Pisco sits about 28 feet above sea level in Peru's Inca region. Pisco is a word meaning “bird” named after all of the vineyards close by, in honor of the Pisco drink made with Peruvian grape liquor.
This city is truly blessed by Mother Nature. There is an abundance of beautiful beaches that are found in an expanse of the desert that offers a variety of climates at different times of the year. The mix of sea and desert is truly intriguing and is the perfect location for tourists to relax and take in diverse forms of nature.
Pisco is only about a three hour bus drive from Lima so it is also a perfect city to travel to as an overnight trip if you are already visiting Lima. This is also a popular spot to stay when going to see the Nazca lines. It's a medium sized village that always seems busy and alive. The locals can usually be found fishing or working on handcrafts and are always friendly and willing to mingle with the visitors.
Tourist primarily visit Pisco for the high concentration birds and marine animals found in the Paracas National Reservation. This is Peru's only marine ecosystem of the tropical desert and preservation of the Paracas culture. It is a reservation of insane beauty with no rain and plenty of sunshine all year round. The Paracas Sea offers marine currents and over 250 species of algae. Dolphins, turtles, octopus, purple crabs and more find their homes here. It also harbors the largest sea lion colony to be found as well as many penguins, flamingos and species that are in danger of being extinct like condors, marine cats, pelicans and the black ostrich.
The Chincha Islands are also found near Pisco. They are made of granite and have borders of cliffs all around where many seabirds nest. The Chincha people once found their home here and today there are still a few left that remain as dwellers.
Paracas beach resort located at Pisco offers tours over to the Billestas Islands. This is a three hour tour by boat where you will see plenty of sea lions and birds. When you arrive to the Paracas National Park you can visit the intriguing cathedral which is actually a rock formation that looks just like a cathedral. You will also get to swim in the unique pebble stone beaches and get to partake in fabulous Peruvian cuisine.
Pisco is an area known for its delicious Peruvian seafood dishes. Ceviche is the most popular dish containing raw fresh fish and lime juice. The lime juice cooks the raw fish through a marination process.
The most popular thing Pisco is known for is the title name of the Pisco sour. Peru's famous cocktail. It is made from Peruvian grape brandy, egg whites, limes and sugar.
Whether you are traveling to Peru solely to visit this enchanting little city or you are just passing through to another part of Peru, you are sure to be captivated by the charm and diverseness in nature found here.