HUACACHINA: Five Reasons Why You Should Visit South America`s Only Oasis at Least Once in Your Life

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Once upon a time, beautiful native princess Huacay China retired to the remotest place on earth to mourn her lover`s death. Far from her kingdom and her father`s palace, her grief was interrupted by the sudden appearance of her deceased beloved. Terrified by the illusion, she undressed and threw herself into the pool of her own tears. The folds of her golden gown are rumoured to have formed the sand dunes the lagoon is girded with. As for the princess herself, she is believed to have been living as a mermaid guarding the oasis ever since. 



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Welcome back to a new post about my travels in which I will introduce you to one of South America`s most underrated gems. I must admit that I had completely underestimated Peru before I got the chance to explore it over the course of four weeks. For the longest time I was convinced that Machu Picchu, Lima, the Incas, 500 types of potatoes and a bunch of panpipes were all the country has to offer, and I sincerely apologise for that: Peru is so varied in its culture, vegetation and history that it actually hurts, and there was no better place for me to be taught said lesson than a tiny, natural oasis hidden in the heart of the desert located in south-western Peru.

Adorned with symmetrical palm-trees, foliage and a tranquil, crystal-clear lagoon, this little, sandy expanse of life and prosperity surrounded by barren land almost does not feel real; but it is neither a mirage, nor an illusion. It lies there - and always has for that matter - waiting for you to admire and indulge in it. 

Huacachina - or Huaca-fucking-china as it is regularly referred to by locals - is both scenic and unique as it vaunts itself the only natural oasis in the whole of South America. Once particularly attractive for the Peruvian bourgeoisie that believed in the water`s healing and spiritual properties, the lagoon was eventually abandoned in the late 1960s and left untouched for 50 years - until recently. Its recent rediscovery is, perhaps, one of the main arguments why this place deserves a special spot on your bucket list. Not convinced? Then check out my top five reasons why I believe everyone should visit this marvellous piece of land at least once in their life. 

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1. It  gives you a break from reality

Huacachina is so idyllic it feels like a little piece of paradise once accidentally fell onto earth. I personally do not believe in its attributed "healing properties" like word of mouth suggests but I must admit that the oasis emanates some real calming energy that puts you in total zen mode almost instantly upon arrival. It is the ideal place to relax and switch off from reality and will give you a break from everything that you were doing prior and supposed to do after your visit. As it is located in the quiet of the desert, Huacachina is a wonderful environment to conduct some introspection, meditation and self-reflection.

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2. It`s conveniently situated

Ay dios mío, don`t we all just love awesome places that are perfectly located on a map? Huacachina is easily accessible from most major Peruvian sites, which makes it the perfect pit-stop or addition to your itinerary. It is only 15 hours from Cusco, 11 hours from Arequipa, 2 hours from the famous Nazca lines, 10 minutes from Ica and about 5.5 seconds from heaven. Increíble, no? 

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3. It offers some of the most adventurous activities in the whole country

If you are a total adrenaline junkie or just generally love a little bit of a kick once in a while the oasis` got you covered. One of the most popular activities in Huacachina is racing across the sand on a dune buggy, which you can rent for about £12-20 per hour. If you feel more adventurous, I suggest you request the "buggy roller coaster ride". You may have to pay a little extra, but it is absolutely worth it: Depending on your driver`s experience and willingness of risk you will be cruising to the top of 500-meter high dunes before rocketing down in sharp turns and frantic speed. Ultimately, you get the chance to combine it all with sand boarding, which I highly recommend. If you fancy yourself a pro at boarding you can try and stand for the whole experience. If you prefer to take things easy, you can speed down, face forward, lying on your belly. The price for this ranges between an extra £10-15 depending on the size of the group and the standard of your board. 

   

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4. It`s great for solo travelling

As much as I have described it as a quaint oasis during the day, Huacachina changes its countenance the second the sun sets. Due to the various hostels and bohemian, cheap bars located around the lagoon, you can expect a myriad of parties and events taking place each night, which provide solo travellers with plenty of opportunities to make new acquaintances.

5. It`s actually quite affordable

I repeat: Quite. Huacachina is obviously more expensive than the rest of the country, which is sort of justified considering its exclusivity. If you are travelling on a budget, make sure you check out the hostels in the area. The El Boulevard for instance, is right in the centre of the oasis and offers a dorm bed starting from £7 . It includes breakfast, wifi, hot showers and security lockers. Another option worth considering is the Wild Rover located on the north side of the place offering over 16 facilities including a club, a pool and 24 hour security with prices starting at as little as £8 per night.

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As always thanks for reading,
à la prochaine
& much love

Hilary Fierce





*next post will be about Lima, so watch this space if you`re planning on exploring Peru`s boho-chic capital