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One of the many off the beaten track gems Peru has to offer is the Moron Lagoon, also known as Oasis of Moron, located about 250 km (155 miles) south of Lima near Pisco.
Surrounded by amazing sand dunes and native vegetation, this nearly untouched oasis sits deep in the desert about an hour east of Pisco. Named after Jose Morón, a Robin Hood like character, and fed by subterranean water, the Moron Lagoon with its blue-green waters is home to various fish and bird species.
This absolutely stunning little piece of earth isn’t developed as for example Huacachina in nearby Ica; no road, no restaurants, no hotel or hostels, no big entertainment; just a lovely, adrenaline-filled adventure to get there through the dunes, a stunning scenery, some peace and calm, and a few things to do.
What to do at the Moron Lagoon
Once you conquered the adventure of getting to the Moron Lagoon, enjoy the quiet of the place and the breathtaking landscape; watch the birds circle over the waters searching for food in the lagoon; make a picnic on the shores and just relax.
Climb the dunes and do some sandboarding or do some swimming or kayaking in the lagoon.
How to get to the Moron Lagoon
If you go by car get off the PanAmericana Sur at km 231; turn left towards Humay and Huaytara. After 28 km (17 miles) turn right at the sign “Bernales, Visite la Laguna de Morón”. After another 5 to 6 km (3 – 3.5 miles) on a recently new tarred road you reach the village Bernales. From here you either have to walk for an hour to reach the Moron Lagoon, follow the same track with your car (4x4 not only highly recommended, but essential!) or go by dune buggy.
Guided adventure tours to the Moron Lagoon are offered or can be organized by hotels / hostels or travel agencies in Pisco. These tours usually take about 3 to 4 hours and include getting to the lagoon with either a 4x4 or more fun with a dune buggy through the desert and back, an experienced and responsible driver, small snack and sometimes some sand boarding.
One way or the other, visiting the Moron Lagoon is an adventure you won’t forget easily.
What to take when visiting the Moron Lagoon
- Light wind jacket (depending on the season and time of day it can get cold in the desert)
- Sun block, sunglasses, sun hat
- Water
- Small lunch or snack (if not provided)
- Swimsuit, towel
- Camera
