A visit to Ica isn’t complete without discovering Peru’s iconic pisco and its local wines, and this Pisco and Wine Tour offers a delightful glimpse into the country’s vibrant winemaking traditions. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend around 2.5 hours exploring three local wineries, where you’ll taste some of the best pisco, wines, and even creams produced in this region. The tour is designed to be educational and fun, giving you an authentic taste of Ica’s vinicultural culture.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and straightforward the tour is—transportation is included, and the focus on tastings and education makes it perfect for those curious about Peru’s national drink. Plus, the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making each winery visit engaging. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have reported logistical hiccups, such as delays or older transportation. This makes the tour best suited for flexible travelers who can roll with the surprises and still enjoy the experience.

If you’re interested in Peruvian culture and enjoy sampling local beverages, this tour offers a genuine, affordable way to learn about pisco and regional wines. It’s ideal for curious travelers, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational activity in Ica.

Key Points

Affordable and concise: A 2.5-hour tour at $35 offers good value for wine and pisco tastings.
Educational and interactive: Insightful visits to three different wineries reveal the production process and history.
Authentic experiences: Tasting at family-run wineries provides a genuine glimpse into local traditions.
Comfortable transport: Included minibus transport makes traveling between wineries easy.
Knowledgeable guides: Guides are enthusiastic and eager to share insights into pisco’s history and nuances.
Potential logistical challenges: Some reviews mention delays and older transport, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Ica Pisco and Wine Tour

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Ica

The Itinerary and Wineries Visited

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Ica, which is a major plus for convenience—no need to hunt down meeting points. Once aboard the minibus, the journey takes you to three local wineries, each with its own character and history.

Nietto Winery is the first stop. Here, you’ll get an overview of how the region’s wines and piscos are made. This is where the tour dives into the production process, and you’ll have a chance to taste these drinks fresh from the source. It’s a great start because it sets the stage for understanding what makes Ica’s beverages unique—especially the grape spirits that are central to Peruvian culture.

Next, you visit El Catador, where you’ll see an old winepress and enormous fermentation jars—vintage equipment that tells a story of tradition. The guide explains the fermentation process, and you’ll sample their wines, piscos, and creams. This stop is particularly interesting for those who appreciate the craft of winemaking and want to see the tools that have stood the test of time.

The final stop is Lazzo Winery, which features a small museum dedicated to the history of pisco in the family’s tradition. Here, you’ll learn about different grape strains used for pisco and discover the subtle differences they impart. Of course, another tasting session wraps up the visit, leaving you with a good sense of the region’s rich flavors.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

The entire experience is designed to be engaging but relaxed—perfect if you’re not looking for an overly commercialized or rushed activity. Expect to sample a variety of piscos, wines, and creams, often accompanied by explanations from enthusiastic guides who love sharing their knowledge.

The tours are generally conducted in English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication. The guide’s passion for the subject helps make the experience memorable, especially when explaining the significance of each grape variety or the historical context of pisco’s popularity.

The transportation is by minibus, which keeps the group together and makes for easy travel between stops. However, some reviews have mentioned that the seats can be old and uncomfortable, and the driver’s speed or attention might not always meet everyone’s expectations—so if you prefer a smooth, quiet ride, this might be a minor consideration.

Authenticity and Educational Content

What sets this tour apart is the focus on local wineries and family-run operations. Visiting these smaller, family-owned businesses means you’re getting a taste of authentic Peruvian culture rather than a touristy showpiece. The museum at Lazzo further adds context, emphasizing how pisco has played a part in shaping regional identity.

Guides are keen to answer questions and explain nuances, like how different grape strains influence flavor profiles. These details are especially appreciated by those who love tasting and comparing, as you’ll see how subtle differences in grapes or fermentation can lead to distinct flavors.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value and Price

At $35, this tour is quite reasonable considering the three winery visits and tastings included. The price covers both the transportation and the guidance, making it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of organizing separate visits. Although some reviewers mention logistical issues, the core experience remains strong—particularly if you’re interested in learning about Peru’s pisco and wine culture rather than just drinking for fun.

It’s worth noting, as one review pointed out, that there was an unexpected lunch some travelers had to pay for themselves after the tour. While not included, the tour’s focus is on the tastings and education, so planning for a meal afterward is advisable.

While you're exploring Ica, here are other experiences we've looked into

Who Would Love This Tour

This experience is best suited for curious travelers eager to understand Peru’s national drinks in an informal setting. It’s ideal if you enjoy tastings and want a behind-the-scenes look at local production methods. The tour is also good for those who appreciate authentic family-owned wineries over larger commercial operations.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to logistical hiccups or prefer very modern transportation, some patience might be required. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of winery visits and the transport setup.

Final Thoughts

This Pisco and wine tour in Ica offers a fantastic way to experience Peru’s most beloved beverages in a compact, engaging package. The combination of guided tastings, local winery visits, and insights into pisco’s history makes for a memorable half-day adventure. The focus on authenticity and local family-run wineries helps you get a true sense of Ica’s viticultural roots.

While there are some logistical quirks, like older bus seats and occasional delays, these don’t overshadow the core value of learning and tasting. Plus, the friendly, knowledgeable guides make the experience lively and informative. It’s a wonderful activity for wine enthusiasts, culture lovers, or anyone curious about Peru’s national spirit.

If you’re in Ica and want a fun, educational, and tasty experience that costs less than many wine tastings in more touristy areas, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared to embrace a few surprises along the way and enjoy every sip!

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff in Ica, as well as transport by minibus between wineries.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 2.5 hours long, so plan accordingly for your day.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your passport or ID, a camera to capture the views, and cash for any additional purchases or tips.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English and Spanish, with guides happy to accommodate English-speaking guests.

Can I book last-minute?
Yes, but check availability by email before booking, especially for last-minute reservations, to avoid disappointment.

Is there an age restriction?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users because of winery access.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are the wineries large or small?
You’ll visit family-run wineries, which give a more authentic, personal experience compared to large commercial operations.

What is pisco?
Pisco is a grape spirit that is Peru’s national drink, known for its distinctive flavor and cultural significance.

Is food included?
No, the tour does not include food, but some travelers have found the tastings quite filling. There may be an unexpected lunch at their own expense afterward.

This Pisco and Wine Tour in Ica gives you a flavorful, insightful look into Peru’s drinks scene—and a chance to savor some unforgettable tastes in a friendly setting. Whether you’re a wine lover or just curious about local traditions, it’s a compact adventure well worth your time.