Things to do in Ica caught my attention while planning my latest Peru adventure, and I’m so glad they did. Peru is one of my favorite destinations. I always plan to return several times a year to different places, and even when I revisit somewhere, each experience ends up being unique. In this country, there’s no room for boredom: every corner has something special to offer.
I recently traveled to Ica and, as those who read me regularly know, I usually organize my trips down to the last detail so I don’t miss anything. This time was no exception. That’s why I want to share with you everything I compiled about the best things to do in Ica. Truth is, I didn’t have enough time to experience it all, but that means I have a good excuse to return soon.
I hope this guide serves as inspiration for you. And if you haven’t decided where to travel on your next vacation yet, take advantage of all this material that I’m lovingly sharing with you. I’m sure that, just like what happened to me, you’ll discover that Ica is a destination you’ll enjoy every step of the way.
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The 14 things to do in Ica in 2025
1. Explore the Huacachina Oasis
If there’s something that defines the things to do in Ica, it’s definitely visiting Huacachina. This natural oasis left me speechless. Imagine an emerald green lagoon completely surrounded by golden dunes that seem straight out of a tale from One Thousand and One Nights.
What I loved most was walking around the lagoon at sunrise. At that hour there are practically no tourists, and the reflection of the water with the palm trees creates a magical atmosphere. The contrast between the green of the oasis and the intense gold of the dunes is simply spectacular. It’s no wonder this ranks among the top things to do in Ica for every type of traveler.
How to get there: Huacachina is only 5 km from downtown Ica. You can take a taxi (approximately 10 soles), a mototaxi (5 soles), or walk for 45 minutes along Finlandia Avenue.
Relevant tips:
- Arrive early (7:00 AM) or at sunset for the best photographs
- Entry is free, you only pay for accommodation if you’re staying
- Bring water because there aren’t many vendors around the lagoon
Additional information: The lagoon has healing properties according to locals. The water is brackish and swimming isn’t recommended, but you can rent kayaks or paddle boats to navigate.
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2. Sandboarding on South America’s largest dunes
Have you ever tried sandboarding? I hadn’t, until I got to Ica. The dunes surrounding Huacachina are perfect for this activity and, honestly, it was one of the most fun experiences of my entire trip.
There are two ways to do it: you can go down standing on the board (harder but more exciting) or lying face down sled-style. I tried both and I recommend starting with the second option to build confidence. The sensation of speed and adrenaline you feel descending these enormous sand mountains is indescribable.
How to get there: The dunes are literally around Huacachina. Walk 5 minutes from any hotel in the oasis and you’re already at the base of the dunes.
Relevant tips:
- Wear clothes you can get dirty – sand gets everywhere
- Protect cameras and phones with plastic bags
- The best time is from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM to avoid extreme heat
- Always go with a certified guide for safety
Additional information: Tours include the necessary equipment and an instructor. The average price is between 30-50 soles per person. The boards are waxed with special wax to slide better on the sand.
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3. Dune buggy rides through the desert
After sandboarding, nothing beats hopping on dune buggies to explore the dunes. These specially modified 4×4 vehicles take you on a ride that combines speed, incredible landscapes, and spectacular sunsets.
During the tour, the driver makes strategic stops at the highest dunes so you can take panoramic photos. From up there, the view of Huacachina and the entire region is simply breathtaking. It’s like being on another planet.
How to get there: Tours depart directly from Huacachina. All the agencies are concentrated around the lagoon and you can book the service by walking around the area.
Relevant tips:
- Book in advance during high season (July-August)
- Bring a bandana or buff to protect yourself from dust during the ride
- Combined tours (sandboarding + dune buggies) are more economical
- Negotiate the price if you’re going in a group of 4 or more people
Additional information: Tours last between 2-3 hours and cost between 35-60 soles per person. They include hotel pickup, sandboarding equipment, and photo stops. Dune buggies have capacity for 8-12 people.
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4. Flying over the Nazca Lines
Although technically the Nazca Lines are in the nearby desert, most tours depart from Ica. This aerial experience was, without a doubt, one of the most impactful of my trip. Seeing those enormous geoglyphs from the air makes you reflect on pre-Columbian civilizations and their incredible engineering capacity.
