The capital is the city of Ica.
Geography and climate: The department is largely situated in a vast desert area (part of the Atacama Desert) with fertile valleys along the Ica River.
It borders the Pacific Ocean (west), Lima (north), Huancavelica and Ayacucho (east), and Arequipa (south).
The climate is dry, sunny, and warm year-round, with very little rainfall – ideal for agriculture thanks to irrigation.
Economy: Ica is an important agricultural region with agro-exports.
Important products include grapes (for wine and pisco, the national drink of Peru), asparagus, cotton, mangoes, and dates.
The region has a strong viticulture tradition and is one of the economically stronger parts of Peru.
ourism and Sights: Ica attracts many visitors due to the unique combination of desert, oases, and coast:
Huacachina: a true oasis with enormous sand dunes, popular for buggy tours and sandboarding.
Nazca Lines: the mysterious pre-Inca geoglyphs (near Nazca).
Paracas: national reserve featuring the Islas Ballestas (rich in marine life such as sea lions and penguins), red beaches, and cliffs.
Beaches, vineyards (bodegas), and archaeological sites of ancient cultures such as Paracas and Nazca.
History: The area has been inhabited for thousands of years (cultures such as Paracas, Nazca, and Inca).
The city of Ica was founded in 1563 by the Spaniards as Villa de Valverde.
In 2007, the region was severely affected by an earthquake.
In short: Ica is a desert region with oases, excellent wine/pisco, adventurous nature, and rich history – a popular destination a few hours' drive from Lima.
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