Ica

Peru

Saturday, September 20, 2025

Sunrise

5:52 AM

Sunset

5:59 PM

About

Ica, Peru is a charming city located on the southern coast of the country. Known for its stunning desert landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, it is a popular destination among both locals and tourists. Take a stroll through the Plaza de Armas, visit the famous Huacachina oasis, or sample some of the region's world-renowned wines. Ica is a must-see destination for anyone exploring Peru.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Huacachina Oasis

A picturesque oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes, perfect for sandboarding and dune buggying.
2. Paracas National Reserve

A protected coastal marine area with diverse wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and dolphins.
3. Nazca Lines

Mysterious geoglyphs etched into the desert floor that can only be viewed from high above.
4. Cathedral of Ica

A stunning Neo-Gothic cathedral built in the early 20th century, with intricate stained glass windows and ornate altars.
5. Ballestas Islands

A group of rocky islands inhabited by sea birds and marine animals, including Humboldt penguins and fur seals.
6. Museo Regional de Ica

A museum showcasing the pre-Columbian history and culture of the Ica region, with displays of pottery, textiles, and mummies.
7. Tambo Colorado

A well-preserved Inca archaeological site, featuring colorful murals and intricate stonework.
8. Museo de Piedras Grabadas

A small museum housing a collection of engraved stones from the Nazca culture, depicting animals, humans, and complex geometric patterns.
9. Casa de la Hacienda San José

A beautiful colonial-era mansion turned hotel, surrounded by vineyards and gardens.
10. El Señor de Luren Sanctuary

A religious shrine that houses a revered wooden statue of Christ, said to have miraculous healing powers.
11. Cachiche Witchcraft Village

A tiny village with a reputation for witchcraft and sorcery, with legends of cursed wells and supernatural beings.
12. La Achirana del Inca

A tranquil park with a natural spring and walking trails, named after the water channel created by Inca rulers.
13. El Carmen Monastery

A 17th-century monastery with a beautiful cloister and impressive collection of religious art.
14. Wineries and Vineyards

Ica is known for its wine production, and visitors can tour vineyards and taste locally made wines.
15. Cruz del Sur Observatory

A modern astronomical observatory located in the desert, offering guided tours and stargazing experiences.
16. Laguna de Huacachina

A small lake in the middle of the Huacachina Oasis, surrounded by palm trees and providing a serene spot for boating.
17. Peruvian Paso Horse Farms

The elegant Peruvian Paso horse is a national symbol, and visitors can see them up close at local breeding farms.
18. Cerro Saraja

A mountain with panoramic views of Ica and the surrounding desert, accessible by a challenging hiking trail.
19. Pedro de Osma Museum

A museum in the nearby town of Chincha showcasing antique furniture, ceramics, and silverwork from colonial Peru.
20. Chanchay Cultural Park

A park with exhibits and performances showcasing traditional music, dance, and costumes of the Afro-Peruvian culture.
21. Quistococha Zoo

A zoo and nature reserve in the nearby city of Pucallpa, featuring native Amazonian animals and a beach area.
22. La Casona del Cementerio

A renovated colonial-era mansion turned hotel, located next to Ica's picturesque cemetery.
23. Mercado Modelo

Ica's central market, offering stalls selling local produce, handicrafts, and street food.
24. Pisco Elqui Vineyards

A winery located in the nearby Elqui Valley, known for producing Chilean pisco and offering tours and tastings.
25. Punta San Juan Reserve

A protected coastal area with a sanctuary for Humboldt penguins and other marine birds.
26. Poopó Geothermal Field

A geothermal field with bubbling mud pots and hot springs, located on the outskirts of Ica.
27. La Iglesia del Senor de los Milagros

A picturesque colonial-era church with a striking blue facade, located in the town of Lunahuana.
28. Los Libertadores Park

A park in the center of Ica with walking paths, a playground, and a large monument honoring the country's founding fathers.
29. Marco Antonio Eguren Winery

A boutique winery known for producing high-quality wines from traditional grape varieties, offering tours and tastings.
30. Pachacamac Archaeological Site

A large pre-Columbian archaeological site located on the outskirts of Lima, featuring pyramids, temples, and ceremonial plazas.