Ica is a city in southern Peru, in the region of the same name, with the Ica River passing through it. For a visitor, it works as a base for the surrounding desert and oasis scenery rather than as a destination of districts and quarters in its own right.
The city is laid out around a central Plaza de Armas, with the Huacachina oasis and the downtown core as the two anchors a visitor moves between. This guide covers the areas the sources identify as places to base yourself, and what each one means for how you get to the sights.
Best areas to stay in Ica
1. Around the Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is the reference point for the city centre, and staying near it puts you within walking distance of the centre itself. Several hotels sit within a couple of blocks of the plaza, and this is the most straightforward base if you want to be in the middle of things.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who prefers to walk to what they need. One practical point from the sources: as with many hotels near the Plaza, caution should be exercised when walking around at night.
2. The Huacachina oasis and its surroundings
The Huacachina oasis is one of the two anchors of a visit to Ica, and there is accommodation in the residential neighbourhood close to it as well as in the city centre. Basing yourself here keeps the oasis within easy reach rather than requiring a trip out from downtown.
This suits travellers whose priority is the oasis and the desert setting. Note that the oasis area is separate from the downtown core, so you trade proximity to the plaza for proximity to Huacachina.
3. Residential neighbourhoods close to the centre
There is accommodation in residential neighbourhoods that are close to both the city centre and the Huacachina oasis, including small family-run places. This is a quieter option than the plaza area while still keeping you connected to the sights.
It suits travellers who want a calmer base and do not mind being a short distance from the centre. The practical advantage is that you are positioned between the downtown and the oasis rather than at one end of the trip.
4. The area around Plaza del Sol Mall Center
There is accommodation close to the Plaza de Armas and next to Plaza del Sol Mall Center, on Avenida Cutervo. Being next to a mall centre means practical amenities are nearby, and you remain within reach of the plaza.
This suits visitors who want the convenience of shops and services close at hand while staying near the centre. It is a workable base if you are dividing your time between the city and the oasis.
5. Out-of-town resort areas
There is resort-style accommodation in the area that sits about ten minutes from downtown. This is the most expensive option in the area and is a complete resort rather than a base in the city itself.
It suits travellers who want to stay within a self-contained property and do not need to be in the centre. The trade-off is that you are away from downtown and will need to travel in for the plaza and the city sights.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Small family-run places in residential neighbourhoods, and simple hotels near the Plaza de Armas, where rooms can be inexpensive and may still include hot water, cable TV and comfortable beds.
- Mid-range: Hotels close to the Plaza de Armas and next to Plaza del Sol Mall Center, with a restaurant, swimming pool, work area and 24-hour reception.
- Splurge: Resort-style accommodation away from downtown, which is the most expensive option in the area.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself around the Plaza de Armas. It puts you in the city centre within walking distance of the plaza, and it keeps you close to the Huacachina oasis as well. Be mindful that, as with many hotels near the Plaza, caution should be exercised when walking around at night.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay to be close to the Huacachina oasis?
Accommodation in the residential neighbourhoods near the oasis, and places close to the city centre, put you within reach of Huacachina. The oasis is one of the two anchors of a visit to Ica, alongside the downtown core.
Is it better to stay downtown or away from the city?
Downtown keeps you near the Plaza de Armas and within walking distance of the centre. Out-of-town resort accommodation is about ten minutes from downtown, so you trade convenience for a self-contained setting.
What is there to know about staying near the Plaza de Armas at night?
The sources note that, as with many hotels near the Plaza, caution should be exercised when walking around at night.
What kinds of places can I expect in the residential neighbourhoods?
You find small family-run hotels in residential neighbourhoods that are close to both the city centre and the Huacachina oasis.
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