Regional Conservation Area of Huacachina lagoon, Desert oasis conservation area in Ica, Peru
The Regional Conservation Area of Huacachina lagoon is a water body surrounded by large sand dunes in southern Peru's coastal desert. The protected zone includes the lagoon itself and the surrounding dune landscapes that together form a unique ecosystem.
The lagoon became popular in the early 1900s when visitors arrived seeking its reported healing properties. This growing interest led to the area's development and eventually its protection as a conservation zone.
The place takes its name from a local legend about a princess whose tears created the lagoon. Visitors can connect with this story and understand the spiritual bond many people feel toward this spot.
The site has hiking trails around the lagoon and offers sandboarding activities on the surrounding dunes. Visitors should come early in the day and bring plenty of water, as desert heat can be intense.
A complex water management system has operated since 2015 to keep the lagoon alive in its arid setting. This technical effort demonstrates how challenging it is to preserve natural ecosystems in extreme climates.
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