nazca lines tour from cusco

Nazca Lines Flights

Take to the skies and discover the incredible Nazca Lines for yourself! Only truly visible from the skies, there’s no better way to take it all in than a flight over the fascinating geoglyphs carved into the surface.

Nazca Lines Viewing Tower

If flights aren’t quite your thing, don’t worry! For a small fee you can climb the famous Nazca observation tower. This is a great way to see the lines for yourself on a budget, and is included with some bus companies, like Peru Hop!

Chauchilla Cemetery Tours

There is more to Nazca than just the incredible geoglyphs! The unique environment in the Nazca desert makes it perfect for preservation, and the Chauchilla Cemetery is home to a host of mummies, dating back to the time of the Nazca people.

What was the origins of these mysterious carvings? Check out these possible theories as to why they exist!

Check out some of the craziest theories on the mysterious geoglyphs in the heart of the Nazca desert.

Could these massive carvings have been used as some sort of calendar for the Nazca people? Check out the latest theories!

Where to Stay in Nazca

Hostels / b&bs.

Discover the best value for money accommodation in Nazca, don’t miss out!

All the best hostels & B&Bs in so you can make the most of your time the famous city.

Lima to Nazca

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of Lima City? Get from the capital to the Nazca Lines, quick!

Arequipa to Nazca

Bored of the peaceful Arequipa? Take to the skies for an adrenaline-filled adventure! The fastest way to reach the famous desert city from Arequipa.

Cusco to Nazca

Are the Nazca Lines next on your bucket list? Get from Cusco and the famous Machu Picchu to the mysterious desert lines in no time!

See What Other Happy Travelers Had to Say!

York, england.

The pictures just don’t do it justice! I hadn’t planned on visiting Nazca and flying over the geoglyphs but was convinced otherwise by a friend I made in a hostel in Lima. I was so glad I made the journey south to Nazca, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Some of the carvings are just surreal.

Ben Thompson

Sydney, australia.

Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Peru. I went on a day tour to the Nazca Lines from Lima and I had an incredible time! The history behind the magical carvings on the desert floor is amazing, hard to believe they were carved such a long time ago.

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Nazca Lines Tour from Cusco Overview Journey through time and explore the mysterious Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Peru’s Nazca Desert. These ancient geoglyphs, created by the Nazca culture between 500 BCE and 500 CE, depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes that can only be fully appreciated from above. DAY […]

Amazing Nazca Lines Tour via Cusco 2 Day

Nazca Lines Tour from Cusco, Day 2 Incredibly experience the mysteries, THE NAZCA LINES from Cusco, and the excursion plan: transfer service to the Cusco airport! Arriving towards Lima in the morning, our coastal team awaits the visitors at the Callao airport to start the trip south of Lima to reach the Inca desert. During the journey, explore one of the Peruvian wineries in Ica, and in the afternoon, enjoy the buggy excursion with the coastal sunset over the Peruvian sea.

Nazca Lines Tour via Cusco : DAY 2 Step by step, explore the Peruvian coasts through the magnificent Nazca desert, flying over the beautiful geoglyphs of the Nazca Lines via Ica airport in the morning. The plane trip takes approximately 70 minutes. In the afternoon, explore the Paracas National Reserve with its stunning panoramic views of the beaches. This tour from Cusco includes a scenic flight over the Nazca Lines and artifacts from the Nazca civilization.

If you want a unique and unforgettable adventure, consider taking a Nazca Lines tour from Cusco via Pisco . Explore the history and theories behind these awe-inspiring creations.

Nazca Lines Tour from Cusco Overview

Journey through time and explore the mysterious Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Peru’s Nazca Desert. These ancient geoglyphs, created by the Nazca culture between 500 BCE and 500 CE, depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes that can only be fully appreciated from above.

DAY 1: Cusco to Lima: Travel from Lima to Paracas DAY 2: Paracas, Nazca Fly and Return to Lima

Why You’ll Love the Nazca Lines Tour via Cusco

• Venture on a fascinating journey to the Nazca Lines from Cusco. Discover the enigmatic geoglyphs and their mysterious origins on this tour.
• Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and witness the Nazca Lines Tour from Cusco. Discover the fascinating history and culture behind these ancient geoglyphs.
• A fantastic journey through the Nazca Lines via Cusco. Discover the secrets of these Peruvian geoglyphs and marvel at their intricate designs.

Nazca Lines Tour from Cusco Itinerary

Presentation of the Nazca Lines Tour via Cusco: An extraordinary journey through time and explore the enigmatic Nazca Lines tour connecting Cusco. Experience the wonders of these ancient wonders in Peru.

Cusco to Lima: Car Trip from Lima to Paracas

Recommendation: Between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., organize your flight from Cusco to Lima. Upon arrival at the Callao airport, our tour guide and vehicle driver will await you in the waiting room. Visitors meet our team to start the trip south of Lima towards Islas Ballestas in Paracas.

• Travel time from Lima to Huacachina takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.

13:00: Guided tour around the Paracas National Reservation

• Visit the Monument of Independence (obelisk).
• The cathedral rock formation
• The Supay Beach viewpoint
• Julio C. Tello Museum
• Lagunillas Bay.
• Visit the square of the mines in Paracas.

Paracas Overnight

Physical Level

Walking distance.

A light walks

Hiking Time

15 to 35 minutes

Starting Altitude

Lima: 79m (259 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Paracas: 7m (22,9 ft)

Highest Altitude

Paracas – nazca lines fly – return to lima  .

During the morning, enjoy an incredible overflight of the Nazca lines from Pisco; the round-trip flight takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. Flying further south, see the beautiful valleys of the Peruvian coast until you reach the intangible area of the Nazca Lines to experience sightings of the lines etched in the Nazca desert.

At the end of your flight! Go to the waiting room of the Pisco airport to meet our tour guide and driver of the vehicle to start the return to Lima towards the district of Miraflores, “3 hours and 10 minutes of travel”.

A light walk

5 to 10 minutes

Pisco: 7m (22,9 ft)

2-Day Nazca Lines Tour from Cusco INCLUSIONS

• Personalized trips and tours
• Active itinerary with unique cultural experiences
• Transfer service from the Cusco Hotel to the Cusco airport
• HOTEL 3 stars : 1 night of accommodation in Ica + breakfast: Hotel Aranwa Paracas Resort & Spa (***), San Agustín Paracas, OR similar, based on a double or matrimonial room). Check-In: 11:00 hrs.; Check-Out: 09:00 hrs.
• English-speaking tour guide (s)
• Private transportation with fuel and driver
• All tickets to tourist attractions
• Paracas National Reserve Tour
• All taxes (Peru)
• International airfare, domestic airfare within Peru, airport departure taxes (Approximate cost: US$ 31.00 for international flights and US$ 10.40 for each domestic flight)
• Pisco: Local airport tax: S/. 30.00 per person, approx. $12.
• Tourist ticket for the air flight: S/.47.00 per person, approx. $16.
• Participants weighing more than 300 pounds (136 kg) must reserve an additional seat to accommodate weight restrictions.
• Reconfirmation of international flights and items of a personal nature
• Spending money: allow approximately US$40–90 per day to cover meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips, personal expenses, and extras.
• Travel Insurance
• Tipping is a personal gesture: “guide (S) and driver.”

What to Bring for the Tour

• You must bring your original passport for the overflight of Nazca from Pisco.
• Automatic digital camera to take aerial photos or the best camera to capture the best moments of the flyover.
• Medicine for dizziness: “take it before starting the overflight.” It is advisable not to eat anything before the overflight of Nazca because the aircraft makes 22 inclinations to observe the lines of Peru.

Notes on the Nazca Lines Tour via Cusco:

Kondor Path Tours: A Travel Tour Operator 100% for the Nazca Lines Tour via Cusco

Travel Guide

What is a 2-day flight to nazca.

A 2-day flight to Nazca is a tour package that includes a scenic flight over the famous Nazca Lines and additional activities and sightseeing in the Nazca region. It provides an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the enigmatic geoglyphs and discover more about the Nazca culture.

How does the 2-day flight to Nazca work?

The 2-day flight to Nazca typically involves two main components: the Nazca Lines flight and a visit to other attractions in the Nazca area. On the first day, you will fly over the Nazca Lines, witnessing the ancient geoglyphs from the air. The second day may include visits to the Chauchilla Cemetery, the Nazca Aqueducts, and the Cantalloc Underground Wells, among other sites.

How long is the flight over the Nazca Lines?

The duration of the flight over the Nazca Lines can vary depending on the specific tour operator and package. Typically, the flight lasts 30 to 45 minutes, during which you can observe multiple geoglyphs from the air.

Are there age restrictions for the 2-day flight to Nazca?

There may be age restrictions for the flight portion of the tour due to safety regulations set by the aviation authorities. The specific age limit may vary between tour operators, but it is generally around 3 to 5 years old. Before booking the tour, you should check with the tour operator regarding any age restrictions.

Where does the flight depart from?

The flights over the Nazca Lines usually depart from the Maria Reiche Airport in Nazca. This is the main airport in the region dedicated to these scenic flights. It would be best to arrive at the airport at your tour operator’s designated time.

