax by the pool or explore the city.
Included Meals: Lunch
DAY 2: Paracas & The Ballestas Islands
Navigating the Pacific
Starting the day with breakfast at your hotel, we will transfer you to the coastal town of Paracas. At the Chaco port, you will board a modern speedboat to navigate toward the Ballestas Islands. Along the way, we will pause to view "El Candelabro," an enormous, mysterious geoglyph carved into the cliffs of the peninsula.
The Galapagos of Peru
As you approach the islands, the sound and sheer volume of wildlife is astounding. From the comfort of your boat, you will observe massive colonies of sea lions resting on the rocky outcrops, adorable Humboldt penguins waddling near the water, and skies filled with pelicans, Peruvian boobies, and Inca terns.
Return Journey to Lima
After an incredible morning exploring the marine reserve, we will take you to the Paracas bus station. You will board your first-class bus for a relaxing return journey. Upon arrival at the bus station in Lima, your private driver will be waiting to provide a seamless transfer back to your hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions & Prices
What's Included
- Private hotel pick-up and drop-off transfers in Lima.
- Round-trip first-class bus tickets (Lima - Ica/Paracas - Lima).
- 1 Night accommodation in Ica (Based on your selected 3, 4, or 5-Star category).
- Classic Nazca Lines panoramic overflight (approx. 35 mins).
- Airport Tax (TUUA) at the aerodrome.
- Shared speedboat tour of the Ballestas Islands with an expert guide.
- Meals: 1 Breakfast (Day 2) and 1 Traditional Lunch (Day 1).
- All local transfers in Ica and Paracas.
Not Included
- Dinner on Day 1 (You can dine at your hotel or explore Ica).
- Lunch on Day 2 (Prior to your return bus to Lima).
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, and pilots (optional).
Essential Recommendations
- Passport Required: For security and aviation regulations, you MUST bring your original, physical passport to board the Nazca flight.
- Motion Sickness: Both the light aircraft flight and the boat ride can cause motion sickness. Taking preventative medication 30 minutes prior to both activities is highly recommended.
- Ocean Breezes: While the desert in Ica is hot, the boat ride to the Ballestas Islands in Paracas can be quite windy and chilly. Bring a warm windbreaker for Day 2.