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes and the pilot takes care of tilting the small plane so all passengers can clearly see the figures: the hummingbird, the monkey, the spider, the astronaut, among others. It’s an experience that connects you directly with Peru’s millenary history.
How to get there: Tours depart from the María Reiche airfield in Nazca, 2.5 hours by road from Ica. Most agencies offer transportation included from Ica or you can take buses from Soyuz company.
Relevant tips:
- Take motion sickness pills 1 hour before the flight
- Don’t eat a heavy breakfast – have something light 2 hours before
- Bring a camera with good stabilization
- Right-side seats have better views
- Avoid flights after 11:00 AM due to heat turbulence
Additional information: The average cost is 300-450 soles per person plus airport taxes (35 soles). Flights get canceled due to bad weather, especially in winter because of morning fog. Maximum weight per person: 95 kg.
5. Visit the Ica Regional Museum
Before my trip, I thought regional museums could be boring. This museum proved me completely wrong. The collection of textiles, ceramics, and mummies from the Paracas, Nazca, and Ica cultures is fascinating.
What impressed me most were the perfectly preserved mummies and the Paracas textiles with colors that, after more than a thousand years, remain vibrant. The museum helps you better understand the cultural richness of the region before exploring the archaeological sites.
How to get there: The museum is located at Ayabaca block 8, in downtown Ica. You can walk from the main square in 10 minutes or take a taxi for 5 soles from anywhere in the city center.
Relevant tips:
- Visit in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded
- Allow at least 1.5 hours for the complete visit
- Photography is allowed but without flash
- Combine the visit with other downtown attractions like the Cathedral
Additional information: Entry costs 15 soles for adults and 8 soles for students with ID. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The museum has air conditioning and clean restrooms. Guided tours are available in Spanish for an additional 10 soles.
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6. Explore the Chauchilla Catacombs
If you don’t mind slightly eerie environments, this pre-Columbian cemetery is a must-visit. The open tombs show mummies from the Nazca culture in fetal position, along with textiles, ceramics, and other funerary objects.
What’s impressive is the state of preservation, thanks to the extremely dry desert climate. Walking among these millenary tombs transports you directly to the past and makes you appreciate how these cultures honored their dead.
How to get there: The catacombs are located 30 km south of Nazca city, about 45 minutes by car from Ica. Most agencies offer tours that include transportation, or you can rent a car and drive via the Panamericana Sur highway.
Relevant tips:
- Wear comfortable closed shoes – the terrain is sandy and uneven
- Bring hat and sunscreen as there’s no shade
- Don’t touch the mummies or artifacts – they’re extremely fragile
- The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon
- Respect the site’s sacred nature
Additional information: Entry costs 8 soles per person plus 5 soles for parking. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tours typically last 1-1.5 hours. The site has basic restroom facilities but no food vendors, so bring water and snacks.
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7. Pisco Winery tours
Ica is the birthplace of Peruvian pisco, and taking a tour through traditional wineries is one of the best things to do in Ica. I visited both artisanal and industrial wineries, and each one has its particular charm.
At the artisanal wineries, like Bodega El Catador, I could see the complete process of traditional pisco production. From grape stomping to distillation in century-old copper stills. The tasting includes different types of pisco and regional wines. For anyone interested in cultural and gastronomic things to do in Ica, these tours offer an authentic glimpse into Peru’s national spirit.
How to get there: Most wineries are located in the Ica valley, 10-20 minutes by taxi from downtown. Bodega Tacama is 10 km northeast of the city, while El Catador is closer to the center. Many hotels offer shuttle services or you can join organized tours.
Relevant tips:
- Book in advance, especially during harvest season (February-April)
- Don’t drive if you plan to taste – use taxis or tour services
- Eat something before the tasting to avoid getting too tipsy
- Ask about the production process – guides love sharing knowledge
- Buy bottles directly from the winery for better prices
Additional information: Tours cost between 25-60 soles per person including tasting.
