Things To Do
in Ica
Ica is a city located in southern Peru known for its desert landscapes and fertile valleys. It is famous for its vineyards and wineries that produce Pisco, a grape brandy. The city is also home to the Huacachina oasis, a popular tourist destination surrounded by towering sand dunes which attract adventure seekers for sandboarding and dune buggies.
Additionally, Ica has a rich cultural heritage with archaeological sites such as the Nazca Lines nearby, showcasing ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Huacachina Oasis. Enjoy breakfast at a local café before taking a stroll around the picturesque lagoon.
In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating sand dune buggy ride and try sandboarding. Catch amazing views of the desert landscape.
Relax at one of the local restaurants and enjoy dinner with a view of the oasis at sunset. Take a scenic walk around the lagoon as the lights begin to twinkle.
Visit the Regional Museum of Ica to explore the rich history and culture of the area. Learn about the ancient civilizations that inhabited the region.
Head to the nearby Tacama Vineyard for a wine tasting session. Enjoy a delicious lunch paired with locally produced wines.
Take a leisurely stroll through Ica's central plaza. Enjoy street food and soak in the lively atmosphere of the city in the evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites, including Huacachina Oasis and colonial architecture.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including dunes and a desert climate, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Famous for wine and pisco production, providing opportunities for tastings and tours.
- Growing tourism industry which can offer various amenities and services.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Limited public transportation options can make it difficult to navigate.
- The extreme heat can be uncomfortable for some visitors.
- Urban development may lead to environmental concerns and loss of natural beauty.
- Potential safety concerns in certain areas, as with many tourist destinations.
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities in Peru.
Best Activities in Ica
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the thrill of sandboarding on the dunes surrounding the desert oasis of Huacachina.
Explore the dramatic desert landscape of Ica on an exhilarating buggy ride over the sand dunes.
Embark on a wine tasting tour in the vineyards of Ica to sample Peru's renowned Pisco and wines.
Take a flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert plain.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ica with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ica
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding desert and the opportunity to take beautiful photos of the oasis and nearby sand dunes.
Provides panoramic views of the city of Ica and the surrounding desert landscapes, ideal for capturing scenic photos.
A rock formation with a natural arch that offers breathtaking views of the desert and the ocean, providing a picturesque setting for photography.
Food in Ica
Ica Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish made from fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, typically with onions, chili peppers, and a variety of seasonings. Visit El Batán del Tayta or La Casa del Chef for excellent ceviche.
Must-Try!
This hearty shrimp chowder is a regional specialty, featuring tender shrimp, potatoes, and spices. Tía Fela's and Restaurante Huacachina serve delectable Chupe de Camarones.
A classic Peruvian stir-fry dish that combines marinated strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and other ingredients, typically served with rice. Don Angelo and Cala offer delectable Lomo Saltado.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ica better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, and deli-style snacks. A variety of street vendors within the market offer a range of traditional snacks like empanadas and anticuchos.
The central square is a hotspot for street food, where you can sample local favorites such as picarones (sweet potato and squash doughnuts) and tamales.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is common for people in Ica to greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, even if they are meeting for the first time. This is a sign of warmth and friendliness.
Respecting elders is a fundamental value in the culture of Ica, Peru. It is important to show deference and speak with politeness when interacting with older members of the community.
Ica has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to show an appreciation for local traditions, such as music, dance, and art. Taking an interest in these traditions is a sign of respect for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ica with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ica
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ica, Peru, tipping is practiced in restaurants, cafes, and for tour guides. A 10% tip is usually expected for good service, but it is always good to check if a service charge is already included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers is not common.
In Ica, Peru, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in smaller establishments and markets. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger stores, restaurants, and hotels. It is advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller transactions and in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ica.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak season in Ica, with warm and dry weather, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and visiting the desert oasis of Huacachina. It's also the time for the famous wine and pisco festivals.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and quieter crowds, making it a good time to explore Ica's attractions without the peak season hustle.
The winter months in Ica are characterized by cool temperatures and occasional fog, especially in the morning. It's a quieter time to visit the region.
Spring brings warmer weather and the start of the agricultural season. It's a great time to witness the vineyards coming to life and experience local harvest activities.
Ica at Night
Hiking in Ica
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal reserve that offers stunning views of cliffs and ocean, ideal for hiking and nature walks.
A beautiful oasis surrounded by sand dunes where visitors can hike and enjoy desert landscapes.
A scenic canyon in the Ica region suitable for hiking and exploring its unique rock formations.
A lake in the desert that offers opportunities for light hiking and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
Though primarily accessed by boat, some hiking opportunities are available on the islands to explore their wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ica through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ica by plane.
Located in Lima, approximately 300 km north of Ica, it is the main international airport serving Peru.
Located in Pisco, roughly 50 km from Ica, this airport handles domestic flights and some international charters.
Located in Arequipa, approximately 800 km from Ica, it serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Tacna, around 950 km from Ica, it is the main airport for southern Peru, with limited international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ica, comprising individuals of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
This group includes various ethnic groups native to the region, such as the Quechua and other Indigenous communities.
People of full or partial European ancestry, commonly descendants of Spanish colonizers.
A demographic group of African descent, historically significant in the region's culture and music.
Includes individuals of Japanese, Chinese, and other Asian descent, contributing to the multicultural identity of the region.
The Soul of Ica
Discover the essence of Ica through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ica, like in the rest of Peru. Local clubs and schools frequently engage in competitions.
Given the presence of the Huacachina oasis and surrounding sand dunes, sandboarding is a popular adventure sport in Ica.
Ica's coastal areas, especially in towns like Pisco and Paracas, are ideal for surfing, attracting both locals and tourists.
Basketball enjoys popularity in schools and local communities, with various leagues and tournaments held throughout the year.
Volleyball is commonly played at schools and recreational facilities, gaining recognition at both competitive and casual levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ica.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Peruvian cuisine leans heavily on seafood and meats, many restaurants in Ica offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as quinoa salads, vegetable stir-fries, and Andean grain bowls.
Several establishments in Ica are sensitive to gluten-free diets, serving dishes like grilled fish with steamed vegetables, ceviche, and fresh fruit platters.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ica with these cultural adventures.