Do I need a reservation for the 2-day flight to Nazca?

Yes, reserving the 2-day flight to Nazca is highly recommended in advance. This ensures availability and allows the tour operator to make the necessary arrangements for your tour, including the flight and other activities.

Can I take photographs during the flight over the Nazca Lines?

Yes, photography is usually allowed during the flight over the Nazca Lines. The planes used for these flights are equipped with large windows, providing excellent views of the geoglyphs. You can capture photographs and videos to preserve your memories of this unique experience.

Are meals included in the 2-day flight to Nazca?

The inclusion of meals can vary depending on the specific tour package and operator. Some packages may include meals, while others may only provide snacks or exclude meals altogether. It’s essential to check the details of the tour package or inquire with the tour operator to clarify the inclusions.

What other attractions can I expect to visit during the 2-day tour?

In addition to the flight over the Nazca Lines, the 2-day tour may include visits to attractions such as the Chauchilla Cemetery, an ancient burial ground; the Nazca Aqueducts, impressive engineering feats used by the Nazca culture; the Cantalloc Underground Wells, an intricate water management system; and the Maria Reiche Museum, dedicated to the study and preservation of the Nazca Lines.

Is accommodation included in the 2-day flight to Nazca?

Yes, accommodation is typically included in the 2-day flight to Nazca. The tour operator will arrange a comfortable hotel or lodging for your overnight stay in Nazca, allowing you to relax and prepare for the activities of the day.

Pricing & Book Now

2-day nazca lines tour from cusco price information.

PRICES PER PERSON [U.S Dollar] 2024 , with hotel*** twin-share or matrimonial

Soon, we will update the prices!

• Solo Travel USD$000.
• 02 participants USD$000. “Prices reduce if more people are in your group.”
• 03 participants USD$000.
• 04 participants USD$000.
• 05 participants USD$000.
• 06 participants USD$000.
• 07 participants USD$000.
• 08 participants + USD$000.

PURCHASE OF OVERFLIGHT FOR NAZCA FROM CUSCO BY CLIENTS

• Customers are responsible for purchasing shared service flyover tickets or renting a chartered aircraft.
• Overflight to Nazca from Inca, available from the Pisco Airport. Price: approximately USD 280 per person (shared). The client chooses the flight company of their choice on the day of the flight!
• Flight schedules are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• There are some delays! The exact flight departure depends on weather conditions and air traffic; the Peruvian Air Force issues daily flight authorizations. Sometimes, the flight can take between 30 minutes and 5 hours due to fog, etc.
• Flight time : 1 hour and 35 minutes of a panoramic flight over the Nazca from Pisco.
• Local airport tax: S/. 30.00 per person, approx. $12.

NOTE: Reasons why we do not organize the overflight to Nazca from Cusco via Pisco! When booking in advance, sometimes the overflight companies do not arrange the flight or mention that they cannot fly over due to bad weather, and when they do not organize the flight, they do not return the money; they are left with 90% and a series of problems, etc.

We have found it convenient for clients to pay directly at the airline.

INQUIRE ABOUT THE NAZCA LINES TOUR FROM CUSCO

Nazca Lines Tour via Cusco: Take a break from the city and explore the Nazca Lines on an excursion from Cusco. Marvel at the intricate designs and learn about their cultural significance.

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Nazca Lines Tour Full Day

Difficulty of Travel

Tours Duration:

Activities:

Adventure , Nature

Description:

The adventure is on now! Enjoy a breathtaking view from the air on a 30-minute flight over one of the greatest creations of the Ancient World, The Nazca Lines. Discover the fascinating geoglyphs in the Nazca desert declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco.

Our aircrafts with guaranteed panoramic seats and windows, make this over flight in the Nazca Lines a wonderful experience because you will also have professional noise-canceling headphones through which you will hear an informative narration by the pilot in several languages as you travel.

Horario: Our overflights take off from 07:00 hours to 16:30 hours The flights take off every 1 hour approximately We fly over the Nazca Lines 365 days a year including holidays

Not included

Recommendations.

• 30 minutes overflights where you can see 12 enigmatic Nazca Lines
• Pick up at your hotel or bus station in Nasca
• Transfer to Maria Reiche Neuman Airport (Nasca)
• Individual seat with panoramic window
• Transfer back to your hotel or bus station in Nasca
• Bilingual Tourist Guide (Audio in your own language coming soon)
• Overflight Certificate with travel map
• Insurance against risk
• Baggage Storage *

NO INCLUYE:

• TUUA (airport tax): 30 soles /12 USD per person
• Transfers from another city outside Nasca

RECOMENDACIONES:

To appear 60 minutes before in Counter of Maria Reiche Aeroport (Nasca) carrying your Boarding Pass, Passport or original DNI and the contact of the person who made the reservation.

For comfort and weight / balance of the plane it is recommended that passengers weighing more than 95 Kilos (210 pounds) must pay an additional fee per seat and please let us know so we can help you with your reservation.

You can carry a camera, cell phone during the flight. Baggage is not allowed. It is recommended to wear light clothes (shirts, shorts, etc). Eat light food before the flyby.

Flights may have slight delays subject to weather conditions and air traffic. Children from 2 years old must go in 1 single seat and pay a full ticket.

Infant is considered up to 1 year, 11 months and 29 days does not occupy a seat and are not subject to air ticket payment.

Child is considered from 2 years to 10 years, 11 months and 29 days. Maximum weight up to 95 kilos, more than stipulated will pay an extra seat.

Nazca Lines Tours

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Flight over the Nazca Lines – Tour From Cusco to Lima and vice versa 2 Days/ 1 Night

• Destination: Lima, Paracas/ Nazca
• Duration: 2 days
• Price per person: $320

Flight over the Nazca Lines – Tour From Cusco to Lima and vice versa 2 Days/ 1 Night

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The Nazca culture left us the mysterious Nazca Lines: a complex of zoomorphic, geometric or anthropomorphous drawings.

There are hundreds of these lines, geometrically marked on the earth’s surface. With a plane, you will gain altitude to enjoy the view over the desert and of course to appreciate the amazing lines. The largest figure measures more than 200 meters length. Major questions about the intentions and skills of theirs builders remain pending.

Nearby, the pre-Inca Cemetery of Chauchilla was looted by treasure hunters. Normally, in several old tombs, there can be found some mummies, ceramic fragments and some bones. But those who ransacked the place, took away all of the treasures of Peru, so for example the mummies kept in their tombs for centuries.

Price US$ 320 per person

Exclusive international transaction fees: The amount of the extra transaction fees depends on how the payment is made and on your bank. For further information please don’t hesitate to ask.

• Terms and Conditions

Upon request, with each booked tour with Green Peru Adventures, you will receive a  free walking tour  of the mysterious and historic city of Cusco. You will be guided by one of our multilingual, professional guides.

We are looking forward to creating an unforgettable experience for you.

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Nazca Lines

Embark on an exclusive tour to the mysterious Nazca Lines and discover one of the most fascinating archaeological wonders in the world. We offer you a unique and personalized experience so you can contemplate these enigmatic figures from a privileged perspective.

Highlights:

Privacy and Exclusivity: Enjoy a private tour designed exclusively for you and your companions. We will ensure you have an intimate and personalized experience, without the tourist crowds, so you can appreciate the Nazca Lines in all their splendor.

Panoramic Flight: Board a private plane and take off for an exciting panoramic flight over the Nazca Lines. From the heights, you will have a privileged view of the mysterious figures and lines etched in the desert. An expert guide will explain the history and theories surrounding these enigmatic geoglyphs.

Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region as you visit the Maria Reiche Museum, dedicated to the German archaeologist who studied the Nazca Lines for decades. Learn about her research and discoveries, gaining a deeper understanding of this archaeological enigma.

Cerro del Mirador: Enjoy a panoramic view from Cerro del Mirador, a strategically located hill that allows you to appreciate the Nazca Lines from solid ground. Contemplate iconic figures such as the hummingbird, the monkey, and the astronaut, while marveling at their precision and size.

Personalized Attention: Our team will be at your disposal at all times to provide you with an unforgettable experience. We will ensure that every detail is taken care of and that you enjoy exclusive, high-quality service.

Luxury Transportation: We will pick you up in a luxury private vehicle and transport you comfortably and stylishly to the Nazca Lines and other points of interest in the region.

Get ready for a unique and fascinating experience at the Nazca Lines, where history, mystery, and ancient art come together in an incredible testament to the past. Book now and let yourself be enchanted by the magic and mystery of these enigmatic figures!

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Why Choose Nazca Trips for Your Nazca Lines Tour?

Nazca Trips is a dreamer Local Travel Agency specialized in Nazca Tours , Nazca Flights and Nazca Lines Tours . Experience the best Overflight to the Nazca Lines in safe aircraft and in the early hours of the day with highly trained pilots. Each of our Nazca lines tour and flights to the Nazca Lines has strict compliance with the rules and procedures issued by the DGAC.

