From Ica or Huacachina: Pisco and Wine Tour With Desert Trip

The Pisco and Wine Tour from Ica or Huacachina offers an immersive experience into the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Visitors will explore renowned vineyards, indulge in exclusive tastings, and embark on thrilling dune buggy rides. But the real highlight? Capturing the breathtaking sunset over the desert landscape, creating memories that’ll last a lifetime. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply seeking an adventure, this tour promises to exceed expectations.

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Key Points

Explore the renowned Ica wine region, including visits to two renowned vineyards for pisco and wine tastings.
Discover the art of pisco production, from fermentation to distillation and aging, and learn about the region’s rich viticultural heritage.
Experience thrilling dune buggy rides and try sandboarding in the breathtaking Huacachina desert.
Witness a stunning sunset in the desert, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere for memorable photographs.
The 8-hour excursion is priced from $50 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a free cancellation policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Pisco and Wine Tour with Desert Trip offers an 8-hour excursion that takes visitors to the wine region of Ica and the picturesque desert oasis of Huacachina.

Priced from $50 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off. It allows participants to explore two renowned vineyards, learn about pisco production, and enjoy wine and pisco tastings.

The tour then continues to Huacachina for exhilarating dune buggy rides and sandboarding. Guests can witness a beautiful desert sunset before returning to their accommodations.

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Ready for another glass? Here are more wine experiences we've reviewed in Ica

Exploring Ica’s Wine Region

As visitors begin the tour, they explore the renowned wine region of Ica, home to some of Peru’s oldest vineyards.

The first stop is the historic Tacama Vineyard, one of the oldest in South America, where they learn about the production of Pisco, Peru’s national liquor.

The historic Tacama Vineyard, one of the oldest in South America, offers a lesson on the production of Peru’s national liquor, Pisco.

Next, they visit El Catador Vineyard to witness the traditional pisco-making process in clay jars.

Throughout the winery visits, visitors have the opportunity to sample various types of pisco and wine, gaining insights into the region’s rich viticultural heritage.

The Art of Pisco Production

While visitors explore the historic Tacama Vineyard, they’ll discover the intricate art of Pisco production. At the nearby El Catador Vineyard, they’ll learn how Pisco, Peru’s national liquor, is traditionally made in clay jars.

| Pisco Production Process |

|————————–|

| 1. Fermentation of grape juices |

| 2. Distillation in copper alembic |

| 3. Aging in oak barrels |

Pisco is a complex spirit that requires careful attention at every stage. The result is a versatile liquor with floral, fruity, or herbal notes – perfect for sipping or mixing into classic cocktails like the Pisco Sour.

Visiting Tacama Vineyard

Tacama Vineyard stands as one of the oldest in South America, boasting a rich history that dates back over four centuries.

During the tour, visitors explore the winery’s historic hacienda and tower, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. Here, they learn about Tacama’s winemaking process and have the opportunity to taste their renowned wines and pisco.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to discover the nuances of Peru’s national spirit and appreciate the dedication that goes into its production.

The vineyard’s picturesque setting and the chance to savor its offerings make this stop a highlight of the tour.

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Discovering El Catador Vineyard

Moving on from the historic Tacama Vineyard, the tour takes visitors to the El Catador Vineyard, where they’ll discover the traditional methods behind Peru’s renowned pisco. At El Catador, guests learn about pisco production in clay jars, a centuries-old technique. They’ll observe the distillation process and have the opportunity to taste various pisco varieties.

| Pisco Varieties Sampled | Production Method | Tasting Notes |

|————————|——————-|—————-|

| Acholado | Blended grapes | Smooth, balanced |

| Quebranta | Single grape variety | Robust, earthy |

| Torontel | Aromatic grape | Floral, fruity |

| Italia | Italian grape | Crisp, citrusy |

The El Catador experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and craft behind Peru’s national spirit.

There's plenty more to explore in Ica

Thrilling Dune Buggy Rides

After exploring the vineyards and tasting the renowned pisco, the tour takes visitors to the breathtaking Huacachina desert.

Dune buggies whisk travelers up and down the towering sand dunes, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. Guests experience the thrill of speeding over the undulating terrain, with the desert wind in their face.

The knowledgeable guides provide instructions and ensure a safe, yet exhilarating ride. Following the buggy adventure, participants have the opportunity to try sandboarding, gliding down the smooth slopes.

This adrenaline-filled activity is a highlight of the Pisco and Wine Tour with Desert Trip.

Sandboarding Adventure

What better way to cap off the Pisco and Wine Tour than with an exhilarating sandboarding adventure in the Huacachina desert? After exploring the vineyards and sipping on pisco, guests are whisked away to the iconic oasis town. There, they’ll strap on sandboards and master the art of gliding down the towering dunes. Reaching speeds of up to 50 mph, the adrenaline-fueled ride offers breathtaking views as the sun slowly sets. This thrilling activity is the perfect finale to an immersive Peruvian experience. See for yourself why sandboarding receives such high praise from tour participants.

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Sunset in the Desert

As the tour winds down, guests are treated to a breathtaking sunset in the Huacachina desert. They watch in awe as the sky transforms into a stunning palette of oranges, pinks, and purples.

The dunes cast long shadows, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can capture the magical moment with their cameras, or simply take in the natural beauty surrounding them.

This picturesque desert landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the tour’s grand finale, leaving guests with lasting memories of their Pisco and Wine adventure.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Wine or Pisco on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own wine or pisco on the tour. The tour includes wine and pisco tastings at the wineries, and bringing outside alcohol is generally not allowed. The tour provides the opportunity to sample the local beverages.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Tastings?

There’s typically no strict limit on the number of tastings, but it’s recommended to drink responsibly. The tour focuses on providing an educational experience, so moderation is encouraged to fully appreciate the wines and pisco.

Can I Rent a Sandboard Separately From the Tour?

Sandboards can be rented separately from the tour, but the tour package includes sandboarding equipment and instruction. Renting a sandboard independently may cost extra and not provide the same guidance as the tour.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Food Options?

The tour does not provide vegetarian or gluten-free food options. However, there are likely restaurants and cafes in the area that can accommodate these dietary needs. Guests should inquire about alternative meal arrangements prior to booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour provider offers an option to extend the duration of the tour, though additional fees may apply. Customers can inquire about customizing the itinerary to include more time in the region or additional activities.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through Ica’s vibrant wine and pisco culture. Discover the art of pisco production, explore renowned vineyards, and experience the thrill of dune buggy rides and sandboarding. Witness the breathtaking sunset over the desert, creating a perfect end to an unforgettable day of exploring Ica’s rich viticultural heritage.