Recommended experience: Bodega Tacama, one of the oldest in America, offers tours that combine history, production process, and tasting. Most wineries are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
You might also be interested in reading: Authentic Peruvian Food: Discovering Peru One Flavor at a Time
8. Taste the local gastronomy
The Ica cuisine pleasantly surprised me. For food lovers, exploring local flavors is one of the most delicious things to do in Ica. The pallares iqueños is a dish you can’t miss: giant beans cooked in creole sauce that melt in your mouth. I also tried frijol colado, a traditional dessert made with black beans, chancaca (brown sugar), and spices.
At the Central Market of Ica, I found the most authentic flavors. The fresh fruit juices, especially tuna juice (prickly pear fruit), are refreshing and perfect for the region’s warm climate. Discovering these culinary treasures should definitely be on your list of things to do in Ica.
How to get there: The Central Market is located on Municipalidad Street, downtown Ica, just 3 blocks from the main square. You can easily walk there from any central hotel or take a mototaxi for 3 soles.
Relevant tips:
- Visit the market in the morning for the freshest ingredients
- Try the tejas and chocotejas (traditional Ica sweets) at local shops
- Don’t miss the anticuchos (beef heart skewers) in the evening
- Stick to busy stalls with high turnover for food safety
- Bring cash – most vendors don’t accept cards
Additional information: A typical meal at the market costs 10-20 soles. Popular restaurants like Restaurant Chincha or El Otro Peñón offer more upscale dining experiences (30-50 soles per person). Sampling the diverse gastronomy is truly one of the most memorable things to do in Ica for any traveler. The market is open Monday to Sunday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with food stalls operating until 8:00 PM.
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9. Paragliding over the dunes
For extreme sports lovers, paragliding over the Ica dunes offers a unique perspective of the region. This is definitely one of the most thrilling things to do in Ica for adrenaline seekers. From the air you can appreciate the immensity of the desert, the contrast with the green valleys, and the Huacachina lagoon like a jewel in the middle of the sand.
Flights are conducted with certified instructors and include all necessary equipment. The sensation of flying over this desert landscape is indescribable and the photographs turn out spectacular. Among all the adventurous things to do in Ica, paragliding provides an unmatched aerial view of the region’s natural beauty.
How to get there: Paragliding tours depart from the highest dunes around Huacachina. Companies pick you up directly from your hotel in Huacachina or downtown Ica, or you can meet at designated points near the oasis.
Relevant tips:
- Wear comfortable, closed shoes and avoid loose clothing
- Bring a secure strap for your camera or phone
- Flights depend on weather conditions – have flexible plans
- Book with certified operators only for safety
- Best flying conditions are early morning or late afternoon
- Weight limits apply (usually 90-100 kg maximum)
Additional information: Tandem flights cost between 150-250 soles per person and last 15-20 minutes in the air. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Ica that combine adventure with breathtaking views, this experience is unforgettable. The entire experience including preparation takes about 1 hour. Most operators include transportation, equipment, and basic instruction.
10. Mountain biking in the Valley
A lesser-known but equally exciting alternative is exploring the nearby valleys by mountain bike. The trails cross vineyards, pre-Columbian huacas, and traditional villages where time seems to have stopped.
This activity allowed me to get to know rural Ica, away from the tourist hustle. I chatted with local farmers, tasted fruits directly from the trees, and discovered landscapes that don’t appear in conventional tourist guides.
How to get there: Mountain bike tours typically start from downtown Ica or are picked up from hotels. The routes head toward the valleys of Subtanjalla, Los Aquijes, or Tate, all within 30 minutes of the city center.
Relevant tips:
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection – the desert sun is intense
- Wear comfortable clothes that can get dusty
- Start early morning to avoid the strongest heat
- Respect private properties and ask permission before entering farms
- Basic Spanish helps for interacting with local farmers
- Check bike condition before departing
Additional information: Full-day tours cost between 80-120 soles per person including bike rental, helmet, and guide. Half-day tours are available for 50-70 soles. Most operators provide mountain bikes in good condition and safety equipment. Tours usually include stops at local farms and archaeological sites.
11. Visit the Church of Señor de Luren
This colonial church houses the image of Señor de Luren, patron saint of the city. Beyond the religious aspect, the architecture and history of the place are fascinating. The church has survived several earthquakes and each reconstruction has added unique architectural elements. For those interested in cultural experiences among the things to do in Ica, this visit offers deep insight into local traditions.