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Discover the essence of Nazca

Places to Visit in Nazca

Welcome to Nazca, city of one of the greatest Civilizations of the Planet and Earth of Mystery! Nazca Trips is a dream company from Nazca with more than 15 years of experience. We specialize in tours to the Nazca Lines, and we offer professional and authorized services. Vacation tours, attractions, activities, and the best experiences in the city of Nazca, Ica, Pisco and Paracas.

Petroglyphs of Chichictara

TOP DESTINATION

Pampa Galeras

Cantalloc aqueducts.

A series of aqueducts located 4km west of the city of Nazca.

Chauchilla Cementery

Pyramids of cahuachi​.

They Love Our Tours

Our Clientes Testimonial

“I took the Tour that flies over the Nazca Lines with Raul from Nazca Trips and it was an incredible experience! I recommend it to everyone passing through the area.”

Débora R | Check on Tripadvisor

“Brazilians who intend to visit Peru, do not fail to put Nazca in your itinerary. And if you want a great local guide, who even speaks Portuguese, contact Nazca Trips. I recommend it! The company is pleasant and full of content!”

Campiva  | Check on Tripadvisor

“I recommend the services of Nazca Trips. Raul served us with extreme professionalism, attention. Everything exactly as we agreed the day before. Raul enriched the tour sharing with us his vast knowledge about this magnificent region that is Nazca.”

Milton P   | Check on Tripadvisor

“Very good service with the guide Raul. He was very attentive and helped me with everything I needed. He knows a lot about history, not only about Nasca. The place is already sensational and with Raul’s explanations, the tour becomes amazing. And you can ask a lot of questions because he knows a lot and likes when we ask questions.”

Gean C  | Check on Tripadvisor

“It was a wonderful experience. Since I decided to go to Peru this tour was in my plans. My expectations were exceeded. Everything was really perfect! Since the reception by the guide of Nazca Trips, all the orientation given before, the logistics of the arrival to the place and all the attention until the moment of the flight over. Everything is amazing!!!!”

Aldreiariani  | Check on Tripadvisor

“We had a really wonderful day with Nazca Trips and the guide Raul. He took care of us the whole day and guided us through all the interesting areas of Nazca City. I can 100% recommend Raul as a guide if you are looking for a professional and friendly guy. He speaks English very well.”

DenisPatryk  | Check on Tripadvisor

We Pick You Up

Start Your Tour From Diferent Locations

From Arequipa

Travel with confidence.

We are committed to providing quality services, security and personalized assistance in the all our tours. We believe that traveling is the best way to grow, discover and feel new experiences as human beings; Sharing knowledge and culture.

• Flexibility: Because we have the flexibility you are looking for, adjusting the ride to you and not you to the ride.
• For You: Each Tour on our website are just suggestions, the day will be held according to your interests and curiosities.
• Quality: When you seek satisfaction with quality, comfort and safety, Nazcatrips is your choice.
• Knowledge: We want to show everything that this great Civilization left us; Its culture, its art, its wisdom, its people...
• Unique experience: Because we want to improve day by day, making every day a unique experience.
• Vocation: We are in tourism by necessity, but above all by vocation.

Our Best Tours

We offer a wide selection of local tours in the City of Nasca for all strengths. If you would like us to customize an itinerary for you,we are happy to help out!

• Flexibility
• Quality and Experience

Fly Over Nazca Lines

Nazca Lines Flight

Unique Nazca Tours from Lima

Nazca Lines From lima

Experience it All

The Grand Experience

Customize Your Own Visit

Nazca Lines Your Way

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How to Book

Nazca Trips offers personalized itineraries for both frequent and first-time visitors. Browse the website for ideas, or give us a call. We are ready to help you make your trip exactly how you want it.

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Together with my wife we travel to Nazca for a two days. We've tried to find a tour to San Fernando park. The only one company who helped us was Nazca Trips. At 10 PM the manadger of company Raul find to us buggy to ride and a guide for the next day trip! Thanks to him we get this great and fantastic tour. Speccial thanks to the guide Susy. She was exellent, tell us about everything and always help to have a photo and to see a great view. Nazca Trips is good and reliable company and i recommend it!

Después de muchos años viajando y habiendo visitado más de 60 países del mundo, vinimos a Perú. Los dos primeros días, estuvimos en un tour organizado por Raúl de Nasca Trips y su equipo. Sheila, guiándonos a lo largo de los dos días, Jesús llevándonos de forma segura a todas partes Edgardo explicándonos el desierto de la reserva de Paracas, después de ir a ver todo tipo de animales marinos. Pepe haciendonos saltar por las dunas en el buggie y asesorándonos con el sandboarding. Y el antropólogo Jansen, explicándonos las líneas de Nasca, la pirámide de Cauhachi, los acueductos y otros muchos sitios fsscinantes. Lo hemos pasado muy bien, y hemos disfrutado mucho. Somos un grupo de 7 personas y nos hemos sentido muy bien cuidados por cada miembro del equipo. Muchas gracias y enhorabuena Raúl por la organización y la calidad profesional y humana de todos y cada uno de tus profesionales.

Professional approach to the client. Very good contact. I booked two tours with this tour operator - a Nazca flight and a trip to Chauchilla Cemetery. I am very happy with both. Also they picked me up at the bus station, took me to the hotel. And on the last day they provided transport to the station. I recommend the most !!! You will not regret it for sure. Thank you Raul for the entire organization. See you next time!

Excellente agence! Mon tour en avion pour voir les lignes de Nasca s'est très bien passé: ils sont venus me chercher en minibus jusqu'à l'aéroport et m'ont ramené à mon hôtel après le vol. Tout était bien coordonné, je recommande.

Booked a nazca and palpa lines land tour with Raul last week as the flight tour was not available that day. The tour guide-Julio picked me up promptly and took me to serval lookouts and the museum. He was nice, kind and patient. The geoglyphs were amazing and the whole trip was pleasant though the main mirador for nazca lines was closed due to political reason. We were able to see the big feline at hillside that was discovered not long ago as well.

He de decir que la visita a los acueductos, ruinas cercanas a Nazca y la explicación de Julio el guía todo fue correcto y muy buen trato hacia nosotros, así como el vuelo para ver las líneas fue genial y totalmente recomendable, trabajan muy bien en esta agencia, Raúl, también nos ayudó en todo momento con la reserva del tour y facilitó toda la información necesaria, no obstante, la visita a un taller "artesano" fue un robo en toda regla. Nos llevaron a un taller supuestamente artesano donde supuestamente todo lo que allí había a la venta era artesano hecho por 10 familias en Perú, el chico del taller te invita a adquirir sus creaciones "artesanas" tras explicarte cómo las fabrican, cuál es la sorpresa?? Que todo Perú está inundado de las mismas piezas, allá donde vayas y a un precio infinitamente inferior. Creo que es un engaño total por parte de este taller venderte algo como artesano cuando no lo es. Si eligen esta agencia no vayan al taller artesano, es un engaño, y si van, no compren.

Deixa-te levar pelo mistério e magia de Nazca! A agência de viagens que melhor se adapta ao que procuras independentemente de quem sejas e de onde venhas! Voar sobre as linhas de Nazca foi um concretizar de um sonho de criança e nao puderia ter sido mais mágico! O Raúl com a forma como te envolve faz com que a tua imaginaçao te leve aos tempos do povo Nazca , desperta em ti um sentimento de mistério e curiosidade sobre esta magnifica cultura. Ninguém consegue tão facilmente tornar história tão fácil de ouvir, de tal maneira a que tu própria te imaginas naquela época vendo um ritual deste povo. E mais importante, faz com que participes activamente! Te questiona! De forma a que nunca mais te esqueças que passaste por Nasca! Recomendo a 200%!

Fiz o passeio das linhas de Nazca pelo mirante. O guia foi super receptivo e explicou sobre toda a história da civilização e das linhas!! Super recomendo!

Fantastic company who made the flight possible in a very tight schedule!!

One of the best guides I've had in South America- extremely knowledgeable and so much fun. I had a great day exploring Naza and recommend Raul to anyone looking for a guide here.

Fiz o Tour que voa sobre as Linhas de Nazca com o Raul da Nazca Trips e foi uma experiência incrivel! Recomendo a todas as pessoas que passem pela zona.

La experiencia con Nazca Trips ha sido excelente. Raúl fue súper amable y amistoso, nos recogió de la terminal de buses y nos llevó hasta la ciudad de Nazca, explicándonos todo tipo de cosas interesantes tanto de las líneas como del mundo entero, y la verdad es que salimos más que encantados. Una aventura muy muy muy recomendable con la mejor empresa que podíamos haber escogido.

We love the Cahuachi tour with Raul! Very interesting explanations, we learned a lot about Nazca population.

Conhecer Nazca era um dos pontos altos da minha viagem ao Peru. Fiz o sobrevoo sobre as linhas e também tive a oportunidade de conhecer um pouco mais da história fazendo uma visita aos sítios arqueológicos. Agradeço a empresa por ter tornado a experiência inesquecível. Para quem pensa em visitar Nazca recomendo que não pense e sim que vá e com a nazca trips. :)

Raul will take good care of you. As an educated historian he has deep knowledge and an enthusiastic interest in the Nazca region archeological sites. He took me to two sites in particular I had no previous knowledge of but blew me away. His lunch recommendation was amazing.

