Ica and its dunes, a unique desert experience.

Country

Foundation

Population

Currency

Airport code

Peru

  June 17, 1563

289,861

PEN

AYP

Population according to Data Commons 5, June 2025 information.

📖 A quick introduction

Ica is a place where mysterious past intertwines with profound faith, and adventure awaits at every turn. Are you a fan of the Nazca Lines? Here, amidst the enigmatic pre-Hispanic skulls that challenge science and those geoglyphs blending art with immense curiosity, Ica invites you to unravel ancient secrets. And alongside this, the moving procession of El Señor de Luren will let you feel the deep devotion of a people.

But Ica is much more. It's home to South America's only natural oasis, Huacachina.

With its thriving agriculture supplying the world, Ica is a place where tradition meets modern productivity. Are you ready to explore this fascinating crossroads of desert and living history?

🧠 Interesting facts

🏺Skulls, Surgery & Ancient Style: A Fascinating Dive into Ica’s Regional Museum

Ah, Ica! A place where the past comes alive in the most... how should I put it?... mind-blowing ways! Did you know that the Regional Museum of Ica "Adolfo Bermúdez Jenkins" isn't just about history, but also a good dose of mystery and wonder?

Get ready for this: the museum houses a collection of pre-Hispanic skulls that look like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. Artificial cranial deformation? Yes, you read that right! Ancient societies, like the Paracas, saw this not just as a cultural practice, but also an aesthetic one molding skulls as if they were clay to achieve a very particular look!

But it gets even more intriguing. The museum also features evidence of cranial trepanation. Imagine the surprise of finding proof of brain surgery from centuries ago! It really makes you wonder: how advanced were these ancient surgeons?

And it's not all bones and mystery. Beyond the skulls, the museum takes you on a journey through ceramics, textiles, and funerary bundles.

🌌 Nazca Lines: Alien Masterpiece or Extraterrestrial Message?

Did you know that just a stone's throw from Ica, the arid desert floor holds one of the world's most baffling and awe-inspiring mysteries? We're talking about the Nazca Lines and Pampas of Jumana, an incredible testament to ancient civilizations that flourished in the region between the 8th century BCE and the 8th century CE.

Imagine thousands of colossal figures, etched with astounding precision across the vast desert canvas. From stylized animals and humans to intricate geometric patterns and plant forms, the Nazca people transformed their landscape into a monumental work of art. It’s a sight that continues to puzzle and fascinate researchers and curious minds worldwide!

So, what was their purpose? While the exact reasons remain shrouded in mystery, many experts believe these massive geoglyphs held profound ritual or astronomical significance. They offer a rare glimpse into a civilization with a deeply spiritual worldview and a remarkably unified social structure. How did they achieve such precision on such a grand scale without the benefit of aerial views?

What do you think was the true purpose of these magnificent desert drawings?

🙏 A City United by Faith: The Enduring Miracle of El Señor de Luren

Have you ever witnessed an entire city come alive with an outpouring of faith so profound it moves mountains (or, in this case, survives earthquakes)? Every October, the city of Ica does just that! Thousands of Peruvians gather for the grand procession of El Señor de Luren, the most revered religious symbol in the province.

But this isn't your everyday parade. Imagine a sacred image carried through the streets for more than 24 hours straight, followed by an ocean of devotees moved by tradition and deep devotion. What makes this event truly remarkable, and what people still whisper about with awe, is the miracle that occurred during the devastating 2007 earthquake. While the church was severely damaged, the image of El Señor de Luren remained completely untouched!

Since that extraordinary event, the procession has transformed into more than just a religious celebration. It has become a powerful, living symbol of resilience, unity, and unwavering faith for the people of Ica. It truly makes you wonder about the power of collective belief, doesn't it?

Most Popular

Place

Huacachina

Ever imagined a lush, green paradise smack dab in the middle of a vast desert? Well, that's Huacachina! It's the only natural oasis in South America, nestled among some of the continent's biggest sand dunes. This creates a stunning scene where water, palm trees, and golden sands meet in perfect harmony.

This unique oasis is a tourist favorite for thrilling adventures! Think sandboarding down massive dunes or hopping into a dune buggy for an exhilarating ride across the desert. If you're after an unforgettable adrenaline rush paired with breathtaking natural beauty, Huacachina truly delivers!

Ready for your desert adventure?

Food

Pisco

Did you know Pisco, Peru's national spirit, has a history as rich as its flavor? This traditional liquor, distilled from fermented grape must, holds a Denomination of Origin and is a source of national pride.

Ica province is a standout for Pisco, known for its tradition and quality. And get this: Tacama, South America's oldest winery, is right there in Ica! Founded in the 16th century, this historic vineyard still produces both Pisco and wine today, keeping centuries-old traditions alive.

Ready to taste a piece of history?

Location

Ica is located on the southern coast of Peru.

What moves the city?

The agriculture and winemaking are the twin engines driving the economy in Ica, thanks to its warm climate, incredibly fertile soil, and cutting-edge irrigation, Ica has transformed into one of Peru's most productive agricultural powerhouses!

This isn't just about growing food; it's about leading the way! Ica is a top producer of table grapes, pisco grapes, asparagus (making Peru a global leader in this veggie!), along with delicious avocados and citrus fruits. Much of this bounty isn't just for local tables, it's heading straight for export markets worldwide!

And let's not forget the wine industry. Ica's impressive vineyards produce wines and piscos that earn national and international recognition. This perfect blend of rich land and proud tradition truly makes Ica a key hub for sustainable economic growth.

Additional curiosities

  1. Nearby, in Nazca, you can find the Cantalloc aqueduct, an ancient hydraulic marvel.

  2. The Ica desert boasts some of the clearest skies for astronomy.

  3. According to local legend, Huacachina is home to an enchanted mermaid.

  4. Ica’s dunes are taller than some skyscrapers, with some rising over 100 meters high.

  5. Ica has been a filming location for several movies and documentaries, including The Motorcycle Diaries.

Keep Reading

No posts found