Visit Peru - Ica Region The Ica region sits just south of Lima. The weather is hot, much like Lima and the terrain is plain, with both desert sands and agricultural places. Pisco, the Peru's national drink is made in the vineyards of this region. PiscoReaching the city of Ica, you can then travel to a producer's farm by taxi. Some of them offer tours where you can learn how Pisco is made. You can then taste several different Piscos, with varied flavours or enjoy a good meal. Nazca LinesThere's a lot more to see in Ica, than just wine and Pisco. In this region you'll find one of the most intriguing mysteries: the Nazca Lines. Put simply, they're roads and paths, built by ancient civilizations, that draw amazing figures seen from the sky. Some are just straight lines, others depict animals like monkeys or birds. Nazca has one of the driest desert in the world, averaging 25ºC all year round and this lines were made by simply removing the red-colored pebbles that cover the desert, showing the white earth beneath them. The lack of wind helped the Nazca lines remain intact. As for who built them, it's believed they were made by the ancient Nazca civilization between 200 BC and 700 AC. The reason remains a mystery. Some believe they were drawings for the gods to see. We are not gods, but fortunately, we have now the privilege of seeing these spectacular kilometre-wide drawings. ParacasAlong the coast you can also visit the Paracas reserve. You'll see amazing rock and salt formations. Near this reserve, don't miss the islas Ballestas, a group of rocky islands that are the home for several wild species, like pinguins, pelicans and sea lions (among others). It's amazing to watch them in their natural habitat. |