Culturalmente interesante A1!!!

Un lugar con mucho por conocer hacerca de nuestros ancestros de las culturas preincas.

Great Nazca Lines Flights and great service of Raul. Since the first contact until the end of the tour. Raul take care of our Family and let us enjoy a lovely day Tour in nazca. 1000 % recommended!

Raul is an excellent tour guide and a wonderful human being! I highly recommend this tour, it's a must have experience!

Raúl Peñafiel, uno de los guías de esta empresa de viajes, es sin duda uno de los mejores guías que he tenido en toda mi vida. Fue un Tour lleno de historia, de cultura y sobre todo de amistad. Me sentí como si viajara en familia y todavía a la fecha sé que si regreso a Nazca, regresaría sin duda a contratar con ellos.

Amazing guides - so knowledgeable and passionate! Would highly recommend.

Empresa extremamente profissional e atenta às diferentes necessidades de cada cliente. Nazca trips é uma agência que se distingue das outras porque todos os seus colaboradores são apaixonados por história e simplesmente amam o seu trabalho. Esse facto se reflete na forma como conduzem os tours. Fiz o sobrevoo das linhas de Nazca e os tours ao cemitério de Chauchillla e ao centro cerimonial de Cahuachi. Foi uma experiência muito interessante e enriquecedora. Aconselho vivamente esta agência a quem queira conhecer profundamente a história do povo Nazca e seus intrigantes rituais e das suas famosas linhas!

Well organised tour with a lot of additional information about the history of the Nazca lines.

During my years of traveling and backpacking, I have come across many many tourist guides, but very very few of them would see you as their family member. This is not the style of Raul, he genuinely sees my requests as his and handles them neatly. From picking me up at the bus station at 6 AM, to welcoming me to his home and meeting his parents and brother, to transferring me to the airport for the Nasca line flight, to whisking me through the town to get my phone recharged, then dropping me at the bus stop for the collectivo to the torre mirador, Paul has been so caring, responsive and respectful with a mindset on how to serve his clients the best way he could. He even phoned to make sure I didn't miss my bus to Paracas. My friends recommended me Raul's business, Nazca Trip, and I hereby pass the words of a high recommendation of his service to you as well. Thank you Raul. Good luck to you with your startup and may your dream of being an archeologist come true!

It was great and very interesting to do the flight and Pyramid Tour with this organisation! They are very friendly helpful and professional. Raul informed us well before the flight. And after the great flight we had good archeological and historical tour by Raul. He makes you think further about the mysterie of the Nazca Lines. We had a great day. We recommand the organisation and Raul the guide!!

I went to the chauchilla cementery with raul. He told me a lot, was really enthusiastic and you could tell he knews many things.

I did the flight over the Nazca Lines and the tour to Cahuachi Pyramids through Nazca trips. Both were an amazing experience, well organized since the first contact. Raul was waiting for me at bus station and brought me to this wonderful places. He has alot of knowledge about Nazca Civilization and loves sharing deep history. I recommend % 1000 do the Flight and the tour with this travel agency.

Die Ausflüge mit Raul waren alle sehr informativ, spannend und lustig. Er lebt für die Geschichte in und um Nasca und weiß unheimlich viel, was jeden einzelnen Trip noch besser gemacht hat. Alle Ausflüge konnten kurzfristig und zeitnah organisiert werden, was sehr beeindruckend war. Danke für die coolen Tage in Nasca.

Very nice flight over the nazca lines! My guide raul was very helpful, patient and a polite person. Unforgettable flight-experience!

現地でお世話になりましたが、地上絵の巡回ルートについて分かりやすく説明してくれた上に送迎もしっかり行ってくれ、楽しい1日を過ごす事が出来ました!

Nazca flights are amazing and cool. I booked my trips through nazca trips agency. Raul is a nice person and he explained history of nazca well. I will recommend them if you come to nazca, and please experience the nazca flights!!

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8 Days / 7 Nights

Overfly the mysterious nazca lines heading to cusco, we personalize.

There’s no formula, we simply listen to you and make it happen.

We expertly plan

From your itinerary to the small details, we prepare it all on your behalf.

We don't settle

Refining your itinerary until you’re happy, even while you’re traveling.

World Travel Awards Winner

Rated Excellent by Tripadvisor

Wander among the narrow streets, squares, and colonial churches on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, then take flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines and discover for yourself their beautiful forms. But the desert offers more than mystery, and you can see it by surfing on gigantic sand dunes. Then, lose yourself among the beautiful Inca palaces, colonial churches, and ancient fortifications on high mountains that Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer. Just to discover the wonderful Machu Picchu.

On our “Overfly the mysterious Nazca Lines heading to Cusco” tour you will visit Lima and its charming historic center in a private and exclusive way, with the most luxurious hotels and restaurants. In addition to flying over the mysterious Nazca Lines and doing adventure sports, such as sandboarding and sand-buggy over gigantic sand dunes. Our tour will continue visiting Cusco “The Rome of America” , beautiful places in the Sacred Valley, and the definitive exploration of Machu Picchu. As with all our tours, we can provide you with the most luxurious hotels and your tour is fully customizable.

PERU – LIMA

Arrive at your hotel in lima after your international flight and recharge your energy for our city tour, lima - nazca, overfly the mysterious nazca lines and slide over the desert by practicing sandboarding or buggy sand, nazca – lima, navigate among the fantastic ballestas islands and discover its rich sea life, lima – cusco - sacred valley, welcome to cusco by enjoying awanacancha andean camelid zoo and pisac inca neighborhood, sacred valley, explore the last inca fortress of ollantaytambo, the inca salt mines of maras, and the circular terraces of moray, sacred valley - machu picchu – cusco, conquest the most incredible inca citadel, machu picchu, on an unforgettable day, explore the magical city of cusco and know why it is considered the rome of america, cusco - lima, saying goodbye to such beautiful moments does not have to be complicated, full itinerary, day 1: peru – lima.

Your dream trip to Peru has come! We know you want to get to your hotel to rest after a long flight and enjoy your dreams. Well, Machu Travel Peru makes it simple for you! Once you arrive at the International Lima airport, our host will wait for you at the international arrival zone with a sign indicating your name. He'll welcome you and transfer you to the Lima hotel of your preference in the beautiful Peruvian capital. Of course, he'll also give recommendations of the best restaurants close to your hotel to enjoy the best Peruvian cuisine on your own.

Our local guide will pick you up from your hotel at a specific time to start our unforgettable city tour of Lima's colonial and modern zones.

Our tour will begin by visiting a fascinating boulevard called Jiron de la Unión that leads to Plaza de Armas, the main square of French influence. Afterward, your guide will lead you through beautiful San Martin Square, where you can appreciate enchanting buildings of French styles surrounding the square. Following this, we will visit the Monastery of San Francisco, where you can see beautiful religious painting collections, sculptures, and the enigmatic catacombs, a World Heritage-listed site! This monastery is renowned for its Spanish baroque architecture. The first cemetery of Lima, the catacombs, is hidden underneath this monastery’s floors.

At the end of the day, we’ll drop you off at your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

In the evening, we recommend you enjoy a delicious dinner by yourself at one of the world-renowned restaurants in Lima, also known as “The Capital of the Peruvian Gastronomy,” like Astrid & Gaston, Central, Maido, or La Mar. The decision is always yours!

Tomorrow will be a big day!

• Overnight in Lima.
• Included meals: None.

DAY 2: LIMA - NAZCA

Today, a big world mystery is about to be revealed by you, the Nazca Lines! The morning can be enjoyed with a delicious breakfast provided by your hotel. Later, our MACHU TRAVEL PERU host will pick you up and take you directly to Paracas bay in a private transfer.

In Paracas, you’ll be taken to your confirmed hotel. After check-in, you’ll be escorted to Pisco Aerodrome. On the route, our local host will explain the Nazca Lines Overfly activity, step by step. Once in the aerodrome, the aircraft staff will give you some security advice. Minutes later, the aircraft will be in the air!

In a few minutes, you will find yourself ascending in a circular path, gradually discovering the fantastic Nazca Lines. Prepare your camera because you will get unique photos of these indecipherable geoglyphs of monkeys, hummingbirds, trees, parrots, astronauts, dogs, condors, and other geoglyphs. All these were graphed by a pre-Columbian culture just as mysterious between 1 and 600 A.D. Their purpose is unknown. Still, many theories propose they were part of a giant astronomical calendar. This is one of life’s unique experiences, and now it's at your fingertips!

After your dream flight, our local host will welcome you again in the aerodrome, and, depending on your free time, he’ll recommend restaurants where you will enjoy a well-deserved meal on your own. The decision is always yours.

Following, you’ll be taken to the beautiful Huacachina Oasis, in nearby Ica city.

