A beautiful city in southwest Peru that boasts beautiful wineries, Pisco distilleries, and vast sand dunes. This city of adventure has something to offer around every corner, whether you’re looking for a thriling sandboarding or dune buggy experience, or you want to explore museums with ancient artifacts. Maybe you would like a relaxing evening surrounded by palm trees by a beautiful lagoon at the Huacachina oasis.
Ica has a long and fascinating history that dates back to pre-Columbian civilizations, including the Paracas and the Nazca cultures. The region is home to the famous Nazca Lines, mysterious geoglyphs etched into the desert floor that depict various animals and shapes. These ancient figures, best seen from the sky, have puzzled archaeologists and remain a source of wonder and speculation. The Regional Museum of Ica offers an in-depth look at the artifacts and mummies left by these ancient civilizations, giving visitors a greater understanding of their culture and daily life.
One of Ica’s most iconic sights is Huacachina, a picturesque oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. This small village has become a popular destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Visitors can take part in sandboarding or dune buggy rides, activities that provide an adrenaline-pumping way to experience the desert’s vast beauty. After a day of excitement, the tranquil lagoon at the center of Huacachina offers a perfect spot to unwind.
Ica is also celebrated as the birthplace of pisco, Peru’s national spirit. The region’s warm, dry climate makes it ideal for vineyards, which produce high-quality grapes for both wine and pisco production. Tourists can visit traditional wineries such as Bodega Tacama, Bodega El Catador, and Viñas Queirolo to learn about the process of making pisco and to sample this iconic drink. The annual Festival de la Vendimia (Harvest Festival) in March is a highlight, featuring parades, music, and grape stomping as part of the celebration.
Ica’s cuisine is a delicious blend of coastal and Andean influences. Must-try dishes include carapulcra, a traditional stew made with dried potatoes, pork, and spices, and sopa seca, a noodle dish often served alongside it. Fresh seafood dishes such as ceviche are also popular, thanks to Ica’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean. For dessert, tejas, a sweet treat made of dried fruits, nuts, and caramel covered in sugar or chocolate, are a local specialty.
A short drive from Ica, the Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands offer a chance to witness incredible wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and various bird species. The reserve’s unique coastal landscapes provide a striking contrast to Ica’s sandy desert, showcasing the region’s natural diversity. The famous Candelabra geoglyph, carved into a hillside and visible from the sea, is another mysterious and intriguing attraction in the area.
