Huacachina
Light on the dunes
Huacachina is a tiny village built around a natural lagoon, about five kilometres from the city of Ica in southwestern Peru. Only around 100 people live here all year, but the oasis, ringed by huge golden dunes, attracts visitors from all over the world. It has even appeared on the Peruvian 50-sol banknote.
The legend of the lagoon
A local legend tells of a beautiful princess who was bathing in a pool when she saw a hunter watching her. She ran away, and the folds of her cloak, streaming behind her, became the dunes. The pool she left behind became the lagoon, and some say she still lives in it as a mermaid.
Keeping the oasis alive
In the early 2000s, new wells in the area lowered the water level of the lagoon. To save it, water has been pumped into the lake since 2015. The oasis is a reminder of how fragile water is in the desert.
Visiting tips
- Sandboarding and dune buggy rides are the most popular activities. Choose an operator with good safety equipment.
- Climb a dune before sunset for the classic view over the oasis.
- The desert is hot by day and cool at night. Bring a light jacket.
Key facts
| Location | Near Ica, Peru |
| Population | About 100 residents |
| Dunes | Very tall, roughly 100 m and more (estimates vary) |
| Famous for | Desert oasis, sandboarding |
| On a banknote | Peruvian 50-sol note |
How tall is it?
Compare the tallest dune with a famous landmark.