Peru & Costa Rica Highlights: Lima & San Jose

Enjoy your breakfast and get ready for an exciting full-day adventure from Lima. Explore the Ballestas Islands in Paracas, spot sea lions and birds, then head to the desert oasis of Huacachina for dune buggy rides and sandboarding.

The “Escape From Lima: Full‑Day Paracas, Ica & Huacachina” tour is a highly recommended 18‑hour adventure that takes you out of the city to explore some of Peru’s most scenic desert and coastal landscapes in a single day. Starting early from Lima, you travel by comfortable air‑conditioned coach to Paracas for a guided boat tour around the Ballestas Islands, where you can see sea lions, birds, and sometimes penguins in their natural habitat, then continue to the desert town of Huacachina, an oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. Here you’ll have free time to wander and can enjoy an optional dune buggy ride and sandboarding over the dramatic hills at sunset, with bilingual guides, transport, and some activities included to make for a fun, full‑day experience out of Lima.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then set out for a fascinating Lima City Walking Tour, exploring the historic center, colonial architecture, and iconic sites like Plaza Mayor and the San Francisco Monastery with an expert guide.

The Lima City Walking Tour is a popular half‑day experience that takes you through the heart of Lima’s historic center with a knowledgeable guide, offering fascinating insights into the city’s rich past and vibrant culture. During the walk you’ll see iconic sites like Plaza San Martín, Plaza Mayor and the Presidential Palace, visit the eerie catacombs of the San Francisco Monastery, and admire colonial architecture while learning about Lima’s history and heritage, with entrance fees and expert commentary included for a smooth, informative exploration of the city.

Take a full day to relax and enjoy Lima at your own pace. You can explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco, stroll along the scenic coastline, or visit local markets and artisanal shops. This is the perfect opportunity to savor Peruvian cuisine at cafés and restaurants, enjoy the beach, or simply unwind at your hotel, recharging for the upcoming adventures in your journey.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to San José, Costa Rica, marking the next chapter of your adventure.

After breakfast, head out for a full-day excursion to Tortuga Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches and enjoy swimming or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Immerse yourself in the island’s serene tropical beauty for a perfect day of sun and adventure.

Your tour begins on Highway 27, the main route connecting San José to the Pacific coast in Puntarenas. Upon arrival, board a boat to explore a stunning archipelago of islands, home to seabirds, white sandy beaches, and rich Central Pacific flora and fauna. Tortuga Island, located 12 nautical miles from Puntarenas, spans nearly 300 acres of palm-fringed beaches and emerald waters. Maintained as a protected forest, it has proudly received the Ecological Blue Flag for over five years, recognizing its pristine, pollution-free waters.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour to Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica’s most famous volcano. Explore the charming towns of Sarchi and La Fortuna, and unwind with a relaxing soak in the region’s natural hot springs.

Experience the natural wonder of Arenal Volcano on this full-day tour from San José. Begin your journey with a stop in Sarchi, renowned as “The Cradle of Costa Rican Crafts,” where you can admire the town’s famous handmade souvenirs. Continue through lush plantations to La Fortuna for a delicious lunch and, weather permitting, spectacular views of the volcano. Afterward, relax at the Baldi Hot Springs, where warm volcanic waters flowing through exotic gardens help rejuvenate the body and mind. Conclude the day with a satisfying dinner before returning to downtown San José.

After breakfast, check out and depart from San José, transferring to the airport for your onward journey. If time allows, take a last stroll or quick shopping trip to savor the final moments and bring home unforgettable memories of your Costa Rica adventure.