Ica, Peru Guide
Ica, a city in southern Peru, is an oasis of adventure and culture nestled amidst towering sand dunes. Known as the "Land of Eternal Sunshine," Ica offers a unique blend of desert landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant Peruvian traditions. It's a popular destination for thrill-seekers looking to sandboard down massive dunes, explore the mysterious Huacachina oasis, and sample the region's famous Pisco and wine. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping activities, Ica boasts a rich history dating back to pre-Inca civilizations. Visitors can delve into the past at the Regional Museum of Ica, which houses fascinating artifacts from the Paracas and Nazca cultures. The city also serves as a gateway to the enigmatic Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering unforgettable aerial tours of these ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor.
Food & Cuisine
Ica's cuisine is a delightful blend of coastal and desert influences. Fresh seafood is abundant, with ceviche being a must-try dish. Carapulcra, a hearty stew made with dried potatoes, pork, and spices, is another local favorite. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the region's famous Pisco, a grape brandy used in the popular Pisco Sour cocktail. For a taste of local flavors, visit the Mercado Modelo de Ica, a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. Several restaurants around the Plaza de Armas and in Huacachina offer a wide range of Peruvian and international cuisine.
Nightlife
Ica's nightlife is centered around the Huacachina oasis and the Plaza de Armas area. Huacachina offers a lively atmosphere with bars and clubs catering to tourists, often featuring live music and DJs. The Plaza de Armas area has a mix of bars, restaurants, and peñas (traditional Peruvian music venues). Expect a more relaxed and local vibe in the city center compared to the party atmosphere of Huacachina. Many establishments stay open late, especially on weekends.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ica is during the dry season, which runs from **May to September**. During these months, you can expect sunny skies, pleasant temperatures, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like sandboarding and exploring the desert. While Ica enjoys sunshine year-round, the summer months (December to March) can be very hot.
Transportation
Ica primarily relies on buses and taxis for public transportation. Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around the city and to nearby destinations like Huacachina. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through hotels. There is no tram or subway/metro system in Ica.
Airport
The nearest airport is the **Cap. FAP Renán Elías Olivera Airport (ICA)**, located approximately **5 kilometers (3 miles)** from the city center. Taxis are the most convenient way to travel from the airport to Ica, and the journey typically takes around 10-15 minutes.
Attractions
Cathedral of Ica
The Cathedral of Ica is a historic church dating back to the 18th century, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the facade and interior, as well as learn about the history of the region.
Huacachina Oasis
Huacachina Oasis is a picturesque desert oasis surrounded by sand dunes, popular for sandboarding and dune buggies. Visitors can relax by the lagoon or take a ride on a traditional boat. The area also offers stunning sunset views over the desert landscape.
Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are a series of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, depicting various animals and geometric shapes. These mysterious and massive designs can only be fully appreciated from the air, making scenic flights a popular activity for visitors to Ica.
Paracas National Reserve
Paracas National Reserve is a protected area along the coast, known for its diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the desert, beaches, and cliffs, as well as observe wildlife such as flamingos and sea lions. The reserve is a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
Casa Hacienda San José
Casa Hacienda San José is a historic estate dating back to the 18th century, known for its colonial architecture and lush gardens. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about the history of the hacienda, and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the city. The estate also offers guided tours and cultural events.
Plaza de Armas de Ica
Plaza de Armas de Ica is the main square in the city, surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can relax in the park, admire the colonial architecture, and soak in the local atmosphere. The plaza is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
El Catador Pisco Vineyard
El Catador is a renowned pisco vineyard in the Ica region, offering tours and tastings of Peru's national spirit. Visitors can learn about the production process, sample different varieties of pisco, and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs. The vineyard also features a restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine.
Ballestas Islands
The Ballestas Islands are a group of small islands off the coast of Paracas, known for their diverse wildlife including sea lions, penguins, and numerous bird species. Visitors can take boat tours to observe the animals in their natural habitat and enjoy the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Tambo Colorado
Tambo Colorado is an archaeological site dating back to the Inca Empire, featuring well-preserved adobe ruins and ceremonial structures. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the Inca culture and history, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Guided tours are available for a deeper understanding of the site.
Museo Regional de Ica
The Museo Regional de Ica is a museum showcasing the history and culture of the Ica region, including artifacts from pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Nazca and Paracas. Visitors can explore exhibits on archaeology, textiles, and pottery, providing insight into the area's rich heritage.
Day Trips
Just a stone's throw from Ica, Huacachina is a surreal oasis town nestled amidst towering sand dunes. It's a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Imagine yourself riding a dune buggy across the desert landscape, sandboarding down steep slopes, and watching the sunset paint the dunes in fiery hues. The lagoon itself is surrounded by palm trees and restaurants, offering a relaxing escape. Legend says a beautiful princess created the oasis when she removed her clothes to bathe, and a hunter surprised her. She fled, leaving the pool of water that became the lagoon.
10 minutes by taxi or mototaxi from Ica A boat tour to the Ballestas Islands is an unforgettable experience. These rocky islands, located just off the coast of Paracas, are teeming with wildlife. You'll see thousands of seabirds, including cormorants, boobies, and pelicans, as well as playful sea lions basking in the sun. Keep an eye out for Humboldt penguins waddling along the shores. The boat tour often includes a view of the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph etched into the hillside.
1 hour 15 minutes by bus to Paracas from Ica, then a 30-minute boat ride to the islands The Paracas National Reserve is a stunning coastal desert reserve, offering dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. The stark contrast between the arid desert and the turquoise ocean is breathtaking. You can explore the reserve by bus tour or private car, stopping at viewpoints like La Catedral (though partially destroyed by an earthquake, it's still impressive) and Playa Roja (Red Beach) with its unique crimson sands. The reserve is also a haven for seabirds, including Humboldt penguins, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
1 hour 15 minutes by bus from Ica Tambo Colorado is a well-preserved Inca administrative center located near the town of Humay. This archaeological site offers a fascinating insight into the Inca Empire's presence in the coastal region. The adobe structures, painted in vibrant colors, are remarkably intact. Exploring the site, you can imagine the bustling activity that once took place here, as officials collected taxes, stored goods, and oversaw the region's administration.
1 hour 30 minutes by bus to Humay from Ica, then a short taxi ride to the site Chincha Alta, a town with a rich Afro-Peruvian heritage, offers a glimpse into a different side of Peruvian culture. Known for its music, dance, and delicious cuisine, Chincha Alta is a vibrant and welcoming place. You can visit local wineries and distilleries to sample pisco and wine, learn about the history of Afro-Peruvian music and dance, and enjoy traditional dishes like sopa seca and carapulcra. It's a great place to experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people.
1 hour by bus from Ica Huacachina Oasis
Travel Time
Activities
Ballestas Islands (Poor Man's Galapagos)
Travel Time
Activities
Paracas National Reserve
Travel Time
Activities
Tambo Colorado
Travel Time
Activities
Chincha Alta
Travel Time
Activities