During my visit, I was lucky enough to coincide with a local ceremony. The devotion of Ica residents towards their patron saint is touching and allows you to better understand the local culture. It’s one of those authentic things to do in Ica that connects you with the heart of the community.
How to get there: The church is located on Ayacucho Street, in downtown Ica, just 2 blocks from the main square. You can easily walk there from the city center or take a mototaxi for 3 soles.
Relevant tips:
- Visit during mass times to experience the local devotion
- Dress respectfully – cover shoulders and avoid shorts
- The most important celebration is in October during the patron saint festival
- Photography inside may be restricted during ceremonies
- Free entry but donations are appreciated
- Visit the small museum next to the church
Additional information: The church is open daily from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Mass schedules vary but typically include morning (7:00 AM) and evening (6:00 PM) services. The annual festival of Señor de Luren in October features processions, traditional dances, and local food stalls around the church.
12. Relax at Tambo Colorado hot springs
Although it requires a bit more time to get there, the hot springs near Pisco (approximately 1 hour from Ica) are perfect for relaxing after days full of adventure. The thermal waters have medicinal properties and the natural setting is very peaceful.
How to get there: The hot springs are located about 45 km from Pisco, which is 1 hour from Ica by car. You can take a bus to Pisco (30 minutes, 8 soles) and then a taxi to the springs (20 minutes, 25 soles), or book a tour that includes transportation from Ica.
Relevant tips:
- Bring swimsuit and towel – rental options are limited
- Go early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience
- The water temperature is around 78°C (172°F) – start slowly
- Bring flip-flops for walking around the pools
- Pack snacks and water as food options are basic
- Don’t stay in hot water for more than 20 minutes at a time
Additional information: Entry costs 15 soles per person. The facility is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. There are basic changing rooms and restrooms available. The springs are said to help with arthritis, skin conditions, and muscle tension. Several natural pools of different temperatures are available.
13. Explore Casa-Hacienda San José
This colonial hacienda converted into a boutique hotel offers historical tours that narrate the splendor era of Ica haciendas. The underground tunnels, used during the slavery period, are a silent testimony of a difficult part of Peruvian history.
The colonial architecture is perfectly preserved and the gardens are an oasis of peace. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth taking the tour.
How to get there: Casa-Hacienda San José is located in El Carmen, about 45 minutes from Ica by car. You can take a taxi (80-100 soles round trip), join an organized tour, or rent a car. Some tour operators include it in packages with other attractions.
Relevant tips:
- Book the historical tour in advance – it’s popular among visitors
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the tunnels
- Bring a light jacket as the underground areas can be cool
- Photography is allowed in most areas but ask permission first
- The tour is in Spanish but English guides can be arranged
- Combine with lunch at their restaurant for a full experience
Additional information: Historical tours cost 40 soles per person and last about 1.5 hours. The hacienda is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tours include visits to the colonial rooms, slave quarters, underground tunnels, and gardens. The on-site restaurant serves traditional Afro-Peruvian cuisine (lunch 60-80 soles per person).
14. Visit the Nazca Aqueducts
These underground aqueducts, built by the Nazca culture over 1500 years ago, are an impressive example of pre-Columbian hydraulic engineering. Many are still functioning today, providing water to local communities.
The contrast between the desert’s aridity and these artificial oases created by ancient civilizations is truly surprising. It’s a sustainability lesson that these cultures left us as a legacy.
How to get there: The main aqueducts are located in Cantalloc, about 4 km from Nazca city, which is 2.5 hours from Ica by bus or car. You can take a taxi from Nazca (15-20 soles), join a tour, or walk from the city center (45 minutes).
Relevant tips:
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Wear sturdy shoes – the stone steps can be slippery
- Bring sun protection and water
- Don’t touch the ancient stone structures
- Combine with other Nazca attractions for a full day
- Some aqueducts are still active – respect the water source
Additional information: Entry costs 10 soles per person. The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. About 46 aqueducts exist in the area, with 32 still functioning. The spiraled openings allow access for maintenance, showing the sophisticated engineering. Guided tours (additional 20 soles) explain the construction techniques and cultural significance.
