Located in the Ica region of Peru, in the middle of the vast sand dunes of the Peruvian desert, is the small oasis village of Huacachina, Peru. This literal paradise in desert was considered a “resort” or place for local communities to cool off and escape the arid weather around them. Today, people come from even farther around the globe to dip in the waters of the Huacachina Oasis, and to participate in the off road activities and sports on the tall sandy dunes surrounding the village.
The Legend of the Huacachina Oasis
The legend of the Huacachina Oasis tells the tale of a young maiden who long-ago was taking a bath, when a young hunter entered into her bathing room with not-so-just intentions. According to the legend, the woman fled so quickly that it left her bath running and flooded causing the oasis. It is also said that her bathrobe flowing in the wind created the sand dunes around the oasis. When the woman returned, she dove into the lagoon of the oasis and became a mermaid, where she still lives today.
Lagoon in the Oasis of Huacachina
Check Out This Video of Dune Buggies and the Other Recreational Activities Around Huacachina, Peru:
And Check Out This Video of Sand boarding the Desert Dunes Around Huacachina, Peru:
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I wasn’t aware that there are deserts in Peru. Thanks for this post!
It is a special area because it is an oasis, not just a desert!
Great post. I was a tour guide through the region in the 90s, passed through Huacachina many times, our groups used to lunch there; the more foolhardy also sandboarded…
AV
Hey, traveling is the time to try the activities in the areas!
Anyone seen the mermaid?
It is a legend, but I am sure some will tell you they have seen it!
Reblogged this on By the Mighty Mumford and commented:
A PERUVIAN OASIS WORTHY OF THE NAME!
Amazing, what lovely photos! Unfortunately I missed this on my trip to Peru…
Maybe someday you will return to see it! Thanks for checking us out!
This is stunning, definitely on the ‘to see’ list
There is something so special about the oasis atmosphere!
Great video and website. It looks like so much fun. I will check into this when I go to Peru.
Please do, and let us know what you think!