Things To Do
in Ilo
Ilo is a small coastal port city in southern Peru's Moquegua region, known for its working harbor, fresh seafood and relaxed seaside atmosphere. The town combines industrial port activity with pleasant beaches, a peaceful malecón (seafront promenade) and access to coastal desert landscapes. Fishermen, colorful boats and a compact downtown give Ilo an authentic, low-tourist Peruvian coastal feel.
It is a useful base for experiencing southern Peruvian coast culture and for trips to nearby dunes, birdlife and small fishing communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a local café, enjoying dishes like 'pan con chicharrón' and fresh fruit juices. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic center of Ilo, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Stop by Plaza de Armas, where the beautiful church and fountain provide a perfect backdrop for photos.
Visit the Museo de Ilo, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region through fascinating exhibits. Enjoy lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, trying local specialties such as ceviche and fried fish. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Malecón, soaking in the picturesque views of the ocean and the coastline.
As the sun sets, head to a local bar or restaurant to enjoy a refreshing 'pisco sour' while listening to live music. Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring traditional Peruvian dishes like 'lomo saltado' or 'aji de gallina'. After dinner, take a calm stroll along the beach, where the sound of the waves creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then head to Playa de Ilo, a beautiful beach known for its golden sands. Rent some water sports equipment like kayaks or paddleboards, and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze as you explore the coastal waters. Take a swim in the warm sea, relishing the vibrant marine life.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachside restaurant that offers fresh seafood and snacks. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun, or playing beach volleyball with locals and fellow travelers. For a bit of adventure, join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the underwater wonders of the nearby reefs.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner, sampling freshly grilled fish and local specialties. End the night with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and enjoying the peaceful sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (restaurant/bar) | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30-60 |
| 🚌Intercity bus to regional hub | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh, affordable seafood and authentic coastal cuisine
- Quiet, uncrowded beaches and coastal scenery
- Friendly local community and authentic port-town atmosphere
- Good base for coastal nature, birdwatching and dune activities
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few formal attractions
- Fewer accommodation and nightlife options than larger cities
- Industrial-port activity can create odors or visual contrast with beaches
- Public transport and ATM availability can be limited in off-peak times
- "Hola / Buenos días" - Hello / Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias / Muchas gracias" - Thank you / Thank you very much
- "No como carne / Soy vegetariano(a)" - I don't eat meat / I'm vegetarian
- "¿Me puede ayudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Ilo
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant morning scenes of fishing boats, nets and fishmongers provide dynamic documentary-style photos and close-up textures.
Great for sunset silhouettes, seascapes, locals walking and benches with views of the bay and harbor activity.
Elevated vantage points overlooking the bay offer panoramic shots, especially at golden hour; good for combining sea, town and distant industrial elements.
Contrasting sand, sky and sea create dramatic minimalist compositions; ideal for wide-angle and aerial (drone) photography where permitted.
Colorful produce, local characters and culinary preparations make for lively market photography—respectful permission is recommended.
Food in Ilo
Ilo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Raw fish marinated in lime juice with onion, chili and cilantro; widely available at cevicherías along the waterfront and the fish market.
Must-Try!
Hearty seafood soup or chowder-style dish with shrimp, fish or shellfish, often served with rice and potatoes — perfect for a filling lunch.
Peruvian-style seafood rice, similar to paella, with a mix of local shellfish and fish; common at family restaurants.
Simply grilled whole fish or fillets, highlighting the freshness of local catches; commonly ordered on the malecón.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Active in the mornings when boats offload catch; a great spot for fresh ceviche, fried fish snacks and photogenic scenes of local trade.
Offers local produce, fruits, juices and small food stalls serving traditional lunches and snacks; a good place to try seasonal fruit and local empanadas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake and 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes' are standard. Use formal 'usted' in initial interactions with elders or officials until invited to be informal.
Show respect to older people and families; small talk about family is common and appreciated.
Dress modestly in town and avoid overly loud behavior; beaches can be casual but public decorum remains valued.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets and working environments; many vendors expect a polite request.
Safety
Tipping in Ilo
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if service is good and not already included. Small tips for porters and helpful guides (a few soles) are appreciated. Taxis are usually not tipped; round up the fare if desired.
Cash in Peruvian soles (PEN) is preferred for markets, taxis and small shops; major restaurants and hotels may accept credit cards. ATMs are available but limited—carry enough cash for day trips. US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist transactions but using soles is simpler.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmer, sunnier days and the highest chance of clear skies — ideal for beach visits and boat trips. Sea temperatures are more pleasant for swimming, though currents can still be strong; bring sun protection.
Transitional period with milder temperatures and fewer tourists. Early morning fog is less frequent than winter; comfortable for exploring and outdoor activities.
Cooler weather and frequent coastal mist or garúa can make days gray and slightly chilly, especially mornings and evenings. There is very little rain, but visibility for sea excursions can be reduced.
Warming temperatures and clearer skies return; a good time for birdwatching and coastal outings with moderate crowds.
Ilo at Night
Hiking in Ilo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Walk or hike across the sand dunes south of town for wide desert-sea vistas and unique landscapes; best done with sun protection and water.
Short climbs to nearby hills and cliffs offer panoramas of the bay and port—accessible as half-day excursions and rewarding at sunrise or sunset.
Explore the rocky coastline and tidal pools on foot for birdwatching and coastal flora; follow local guidance about safe paths and tides.
Airports
How to reach Ilo by plane.
Major regional airport serving Arequipa, approximately a 3–4 hour drive north by road; good option for domestic connections and onward travel.
Tacna's airport (Jorge Basadre?) is another regional option to the south; travel time by road varies but can be several hours—buses and private transfers connect the areas.
Peru's main international gateway located in Lima; many travelers fly into Lima and take a domestic flight or long-distance bus to southern coastal cities like Ilo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Ilo's population works in fishing, shipping and port-related industries, shaping the town's rhythms and economy.
Most residents are mestizo with mixed indigenous and Spanish heritage, with cultural influences from coastal Peruvian traditions.
People with Aymara and Quechua backgrounds and other highland migrants live in the region, contributing cultural diversity and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in local fields and followed passionately by residents; small local clubs and amateur matches are common.
Both a livelihood and recreational pursuit along the coast; anglers enjoy nearshore fishing and occasional deep-sea charters.
Informal beach sports such as volleyball and recreational paddling are popular, especially during warm months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ilo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but possible: salads, vegetable rice, potato-based dishes and some sandwiches. Ask for dishes without fish or broth and request extra vegetables. Bring snacks if you rely on varied vegetarian meals.
Vegan dining is more challenging; carry staples (nuts, fruit, bars) and seek out markets for fresh produce. Larger restaurants in bigger cities will offer more choices than Ilo.
Many traditional Peruvian dishes are naturally gluten-free (ceviche, grilled fish, many soups) but check for wheat-based thickeners or breaded items—communicate the restriction clearly in Spanish.