A small oasis of Huacachina lies among the majestic dunes of the Sechura Desert, near the city of Ica in Peru.
The population of this secluded corner is just over 100 people, the village is so small that you can walk it in a few minutes. Previously, the elite rested here, but now the village, surrounded by eucalyptus and palm trees, has begun to be frequently visited by tourists and just local residents.
In the center of the settlement there is a picturesque lagoon, which was formed, according to legend, as follows: the princess was swimming in the pool, when she suddenly noticed that a hunter was spying on her. The girl ran away, and the pool turned into a lake, but then the beauty returned and became a mermaid.
This miracle in the middle of the desert attracts lovers of dune buggy riding and sandboarding, because the dunes here reach a height of 150 meters. You can ride on the lake on boats or catamarans and swim, and in the evening climb to the top of the dune and admire the fiery sunset, and then the night lights of Ica. Well, watching the starry sky in the desert, so deep and addictive, will be a worthy end to the day.
In especially dry periods, the lake is maintained artificially: residents have drilled several wells and fill it with water.
The best time to stay in oasis Huacachina - from May to August, when winter comes here and it is not so hot and dry.
How to get to the oasis: Huacachina is 3 km from Ica, so it is best to take a taxi. You can also buy a tour to the oasis.