Lined with imposing palm trees, this paradise blue-green oasis is also surrounded by giant dunes on which you can have a wild and unforgettable sand buggy experience, crossing deserts at full speed and climbing steep sandy slopes under a stunning sun and a completely blue sky. Without mentioning the extra activity of sand-boarding, which consists of sliding over steep slopes of giant dunes, from the top to the down, similar to surf. Simply wonderful!

We will return to your hotel in Paracas at sunset, where you will take a deserved rest. Take a relaxing shower in your room or maybe enjoy a tasty dinner on your own.

NOTE: The overfly in Nazca Lines requires 2 persons as a minimum per departure. Please contact our Travel Agents about the single-passenger option.

• Overnight in Paracas.
• Included meals: Breakfast.

DAY 3: NAZCA – LIMA

Are you ready to see some marine wildlife, up, close and personal? Well, today, early in the morning, a fresh and varied breakfast will be waiting for you in the dining room of your hotel. Afterward, your host will come to your hotel to drive you to the Chaco port, where you will board a speedboat, which will take you to explore the fantastic Ballestas Islands.

Head out to sea and discover an ancient Candelabro (candle holder) geoglyph on the slopes of a gigantic coastal dune in the Paracas National Reserve. Nobody knows its origin and function, but historians agree, it doesn't belong to the Nazca Lines.

Then, navigate among unique rock formations nestled between the deep sea and the deserted coast and be amazed by the sea lions, seals, guano birds, pelicans, and even penguins resting on these rocky islets in their natural habitat, without meshes and glass in between you. Completely fascinating!

In the afternoon, once the speedboat has docked in the local port and the tour has ended, your host will transfer you back to your hotel, where you can have a delicious lunch on your own and enjoy some free time.

At a particular hour, our host will say goodbye and you’ll be taken to Lima in private transportation.

Another local host will welcome you in the Peruvian capital and transfer you to your hotel of preference. Relax, enjoy the facilities or have an exquisite dinner on your own. This is a good time to recharge your batteries for your adventure tomorrow.

DAY 4: LIMA – CUSCO - SACRED VALLEY

Our adventure in Andean lands is about to begin! After a satisfying breakfast provided by your hotel, our host will take you to Lima airport and send you on a comfortable, 75 minute flight to Cusco, the ancient Imperial Inca City.

You can watch the Pacific Ocean merge with blue skies through your plane window which give way to gigantic dunes. These, in turn, collapse on the slopes of gigantic Andean mountains. Which were conquered many centuries ago by the impressive Inca civilization.

Upon your arrival to Cusco, our local host will be waiting for you at the zone of arrival national flights at Cusco airport with a sign with your name. “It is not altitude sickness… it is the feeling of being close to heaven” is a phrase he’ll often say about the altitude. Thus, to avoid altitude sickness, we’ll move directly from Cusco airport to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, located 600 meters below Cusco. But please don't worry, you will get to enjoy all the wonderful sights of Cusco at the end of our journey once your body is perfectly acclimatized to the altitude.

Upon entering the Sacred Valley of the Incas, we will visit an exceptional project called Awanacancha, where you’ll be able to appreciate the 4 types of South American camelids bred in captivity: the llama, the alpaca, the guanaco, and the vicuña. Also, you can feed them and learn to distinguish them. As if this were not enough, the Sacred Valley locals who work there will show you how they use their Inca ancestors’ techniques to transform the delicate fur of these animals, especially the alpaca and vicuña, into beautiful and colored clothes through traditional weaving, like multi-colored belts and exquisitely embroidered blankets, among others.

Then, we’ll continue descending through the valley slope until we reach a spectacular Inca archaeological site over a hill called Pisac, with magnificent terraced fields on its hill slopes, among Inca enclosures, squares, temples, and even an Inca cemetery! Our first contact with a rich Andean past! Descending into the modern town, we will lose ourselves among the colored stands of the famous Pisac traditional market, where we will be fascinated by its beautiful handicrafts made by local people, like fabric crafts, sculptures, jewelry, and paintings with Andean thematic.

Next, we will go to a charming restaurant in the middle of the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley to enjoy a delicious lunch made from local ingredients, fully included in our program. You can choose the restaurant, in advance, with the advice of our travel consultants.

Finally, we’ll go to our hotel in the middle of the spectacular scenery of the Sacred Valley and you can enjoy a delicious dinner here, on your own. A well-deserved sleep is guaranteed tonight.

• Overnight in Sacred Valley.
• Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.

DAY 5: SACRED VALLEY

The Sacred Valley still has treasures to discover, and you will not miss a thing! This day assures an unforgettable trip in a perfect climate. The Sacred Valley is known for its charming climate 365 days a year. First, you'll enjoy a delicious breakfast at your luxury hotel. Then, with our guide, we will begin our adventure through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Discover Ollantaytambo, a fortress that was the last Inca refuge in Andean lands during the Spanish invasion. Wander among its narrow alleys, temples, enclosures and squares of well-carved, perfectly fitted, stone architecture. This incredible experience will be accompanied by stories and myths that your guide will tell you about the place. One notable mention, the fantastic ancient love story legend about an Inca military General and a beautiful Princess, the daughter of the Inca emperor Pachacutec.

Next, you will go to a beautiful farm in the middle of the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley, called Huayocari to enjoy a delicious and exclusive lunch made from local ingredients. Also, you can enjoy a paradise garden full of orchids and its beautiful colonial facilities.

Then, our next stop will be the white slopes of Maras. There, you will enjoy the brightness of 2,000 small Inca salt wells that are still used by local people today to provide themselves with salt. By the way, the Maras salt is recognized worldwide as being perfect for grills and barbecues.

Moving on, our guide will transfer up to Moray, where you'll be fascinated by a series of circular terraces, in the form of rings, that go into the earth's deeps. These circle terraces were used as an Incan laboratory to acclimatize crops. They sowed a specific type of seed in each circular terrace, from the smallest and deepest ring to the largest, to see the quality of the harvest they obtained.

Finally, we’ll return to the hotel to for a deserved rest, you can take a relaxing shower or, maybe, enjoy a fantastic dinner on our own.

DAY 6: SACRED VALLEY - MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

The day to conquer Machu Picchu has come! After a delicious breakfast in your hotel, our host will take you to Ollantaytambo train station to dispatch you on a charming and comfortable train heading to Aguas Calientes, the modern town of Machu Picchu. The magical train trip will last one and a half hours, crossing the spectacular Peruvian jungle, always accompanied by the singing of exotic birds, leafy undergrowth, and the Vilcanota river that will follow the train's movement, like a snake on the lookout for its prey!

Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes train station, our local guide will await you at the arrivals gate. With your guide, you’ll go to the bus station to take a “CONSETTUR” bus heading to the top of a mountain where Machu Picchu citadel is located. After 35 minutes of the bus trip, the bus will drop you at the same entrance gate to Machu Picchu.

Then, you will enter the famous Inca citadel to start living the magic there! You can get lost between enclosures, squares, temples, and stone alleys perfectly carved and fitted. Exploring for two hours the mysteries and magic of an Inca citadel that continues to amaze the world with its beauty. Of course, as a soundtrack, you will listen to the stories of its construction, inhabitants, and function from your private guide.

Once the tour is over, but not before taking your dream photo of Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy a fantastic lunch in the Tinkuy restaurant, the only one located on the same Machu Picchu mountaintop, to enjoy a fantastic lunch totally included in our program.

Next, we’ll take a CONSETTUR bus back to Aguas Calientes town and then to the train station. You’ll say goodbye to our guide there while he dispatches you on a comfortable train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy train stations. Whatever station you arrive at, another member of our staff will wait for you to transfer to the Cusco Hotel, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner on your own, before taking a relaxing shower and enjoying a well-deserved rest.

Don't worry; as you can see, you will always be assisted at any departure or arrival point!

OPTIONAL: If you want to continue enjoying Machu Picchu, this package, like all the others, can be fully customized by adding a night in Aguas Calientes. So, on the following day, you'll be able to enjoy a second visit to the enigmatic Inca citadel or hike to nearby mountains like Huayna Picchu and get fabulous photos of Huayna Picchu. Just tell us your requirements, and that's it!

• Overnight in Cusco.

DAY 7: CUSCO

Are you ready to visit the beautiful, old, Capital of the Inca empire, the “Rome of America” . Of course, we refer to Cusco!  After your hotel provides a comforting and delicious breakfast, your guide will be ready to transport you into the past.

First, you’ll explore the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, with its giant rocks perfectly fitted into its structure. The tour will continue by visiting the Qenqo Inca ceremonial center with its ancient sacrifice vestiges. Then, the Inca, military barrack, Puca Pucara will fascinate you with its beautiful views of Cusco. Following, our guide will show you the retreat place of the Inca sovereign called Tambomachay, with its beautiful water fonts, where the sovereign spent long periods resting and hunting.

Then, we will return to Cusco Center to lose ourselves in its charming stone alleys by appreciating the renaissance architecture of the Cathedral of Cusco and its famous painting collection of unique art style called "Escuela Cusqueña".

