From Ica: Excursion to Wineries – Along the Pisco Route

Starting from Ica, this full-day tour takes you through some of the most renowned wineries along the Pisco Route, giving you a closer look at Peru’s famous spirit and wine production. For $49 per person, you’ll visit three distinguished wineries, enjoy generous tastings of pisco, wine, and cachinas, and learn about the history and culture behind these beverages. The tour is flexible in timing, with departures typically around 11:00 AM, and includes transportation, guidance, and entry to the wineries.

What makes this experience special is the combination of authentic wine and pisco tasting, coupled with a peek into local history and cultural artifacts at Lazo. We especially appreciated the chance to sample semi-prepared Pisco Sour at El Catador — a real treat for lovers of the spirit. The visit to Tacama, the oldest vineyard in Peru, offers a taste of colonial architecture and tradition that’s hard to beat.

One consideration for travelers is that entrance fees to Tacama are not included in the price, which adds a small extra cost. Also, if you’re not particularly interested in wines or spirits, this might feel a bit focused on a niche, but for lovers of good drinks and authentic storytelling, it’s a winner. Perfect for anyone wanting to understand local flavors, enjoy a relaxed day, and see some of Ica’s most iconic spots.

This tour fits best for those who value cultural authenticity, quality tastings, and manageable group sizes — it’s an accessible way to explore Ica’s renowned wineries without the hassle of planning your own route.

Key Points

• Authentic winery visits with tastings at three top locations
• Insight into Pisco and wine production, history, and culture
• Flexible departure times to suit your schedule
• Includes transportation and guidance for a stress-free day
• Affordable price point offers good value considering multiple tastings
• Opportunity to learn about local artifacts at Lazo’s museum

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What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded experience of Ica’s wine and pisco scene, complemented by cultural insights and historical context. Starting with pickup from your hotel or bus terminal (a detail that keeps things simple and convenient), you’ll be whisked off to your first stop, El Catador.

El Catador Artisanal Winery: The Crowd Favorite

Located in Tres Esquinas hamlet, El Catador is arguably the most popular among visitors. We loved the semi-prepared Pisco Sour here — it’s a local specialty that elevates the tasting experience. This winery’s reputation for original products is well-earned, and the friendly guides make the visit engaging.

You’ll find that El Catador offers more than just tastings; it’s a place where you see the craftsmanship behind Peru’s favorite spirit. The setting is rustic but welcoming, with a lively atmosphere that makes learning about pisco fun and accessible.

Museo Lazo-Bodega Artesana: A Cultural Treasure

A surprising highlight of this tour is the Lazo Museum and Winery, located in the Camino de Reyes hamlet. Beyond the wine and spirits, you’ll see an authentic Spanish cellar dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The museum is a treasure trove of collectibles, including mummified trophy heads, ceramics, goldsmithing, and artifacts from pre-Hispanic cultures.

This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into local history, making it more than just a tasting — it’s a journey through time. Visitors often note the rustic charm and the eclectic collection of artifacts, which add depth and personality to the experience.

Tacama Industrial Winery: A Colonial Landmark

The most historically significant stop is Tacama, built in the 16th century. Its colonial architecture and sprawling estate are impressive, with 180 hectares of vineyards in a fertile oasis surrounded by desert. Here, you’ll learn how Spanish colonizers introduced vine cultivation and how Tacama became Peru’s oldest and most renowned vineyard.

We found Tacama’s quality of wines and piscos to be excellent, with the added benefit of understanding how tradition and modern winemaking coexist. The estate’s scenic beauty and colonial buildings create a memorable backdrop for tasting and exploration.

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End of the Day: Return to Ica

After the winery visits, you’ll be transported back to your hotel or bus terminal, concluding a day rich in flavor, history, and authentic Peruvian culture. The entire experience, including transportation and guidance, is designed to be smooth and enjoyable.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

Considering the price of $49, the tour offers notable value. You get to visit three distinguished wineries, enjoy substantial tastings, and gain insights into Peru’s iconic spirits. The inclusion of guidance and transportation makes it especially good for travelers who want a hassle-free experience. The cultural component at Lazo adds a layer of depth that elevates this beyond just a tasting trip.

The tour’s small-group format (typically) allows for more personal interaction with guides, and the flexibility in departure times means you can fit this into a broader itinerary with ease.

Who Will Love This Experience

If you’re a lover of wine and spirits, or simply curious about Peru’s alcoholic traditions, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s also ideal if you want an educational experience that combines tasting with history. The mix of authentic wineries, cultural artifacts, and colonial architecture makes it appealing to travelers seeking a genuine, immersive experience.

Those on a budget will appreciate the value, especially given the number of tastings and the quality of the visits. However, keep in mind that additional costs — like entrance fees to Tacama — are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly.

The Sum Up

This excursion along the Pisco Route in Ica is a charming, straightforward way to dive into Peru’s celebrated vinicultural tradition without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple bookings. It’s perfect for travelers looking to sample excellent piscos and wines, learn about local history and artifacts, and enjoy a relaxed day with a knowledgeable guide.

The combination of authentic tastings, historical insights, and scenic vineyard views makes it a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re a casual drinker interested in local spirits or a history buff eager to see colonial architecture and artifacts, this tour offers more than just a sip — it offers a taste of Ica’s rich cultural landscape.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around a full day, with departure times around 11:00 AM. It includes visits to three wineries and transportation.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and between the wineries, as well as pickup and drop-off at your hotel or bus terminal, is part of the package.

Do I need to pay additional entrance fees?
Entrance to Tacama Winery is not included in the $49 price. It costs S/.25 on regular days and S/.30 during holidays and long weekends.

What types of tastings are offered?
You will enjoy tastings of pisco, wine, and cachinas at each winery, with some locations offering special products like semi-prepared Pisco Sour.

Are guides available in languages other than Spanish and English?
Guidance is available in both English and Spanish; for other languages, it’s best to check with the supplier beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While primarily geared toward adults interested in alcohol tastings, older children or teenagers might find the cultural and historical parts interesting, but alcohol consumption is not suitable for minors.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but you may inquire about additional options or specific interests when booking.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot and flexible timing.

This tour offers a wonderful snapshot of Ica’s viniculture, perfect for those wanting authentic flavors and stories behind Peru’s beloved spirits. It’s a practical, well-paced day that balances tasting, learning, and scenic beauty — a true highlight for anyone exploring the Ica region.

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