South America
Welcome Kit
Peru
Ica
Located on Peru’s southern coast, Ica is a region where desert, culture, and adventure come together. Known for the Huacachina Oasis, its wine and pisco traditions, and Afro-Peruvian heritage, Ica invites travelers to explore unique landscapes, visit historic wineries, and experience vibrant cultural expressions.
Highlights
In Ica, highlights include the stunning Huacachina Oasis, a peaceful haven surrounded by dunes, perfect for adventurous activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The region is also renowned for its wine and pisco production, with traditional wineries offering tours and tastings. For those wishing to explore the region’s rich history, the Ica Regional Museum is an excellent resource. It features an impressive collection of pre-Inca artefacts and mummies. The Afro-Peruvian music and cultural heritage of the town of El Carmen, which is located nearby, is well-known and celebrated.
General Facts
Ica is a Peruvian city located on the southern coast of the country, set amidst a unique desert landscape. Here are some key facts about this destination:
Location: Ica is located about 4–5 hours south of Lima, easily accessible by car or bus.
Elevation: 406 meters (1,332 feet) above sea level.
Climate: The region enjoys a desert climate with abundant sunshine year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Ica is easily accessible by road from Lima, with a journey time of approximately 4 to 5 hours by car or bus.
For scenic flights over the Nazca Lines, nearby airports such as Pisco and Nazca are well-positioned to serve as convenient hubs. used.
Map Location
Documentation
For a foreigner traveling to Peru, the most common required documentation includes:
Passport: it must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry to Peru.
Visa: for tourists from many countries, a visa is not required if the stay is less than 90 days. However, some countries may need a visa to enter, depending on the purpose of the trip and the visitor’s nationality.
Travel Insurance: although not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen situations during your stay in Peru.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Ica is from April to November, when the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor and desert activities.
From January to February, the region experiences higher temperatures and humidity, yet remains accessible.
Tip: Flights over the Nazca Lines are usually smoother in the morning when winds are calmer.
Clothing
Located in a desert region with strong sun and big temperature swings between day and night, Ica requires light but smart packing.
Essential Items:
Sunscreen – Intense desert sun demands high SPF.
Sunglasses and hat – Key for sun protection during outdoor activities.
Water bottle – Staying hydrated is essential, especially in the dunes.
Recommended Clothing:
Light, breathable clothes – Perfect for daytime heat.
A sweater or light jacket – Evenings can be cooler.
Closed-toe shoes – Ideal for winery visits or walking on sandy terrain.
Tip: Pack for sun, sand, and comfort. Lightweight, sun-protective gear will help you enjoy Ica’s outdoor adventures to the fullest.
Healthcare
Basic healthcare facilities are available in Ica city. For more serious medical needs, Lima offers the best services.
It’s advisable to bring personal medications, especially for sun exposure, dehydration, and motion sickness (useful for flights or dune rides).
Packing
Peru flights allow, as their restrictions are limited to 50 pounds (23 kg) per person.
Currency
As in the rest of Peru, it is used the nuevo sol (PEN). It has been the official currency since 1991, when it replaced the inti due to inflation. Banknotes and coins of various denominations are used, with the most common being 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 soles, as well as coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents.
Electricity
Peru uses 220V voltage and 60Hz frequency. The most common plug types are Type A (flat two-pin) and Type C (round two-pin). Similar to those used in Europe and North America with an adapter.
Local Taxes
Foodie
Ica’s cuisine is characterised by its rich, flavourful dishes, deeply rooted in the ancestral traditions of southern Peru. The following dishes are typical of the local cuisine:
Carapulcra with sopa seca
A traditional stew made with dried potatoes, pork or chicken, and noodles.
Chupe de pallares
A creamy lima bean stew seasoned with local spices.
Seasonal fruits
Figs, grapes, avocados, and more, fresh from the Ica Valley.
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Activities
Dune buggy rides and sandboarding in Huacachina
An unforgettable adventure in the desert dunes.
Wine and pisco tours
Visit traditional wineries for tours and tastings.
Regional Museum of Ica
Learn more about the Paracas and Nazca cultures.
Stroll through Ica’s Plaza de Armas and local markets
Discover the city’s cultural heart.
Afro-Peruvian culture in El Carmen
Enjoy vibrant music, dances, and traditions.
Flight over the Nazca Lines
A must-do experience to admire these mysterious geoglyphs.