Later, your guide will lead you to Qoricancha temple, located a short distance from the Cathedral, where you will be fascinated with the mix of Inca and Spanish architectural styles, besides some original remains of the Inca temples inside it.

Finally, our tour will end in the main square. You might enjoy a nice lunch or dinner on your own in one of the nearby restaurants, or we can arrange transport to drop you off at your hotel. Whatever your decision, tell your guide what you would like to do!

DAY 8: CUSCO - LIMA

Saying goodbye to a beautiful place doesn't have to be sad. That is why, at Machu Travel Peru, we want to save you this trouble. You can enjoy one final, delicious and comforting breakfast fully included in your hotel reservation.

Then, we will accompany you to the Cusco airport to say goodbye and send you on your flight to Lima.

What do you think about our "Overfly the mysterious Nazca Lines heading to Cusco" tour? Do you have any extra requests or questions? Please don’t hesitate to write to us. We will always be attentive to personalize your dreams in Peru at your desire!

NOTE: This program will allow you to visit Lima, Paracas, the Nazca Lines, the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Pisac, Moray, Salineras, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. Additionally, you can add more exciting day tours in Cusco or another destination in Peru. Please see our package list for more options.

The price is fully customizable and can be tailored and flexible to your personal preferences and style, the price is basically based on final accommodation, travel dates, and other custom preferences during the tour.

Request your PERSONALIZED QUOTE now.

• 07 nights lodging at the hotels mentioned in the program, On Double and Triple Occupancy.
• All Excursions and Tours In Private Service.
• All transfers and transportation with a private van.
• A Professional Driver.
• All entrance tickets to all the attractions mentioned in the program.
• Round trip VISTADOME train ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Round trip bus ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu.
• 1/2-hour flight tour over the mysterious Nazca Lines.
• See the most fascinating figures: monkey, hummingbird, condor, dog, etc.
• Meals as indicated (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
• A Professional English-Speaking Tour Guide.
• Personal attention.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International flight tickets.
• Domestic flights from Lima to Cusco & Cusco to Lima.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mount; extra charge of US$ 60.00 p/p.
• Travel insurance.

Top Pick Accommodations

Best hotels recommended for you.

The list below shows our recommended hotels that our travel experts have selected for each destination to make your vacation the best experience featuring superior service, good location, and all facilities necessary for a comfortable stay.

We can book any hotel for you, even if it is not on our list. Please just contact our travel experts for more information.

JW MARRIOTT HOTEL LIMA

HILTON LIMA MIRAFLORES

SHERATON LIMA HISTORIC CENTER

AC HOTEL LIMA MIRAFLORES

CASA ANDINA PREMIUM MIRAFLORES

PULLMAN LIMA MIRAFLORES

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON LIMA MIRAFLORES EL PARDO

CASA ANDINA SELECT MIRAFLORES

COSTA DEL SOL WYNDHAM LIMA AEROPUERTO

HOLIDAY INN LIMA AIRPORT

ALLPA HOTEL & SUITES

EL TAMBO UNO HOTEL

JW MARRIOTT EL CONVENTO CUSCO

ARANWA CUSCO BOUTIQUE HOTEL

BELMOND HOTEL MONASTERIO

PALACIO DEL INKA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL

CASA CARTAGENA BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA

PALACIO NAZARENAS CUSCO

ANTIGUA CASONA SAN BLAS CUSCO

CASA ANDINA PREMIUM CUSCO

SONESTA HOTEL CUSCO

WYNDHAM COSTA DEL SOL CUSCO

HOTEL SAN AGUSTIN PLAZA CUSCO

NOVOTEL CUSCO

MAYTAQ WASIN BOUTIQUE HOTEL

CASA ANDINA STANDARD CUSCO PLAZA

CASA ANDINA STANDARD CUSCO CATEDRAL

CASA ANDINA STANDARD CUSCO KORICANCHA

CASA ANDINA STANDARD CUSCO SAN BLAS

TAMBO DEL INKA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA, SACRED VALLEY

Sacred Valley

ARANWA SACRED VALLEY HOTEL & WELLNESS

RIO SAGRADO BELMOD HOTEL SACRED VALLEY

INKATERRA HACIENDA URUBAMNBA

CASA ANDINA PREMIUM VALLE SAGRADO

SONESTA POSADAS DEL INCA YUCAY

SAN AGUSTIN MONASTERIO DE LA RECOLETA BOUTIQUE

DOUBLE TREE RESORT BY HILTON HOTEL PARACAS

HOTEL PARACAS, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT

ARANWA PARACAS RESORT & SPA

HOTEL SAN AGUSTIN PARACAS

HOTEL EMANCIPADOR PARACAS

We can book any Peru hotel for you, even if it is not on our list. Please just contact to our travel experts for more information.

Speak to our travel experts at call 1 (800) 980-0435

Destinations visited: Lima, Ica, Paracas, Nazca, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu

Style: Religious, Cultural, Archaeological, Adventure and Experiential.

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Overfly the mysterious Nazca Lines heading to Cusco - 8 Days / 9 Nights

Let's make your perfect vacation.

Your trip will be personalised, just for you, by one of our expert travel designers.

So let us know as much as you can about your wishes and your needs. Then we can create your bespoke trip, with accommodation, activities and expert local guides, all to suit you.

Nazca Lines Peru Guide: Tours, Hiking, Maps, Buildings, Facts, and History

by Miguel Angel Gongora Meza | Feb 25, 2023 | 0 comments

, The Nasca Lines are a set of giant geoglyphs located in the Peruvian coastal plain, about 400 kilometers south of Lima (the Capital of Peru).

Created by the ancient Nasca culture and depicting plants, animals, and various shapes, the 2,000-year-old Nasca Lines can only be fully appreciated from the air due to their enormous size.

Despite having been studied for more than 80 years, the geoglyphs, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994 , are still considered a mystery by researchers.

  There are a few theories about the origin of the Nazca Lines ; among the main ones, for instance, Maria Reiche was convinced that the lines represented a vast astronomical calendar used to mark the places where the sun and other celestial bodies rose and set on the horizon. 

Also, the British explorer Tony Morrison found evidence of the existence of small shrines that appeared to be connected by the Nazca lines.

Others have considered that the lines served as ritual centers to help the dead attain immortality or to perform religious ceremonies and rites.

  Moreover, scholars believe that it was a Map of water sources and a form of worship of the water-providing deities: It has been proposed that the lines and shapes served as a map of subway water sources for those who needed supplies in the desert.

Archaeologist John Reinhard also suggested that the figures symbolized the worship of the water-providing deities.

The offer of tours to visit the Nazca Lines is extensive. You have a great variety of options to choose from, such as overflights to the Nazca Lines, the combination of flight + Buggies and Sandboard, and the flight plus a visit to the Cantalloc Aqueducts.

  The desert climate in the Nasca area means there are no winters with shallow temperatures. Although the lines can be visited throughout the year, the ideal time to do it is between December and March because the winds and turbulences are minimal in that season.

Also, during this time of the year, the summer is warmer, allowing light and comfortable clothing to be used.

The geography of the province of Nasca is characterized by valleys and rivers (Ingenio – Changuillo, Aja, Socos, Tierras Blancas, Taruga, Trancas, and Poroma rivers), all tributaries of the Grande river basin.

There are immense pampas and hills typical of the coastal desert. To the province’s east, you can appreciate gorges that give beginning to the first Andean foothills.

The place where the Nasca culture developed is a tablazo, a tectonic uplift, which in the case of the tablazo of Ica flows into the sea in the form of a low cliff.

The climate is warm, rainfall is scarce, and the terrain is arid, with sandy pampas and quite porous, with numerous subway filtrations that change the course of the rivers, which on many occasions emerge several kilometers away, constituting oases.

Every year, more than one hundred thousand people visit the Nazca Lines. The lines are essential for the province of Nasca, as they generate employment and a great deal of fluidity in the local economy.

To date, more than 1,500 geoglyphs are known in the Nasca lines.

The geometric lines and figures extend over 400 square kilometers in southern Peru; In some cases the figures are up to 1.9 kilometers long, and the lines are up to 10 kilometers.

What is the history of the Nazca Lines?

The Nazca Lines are a group of geoglyphs made in the Nasca desert in southern Peru. They were created between 500 BC and 500 AD by members of the Nasca civilization.

There are two main phases of the Nazca lines: the Paracas phase, from 400 to 200 BC, and the Nasca phase, from 200 BC to 500 AD. As of this year, 2022 even 168 new figures have been found with drones, and archaeologists believe there are more to be found.

Most lines cross the landscape in a straight line, but there are also symbolic designs of animals and plants. The combined length of all lines exceeds 1,300 km.

The lines are usually between 10 and 15 cm deep. They were made by removing the top layer of reddish-brown iron oxide-coated pebbles to reveal a yellowish-gray subsoil. 

When the sub-layer of this gravel is removed, the light-colored clayey soil exposed at the bottom of the trench contrasts sharply in color and tone with the surrounding ground surface, producing visible lines.

This sublayer contains large amounts of lime. With the moisture of the morning fog, it hardens to form a protective layer that shields the lines from the winds, thus preventing erosion.

