Sandboarding in Ica

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You've most definitely heard of surfing and skiing, and probably snowboarding, but sandboarding? Believe it or not one of the most popular activities in the desserts stretching across southern Peru is surfing the sands. At nearly 2,000 meters (6,560 feet), the sand dunes located just 8 kilometers from Nazca are the largest in South America, and have become popular destinations for adventure-seekers keen to try their luck tearing it up on a sand board. Other knarly dunes can be found around Huacachina Oasis near Ica.

A wild morph between skiing and snowboarding, sandboarding is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to enjoy the deserts unfolding around the Nazca region. Unlike its icier cousin, this sport involves hot desert sun and frequent sand spills, so it pays to bring plenty of sunscreen and get some instruction before you give it a go. A number of agencies and hotels around Ica rent boards.

The best time to go is early morning or late afternoon before heat and desert winds make for a sandy, scorching adventure. If sandboarding doesn’t sound like your style, you can also enjoy the dune-covered landscapes of southern Peru from the seat of a dune buggy. Another popular desert pastime, dune buggy riding is a great way to see the sand if you're not inclined to surf it. Local agencies offer a number of dune buggy trips around Huacachina Oasis, which are sure to get the adrenaline pumping.