Travel to Peru: Nazca Tours

Why travel to Nazca

Situated along the southern coastal valleys of Peru about six hours from Lima is the quaint, colonial-style town of Nazca. Home to an impressive pre-Inca underground aqueduct system and the popular, mysterious Nazca Lines, this rapidly-growing township is certainly a must-see for travelers in Peru.

The extraordinary geoglyphs are the main attraction of this coastal region. The lines are thought to have been created by three different waves of pre-Inca cultures: the Paracas people (900-200 BC), the Nazca civilization (200 BC - AD 600), and the Huari (AD 630). These immense representations of animal, human, and geometric shapes are spread across more than 200 square miles between the Nazca and Ingenio Rivers.

The incredible stylized drawings have long been studied and theories abound as to their purpose and method of construction. Whatever their origin, the collection of shapes can be appreciated with a flight above the Nazca Lines, enabling you to see what the creators probably never did.

What to do in Nazca

You can view the lines by climbing the Mirador, an observation tower perched on a hillside by the Pan-American Highway 12 miles (20 km) north of Nazca. This tower overlooks the famous geoglyphs of the hands, the lizard, and the tree.

However, you will get a better view and a more unique experience if you take a flight, either from Nazca, or from Pisco if you are based in Paracas.

A short taxi ride away are the equally astounding Aqueducts of Cantalloc, ancient feats of engineering that were built to systematically provide water to the desert for agricultural purposes. Although they were built over 2,000 years ago, 30 of these underground channels still function today and are a testament to pre-Inca ingenuity. You can also visit the Chauchilla cemetery, dating back to 1,000 AD, where mummies can be seen in their open tombs in the ground.

Not far from Nazca, the ceremonial city of Cahuachi covers an area of 15-square miles and within its territory exist huge pyramids, temples, and platforms. Cahuachi was built by the Nazca people, and from the tops of its pyramids part of the Nazca Lines may be viewed.
Aside from these phenomenal attractions, Nazca city holds a few quiet yet charming attractions, namely the Museo Arqueologico Antonini and Maria Reich Planetarium, where visitors can learn about the theories and legends behind these mysterious etchings.

When to visit Nazca

The climate in Nazca is one of the driest in the world with barely two inches of rainfall per year. The first thing to remember before setting out on a tour of Nazca is to bring a water bottle.

It is best to take a flight over the Nazca Lines early in the morning, between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., or in the mid-afternoon around 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., when there is less air turbulence.

Travel Testimonials

Finally we made it to Macchu Picchu. One word, 'breathtaking'', describes the scene. The clouds that had hovered over us in the early morning gradually parted revealing the beautiful site and the ancient ruins were crystal clear. After arriving at Macchu Picchu we were able to take our time and stroll though the ruins.

Ita & Dave (Toronto, Canada)

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Our last full day finally took us to Machu Picchu. Even the train ride to Aguas Calientes was quite enthralling with the river at its highest. Machu Picchu is, to say the least, an amazing place. It leaves one in awe of the magnitude of the Incas and how they managed nature. We should take some lessons from them.

Derek & Yvonne (Toronto, Canada)

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The two days I spent traveling via the Vista Dome train and hiking the last portion of the Inca Trial to arrive at the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu were absolutely magical! Along the trail we arrived at Winaywayna (Forever Young), the last urban center before reaching the Sun Gate and the sacred city of Machu Picchu. This site was simply stunning and made the pending arrival at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) even more exciting.

Michelle (CA, USA)

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Top Pick Nazca Hotel

Hotel Cantayo Spa & Resort 5*

Carretera Panamericana Sur, desvio Puquio kms 3-4

Conveniently situated near the ancient Cantalloc Aqueduct, mysterious Nazca Lines, and breathtaking Cerro Blanco, the Hotel Cantayo Spa & Resort is truly a desert oasis. With breathtaking mountain views, a large swimming pool, luxurious spa, widespread gardens, and spacious rooms featuring Balinese and Tibetan décor, the resort provides a tranquil atmosphere with a rustic style. A special treat, the hotel's restaurant is the finest in Nazca and serves many indigenous and organic fruits cultivated on the lovely grounds: table grapes, mangoes, avocados, black figs, pomegranates, apples, pears, guanabanas, bananas, cherimoya, and lucuma.

Restaurant Room Service Internet Parking Laundry Service Spa Baby SitterSwimming Pool

Hotel Cantayo Spa & Resort Photos & Info »

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Hotel Majoro 4*

Carretera Panamericana Sur Km 452, Majoro, Nazca

This rustic old hacienda features simple but comfortable rooms surrounding lovely courtyards and tranquil, extensive gardens full of bougainvillea. In 2005, the owners lovingly restored this former convent and Spanish villa, keeping the 17th century architectural elements and elegant historic charm intact, while adding modern elements and the new amenities expected of a 4-star hotel. The common areas are warm and inviting with large couches and romantic lighting, and all guest rooms are spacious, immaculate and truly charming.

Restaurant Swimming Pool

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Casa Andina Classic Nazca 3*

Jiron Bolognesi 367, Nazca

Situated right in the heart of downtown Nazca, this 3-star Casa Andina Classic Nazca Hotel offers friendly service, tastefully decorated guest rooms, delicious breakfasts, and a fabulous patio and swimming pool. Consistently rated as one of the top hotels in Nazca based on customer reports, guests rave about the convenience and comfort of this chic hotel.

Restaurant Room Service Internet Laundry Service Swimming Pool

Casa Andina Classic Nazca Photos & Info »

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