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Ica, a coastal region of extreme contrasts: immense desert sand dunes, fertile valleys, exotically twisted and intertwined Huarango trees. Ica is also the name of the provincial capital: A name synonymous with grape Pisco brandy, the ocean and adventure travel activities.
A recommended destination from which to visit the Nazca Lines, the Paracas National Reserve and the desert oasis of Huacachina, a mesmerizing desert oasis that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and exhilarating adventure.
Whether you’re lounging by the lagoon, sipping on a Pisco sour, or racing down a dune on a sandboard, Huacachina promises an experience that’s both enchanting and exhilarating.
Enjoy traditional Vendimia wine festival during the grape harvest every March.
Also, the festivals of Señor de Luren and of the Virgin del Carmen of Chincha. Book your Ica tours in 2025!
To book your Ica tours now or consult with us, fill out the “Contact Us” form and a Fertur Peru Travel coordinator will contact you within one working day with detailed information about your fully customizable trip.
Fertur Peru Travel’s pledge is to offer you top-quality, individualized attention that starts with the planning of your trip and continues through your journey to guarantee a great vacation.
Prices available upon request
Prices available upon request
In southern Peru’s coastal desert, Ica brings together vineyard country, pre-Columbian history, and wind-sculpted dunes. From pisco bodegas and the Huacachina oasis to nearby geoglyphs and archaeological sites, the region rewards travelers looking beyond the Andes.
Just three miles (5km) from the city of Ica lies the Huacachina Oasis, a popular center for fun and recreation. This picturesque oasis, surrounded by towering sand dunes, offers activities such as sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and paddle boating on the tranquil lagoon. Huacachina is also home to comfortable hotels, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure.
The Paracas National Reserve, a stunning coastal ecosystem, covers an area of 828 acres and includes deserts, beaches, islands, cliffs, and coastal waters. This reserve is home to a variety of species such as pelicans, flamingos, penguins, dolphins, sea lions, and numerous fish and crustaceans. A one-hour boat ride to the northwest leads to the Ballestas Islands, where visitors can see a large number of guano birds and sea lions.
Located just outside the confines of the Paracas National Reserve, the Ballestas Islands are a habitat for a vast number of birds and sea lions, all visible from a boat. This excursion is one of the most popular from Paracas and offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the diverse marine life of the region.
The Tambo Colorado Archaeological Site is a remarkably well-preserved Incan community, possibly built during the reign of Inca Emperor Pachacutec. This site likely served as temporary lodgings for soldiers and local authorities. Exploring Tambo Colorado offers a unique glimpse into Incan architecture and community planning.
Ica is renowned for its production of wine and pisco, Peru’s national drink. Visitors can tour various bodegas (wineries) in the region to learn about the production process and enjoy tastings of these exquisite beverages. The International Harvest Festival, held during the first two weeks of March, celebrates the grape harvest with wine, pisco, and cachina (mature grape juice) tastings, gastronomic fairs, parades, and live music.
Celebrated during the first two weeks of March, the International Harvest Festival in Ica is a vibrant celebration of the grape harvest. The festival features wine, pisco, and cachina tastings, gastronomic fairs, parades with allegorical characters and floats, the crowning of the festival queen, and live music events. It is an event that showcases the region’s rich agricultural heritage and festive spirit.
Held during Holy Week and on the third Monday of October, the Lord of Luren Religious Festival is a significant event in Ica. The procession of the city’s patron saint, the Lord of Luren, is a major highlight, attracting thousands of faithful participants. The festival also includes fairs, games, and various cultural activities.
During the last week of February, Ica hosts an Afro-Peruvian dance contest, part of a broader celebration that includes pisco and wine tastings, gastronomic fairs, and handicraft expositions. This event highlights the region’s diverse cultural influences and traditions.
The Palpa Geoglyphs, located in the district of Llipata, are enormous geometric figures and drawings representing deities from the Nazca culture. These geoglyphs can be viewed from a tower stationed along the Pan-American Highway South, providing another intriguing glimpse into the ancient Nazca civilization.
The Antonini Teaching Museum in Nazca features a collection of archaeological relics from different time periods of the Nazca culture, including trophy heads, musical instruments, textiles, funeral bundles, and part of the Visambra aqueduct. This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich cultural history of the Nazca people.
Cachiche is a small village near Ica, famous for its legends of witches and its ancient witch tree. Visitors to Cachiche can explore the myths and stories surrounding the village, adding an element of mystery and folklore to their journey.
Ica is a city that seamlessly blends historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. From exploring its world-class archaeological sites and vibrant festivals to experiencing the stunning landscapes of the Huacachina Oasis and the Paracas National Reserve, visitors will find a wealth of experiences to enrich their journey. Join us in discovering the highlights and rich heritage of Ica, a destination that promises to captivate and inspire.
While Huacachina is primarily known for its picturesque lagoon surrounded by sand dunes, swimming is not recommended due to water quality concerns. Paddle and row boats can be rented, however.
No, Huacachina is a natural oasis. However, the water level has been maintained artificially in recent years to preserve its appeal as a tourist destination.
Huacachina is located just three miles (5 kilometers) from the city of Ica. It can be reached by taxi or local transportation from Ica.
Yes, like many areas near water, there can be mosquitoes in Huacachina. It’s advisable to bring insect repellent, especially in the evenings.
Comfortable, breathable clothing is recommended due to the hot desert climate. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are essential for protection against the sun.
Swimming is allowed in designated areas of the Paracas National Reserve. However, be cautious of strong currents and marine life.
Yes, Paracas is worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and proximity to the Ballestas Islands, offering unique marine experiences.
Paracas is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
To get to Cusco from Paracas, you can take a bus to Lima and then a flight to Cusco. Alternatively, there are long-distance bus services that connect Paracas and Cusco directly.
Paracas is pronounced as “Pah-rah-kahs.”
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