What to do in Ica - Tourists walking in the Paracas National Reserve with a view of the beach and cliffs in the background

Things to do in Ica Peru: must-see places worth your time

Looking for the ultimate trip to Ica without missing a thing? In this blog, we’ll share the best things to do in Ica – tours, fun, tastings, and more.

Keep reading to build your perfect trip!

Why is Ica a destination worth visiting?

This destination is worth visiting because it has everything in one place: adventure, history, unique landscapes and fun activities. Experience adventure by sandboarding and riding a buggy through the Huacachina dunes. You can also discover the mysterious Nazca Lines or observe the marine wildlife at the Paracas Reserve. In Ica, the question isn’t what to do, but where to start.

Ica is the ideal destination whether you’re traveling with friends, a partner, family, or solo. It has the kind of trip you’re looking for.

When is the best time to travel to Ica?

The best time to visit Peru and the coastal region of Ica is from December to April. 

This is when the sun is out, temperatures are warmer, and the skies are clear. It’s the perfect time for taking photos, going on tours, and enjoying adventures without fog or mist.

Things to do in Ica: experiences that make the difference

Sandboarding and buggy rides on the Huacachina dunes

In the Huacachina oasis, the most popular activity is a dune buggy and sandboarding tour. You’ll ride a buggy through the sand and then slide down the dunes on a board. This adventure offers a pure adrenaline rush, stunning landscapes, and fantastic photo ops.

The guides will give you clear instructions and all the equipment you need, so you can enjoy the adventure without any worries. We set everything up so you can have maximum fun and an unforgettable desert experience.

Boat tour to the Ballestas Islands from Paracas

Just a short boat ride from Paracas, you can enjoy a lively experience. You will see Humboldt penguins, sea lions sunbathing, and thousands of birds flying above.

The tour also includes a stop in front of the mysterious Candelabro, a giant drawing in the sand and We’ll explain the mystery behind it.  This is one of the best things to do in Ica if you love nature, unique sights, and a thrilling boat trip.

Flight over the Nazca Lines

The absolute must-do on your trip to Ica is flying over the Nazca Lines. From the air, you can see large figures like the hummingbird, monkey, and spider. People drew these on the desert floor long ago, but we still do not know why.

The flight lasts about 30 minutes, but the experience will stay with you forever. Seeing them in person is completely different from seeing them in photos. Make your trip to Ica unforgettable by including this flight.

Wine and pisco tasting in traditional vineyards

On our tours, the pisco route is one of the best parts of the trip. You’ll visit traditional wineries, watch producers make artisanal pisco, and try different varieties directly from them.

You’ll get to taste a huge variety of drinks, including different types of pisco like puro and acholado. You can also try sweet and dry wines, and they even make some unique pisco cream liqueurs. You’ll get to experience it all in a local atmosphere with that iconic touch only Ica has.

Discover the los perdidos Canyon

This place is unlike anything else you’ll see in Ica. The Canyon of the Lost (Cañón de los Perdidos) has huge rock formations and dry landscapes. The path makes you feel like you are on another planet.

Getting there takes time, so you’ll need to stay in Ica for at least a day. During the trip, you’ll stop to walk around, see the scenery, and take great photos. If you want to get off the beaten path and see something different, this destination is for you.

Practical tips for your trip to Ica

What to pack for Ica

Recommended Clothing:

  • Light, breathable clothing (cotton t-shirts, blouses, shorts)
  • Comfortable pants for excursions (like trekking pants or joggers)
  • Swimsuit
  • A light jacket for the evening
  • A hat or cap to protect you from the sun

Ideal Footwear:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for relaxing
  • (Optional) Closed-toe shoes if you’re visiting the Canyon of the Lost

Other Useful Items:

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Water bottle
  • Camera or a phone with a good camera (Ica has very photogenic landscapes)
  • A small backpack for carrying your things on excursions

For other destinations in the country, here is a complete list of what to wear in Peru.

How to get there from Lima or other cities

To get from Lima to the city of Ica, you can take an interprovincial bus from one of the main terminals. The trip takes about 4 to 5 hours, and some recommended bus companies are Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa.

You can also drive, and the trip takes around 4 hours with unique views along the way. There are no direct flights to Ica, so the only way to get there is by land.

Ica awaits you with adventure, history, and unique landscapes

Every trip to Ica gives a special experience. You can see deserts, oases, wineries, canyons, and enjoy amazing aerial views. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, Ica has something for everyone.

If you are visiting the cities of Peru and want a place with many experiences, Ica is perfect. Discover the top things to do in Ica and make the most of your visit.

Traveling is about discovering, learning, and creating unforgettable memories, and Peru is the perfect destination for all of that. Its landscapes, history, and culture make every experience unique, filled with moments that will change your life.

We invite you to explore our Peru packages Your experience in Peru is just one step away. Contact us now and start living the unique adventure you’ve always dreamed of.

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