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Huacachina, Peru |
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Because we arrived in Nazca from Arequipa in the dead of night we did not get a good look at the surrounding landscape. However we departed Nazca heading for Paracas in the morning right after breakfast. The barren landscape is a "moonscape". We saw less vegetation here than at the high altitudes of Patapampas Pass. We passed a few tiny villages in this barren landscape and could not imagine how the people there sustain themselves.
As we continued toward the Pacific shores the winds known as the Paracas Winds grew stronger. We began to notice sand dunes in the distance and the presence of sand sweeping over the highway. Soon we were surrounded by sand and sand dunes and joked that we should be travelling on camels like Lawrence of Arabia.
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In the middle of these dunes we came upon the Oasis, Huacachina. Fed by natural springs, a large natural pool surrounded by Palm Trees and High Dunes is the focal point of this resort. Several hotels, restaurants and a park are built around this natural lake. We were amazed to find this fabulous destination in the midst of the surrounding desolation.
You will note some folks climbing the dunes with "snowboards" that they can ride down the sloping sands. I understand that it is not as slippery as snow but the landing is softer if you wipe-out. Dune buggy rentals are also available to zoom around the dunes. It looked like great fun but we were happy to just walk around the oasis for now and take in this natural wonder. There is an Aerial View of Huacachina in this link providing a good overview of the Oasis.
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When we left the oasis and the protection of the giant sand dunes the Paracas Winds kicked up again. This time they were even more forceful than before and suddenly everything turned gray, charcaol and black. We were in the middle of a bonafide sandstorm. The dust managed to creep into our vehicle through minute cracks and crevices. I had never been through a sand storm before but our driver slowed down and assured us it would quickly pass over.
To our relief he darkness cleared to a dusty gray and we could see the light of day again. In the distance we saw a mountain that was half covered by sands carried inland by the Paracas Winds. This leg of our journey was filled with unexpected sites and adventures.
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