3 Best Ways to get from Cusco to Ica, Peru

You can get from Cusco to Ica by bus, private transfer, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Cusco to Ica is by bus, which costs only USD 25. The journey takes between 17 and 18 hours.

The most popular option is also the bus, offering a convenient and affordable transportation alternative!

The fastest way to travel to Ica from Cusco is by private transfer, or rental car, which takes about 17 hours!

Ever wondered how to travel through Peru like a local? I’ve spent years doing just that, and now I’m inviting you to discover the most efficient and enjoyable ways to explore this incredible country!

In this guide, I’ll break down all the best ways to get from Cusco to Ica, so you can travel with ease and enjoyment!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Cusco to Ica.

Transportation Options from Cusco to Ica

The following table outlines all transportation options from Cusco to Ica:

Method	Time	Price
Bus from Cusco to Ica	17-18 hrs	$25 to 46
Cusco to Ica Private Transfer	~17 hrs	–
Rental Car	~17 hrs	–

How far is Ica from Cusco?

The distance from Cusco to Ica is 590.6 miles or 950.5 kilometers.

Getting to Ica from Cusco

1. Bus from Cusco to Ica

Journey Duration: 17-18 hours

Transportation options from Cusco to Ica are very limited, so taking the bus is the only practical way of traveling, excluding booking a private transfer or renting a car.

The distance between Cusco and Ica is slightly more than 900 kilometers, so getting there requires some time and effort.

But although the journey is long, it is well worth it! Thankfully, the buses are comfortable and well-equipped, so you shouldn’t have trouble making this 18-hour trip!

Four companies offer daily departures between Cusco and Ica. If you decide to take the bus, you can choose 140 Reclining Seats, 160 Reclining Seats, 180 Reclining Seats, or Economy Buses.

Depending on the bus type you want to take, the cost of a ticket ranges from USD 25 to USD 46.

All of the buses travel overnight, so you will be able to rest and have no trouble making this long trip!

Select the most comfortable bus and book your tickets online to ensure your trip from Cusco to Ica!

Cusco to Ica Economy Bus Schedule

The table below displays the economy bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Ica, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
01:30pm	06:20am	16h 50m	$25

Cusco to Ica 140 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 140 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Ica, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
05:10pm	10:00am	16h 50m	$33

Cusco to Ica 160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 160 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Ica, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
05:10pm	10:00am	16h 50m	$38
04:00pm	08:50am	16h 50m	$41
02:00pm	08:00am	18h	$46
05:00pm	11:00am	18h	$46

Cusco to Ica 180 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 180 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Ica, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
04:00pm	08:50am	16h 50m	$46

2. Private Transfer from Cusco to Ica

Journey Duration: ~17 hours

A private transfer is another choice if you want comfort on this lengthy trip from Cusco to Ica, but it’s only practical if you’re traveling with a group.

You can find some tourist agencies that offer these services. They can arrange this route with a vehicle of your choice and a private driver! 

This option gives you the benefit of arranging your trip, departing and arriving whenever you want, and getting taken directly to your location in Ica!

However, since the distance from Cusco to Ica is over 900 kilometers, finding a private transfer at a reasonable price might be very challenging.

So, unless you want to splurge on your travels completely, we don’t recommend going with this option.

3. Driving with Rental Car from Cusco to Ica

Journey Duration: ~17 hours

I suggest renting a car in Cusco and driving yourself if you’re an adventurer looking to plan a beautiful road trip from Cusco to Ica!

We have to say right away that getting from Cusco to Ica can be difficult. Getting from point A to B can take more than a day due to the distance.

The trip will last roughly 17 hours, but it will be very enjoyable!

Renting a car allows you to go at your own pace and frequently stop to enjoy the journey! Additionally, renting a car in Cusco is inexpensive, so this is a fantastic choice to take into account!

However, be cautious when driving in unfamiliar areas because Peruvian traffic is probably very different from what you’re used to in your country.

Therefore, if you rent a car, drive carefully and safely.

Best day tours in Ica, Peru

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Ica, Peru.

Frequently Asked Questions