Andean Trek...Ballestas Islands & Huacachina

---

---

We had a short stop over in Costa Rica on the way down from Mexico which was nice as, whilst in transit, we did get to venture out into San Jose for a few hours. Our flights were fine all the way through to Pêru.

On arrival in Lima we headed straight to our hostel and familiarised ourselves with the local cuisine. We met a few of our fellow travelers too.

Our first expedition was a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands. Here we saw sea lions, Peruvian booby birds plus more wildlife. We avoided being pooped on (apparently 1 person in every boat does there are so many birds!) although were unable to escape the stench of the bird ´fertiliser´. En route to the island we saw one of the famous Inca candelabras etched into the sand dunes.

Our trek seems to be going well and we are enjoying having all our transport and accommodation organised. This second night in Peru we were to attempt our first night of camping with no tents! We spent the afternoon at the oasis of Huacachina. We explored the outstanding sand dunes in sand buggies and tried hurling ourselves down the giant dunes on sandboards. Very fun! The final dune drop lead us speedily and with some g-force to the camp where we slept under the stars. We were awaited by a roaring fire and a BBQ. Good times had by all!

---

Comments

[imogen]

hey xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Thats just plain cruel!!I come into work on a monday morning to see all those pics!!I AM JEALOUS!!!No seriously looks amazing, so pleased for you guys you look great. Miss you loads and cant wait for the next email!!Love you small, Smaller xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Carl Read]

Good luck! (and love the pics)
Brilliant pics! I knew those Oakleys were a good investment too Erin :) Sand dunes look amazing by the way!! Wanted to just say good luck too for the trek up Machu Piccu, you'll both be brilliant and skip up to the summit :) it will be absolutely amazing and something you will both never ever forget! Can't wait to hear all about it!!!!xxx

[budsy]

london still
I've arrived in london to hang out with you two but cant seem to find ya?? oh well glad to see you're enjoying yourselves. stay cool xx budsy

[Elaine]

Green-eyed Monster is here!
Looks absolutely fabulous! Wish I was there with you. We`ve been having a great time (you jealous)? at your Mum`s. Your tan is coming along nicely. Seen your "miniature version" at your bro`s house! Very cute! Enjoy the rest of your trip. Lots of love from Elaine. x

[Rose]

Hola Chicas!
Hey Girls, it looks amazing and brings back lots of good memories - have you tried the Pisco Sours yet?? Don't leave Peru until you have - you might want to pass on the guinea-pigs though (watch out for the word "cui" on the menu) :) Loving your blog. Happy Travels. Rose xx