Whenever anyone mentions travel to Peru the first thing that comes to mind is Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. These wonders of the ancient world are truly magnificent. But what about Sand Dunes? Nobody really thinks of Sand Dunes in Peru. But that’s one of the delightful things about travel – it’s full of surprises. Yes, indeed, there are sand dunes in Peru – some really, really big sand dunes!
I have to admit, when I visited Peru I was a bit puzzled when someone suggested I go on a Dune Buggy ride in the Peruvian Sand Dunes. After all, I had gone to Peru to visit and photograph Machu Picchu. And, being a bit of a UFO type – I also wanted to view the Nazca Lines (click HERE for related article). But dune buggy riding? That really had not been anywhere on my agenda.
Fortunately, when traveling I try to adopt a “might as well try it” approach to experiences. After all, who knows when I might be back this way again. So I signed on for the Peruvian Dune Buggy Adventure – and what an adventure it turned out to be.
Southern Peru is home to some of the largest and tallest sand dunes in the world (who knew?). We started our dune buggy adventure in Huacachina, a small oasis village on the outskirts of Ica, Peru – just slightly east of the Pan American Highway.
We climbed aboard our “buggy”, and with a terribly loud roar we were off and into the sand before I even had a chance to buckle the seat belt! I’ve got to say – this was the wildest ride I’ve ever been on. It’s a roller coaster on sand.
Blasting up the side of one dune and barreling down the other – the wind in your face and the roar of the engines – quite exhilarating to say the least. We made several stops to catch our breath and enjoy the views. Some tried sandboarding down the dunes. I declined that invitation. The idea of falling (which I would obviously do) and ending up with a face full of sand just somehow didn’t seem like a great idea.
After several more wild dashes up and down the dunes we settled in at a peak to watch the magnificent sunset .The Peru Sand Dunes were truly magnificent in the evening light. All in all, a real highlight of my Peruvian Adventures – and totally unexpected. A real surprise in Peru.
In Peru, Do The Dunes! ……Enjoy The Adventure!
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