Ica: Pisco Route | Tacama, Arrabal, Bodega Lovera |

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Location: Ica Region, Peru

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Price: $45 per person

Duration: 7 hours (Check availability for start times)

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply curious about Peru’s famous piscos and wines, this tour offers a solid introduction to Ica’s most renowned wineries. For $45, you get a guided journey through three historic haciendas: Tacama, El Arrabal, and La Vieja Bodega Lovera. The tour kicks off at around 10:30 am and wraps up by late afternoon, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule.

What we particularly like about this experience is the chance to visit Tacama, the oldest winery in South America, and taste their impressive variety of wines, piscos, and sparkling wines. Plus, the small group size (limited to 15 participants) ensures you get personalized attention from your guide, which really enhances the experience. Another highlight is the opportunity to learn about the local wine-making process and history directly from passionate guides—adding depth beyond just sipping.

A possible drawback is the tour’s relatively short duration—some reviews note that it feels more like a condensed half-day than a full day. If you’re expecting a long, leisurely exploration, keep in mind that the actual visits finish around 1 p.m., and the entire trip lasts about 7 hours including transport. Also, note that entrance fees to Tacama are not included in the $45 price and cost an additional $7.

This tour suits travelers who want an efficient, well-organized overview of Ica’s wine scene, especially if you’re pressed for time but want authentic tastings and insights. It’s ideal for those who enjoy guided experiences, small groups, and historical vineyard visits.

Key Points

Historic Wineries: Visit South America’s oldest winery, Tacama, with a chance to taste sparkling wines and piscos.
Authentic Tasting Experiences: Multiple tastings at each location, guided by knowledgeable hosts.
Educational Insights: Learn about the local wine-making traditions and history from passionate guides.
Convenient Schedule: Starts at around 10:30 am and ends by 4:30 pm, fitting comfortably into a day.
Small Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
Additional Fees: Entrance to Tacama costs $7, and holiday visits may incur extra charges.

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A Deep Dive into the Pisco Route Experience

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Starting the Day: Pickup and First Stop at Tacama

The journey begins with hotel pickup near the Plaza de Ica, typically around 10:30 am, giving you a moment to settle in and prepare for the day ahead. Your guide, whose name isn’t specified but known for friendly expertise, will accompany you throughout. The first visit is to Hacienda Tacama, a landmark not just because of its age but for its contributions to wine and pisco production in South America. Expect to walk through historic cellars, admire the architecture, and hear stories of how this estate has survived over centuries.

While the cost of admission is $7, the experience is well worth it, since Tacama produces a diverse array of wines, piscos, and sparkling options. In this setting, we loved the way the guide explained the significance of each drink and how the estate’s history shapes its products today. As one reviewer noted, the “vineyards are very educational, cool and delicious”—a sentiment that echoes here.

Visiting El Arrabal and Lovera Bodega

Next, the tour takes you to El Arrabal Winery, a smaller, but equally interesting operation. It’s a good chance to contrast the industrial scale of Tacama with a more boutique vibe. The tasting here allows you to appreciate different wine styles, and your guide will share insights into local traditions.

Finally, you visit La Vieja Bodega Lovera, the mother of the Lovera wineries in Ica. This estate offers a glimpse into the more traditional, family-run approach to winemaking. You’ll get to taste their offerings and learn how local methods influence the final product. One aspect visitors often appreciate is the genuine family history embedded into these wines, making each sip more meaningful.

What You’ll Experience

Across all three stops, guided tours include tastings—a generous sampling of the wines and piscos produced on-site. The tasting sessions are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, helping you distinguish between different varieties and styles. Expect to learn about the wine-making process, the types of grapes used, and how climate influences the flavors.

The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience not just about tasting, but understanding what makes Ica wines unique. Besides, the small group setup ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour’s timing is convenient, some travelers mention that it’s shorter than expected. Anke’s review highlights that “by 1 p.m., it was already over,” and she notes the trip feels more like about 3 hours of actual winery visits. If you’re looking for a leisurely, full-day experience with ample tasting and exploration time, you might find this tour quick.

Entrance fees are separate, and holiday visits may add a small surcharge, so be prepared with cash or your card for extras. Also, remember to wear comfortable shoes and sun protection—the sunny Ica climate can be intense, especially in the vineyards.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $45, this tour delivers a combination of historical significance, engaging guide-led tastings, and a compact but rundown of Ica’s wine production. The inclusion of three different wineries provides variety—ranging from the historic Tacama to family-run Lovera—giving you both depth and breadth in understanding Peru’s viticulture.

The guided nature of the tour enhances the experience, transforming simple tastings into learning opportunities. The small group size makes it feel more intimate, ideal for travelers who dislike large crowds or prefer personalized insights.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a quick yet authentic introduction to Ica wines and piscos without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It suits those interested in history, traditional wine-making, and tasting a range of local drinks in a relaxed, guided setting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a practical, engaging way to taste some of Peru’s best wines and piscos while learning about their heritage, this tour offers solid value. It’s a smart choice for those with limited time but a desire for authenticity and insight. The knowledgeable guides, historic estates, and variety of tastings make for a memorable, educational experience.

Just keep in mind the shorter duration and extra costs for entrance fees—plan accordingly if you want a more leisurely pace. For those who appreciate small groups and expert commentary, this tour hits the right notes.

Overall, it’s a wonderful way to deepen your understanding of Ica’s wine culture, especially if you’re keen to pair your tasting experience with a bit of local history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since the focus is on wine and pisco tastings, this tour isn’t ideal for children or non-drinkers. However, the guide’s insights about the history and process might still interest those accompanying adult guests.

How much does the entrance to Tacama cost?
The entrance fee to Tacama is $7, which isn’t included in the tour price. Holiday visits may also have an additional S/5 fee per person.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll walk through vineyards and winery facilities. Sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended given the sunny Ica climate.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, but it’s wise to check availability with the provider via email first, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to avoid disappointment.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. The focus is on winery visits and tastings. If you’re hungry afterward, plan to explore local eateries in Ica.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with certain pre-existing medical conditions, as the wineries involve some walking and uneven surfaces.

This Ica Pisco Route tour balances history, authentic tastings, and scenic vineyard visits—perfect for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Peruvian winemaking with a manageable time commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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