The Nasca used this technique to “draw” several hundred simple but enormous curvilinear figures of animals and humans.

The earthwork project is vast and complex: the area covered by all the lines is almost 450 km2, and the most prominent animal figures alone can span nearly 370 m.

For instance, the hummingbird is 93 m long, the condor is 134 m, the monkey is 93 m by 58 m, and the spider is 47 m.

The total area of the lines is almost 450 km2, and the giant figures can cover nearly 370 meters.

The Nasca region’s dry, windless, constant climate has preserved the lines well. This desert is one of the driest on Earth and maintains a temperature near 25 °C (77 °F) throughout the year.

The lack of wind has helped keep the lines exposed and visible.

Some of the Nasca lines form figures best seen from the air (at about 500 m), although they are also visible from the surrounding foothills and other high places.

A continuous line usually forms the figures. Due to their isolation and the plateau’s dry, stable, windless climate, the lines have been mostly naturally preserved. 

On rare occasions, weather changes may temporarily alter the overall designs. As of 2012, the lines are said to have been deteriorating due to the influx of squatters inhabiting the land.

The figures vary in complexity. Hundreds are simple lines and geometric shapes; more than 70 are zoomorphic designs, such as a hummingbird, spider, fish, condor, heron, monkey, lizard, dog, cat, and human.

Other shapes include trees and flowers.

 Scholars differ in their interpretation of the purpose of the designs but generally attribute religious significance to them. They were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

Several pivotal figures have delved into the mystery of the Nazca Lines since the arrival of the spaniards to the Inca Empire to date.

These include the 16th-century Spanish explorer Pedro Cieza de León who was one of the first ones to have recorded its existence.

More recently  the Peruvian scholar Toribio Mejía Xesspe, and the Americans Paul Kosok and John Reinhard (the latter esteemed within National Geographic) did extensive work in the area.

Also, German researcher Maria Reiche who dedicated her entire life to uncover its mysteries, and Japanese scholar Masato Sakai.

We recommend the following books If you wish to learn more about the Nazca Lines, w: 

• Contributions to geometry and astronomy in ancient Peru. REICHE, María. Editorial Epígrafe. 1993, 
• Nasca Lines. Of the men who drew the desert. HERRAN, Eduardo. Editorial Faculty of Communication Sciences, Tourism, and Psychology of the USMP. 2016.
• The Nazca Lines. A new approach to their origin and meaning. REINHARD, Johan. Editorial Los Pinos. 1997.

The lines and geoglyphs of Nasca and Pampas de Jumana in Palpa are considered extraordinary examples of the astronomical and religious expression of the pre-Hispanic societies that flourished on the southern coast of Peru.

Thanks to their exceptional surface design, they bear witness to a culture whose tradition, beliefs, and thinking developed independently in South America.

The site was transformed into a highly symbolic, ritual, social and cultural landscape that remains visible today.

The Nazca Lines were declared Historical and Cultural Heritage on December 17, 1994.

The Nazca lines are considered the most outstanding group of geoglyphs in the world and are incomparable in extension, magnitude, quantity, size and diversity with any other similar work in the world.

What are the theories about the origin of the Nazca Lines?

Recent investigations led notably by archaeologist Johan Reinhard, sheds new light on the Nazca Lines’ potential significance.

He argues a different purpose for the Nazca Lines, suggesting a connection to water—a vital asset in the arid Peruvian coastal region.

Contrary to being an irrigation system or a guide for finding water sources, these geoglyphs are thought to have served as part of a ritual aimed at invoking much-needed rain from the gods.

Other scholas such as Maria Reiche, a pioneering Nasca researcher, proposed an idea that the lines constituted a vast astronomical calendar, marking the positions where the sun and celestial bodies rose and set on the horizon.

Maria Reiche dedicated her almost her entire life to the understanding of the Nasca lines and her contributions are inmesurable.

Another theory suggests a religious significance, positing that the lines were crafted to honor the gods. Given the Nasca civilization’s strong religious practices, this dedication to the project aligns with their spiritual beliefs.

British explorer Tony Morrison uncovered small shrines seemingly linked by the Nazca lines. Some speculate that these lines could have functioned as ceremonial sites, aiding in rituals for the departed or religious ceremonies, potentially linked to the pursuit of immortality.

What are the myths about Nazca Lines?

The myths surrounding the Nazca lines encompass extraterrestrial connections and ancient astronaut theories.

These beliefs intertwine with stories of teachers arriving from the sky, depicted within the lines, resembling “flying gods” in Nasca legends from the 16th-century Spanish conquest of Peru.

According to some Nasca myths, these celestial beings possessed elongated skulls, contributing to the prevalent belief that these enigmatic lines were constructed by extraterrestrial visitors.

Swiss writer Erich von Daniken ardently supported the notion of ancient astronauts and extraterrestrial involvement. His 1968 publication, “Chariots of the Gods,” postulated that these mysterious shapes and lines were crafted by ancient beings as navigational aids and landing strips for their spacecraft.

Von Daniken’s assertions suggested that the Nazca lines substantiated the visits of extraterrestrial astronauts, shaping ancient civilizations.

He proposed that the Native Americans, viewing Nasca as a sacred site, continued to create additional figures and tracks, hoping to entice the gods’ return, although they never did.

How were the Nazca Lines formed?

The Nasca Lines, made between 500 BC and 500 AD, were crafted by gently removing dark rocks, revealing lighter ground underneath, forming these famous shapes in the desert soil.  

Ancient indigenous Nazca workers used ropes and stakes to make straight lines and marked edges for larger shapes like trapezoids.

They removed stones and arranged them along the borders, creating spirals by moving in circles, gradually widening the lines.

People used simple tools, not high-tech equipment, to form these stunning designs. It was a team effort that brought the community together and showcased their organized workmanship.

Are the Nazca Lines Important for Peru’s History?

Indeed, the Nazca lines hold immense significance in both Peruvian and global history. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these intricate lines stand as an iconic symbol, deeply embedded within Peru’s rich historical and cultural narrative.

They represent a profound archaeological marvel, marking a pinnacle of the ancient Nazca civilization that thrived in the southern hemisphere between 500 BC and 500 AD.

These lines serve as a remarkable testament to the mind-blowing heritage of the pre-Hispanic Nazca people, offering invaluable insights into their millennia-old legacy.

Is it safe to visit the Nazca Lines?

Nazca and Ica, where the Nazca Lines are located, are super safe places, just like other spots in Peru. Remember, it’s always good to be a bit cautious when traveling, but visiting these lines is totally cool and safe! Visiting the Nazca lines is super safe!

Also, when it comes to flying over these mysteries lines, since 2010, only a few top-checked airplane companies operate tours in the area, making the chance of anything going wrong super, super low.

There are towers and ground trips to see the lines from below, if flying’s not your thing. It’s cool, but flying over them gives the best views! Just make sure to take this awesome chance to see these ancient drawings from way up high.

Where are the Nasca Lines Located?

The Nazca lines sit in Peru, about 450 kilometers away from Lima, close to the Pacific Ocean. They stretch across the Ingenio, Nasca, Palpa, and Socos plains. The land in these plains looks reddish during the day and turns violet at night, like a big stage surrounded by hills. The lines can be seen from above using high towers or flying over them.

What are the coordinates of the Nazca Lines?

The coordinates of the Nasca Lines are as follows:

Latitude: -14° 42′ 59.99″ S

Longitude: -75° 07′ 60.00″ W

What are the Tours for Nazca Lines?

When it comes the value of tours around Nazca; the cost of 30-minuted ride overflying the lines cost about $150 to $350, and the big ones cost   $150 to $250 per person while longer flights cost more depending of the starting point.

For those who don’t want to fly, then there are also towers where you can see the figures up close. The highest tower cost about $3-5 and lets you see some of the most impressive figures like a condor, monkey, and spider. One of the lower towers cost about $2-3 and gives you a chance to see the astronaut and lizard.

People can also visit museums to learn more about the lines. The site museum costs around $6-8 and features abundant information about Maria Reiche, the most famous Nazca researcher.

There’s a bike tour that costs around $50-100, If you like biking, or you can take a private car tour that starts at $150 and shows you the different spots related to the lines.

  What is the best season for visiting Nazca Lines?

The best season to visit the Nazca Lines is betwen December and March, Peru’s summer, offers the best weather with low moisture and warm temperatures along the Peruvian coast.

However, it’s the opposite of Machu Picchu’s weather that is mainly rainy and overcast. Nevertheless, this season makes it an ideal time to explore both places, combining your travel for a fulfilling experience in Peru.

What are the Hiking Routes for Nasca Lines?

There are three main hiking and walking routes around the Nazca Lines site, namely : the Nasca City Walk and Archaeological Sites (17.9 km round-trip route), The Cahuachi – Tambo de Perro – Nasca Dunes (37.0 km circular route), and The Panoramic Route: Nasca – María Reiche Tower (49.6 km round-trip route).

