Picture yourself strolling through the lush grounds of a historic hacienda just outside Ica, with the aroma of pisco and fresh dishes filling the air. For around $59 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a generous mix of heritage, craftsmanship, and leisure. Led by friendly guides, you’ll explore the original 1684 distillery, relax by a pool, and savor some of the best pisco and local cuisine in the region.

What we love most about this experience are the insider insights into Peru’s famous pisco-making process and the chance to unwind in a serene setting with a swim and great food. The guided tour gives you a fascinating look into the history and modern techniques of pisco production, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Plus, the delicious lunch and pool time turn this into a well-rounded day of enjoyment.

A possible consideration is that the tour runs for a full 8 hours, so travelers with limited mobility or tight schedules might want to plan accordingly. Also, since it’s a guided experience, you’ll want to be prepared for a group dynamic. This tour suits those interested in Peruvian culture, spirits, and authentic experiences, especially if you enjoy a leisurely day with good food and drinks combined with a dash of history.

Key Points

Historic Distillery: Visit the original 1684 facilities, see traditional equipment like wine presses and falcas.
Guided Experience: Expert guides explain the pisco-making process, blending history with modern techniques.
Animal Encounter: Stroll through the stables, where you’ll meet Peruvian jumping horses, alpacas, guinea pigs, and more.
Relaxation: Enjoy the hacienda’s swimming pool and unwind after touring.
Tastings & Lunch: Sample two international gold medal-winning piscos and indulge in a tasty three-course meal.
Flexible Options: Choose the full experience or just tour the distillery with tasting if pressed for time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring La Caravedo: More Than Just a Pisco Tour

Located in the Ica Region of Peru, La Caravedo is more than a distillery—it’s a piece of living history. The tour begins at 10 am at the hacienda’s main entrance. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink—chilcano for adults and juice for children—setting the tone for a warm, friendly experience. This initial refreshment is a small but thoughtful touch that helps you get into the relaxed vibe of the day.

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The Guided Distillery Tour: A Walk Through Time and Technology

The core of the experience is the guided tour of the distillery, which is truly a journey through time. You’ll start by visiting the original 1684 installations, where traditional tools like the wine press and falcas still stand as reminders of the craft’s roots. Seeing these historical methods side-by-side with the modern machinery offers a fascinating contrast—proof of how the art of pisco-making has evolved without losing its soul.

According to reviews, one of the most appreciated aspects is the detailed storytelling by the guides. They explain—sometimes with humor—and clarify the entire process from grape to glass. Visitors have said, “The tour was very informative, and I loved seeing the original equipment—it makes you appreciate the effort involved in every sip of pisco.” This blend of old and new enriches the experience, making it educational as well as enjoyable.

Meeting the Animals in the Stables

After the distillery, you’ll head to the stables, which might seem like an unexpected highlight. Here, the variety of animals—Peruvian jumping horses, ponies, alpacas, guinea pigs, peacocks, and guinea fowl—add a charming touch of countryside life. The stables aren’t just for show; they reflect the hacienda’s historic connection to agriculture and animal husbandry, giving you a glimpse into rural Peruvian life.

Travelers have noted that the animals are well cared for, and the opportunity to see and sometimes interact with them adds a personal, wholesome element to the tour. It’s a nice break from the industrial aspect of the distillery and gives a sense of the hacienda’s multifaceted character.

Pool Time and Tasting: The Perfect Relaxation

Perhaps the most inviting part of the day is the chance to cool off in the swimming pool. After a morning of walking and learning, a swim offers immediate refreshment, especially if visiting during warmer months. Be sure to bring your swimwear—the pool is often described as clean and inviting.

Following the swim, you’ll enjoy a tasting of two internationally awarded piscos. The gold medals are a testament to the quality and craftsmanship behind La Caravedo’s spirits. Guests have said that the tasting was “really enjoyable and enlightening,” helping them distinguish between different styles and flavors of pisco.

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The Delicious Lunch

No visit is complete without savoring the lunch, which is included in the tour price. The menu typically features three courses combined with soft drinks and water. The food is described as tasty, hearty, and well-prepared—perfect fuel for the rest of your day at the hacienda or on your journey onward.

Several reviewers highlighted the quality of the food, noting that “the lunch exceeded expectations and paired beautifully with the pisco.” This emphasis on good food makes the day feel complete—you’re not just tasting spirits but also indulging in local flavors.

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Flexibility and Additional Options

If you’re pressed for time, there’s also an option to visit only the distillery and enjoy a tasting. This shorter experience still offers insight into the pisco-making process and a chance to sample some excellent spirits, making it ideal for those with tight schedules or limited mobility.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Perfect Mix of History, Culture, and Leisure

This experience excels because it combines educational insights with relaxed enjoyment. The historical aspect of seeing 17th-century equipment helps you appreciate the centuries of tradition behind Peru’s national spirit. The animal encounters and the pool offer a more laid-back vibe, allowing you to unwind while still engaging with local culture.

Authentic Atmosphere and Genuine Details

Travelers consistently mention the friendly guides who are eager to share stories and answer questions. The well-preserved original distillery equipment adds authenticity, reminding you that pisco production isn’t just a modern craft but also a cultural heritage. The quality of the piscos sampled—mentioned as “gold medal-winning”—confirms that La Caravedo takes pride in its product.

Value for the Cost

At $59, the tour offers a comprehensive experience: guided visits, tastings, a delicious lunch, and the chance to relax by the pool. Considering how much you learn and taste, it’s a solid value, especially with the inclusive elements that make it easier to enjoy the day without extra expenses.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for spirits enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful escape from busy itineraries. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a laid-back day with a focus on Peru’s cultural and gastronomic heritage. If you love discovering local traditions with a comfortable, friendly vibe, this tour will hit the spot.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Arrive early: The tour starts at 10 am; arriving on time ensures you don’t miss the welcome drink and start of the tour.
Bring your swimwear: The pool is a highlight for cooling off, especially during warmer months.
Wear comfortable shoes: There’s a fair amount of walking, including around the distillery and animal stables.
Book in advance: The tour is popular, and availability can vary. Check the times and book early, especially during peak seasons.
Consider dietary restrictions: The included lunch is standard, but it’s always good to confirm if you have special dietary needs.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, starting around 10 am. You can also opt for just the distillery visit if you’re short on time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers an English-speaking guide, a welcome drink, two pisco tastings, a three-course lunch, and access to the hacienda’s swimming pool.

Can I just visit the distillery without the full experience?
Yes, there’s an option to visit only the distillery, which includes a tasting of pisco but does not include lunch or pool access.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcomed, and they receive a juice instead of a chilcano. The animals and relaxed pace make it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear if you want to swim, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the scenic grounds.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra food and drinks outside the included meal are not covered. Tips or souvenirs are also not included.

Final Thoughts

The La Caravedo Hacienda Visit offers a well-balanced day immersed in Peruvian culture, history, and flavor. Whether you’re a pisco lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking to enjoy a restful day in the countryside, this tour provides genuine value. Its combination of guided learning, animal encounters, and relaxation by the pool makes it a versatile choice, especially for those interested in authentic local experiences.

If you value high-quality spirits, delicious food, and a sense of stepping back into history while enjoying modern comforts, you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s a chance to deepen your appreciation for Peru’s iconic drink and the craftsmanship behind it—all in a setting that feels both educational and leisurely.

This tour is an excellent pick for those wanting a memorable, relaxed day that celebrates the craftsmanship and tradition of pisco in a setting that’s both authentic and comfortable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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