Ica:
Ica is an oasis in the middle of the desert plains in the south of Peru. In its vineyards are made the best selection of wines and piscos. Their quality is well known around the world. Ica has sand dunes, Black and Creole music, witches, and delicious sweets known as tejas (stuffed candy) or frijol colado (pudding made from cooked beans).
In the desert plains are the remains of three ancient cultures: Paracas, Nazca and Wari. During the conquest, the noble Luis Jeronimo de Cabrera founded Ica under the ruling of the Virrey Conde de Nieva, in 1563. The region is located a few hours from Lima so it is easy to get there by car or bus and enjoy the landscape and the cities on the way. Chincha and El Carmen are the first stops.
In these two cities you can see the heritage of the African slaves brought during the colony. You can enjoy delicious food and black music, accompanied by the rhythm of the cajon (a wooden hollow box). Not very far is Pisco, the city and port that originated the name of the spirituous liquor made from grapes. Further ahead is the Paracas reserve, an area that protects the only marine ecosystem of the country. Continuing south, you can see the city of Ica.
Near its Main Square is the Sanctuary of the Lord of Luren, an image highly worshipped. Deserts and palm trees, as well as the Huacachina lagoon surround the outskirts of the city. It is a peaceful place, and the best place for a boat ride or for sand boarding. Near the border with Arequipa is Nasca, with its famous Nasca Lines: mysterious giant drawings that continue to astound the world. Stopover in Ica, and enjoy the warmth of this musical city.
