HOW TO GET TO ICA FROM CUSCO | COMPLETE TRAVELER’S GUIDE
If you’re planning a trip from Cusco to Ica, keep in mind that the two cities are separated by more than 700 kilometers, so there’s no direct air connection. However, there are several ways to get to Ica from Cusco by land or by air with a stopover. Here, we explain all the routes, options, costs, and recommendations so you can choose the best option based on your time and budget.
🚌 OPTION 1: TRAVEL BY DIRECT BUS FROM CUSCO TO ICA
This is the most economical option, ideal for backpackers or travelers with flexible itineraries.
- Travel duration: 17 to 20 hours (depending on the company and road conditions).
- Recommended transportation companies: Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Civa, Tepsa, Palomino.
- Ticket price: Between S/100 and S/180, depending on the category (economy, semi-bed, or bed).
- Departure terminal in Cusco: Santiago bus terminal or private terminal operated by each company.
- Schedule: Buses usually depart between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM, arriving in Ica the next morning or afternoon.
✈️ OPTION 2: FLIGHT CUSCO – LIMA + BUS LIMA – ICA
This is the fastest and most comfortable option, although more expensive. Ica doesn’t have an airport, so you must fly to Lima and continue by land.
Step 1: Flight from Cusco to Lima
- Flight duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Airlines: LATAM, SKY Airline, JetSmart, Viva Air.
- Average cost: From S/120 to S/300, depending on the season and advance notice.
Step 2: Bus from Lima to Ica
- Travel time: 4 to 5 hours on the Pan-American Highway.
- Bus companies: Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Perú Bus, Jaksa.
- Average cost: Between S/. 30 and S/. 70 soles.
- Recommended bus terminals: Javier Prado, Plaza Norte, or a private bus terminal.
🚗 OPTION 3: TRAVEL BY PRIVATE OR RENTED CAR
If you’re looking for freedom and prefer to drive, you can also travel from Cusco to Ica by road.
- Duration: Approximately 16 to 18 hours, non-stop.
- Recommended route: Cusco – Abancay – Nazca – Ica (Route PE-3S and Pan-American Highway).
- Recommendations:
- Leave very early.
- Drive with caution in winding areas.
- Consider spending the night in Abancay or Nazca to rest.
- Bring cash, enough fuel, and vehicle documents.
🏜️ WHY TRAVEL TO ICA FROM CUSCO?
The city of Ica is the gateway to the most sought-after destinations on the southern coast of Peru, such as:
- Huacachina: the famous oasis in the middle of the desert.
- The Ica Dunes: ideal for sandboarding and buggy rides.
- Ballestas Islands and the Paracas Reserve (near Ica).
- Wine and pisco wineries in the valleys of Ica.
- The Nazca Lines (only 2 hours away).
✅ TIPS FOR TRAVELING FROM CUSCO TO ICA
- Book your bus or plane tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring a coat for the night trip if traveling by bus.
- If you are sensitive to altitude changes, consider taking pills for nausea.
- Plan your arrival in Ica during the day to avoid any setbacks.
- If you’re traveling with large luggage, check the transportation companies’ policies.
Traveling from Cusco to Ica is entirely possible by land or by combining plane and bus. It all depends on your budget, available time, and travel style. If you want to save money and enjoy the scenery, opt for the direct bus. If you’re looking for convenience and speed, the best option is to fly to Lima and continue by road to Ica.
