Sunampe is defined by two distinctive themes: archaeological sites and a long wine tradition. Huacas connect the area to its pre-Hispanic history, while wine, Pisco and the Vendimia tell the story of cultivation, production and festival culture. If you enjoy exploring cultural history through specific places and time-honoured practices, Sunampe offers more than just one perspective on the destination.
Archaeological sites with different levels of protection
Huaca Grande, an archaeological site declared part of the Nation’s Cultural Heritage, is located in the Sunampe District, in Chincha Province, Ica Region. The pre-Hispanic remains include adobe and rammed-earth structures, as well as scattered pottery fragments. Visible signage indicates that the site is an inviolable protected zone.
Another site identified by name is Huaca La Cumbe, with Sectors A, B and C, also in the Sunampe District. A designation dated 6 July 2026 places these sectors under provisional protection for two years; the same period may be extended with prior justification. Huaca Grande and Huaca La Cumbe therefore represent different classifications: national cultural heritage on the one hand, and time-limited provisional protection on the other.
Winegrowing, Cachina and historic routes
Sunampe’s wine tradition can be viewed through several historical periods. During the Spanish invasion, Doña Magdalena Chumbiauca began establishing new vineyards in the areas of Sunampe; this led to the production of wine and Aguardiente. In the 19th century, Italian immigrants cultivated grapevines in Sunampe. Historically, wine and Aguardiente produced in Sunampe were transported by rail for shipment through the port of Tambo de Mora. Thus, the history of the local wine industry includes not only cultivation and production but also former transport routes.
The production process can be traced through Cachina: grape juice from Sunampe is used to make must, which later becomes wine and Pisco. The Ruta VitivinĂcola de Chincha includes Bodega Viña Vieja. It is located in CaserĂo San Ignacio in Sunampe and is classified as a winery producing Pisco, wine and other spirits. To find your way there, take the access road to Guayabo Cholo via the Antigua Panamericana Sur. The route from Plaza de Armas de Chincha to the winery is listed as a 3 km paved stretch; check this distance before setting out. If you would like to visit the winery, confirm in advance whether visits are possible.
Vendimia and archaeology in the wider Chincha context
In March, Sunampe traditionally hosts the Pisa de Uva as part of the Vendimia de Chincha; the event also includes the selection of the festival queen. Historically, Sunampe’s Vendimia was celebrated in the district’s Plaza de Armas. If you are planning to attend a future edition, check the date and venue in advance.
A broader archaeological perspective takes you to Chincha Province: the Instituto de Investigación del Patrimonio Cultural de Chincha (INIPACCH) runs the “Huacas Milenarias” archaeological walking program. The fourth edition attracted more than 400 people. This regional event complements Sunampe’s specific sites with another perspective on archaeology in the province.
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