Ica is in the desert region south of Lima on the way to one of Peru’s most mysterious sights, Nazca Lines. Many travelers go to Nazca from Lima and miss one of the coolest areas in Peru. Nazca Lines are only two hours from Ica, so it is entirely possible for travelers to actually stay in Ica and visit the Nazca lines a day trip. The beautiful beaches of Paracas is also only an hour away.
Ica is only about 10 minutes from the spectacular Huacachina Oasis. This lagoon is located in the middle of the desert surrounded by huge sand dunes and is probably the inspiration for the desert mirage and the desert oasis pictures so often used in cartoons of your youth. In addition to sunbathe, relax and sip cocktails by the pool, Huacachina amazing dunes provides opportunities for great walks and OPS photo and a sport known as sand boarding, similar to snowboarding, but easier and crazier, like riding dune buggies.
Scientists have also recently found the whale skeleton and the giant shark’s teeth from an extinct species in these dunes, and most hotels can arrange tours to see this amazing sight. Ica is also near the vineyards of Pisco, where Peru’s national drink can be tasted. Napa Valley Peru ICA is one of the best places to go Pisco tasting in world.
Now you want to go, where are you staying? Two of the best hotels in Ica, the Hotel Las Dunas Hotel and Mossone, 4-stars and 3 stars respectively. Las Dunas has been considered the main ICA site for over 30 years now and although a bit outdated, the majority of facilities for guests and is family friendly. Located on spacious and beautiful grounds, this hotel offers three swimming pools, various sports, including horseback riding, miniature golf, and tennis courts. They have an extensive program for children so that guests can relax while the kids are occupied and entertained with a trained hotel staff. For parents, it does not get much better this.
Hotel Mossone is technically in Huacachina and is located in the dunes overlooking the beautiful lagoon. If you are interested in enjoying this surreal desert oasis, this is the place to do it. In the 1920s, this hotel was a playground for the Peruvian elite, and still retains much of its charm. With a large pool, excellent restaurant, bar, and comfortable rooms, it is still the best hotel option in Huacachina lagoon.
This guide to comfortable Peru hotels in Ica was written by a Peru travel expert at Peru For Less, available to help you custom design your exciting and adventurous Peru travel tours.