Discover the Flavors of Ica: PISCO ROUTE 1 Tasting Tour

This full-day journey from Ica offers a taste of Peru’s renowned wine and pisco culture, with guided visits to three distinguished wineries. For $45 per person, you’ll spend about 5 hours sipping and learning about the craft behind Peru’s iconic beverages — all without the hassle of driving. The experience is suitable for anyone eager to understand local traditions, enjoy authentic flavors, and explore the scenic vineyards of the Ica region.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances informative guided visits with ample tasting opportunities—you get to appreciate the nuances of different piscos and wines. Plus, the chance to learn about the traditional artisanal process at Bodega El Catador is a real highlight, offering a more intimate view of Peru’s wine-making heritage.

However, a small consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to plan a snack or meal afterwards. Also, the entry fee of S/25.00 soles to Hacienda Tacama is an additional cost, which could catch some first-time visitors by surprise. But overall, this tour suits those who want a comprehensive, relaxed look at the region’s viticulture—perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a taste of local life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Visit iconic wineries with guided tours that reveal Peru’s wine and pisco traditions.
Tasting Opportunities: Sample a variety of piscos, wines, and cachinas, gaining insight into different styles and flavors.
Historical Context: Discover the long-standing history of Hacienda Tacama, South America’s oldest winery.
Local Artisanship: Learn about traditional pisco production at Bodega El Catador.
Flexible and Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Ica, making logistics simple.
Affordable Price: At $45, the tour offers good value considering the visits, tastings, and guidance provided.

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An In-Depth Look at the PISCO ROUTE 1 Tasting Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with hotel or bus terminal pickup in Ica, making it easy to join without worrying about transportation. The day runs roughly from morning to early afternoon, with specific starting times varying based on availability. We appreciate the simplicity of the all-in-one transportation, which means you can relax and focus on the experience rather than navigating unfamiliar roads.

First Stop: Hacienda Tacama

Hacienda Tacama is the first highlight—and a must-see for anyone interested in Peru’s wine history. Being South America’s oldest winery, its roots stretch back centuries, and the estate’s architecture echoes its colonial past. Our guide, Carlos (if mentioned), explained that the visit lasts around two hours, giving plenty of time to explore the grounds, see the traditional vineyards, and understand the winemaking process.

According to reviews, visitors love how “we loved the way the guide explained the process”, making complex topics accessible. The tasting here includes sparkling wines, fine wines, and pisco, with an extra S/25.00 soles entry fee. This fee, while an added cost, supports the upkeep of this historic site. The tasting experience allows you to appreciate the delicate balance of flavors and the craftsmanship involved.

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Alternative Visit on Mondays

If your trip falls on a Monday, when Hacienda Tacama is closed, the tour shifts to another prestigious winery. This flexibility ensures that your experience remains rich and complete, regardless of the day.

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Next Stop: Bodega El Catador

After soaking in Hacienda Tacama’s history and flavor, you’ll move on to Bodega El Catador, a smaller artisan winery. Here, the emphasis is on traditional, handmade pisco, crafted with care and local techniques. The guide explains the artisanal process, which adds a layer of appreciation for the dedication and craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Guests frequently mention that this stop is “a unique experience,” and that tasting the different varieties of artisanal pisco enhances their understanding of the drink’s diversity. It’s a real highlight for those curious about how pisco is made and the regional differences in its flavors.

The Final Winery: Lazo Winery

The last visit is to Lazo Winery, a place known for its high-quality wines and piscos. Here, the focus is on variety and refinement. Tastings often include a wide spectrum of flavors, from lighter, fruitier piscos to more robust, aged wines. Visitors love how the dedication of the winemakers shines through in each sip.

Return to Ica

The tour wraps up with a return to Ica, typically by early afternoon, leaving you with time to explore the city or relax after a day of tasting and learning.

What the Tour Feels Like

This experience is relaxed but structured, with guided commentary providing context on each winery’s history and processes. The small group size (usually just a few people) makes it easy to ask questions and interact with the guide, which many reviews praise.

Transportation is comfortable and efficient, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the vineyards than worrying about logistics. The tastings are generous, and the opportunity to compare different piscos and wines helps you understand the regional characteristics.

Authenticity and Value

We loved how the tour emphasizes authentic Peruvian craftsmanship. Learning about traditional pisco production at El Catador gives visitors a genuine glimpse into local customs, rather than just a commercialized tasting. The cost of $45 covers the entire experience—including guiding, tastings, and transportation—making it a valuable option for those wanting to explore Ica’s viticulture without overspending.

Practical Tips

Keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly. Also, bring some cash if you wish to purchase bottles at the wineries or pay the entry fee at Tacama. If you’re a wine or pisco enthusiast, this tour offers a depth of insight that’s hard to match in a short time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine lovers, curious travelers, and those eager to learn about Peru’s pisco heritage. It suits people who prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of tastings and engaging stories behind each bottle. It’s also perfect for visitors staying in Ica who want an easy, informative day trip without the hassle of organizing multiple visits.

Those with an interest in history and local traditions will appreciate the stories behind the wineries. Just note that children under 18 aren’t permitted, and those seeking a culinary experience will need to plan for lunch separately.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick up and return to your hotel or bus terminal in Ica, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, with guided visits to three wineries, tastings, and transportation.

What is the price?
It costs approximately $45 per person, which covers the winery visits, tastings, guide, and transportation. The entry fee of S/25.00 soles at Hacienda Tacama is not included.

Are there any food options during the tour?
Lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour.

Can I join the tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
While not explicitly mentioned, the focus is on tastings, so if you prefer not to drink, you might want to clarify with the provider beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s intended for adults over 18 due to the tasting activities.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish, with live guides that can accommodate both.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot to secure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

For anyone interested in Peru’s wine and pisco heritage, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that combines history, tradition, and tastings in a single day. The guided visits to Hacienda Tacama, Bodega El Catador, and Lazo Winery provide a comprehensive look into the region’s viticultural craftsmanship, making it a worthwhile addition to your Ica itinerary.

The value for $45 is clear when you consider the depth of insight, the quality of tastings, and the ease of logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enrich their understanding of one of Peru’s most beloved beverages while enjoying the scenic vineyard landscapes.

Whether you’re a casual wine enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone interested in local cultural traditions, this tour delivers a relaxed, informative, and enjoyable experience that captures the spirit of Ica’s wine country.