subject: Comfortable Ica Hotels Near Huacachina Lagoon [print this page] Ica is in the desert region south of Lima and on the way to one of Peru's most mysterious sights, the Nazca Lines. Many travelers head straight to Nazca from Lima and miss one of the coolest areas of Peru. The Nazca Lines are only two hours from Ica, so it's entirely feasible for travelers to actually stay in Ica and visit the Nazca lines as a daytrip. The lovely beaches of Paracas are also only an hour away.
Ica is only about 10 minutes from the spectacular Huacachina Oasis. This lagoon sits in the midst of the desert surrounded by large sand dunes and is most likely the inspiration for the desert mirage and desert oasis images so frequently used in the cartoons of your youth. Besides sunning, relaxing, and sipping cocktails poolside, Huacachina's amazing sand dunes provide opportunities for breathtaking hikes and photo ops as well as a sport called sandboarding, similar to snowboarding but easier and crazier, as well as riding dune buggies.
Scientists have also recently found whale skeletons and giant shark's teeth from an extinct species in these dunes and most hotels can arrange tours to see this amazing sight. Ica is also close to the pisco vineyards, where Peru's national drink can be tasted. The Napa Valley of Peru, Ica is one of the best places to go pisco tasting in the world.
Now that you want to go, where are you going to stay? Two of the best hotels in Ica are Hotel Las Dunas and Hotel Mossone, 4-stars and 3-stars respectively. Las Dunas has been considered the premier Ica hotel for over 30 years now and although a bit outdated, boasts the most facilities for guests and is family-friendly. Located on spacious and lovely grounds, this hotel offers three pools, various sports including horseback riding, mini-golf, and tennis courts. They have an extensive children's program so guests can relax while their kids are busy and entertained with trained hotel staff. For parents, it doesn't get much better this.
Hotel Mossone is technically in Huacachina and located in the sand dunes overlooking the gorgeous lagoon. If you are interested in enjoying this surreal desert oasis, this is the place to do it. In the 1920s this hotel was a playground for Peru's elite, and still retains much of its charm. With a large pool, excellent restaurant, bar, and comfortable rooms it still is the best hotel option right on the Huacachina lagoon.
