Weekend in Ica

Ica's main square with a central fountain, well-kept gardens, and benches under large trees. The cathedral sits opposite, and the area is pedestrianised on weekends. A good spot to

Tip: Grab a ceviche from one of the stalls on the side streets for about 10 soles. Avoid the overpriced churros from touts near the cathedral. Best visited late afternoon when the heat drops and people start gathering.

The lagoon at the centre of Huacachina oasis, surrounded by a walking path and some small vendors. Despite being heavily touristy, the water is greenish and the setting is genuinel

Tip: Bring swimwear if you want to paddle; the water is murky but locals swim. Avoid the boat rental—overpriced and the pond is tiny. Best at dawn when the tour groups haven't arrived yet.

A natural desert oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes, with a lagoon and palm trees. You can walk around the perimeter and climb the dunes for panoramic views of the Ica Valley. Entry to the area c

Tip: Skip the overpriced cafes near the car park. Walk around to the far side for quieter spots and better photo angles. Go early in the morning or just before sunset for cooler sand and fewer people.

A small, dusty museum housing pre-Columbian artefacts including mummies, Nazca pottery, and the famous elongated skulls. Explanations are in Spanish only, but the collection is solid and honest about

Tip: Entrance costs about 8 soles (roughly £1.60). Bring a phrasebook or a translation app as there are no English labels. Allow 45 minutes to an hour; it's not huge. Closed on Mondays.

The oldest pisco distillery in the Americas, founded in 1855. You can tour the production area, see vintage barrels, and sample pisco and wine. The estate is large and includes a small museum of colon

Tip: The basic tour costs 15 soles and includes three samples. Go for the 'Premium' tour (25 soles) if you want to taste their older piscos—it's worth it, but book ahead. They sell good-value bottles at the shop, much cheaper than in restaurants.