32 Offbeat Cruise Excursions That Go Way Beyond Sightseeing

30. Sandboard the Dunes in Peru’s Paracas Desert

Trade your beach towel for an adrenaline rush in Peru’s dramatic Paracas Desert, where golden sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. Sandboarding here is like snowboarding’s sun-drenched cousin. After a thrilling 4x4 ride up the dunes, you’ll grab a board and either carve down the slopes standing up or slide seated like a sled. The views from the top are jaw-dropping—desert meets ocean in a contrast that’s uniquely South American. It's one of the few places in the world where you can catch a sea breeze while speeding down a dune. Pro Tip: No experience? No problem. Most tours cater to all levels, and guides are happy to teach you basic balance and stopping techniques. Be prepared for a workout—climbing back up the dunes is part of the fun (and the burn!).