Things to Do in Huacachina and Where to Stay with Viajero
Published on August 24
Discover Viajero Huacachina, the best hostel in Peru’s oasis: a pool overlooking the dunes, buggy rides, sandboarding, dorms, and the best parties in the desert.
Have you ever stayed in the middle of a real oasis?
Viajero Huacachina, formerly known as Viajero Kokopelli Huacachina, is the best hostel in the oasis and the perfect base for experiencing the adventure and excitement of the Peruvian desert. Here, you’ll sleep just a few steps from some of the country’s most famous dunes and wake up ready to jump on a buggy before noon.
At our hostel, you’ll find an outdoor pool with 360° views of the dunes, as well as a restaurant and bar where the party and activities never stop. Meet travelers from all over the world while enjoying a local cocktail and watching the sunset over the sand. This post will tell you what to do in Huacachina, what our rooms are like, how we contribute to the sustainability of the oasis, and how to get here.
What to do in Huacachina
In Huacachina, exciting adventures among the dunes await, along with moments of relaxation and connection in this paradise in the middle of the desert.
Buggy Tours: Hop on a customized buggy and explore the dunes at full speed, going up and down slopes that look like they belong on another planet.
Sandboarding: Ride down the oasis’s highest dunes on a board. No previous experience is needed — just bring your sense of adventure and be ready to get covered in sand.
Sunset in the dunes: End your day with a peaceful walk around the oasis, surrounded by palm trees, and watch the sun disappear behind the dunes.
Huacachina offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation in a unique natural setting. Just minutes after racing down a dune at full speed, you can be walking barefoot along the edge of the oasis, watching the sunset.
What are the rooms like at Viajero Huacachina?
We offer private rooms for two or three guests, some with unique views of the dunes. We also have shared dorms, including female-only options. Shared rooms feature up to 12 spacious pods, each with its own light, power outlet, and curtains for added privacy.
Experience the energy of the oasis: pool, bar and parties
The outdoor pool with 360° views of the dunes is the hostel’s main meeting point during the day, while the bar and restaurant are the heart of the night. The party and activities never stop — meet travelers from all over the world while enjoying a local cocktail.
Sustainable tourism at Viajero Huacachina
Here are some of the sustainable initiatives we are working on at the hostel. Help us keep them going:
We have water refill stations.
We support local talent and products by providing spaces for local artists, tour guides, and local suppliers.
70% of our team is made up of members of the local community.
We have waste bins for proper waste disposal.
We offer vegetarian options on our menus.
We have dispensers with shower gel and offer the option to reuse your towel to help reduce water consumption.
How to get to Viajero Huacachina
If you’re traveling from Lima, you can take a bus to the city of Ica, which is approximately 4 hours away by road. Once you arrive in Ica, you can reach Huacachina within a few minutes by taxi or mototaxi — we recommend taking a taxi for greater safety. Another option is to take an intercity bus directly to Huacachina.
Experience the desert your way
Between dunes, buggies, the pool, and nights of partying, Viajero Huacachina is the perfect base for experiencing Peru’s most famous oasis without giving up relaxation or the traveler community. Come stay in the heart of the adventure.
Book your stay at Viajero Huacachina and create your own mix of adrenaline and relaxation in the desert.
Plan your time in Huacachina
A simple overnight itinerary
Arrive, leave your luggage and take time to walk around the oasis. Ask reception about the available dune tours and their departure times before organizing the rest of the day. Leave space for sunset and a relaxed evening at the hostel. The next morning, enjoy a slower start before continuing your Peru route.
What to pack for the dunes
Bring closed shoes, sun protection, water and a light layer for later in the day. Keep your phone and camera protected from sand. Follow the guide’s instructions and confirm what equipment the activity includes.
Frequently asked questions about Huacachina
How many nights should I stay?
One night can give you time for the oasis, a dune activity and sunset without rushing back to another city. Stay longer if you want pool time, more rest or a slower travel day.
Are buggy rides and sandboarding included in the room?
Do not assume they are included. Confirm the activity price, duration, equipment, operator requirements and cancellation conditions when booking. Tours depend on availability and conditions.
How do I get from Ica to Huacachina?
Arrange a local transfer from your arrival point in Ica and confirm the destination and fare before leaving. For the journey from Lima, check the bus operator’s current schedule and allow extra time for traffic and transfers.
Book your stay at Viajero Huacachina
Compare shared dorms and private rooms for your dates. Check the category details, what is included and the hostel’s activity calendar before making your reservation.
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