Huacachina
Huacachina
Huacachina is a tiny village next to a desert oasis, located west of the city of Ica in southwestern Peru. The village encompasses Huacachina Lagoon, ringed by palm trees. The main attraction of this village are the surrounding sand dunes, these huge dunes are popular for sandboarding and dunebuggies.
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Things to do in Huacachina
Top things to do in Huacachina by destinationlesstravel.com
Where to stay in Huacachina
Best hotels in Huacachina:
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Huacachina Desert House (budget hotel)
Huacachina Desert House is a cool little oasis just outside the famous sand dunes of Huacachina. It's got a laid-back vibe with a nice pool area where you can chill after a day of sandboarding or dune buggying. The rooms are clean and comfy, with some even having kitchenettes if you want to cook your own meals.
The staff are super friendly and can help set you up with tours and activities in the area. It's about a 15 minute walk or quick tuk-tuk ride to get into the main part of Huacachina with the lagoon and restaurants. I liked that it was a bit removed from the busier tourist area - made for a more relaxing stay. The pool and bar area are great spots to hang out and meet other travelers. Overall, it's a solid budget-friendly option if you're exploring this part of Peru.
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Hotel Las Dunas (luxury hotel)
Hotel Las Dunas is a fantastic spot located in Ica, Peru, offering a variety of activities and amenities. The expansive grounds include several swimming pools, including one with a fun water slide for kids. Guests can enjoy activities like archery, tennis, and horseback riding, making it an ideal spot for family fun.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring amenities like air conditioning and minibars. Many rooms also have balconies or terraces that overlook the lush gardens. The on-site restaurants serve both Peruvian and international dishes, and the breakfast buffet is a popular favorite among visitors.
One of the standout features of Las Dunas is its tranquil atmosphere, despite being close to the town. The large property includes walking paths, ornamental ponds, and even roaming peacocks, creating a peaceful environment to unwind by the pool. It's a great base for exploring nearby attractions like the Nazca Lines or Paracas National Reserve while enjoying a relaxing stay.
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Hotel Boutique La Angostura (medium range hotel)
Hotel Boutique La Angostura is a charming oasis in Ica, Peru. The property features a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The air conditioning is a welcome relief from the desert heat.
One of the best things about this hotel is the attentive staff and excellent service. They offer free room service, so you can enjoy delicious meals in the privacy of your room if you prefer. The on-site restaurant serves tasty international and Peruvian dishes. While it's located in a quiet residential area, it's still just a short drive from Ica's main attractions like the Huacachina oasis. Overall, it's a peaceful retreat that offers great value and comfort for travelers visiting this region of Peru.
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Best hostels in Huacachina:
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Desert Nights Hostel (boutique hostel)
Desert Nights Hostel in Huacachina offers a relaxed atmosphere in the middle of the oasis. Its location is ideal, just steps away from the lagoon and the sand dunes. The rooftop terrace provides stunning views across the entire oasis, making it a great spot to unwind with a pisco sour after a day of sandboarding.
The rooms are spacious and clean, with options for both dorms and private rooms. Each room features comfy beds and fans to keep you cool. The shared bathrooms are kept clean, and there's a communal kitchen for those who prefer to cook. The on-site restaurant and bar offer convenient dining and drinking options as well.
The staff are friendly and helpful, offering assistance with arranging dune buggy tours or bus tickets. The hostel has a relaxed vibe with a mix of backpackers and other travelers. It's an excellent value for its prime location in Huacachina, but keep in mind that the bar can make the atmosphere lively at night.
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Ica Wasi Hostel (hostel)
Ica Wasi Hostel is a welcoming spot conveniently located near Ica's main square and bus station, making it easy to explore the city. The rooftop terrace is a great place to relax and enjoy views of the surrounding area, adding to the hostel’s laid-back ambiance.
The rooms are basic but clean, featuring comfortable beds and well-maintained shared bathrooms. The standout feature of the hostel is its staff, who go the extra mile to ensure guests have a pleasant stay. They provide helpful recommendations for local attractions and assist with arranging tours to popular sites like the Huacachina oasis.
Though it’s not a luxury stay, Ica Wasi Hostel offers everything needed for a comfortable visit at an affordable price. The free WiFi is reliable, and the common area provides a good space to meet fellow travelers. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore Ica and its nearby attractions without breaking the bank.
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Viajero Huacachina Hostel (party hostel)
Viajero Huacachina Hostel is a great choice in the center of Huacachina, with an inviting outdoor pool that's perfect for relaxing after an adventurous day of sandboarding or dune buggying. The hostel has a lively, social atmosphere, with travelers gathering by the pool or at the bar to share stories and unwind.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, offering both dormitory and private room options. The communal spaces are well-designed, providing plenty of opportunities to relax or meet fellow travelers. The staff is friendly and always ready to help organize tours and local activities.
The location is unbeatable, just a short walk from the oasis lagoon and surrounded by vast sand dunes. Viajero Huacachina makes a perfect base for exploring this unique desert destination, offering great value and a fun, laid-back environment for backpackers and budget travelers.