A paradise in the desert: Peru's Huacachina oasis is gradually disappearing

▲ Like China’s Crescent Lake, it is Peru’s crescent-shaped oasis, but this popular Peruvian holiday destination is fading away. (Photo/Screen capture fromhuacachina.com)

By Yvonne

Known as the "oasis in the Americas," it is now vanishing.

This small town of only about 100 residents—Huacachina—is the heart of a captivating surrounding oasis, yet this oasis is now drying up. Moreover, Peruvian authorities are facing difficulties in diverting nearby springs to the area.

▲ The Crescent Lake at night, adorned withthe lights of buildings surrounded by towering desert on all sides. (Photo/Screen capture fromhuacachina.com)

Located about 3 miles west of the local main city—Ica—this place was once frequently visited by wealthy Limeños (residents of Lima). In recent years, Huacachina has attracted nearly 200,000 travelers annually to this dry, hot, sun-drenched desert filled with legends, to visit the fading Crescent Lake oasis.

▲ Peru’s Crescent Lake, where the undergroundsprings that feed this oasis are gradually drying up. (Photo/Screen capture from)huacachina.com）

For adventurous travelers, Huacachina is the top choice. Whether you love reflective moments on the road, challenging towering sand dunes, or surfing across ever-shifting sands; or if you simply want to bask in the sun and unwind by the legendary, healing waters of the oasis, then this place is your heaven.

▲HuacachinThe dunes here reach nearly 99 meters (about 325 feet) in height. (Photo/Screen capture fromhuacachina.com)