Just 300 kilometers (187 miles) south of Lima, the city of Ica, nestled in the sun-drenched region that shares its name, is rapidly becoming a standalone destination for Peruvians and regional travelers alike. With its sun-soaked vineyards, fresh coastal-meets-Andes cuisine, and awe-inspiring desert landscapes, Ica is shedding its stopover reputation and emerging as a top choice for wine lovers, foodies, and adventure seekers.
Although international visitation has slowed since the closure of Ica’s airport (which previously enabled overflights of the Nazca Lines), local tourism is booming. And for those planning to visit Paracas or explore the Huacachina Oasis, a stay in Ica is a perfect add-on.
With a sunny climate all year long and fertile valleys enriched by coastal and Andean influences, Ica is an agricultural powerhouse. Beyond endless rows of grapes for wine and Pisco, the region also grows fruit, asparagus, and other export crops.
This natural bounty, combined with warm hospitality and open-air settings, makes Ica a favorite for Peruvian food lovers. Visitors can enjoy:
One of Ica’s greatest charms lies in its connection to Pisco, the emblematic Peruvian spirit. A range of wineries and distilleries offer immersive tours, tastings, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Bonus: an adjacent sister ‘La Olla de Juanita’ restaurant serving authentic local dishes—no frills, no fuss, mostly for locals
When you’re ready to swap sipping for sightseeing, Ica's desert playground offers surreal landscapes and thrilling excursions.
Hidden deep within the vast Ica Desert lies a true geological gem: the Canyon of the Lost.
Once a well-kept secret, this awe-inspiring canyon has gained attention thanks to Instagram, but still remains largely untouched by mass tourism, offering a sense of solitude rarely found in such dramatic landscapes.
Once the floor of an ancient sea, this area is estimated by paleontologists to be 20 to 30 million years old. Fossilized marine remains—such as seashells and even whales—have been uncovered here. See the terracotta-colored fossil in the bottom-left image of the collage below.
In fact, the canyon owes its name to the many who get lost there, due to the absence of signage.
Tucked among golden sand dunes, Huacachina is a magical desert escape perfect for both thrill-seekers and laid-back romantics. The iconic oasis offers:
There are many local providers for buggy tours around the dunes, but if booked in advance, we recommend the 1-hour experience aboard a modern Polaris UTV—for both safety and style.
17:00 hrs (5:00 PM) is ideal. You’ll catch the most breathtaking desert light as the sun begins to set—creating dramatic shadows on the dunes and unforgettable photo opportunities.
After your tour, enjoy a light dinner at Hotel Mossone, just across the oasis. Their terrace offers the perfect vantage point to unwind and take in the last light of day.
On your return to Lima, make a cultural stop at Pachacamac (30 km south of the city), a pre-Inca archaeological site perched above the Pacific.
At the end of our museum visit, we discovered a treasure: the museum shop, showcasing handmade products by local women from nearby communities. Supported by an international NGO with training and microfinance, these artisans have created beautiful souvenirs inspired by Pachacamac’s iconography.
Whether you’re sipping Pisco in a centuries-old cellar, gliding over dunes at sunset, or discovering ancient civilizations by the sea, Ica blends culture, nature, and indulgence like no other region in Peru.
So next time you're planning a journey through Peru - don’t pass through Ica. Stay awhile.
