Sunset on the Dunes

The independent option — climb a dune at dusk and watch the sun set over the sand

The simplest and arguably the best thing to do in Huacachina. From the western edge of the oasis you can climb directly up the dunes — there is no path, no fence, no fee — and the views from the crest at sunset over the desert and the green lagoon are some of the most memorable in coastal Peru.

The climb is harder than it looks because of the collapsing sand; budget 30 to 45 minutes to reach the higher crests. Take water, take a torch for the descent, and consider taking a thin sheet of plastic if you want to slide back down. The sand cools fast after dark, so a light jumper for the walk back is sensible.

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The dunes can be deceptively tiring to climb. The sand collapses underfoot with every step, and the largest crests rise more than 100 metres above the oasis floor. Start an hour before sunset, take water, and pace yourself — running up the steep slopes is a fool's errand.

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