Being my first backpacking experience; My South American Journey of 2010 was anticipated to be filled with great memories. Besides looking forward to Argentine steak, Bolivian salt flats and the glory of Machu Picchu in Peru; there would be more surprises along the way. When you meet other backpackers on the off beaten path; often do you get great recommendations about places you’ve never heard of. Suddenly, you find yourself extending your trip and spending an extra month in Peru.
Upon the last weeks of my trip in Lima, Peru, backpackers in my hostel kept talking about sand boarding in a nearby town. I couldn’t even imagine how this worked, nor possibly being able to do it. Huacachina, located in Ica, Peru is a backpacker hot spot. Known as the “Oasis of America”, the huge tourist attraction serves as a resort for locals and a thrill for tourists. The sport of sand boarding and dune buggy rides serve for one hell of a ride. (Literally)
Suddenly, I found myself intrigued by the idea of a new, unique sport. In the past, I failed at riding the slopes of Mountain Creek in New Jersey when I found myself falling on the snow snowboarding. But, backpackers found the thrill of riding the soft sand to be a soft landing when you crash on your derrière.
Days later, I found myself in Huacachina, looking forward to a beautiful view, a vigorous workout and lots of bruises. If you’ve ever wanted to see a landscape that looked like a Photoshopped computer image, take a look at the gorgeous views of the Peruvian oasis.
Huacachina Oasis by dwhaynes2214
Huacachina Oasis: By the docks by Teresa Gotay
Teresa enjoying the Huacachina Oasis by Teresa Gotay
Finally, it was time to strap on board (Literally) and get down. The ride up the dunes is a thrill in itself. Drivers often speed up and down sand dunes like a roller coaster. With the adrenaline running through my veins and a huge smile on my face; it was finally time to let go.
After realizing I am a bit unbalanced, I decided to go head first (Literally!) by strapping myself stomach down right down the hill. Ready, set, go. I took a deep breath and felt the push of the instructor as I glided down the warm sand and felt the wind in my hair and the sand in my face.
Nothing can describe the feeling of going head first down the sand dunes. This sport should be an olympic game! (Although I’m not sure how it could be a competition, it should just be for its awesomeness in itself.)
Sandboarding in Huacachina by Teresa Gotay
After going down a few more hills; I found myself in love with this new sport. It is one of the top experiences in my travel life. Many people thought I wouldn’t be able to handle the crazy sand dunes for a girl who finds herself previously scared of some heights. But, in life, just like travel, its always best to keep an open mind and sometimes, you need to just let go!
If you find yourself in Peru, do yourself a favor and visit the sand dunes in Huacachina. You will instantly get addicted to the thrill of the ride. The city in itself is also a warm friendly place with locals who bond together with tourists to party after a long day in the Peruvian sun.
Some information about Huacachina:
- Located 5 hours south of Lima, Peru.
- Make sure to bring lots of sunscreen; the Peruvian sun will fry you!
- Wear a long layered shirt and bottom.Even though the sun will be hot, it will prevent you from bleeding and bruising. (A lot less at least.)
- Note that the Huacachina oasis is located on the 50 sole Peruvian bill!
- Keep balance on your feet by staying low.
- Hold on tight when going down on your stomach. Letting go can easily send you on a tumbling fall.
- General information about Huacachina.
Have you ever been sand boarding or fell in love with a sport while traveling? Have you been to Peru and done this awesome activity?
