Tag Archives: Peru

Huachachina Oasis- Dune Buggy and Sandboarding

Huacachina is a unique village in Peru built around a small natural lagoon. An oasis in the Atacama desert surrounded by tall sand dunes that dwarf the village. Though there are a little over 100 people who permanently reside there this oasis has become a main stop for thousands of tourists and backpackers each year. The main attraction is the thrilling dune buggy and sandboarding activity offered. Feel the thrill of rollercoaster like drops over 30 meter tall sand dunes. Enjoy the gorgeous sunsets and the local restaurants around the palm-lined lagoon. read more

Paracas National Reserve and Ballestas Islands

A small cluster of islands called the Ballestas lie off the Peruvian coast near the town of Paracas. Often touted as the “Peruvian Galapagos” or even the “poor man’s Galapagos” because of the low cost and ease to visit. A sanctuary rich with wildlife, there are over half a million birds making this their home. You’ll also pass by the Paracas Candelabra, a prehistoric geoglyph etched into sandy sloped hill. No one knows it’s true meaning or purpose. Then onto Paracas National reserve where vast golden desert meets blue ocean water. read more

Walking Downtown Lima and Catacombs

The Selena Miraflores hostel offered a walking tour to the historic center of Lima listed in UNESCO World Heritage with it’s most important monuments. Admiring the architectural styles and colonial balconies we learn about the most important streets in Peru. Hopping from plaza to plaza we also learn where bars were used to lead the revolution on the society and the declaration of independence of Peru from Spain in 1821. read more

Biking Miraflores and Barranco-Lima

With courtesy of the Selina Miraflores hostel I had a nice 3+hr bike ride around Miraflores and Barranco area of Lima. The weather was perfect at 69 degF and clear blue skies. The cost at the hostel was $8 USD starting at 11:00am. Our guide was Luis and we had introductions for everyone in the group. There was a couple from Tel Aviv and one girl from Queens NY. After getting fitted for our bikes (I got a nice bike with gears) our first stop was at Kennedy Park nearby. Kennedy Park is named after John F Kennedy. read more

Walking Mirafloras Area Lima to Coastline

Miraflores is a rather upscale district of Lima. Cosmoplitan, chic and safe to walk. It's south of downtown Lima and safe to walk. I went for a walk using the straightest path to the coast which led me to the Larcomar mall which I couldn’t resist checking out. It’ right along the cliffs where a long pedestrian and bike path runs up/down the coast. The cliffs run high and for miles.  read more

Arrival Lima, Peru and Selina Miraflores Hotel

Selina Miraflores is hotel/hostel located in the heart of the Miraflores area of Lima. A quote from their website. “Selina provides guests with beautiful places to stay, travel, and work abroad indefinitely. Plus, we use our in-depth local knowledge to create thousands of authentic activities and experiences in over 145 destinations worldwide” .The prices are low, accommodations modest, and services are exemplary. I got a private room for $39 USD/night. I chose this place for the location to a few places I had bookmarked, the good reviews, and the pricing. read more