Sandboard Down Desert Dunes in Huacachina

For travelers visiting Lima, the desert oasis of Huacachina is a must-visit location. While this quaint locale of southwestern Peru is almost a five-hour drive from the capital city, it is well worth the travel.

© Nicolas De Corte | Dreamstime

Here, travelers will find an enormous lagoon among a sea of endless desert. According to legend, the lagoon is home to a beautiful mermaid. While commercial groups have, to the displeasure of many locals, invaded the area, preservationist foundations made efforts to keep the habitat intact and pump water back into the lagoon.

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Perhaps the most sought-after experience of Huacachina is surfing down the nearby monstrous desert dunes. For around $40, travelers can take guided dune buggies out into the waves of white sand. Once atop one of the dunes, travelers can take sunset photos and often listen to the echoing dance music of others in the area — including the Peruvian elite as well as backpackers from all over the world. Those brave enough then ride sand boards — similar to snowboards — down the mountain, either by standing or by lying down on the board.

Huacachina, Peru © Chrishowey | Dreamstime

Other notable attractions in the area include winery tours and trips to the nearby Ballestas Islands where creatures like sea lions, seals and Humbolt penguins can be spotted. Additionally, visitors can take a flight in a small plane and behold the more than 70 mysterious ancient desert formations known as the Nazca lines.