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14. Experience Luxury Glamping 2 Day in Ica
Imagine sleeping under a blanket of stars in the middle of the Peruvian desert surrounded by silence, comfort, and an endless horizon of golden dunes. The Luxury Glamping 2 Day experience redefines adventure, blending the excitement of exploration with the sophistication of modern luxury.
This exclusive tour invites you to enjoy Ica in a completely new way. Instead of a traditional hotel stay, you’ll rest in beautifully designed tents equipped with soft bedding, ambient lighting, and private dining areas. It’s an experience that merges nature, relaxation, and elegance perfect for travelers who want to disconnect without giving up comfort.
How to get there:
The luxury glamping site is located in the Ica desert, about 4 hours south of Lima by car. Most travelers join the experience through a Tour operator that provides round-trip transportation, meals, and guided activities. You can also combine this experience with other Lima Tours or regional excursions, such as visits to the Huacachina Oasis or vineyards.
Relevant tips:
- Book in advance the glamping spots are limited and highly demanded during weekends.
- Bring light clothing for daytime and warm layers for the cool desert nights.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses the sun in Ica is strong even in the morning.
- Stay hydrated; water is provided, but it’s best to carry an extra bottle.
- Disconnect from your phone the signal can be weak, but that’s part of the magic.
- Respect the environment avoid leaving trash or disturbing wildlife.
Additional info:
The Luxury Glamping 2 Day experience usually includes private transportation, full meals (with vegetarian options), camping equipment, and guided desert tours. Prices vary depending on season and package. Nights are spent in elegant tents with soft lighting and high-quality bedding. In the morning, you’ll wake up to a spectacular sunrise and a freshly prepared breakfast surrounded by silence and sand.
This tour is ideal for couples, photographers, and anyone seeking a different way to explore Ica, one that celebrates simplicity, exclusivity, and the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s desert landscapes.
You might also be interested in reading: The 10 best luxury hotels in Cusco
Practical tips for your things to do in Ica adventure
Best time to visit
Ica has a desert climate with sun almost year-round. The months from March to November are ideal because there’s less wind. Avoid December to February if you don’t like too much heat, although personally I think any time is good to visit. The weather remains consistently perfect for most things to do in Ica throughout the year.
How to get there
From Lima, the road trip takes approximately 4 hours via the Panamericana Sur highway. There are also direct buses from Lima’s terminal with companies like Cruz del Sur and Oltursa. If you prefer more comfort, you can hire a private transportation service.
Where to stay
I recommend staying in Huacachina if you’re looking for the complete oasis experience, or in downtown Ica if you prefer more variety of restaurants and services. Prices range from budget hostels to luxury boutique hotels.
What to pack
I recommend staying in Huacachina if you’re looking for the complete oasis experience, or in downtown Ica if you prefer more variety of restaurants and services. Your choice of accommodation will depend on which things to do in Ica are your priority. Prices range from budget hostels to luxury boutique hotels.
After this tour through the best things to do in Ica, I hope I’ve convinced you to include this destination in your next trip to Peru. This region offers a unique combination of adventure, history, culture, and gastronomy that you’ll hardly find anywhere else.
What I loved most about Ica was its versatility. In a single day you can fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines, slide down golden dunes on a sandboard, taste artisanal piscos, and end by contemplating a sunset over South America’s most beautiful oasis. It’s a destination that adapts to all types of travelers: from adventurers seeking adrenaline to those who prefer quieter cultural experiences. This incredible variety is what makes the things to do in Ica so special and memorable.
My final advice is to take at least 3-4 days to fully enjoy everything Ica has to offer. Just like what happened to me, you’ll surely end up planning a return trip because there’s so much to discover that one trip isn’t enough. With so many amazing things to do in Ica, it’s impossible to experience everything in just one visit. Ica isn’t just another destination on Peru’s map; it’s a transformative experience that combines the best of Peruvian adventure, history, and culture in one place.
Are you ready for your adventure in Ica? I’m sure that, just like what happened to me, this destination will win you over from the very first moment.
