Huacachina, Peru: A Solo Female Traveler’s Journey to the Desert Oasis
Let’s talk about Huacachina—a tiny desert oasis in Peru that looks like it was plucked straight out of a fantasy novel. As a solo female traveler, I knew I had to see it for myself. Spoiler alert: it’s every bit as magical as Instagram makes it out to be, but with way more sand in places sand should never be. So, pack your bags, slap on some sunscreen, and join me on my adventure to Huacachina!
Where Even Am I? – The Journey to Huacachina
Getting to Huacachina feels like a quest. I started in Lima (where ceviche dreams come true) and hopped on a bus to Ica, the closest city to the oasis. If you’re picturing a cozy, scenic ride, think again—Peruvian buses are luxurious, with reclining seats and snacks. I highly recommend booking with Cruz del Sur for the safest and most comfortable experience.
From Ica, I grabbed a quick taxi ride to Huacachina. Pro tip: always negotiate your fare. My Spanish isn’t perfect, but I’ve mastered “¡Demasiado caro!” (“Too expensive!”) and that seemed to do the trick.
A Desert Oasis Fit for a Queen
Huacachina’s charm hits you the second you arrive. Picture this: a shimmering lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and a handful of restaurants and hostels dotting the shoreline. It’s as if Mother Nature decided to take a break from making mountains and threw a little desert party instead.
For solo female travelers, the vibe is chill and welcoming. I checked into Banana’s Adventure, a hostel that’s perfect for meeting fellow wanderers. It’s safe, clean, and they offer free tours with your stay—hello, budget-friendly adventure!
“Dune Buggy? More Like Doom Buggy!”
If there’s one thing you absolutely must do in Huacachina, it’s the dune buggy ride. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s part rollercoaster, part survival test. Picture yourself strapped into a metal cage, zooming up and down sand dunes at breakneck speeds while screaming, laughing, and maybe questioning your life choices.
I booked my tour through Huacachina Tours , and let me tell you, it was worth every penny. The guides are pros, and they’ll even take you sandboarding if you’re brave enough. (Spoiler: I was not brave enough, but I tried it anyway and ate so much sand I’m still finding grains in my teeth.)
“Fine Dining… Desert Style”
After a day of adrenaline, you’ll want to refuel. Huacachina might be tiny, but it punches above its weight when it comes to food. My favorite spot was Desert Nights Restaurant, where I devoured a plate of lomo saltado that could rival Lima’s finest. Their outdoor seating by the lagoon is the perfect place to unwind and watch the sunset.
For a quick bite, I’d recommend Wild Olive Trattoria & Guest House. Their pizzas are wood-fired perfection—and trust me, you’ll appreciate carbs after conquering those dunes.
“What Do You Even Do in a Desert?”
Huacachina might be small, but it’s packed with activities. Aside from dune buggies and sandboarding, you can paddleboat on the lagoon or hike up the dunes for panoramic views. Just be warned: climbing a sand dune is like doing StairMaster on the hardest setting. But the sunrise view? Totally worth the leg burn.
If you’re planning a longer trip, check out my blog on The Best 8 Things to Do in Peru for more inspiration—because trust me, Peru has way more to offer than just Machu Picchu (though that’s epic too).
Solo and Safe: Tips for Female Travelers
As a solo female traveler, I felt safe in Huacachina, but a little extra caution never hurts. Here are my top tips:
- Stick to daylight arrivals: The desert gets dark quickly, and it’s easier to navigate during the day.
- Watch your drinks: Huacachina has a party vibe, but always keep an eye on your glass.
- Pack light but smart: Sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle are non-negotiables. And yes, you’ll want wet wipes for post-sandboarding cleanups.
Leaving the Oasis (But Not the Memories)
Saying goodbye to Huacachina was tough, but the memories I made were worth the sand-filled backpack. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just looking to chill by the lagoon, this little desert gem has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Dust off your sense of adventure and add Huacachina to your Peru itinerary. And while you’re at it, check out The Best 8 Things to Do in Peru for more travel inspiration. Happy wandering, solo queens!