The first trail is an easy one, taking 4 hours to cover with a positive vertical drop of 249 m, allowing visitors to tour some archaeological sites near the city, like Cantayoc aqueducts, Los Paredones, as well as close to some of the Nazca lines, before ending at the airport where they can fly over Nazca Lines.

The second trail is considered challenging, taking 9 ½ hours with a 788m positive vertical drop, which starts in the town of Cahuachi and goes through windy terrain perfect for Buggy cars.

The third Trail takes 11 ½ hours covering 49 KM distance, offering 453m Positive Vertical Drop.

What are the Closest Destinations to Nasca Lines?

Paracas National Reserve is the nearest point of interest to the Nazca Lines. The Paracas National Reserve is a protected area located in the province of Pisco, in the department of Ica which was declared as such on September 25, 1975.

Paracas reserve was created to conserve a portion of the sea and the desert, protecting the diverse species of wild flora and fauna inhabiting Las Ballestas islands. Paracas reserve is located 215 kilometers from Nasca.

In April 1992, it was recognized as one of the sites of unique character for the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (RAMSAR Convention), especially as a habitat for aquatic species such as the sea lion, Humboldt penguins (which are in danger of extinction), guano birds such as the booby, the guanay, the pelican and other vital species.

Huacachina Lagoon is a large oasis located five kilometers west of Ica and 146 kilometers from Nasca, in the middle of the coastal desert. Green waters, it arose due to the upwelling of subway currents.

Around it is abundant vegetation composed of palm trees, eucalyptus (introduced species), and the carob tree known as Huarango, which serves as a resting place for the flying birds that pass through this region.

All this contributes to making Huacachina one of the most beautiful places on the Peruvian coast. Pampa Galeras Barbara D’Achille National Reserve is located in the province of Lucanas, in the department of Ayacucho, 77 km from the city of Nasca. 

It covers an area of 6,500 hectares; however, its area of influence is estimated to be close to 60,000 hectares and includes several rural communities. Its main objective is to conserve the vicuña to allow its sustainable use with benefits reverted to the high Andean inhabitants.

Cerro Blanco is considered the highest dune in the world and a favorite for sandboarding and paragliding. The dune reaches 2,078 meters above sea level and 1,176 meters from the base to the summit. Cerro Blanco is located 14 kilometers from Nazca, east of the Nasca Valley.

Sacaco is located 100 km south of the city of Nasca, in the district of Bella Union, in Arequipa. Sacco is a rich deposit of fossil remains, especially whales and sharks of the tertiary era.

There is a small on-site museum, a branch of the Natural History Museum of the Universidad Mayor de San Marcos. 

How to Get from Cusco to Nasca Lines?

Traveling from Cusco to the Nazca Lines is mainly done by bus via Puquio or Arequipa.

Nazca sits halfway between Lima and Arequipa, making it accessible by road. While Nazca has an airport, it’s used mainly for tourist flights over the lines, so most travel happens by road from Lima or Arequipa.

There are bus services from nearby places like Ica or Paracas, providing convenient options.

Keep in mind, the overland journey might take time,If you’re coming from Cusco, as there are limited daily departures. Consider overnight buses or explore the scenic route through Arequipa for a different adventure.

What to know before going to the Nasca Lines?

Opt for morning flights between 7-10 am for clearer views and smoother rides, thanks to calmer winds. This time frame offers the most breathtaking experience.

Don’t forget to pack water, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to beat the scorching sun.

While days are usually hot, nights get cooler, especially in July (the coldest) and February (the hottest).

For the perfect experience, choose a reputable tour company or plan your independent trip wisely.

Flight prices vary, but expect around 35 minutes at roughly USD 100, making those early morning flights an absolute treat

When are the Nasca Lines Open?

The Nasca Lines are accessible for flights starting at 6:00 am. For ground exploration, reach there by 8:00 am. The airfield shuts at 5:00 pm, but the lookout point stays open till 5:30 pm.

How is the Nasca Lines Itinerary?

There are three options for the best itineraries to explore Nazca.

First, consider a trip from Lima with Cruz del Sur Buses for those looking to explore the incredible Nasca Lines. The journey takes 7.5 and 8.5 hours along Peru’s Panamerican Highway South, which passes through historic Pisco and Paracas Reserve before arriving in Nasca. Private transfer is also available for time-conscious travelers willing to pay extra for speedier journeys.

Second, You can spend your night in the city of Nasca and get up early to experience a truly spectacular view. Take an aerial tour on one of many available airlines that offer flights over the ancient Nasca Lines, soaring through 30-40 minutes for sweeping views at lookouts over desert terrain with famous figures like the hummingbird, lizard spider, and monkey spread out before you. 

Third, Alternatively, take a bus north along Panamerican Highway South from town – it’s fast and cheap but won’t afford as fantastic sightseeing opportunities, so if possible, fly instead!

For the smoothest flight, take off in the a.m., when turbulence is at its lowest levels- but be sure to book with trusted airlines and budget for surcharges on top of your ticket price; look out for AeroNasca, AeroParacas, or Movil Air as great options!

What is the best vehicle for visiting Nasca Lines?

If you ask what is the best vehicle to visit the Nasca lines. Going by plane is the best way since it will allow you to contemplate the main figures in greater detail. 

You should be aware that the flight has several sharp turns that make some passengers nauseous. Try to eat only a little in the hours before take-off. Going early in the morning is recommended as there is better visibility and less wind.

Choosing a good company such as AeroNasca, AeroParacas or Móvil Air is recommended. 

Another alternative is to go by land and climb the observation tower. The tower is on the outskirts of Nasca. It is 13 meters high and offers a good view of two lines: the tree and the hands.

How many hours should a person spend visiting the Nasca Lines?

The trip by light aircraft to see the Nasca lines lasts approximately half an hour to forty minutes. 

Is it possible to stay at Nasca Lines?

Yes, you can stay nearby the Nasca lines in Nasca town. 

For those looking to explore the city of Nasca, travelers will find various accommodation options. The budget-friendly option is Nasca Travel One, offering private rooms with all creature comforts such as TV and Wi-Fi at an affordable price – plus continental breakfast is included. Meanwhile, for those wanting something more luxurious, Alegria Hotel offers spacious rooms surrounded by lush gardens and pool areas, giving guests their secret hideaway within the city – alongside other facilities like its restaurant. 

Travelers seeking a remote desert escape with all the comforts of home are found at Hotel Las Dunas in Ica. Enjoy an oasis just 45 minutes away from Paracas National Reserve and 135 km to discover ancient Nasca Lines. Lima is only 300km away – perfect for travelers wanting to explore Peru’s capital city but relax in a tranquil setting when finished. With 50 rooms, choose between standard, superior, or deluxe suites and one villa accommodation option.

What was the purpose of the Nasca Lines for the Nazca culture that created them?

The latest research and findings at Yamagata University suggest that the mysterious lines created by the Nazca people in Peru’s desert were far more than just patterns on the sand. These ancient markings served as epicenters of spiritual power, unifying multiple cultures between the coast and highlands near Iquique. It has also been theorized that they acted like signs directing travelers to Cahuachi – a socio-political hub for Nasca citizens back then. Thus, a new perspective reveals an extraordinary purpose behind these age-old figures crafted into sandy landscapes many millennia ago!

The Nasca culture was a remarkable civilization that left traces of its existence in Peru. Its center, Cahuachi on the Grande River, flourished between the first and seventh centuries before declining. One unique aspect of this ancient society is their giant geoglyphs in the Pampas de Jumana, considered astronomical depictions or even a calendar! The mysterious purpose behind these huge drawings remains unknown today, but no doubt speaks volumes about these impressive people’s knowledge and complexity.

What are some theories about the purpose of the Nazca lines?

Various theories are proposed by scientists and scholars regarding the purpose of the famous Nazca lines. Some hypotheses are widely accepted among the scientific community, while others present theoretical scenarios that are difficult to test. One prevailing viewpoint suggests that these lines were created by two distinct pre-Inca cultures during separate time periods. Specifically, it is believed that the Paracas culture (700 BC – 200 AD) and the Nazca culture (1 BC – 600 AD) were responsible for the design and construction of the lines. Consequently, the lines have become known by the name of their presumed last designers.

What is the size and appearance of the Humanoid geoglyph?

The Humanoid geoglyph, recently discovered and considered incredibly awe-inspiring, is characterized by its relatively small size compared to other figures found in the area. Measuring approximately 2 meters (6.6 feet) in width and 4 meters (13.1 feet) in height, this humanoid representation stands out due to its diminutive stature. The geoglyph portrays a little human figure adorned with a distinctive headdress featuring three points atop its rectangular head. The humanoid is depicted holding a scepter, adding to its intriguing appearance. Despite the challenges posed by the deteriorated state of the geoglyph, the combined efforts of the Artificial Intelligence system, along with the expertise of the archaeologists in charge, were successful in locating and highlighting this remarkable image.

Who discovered more than 140 new Nazca lines images in 2004?

In 2004, a team of researchers led by Professor Masato Sakai from Yamagata University collaborated with Peruvian archaeologist Jorge Olano. With advanced technologies, including IBM’s PAIRS geoscope, they successfully unearthed over 140 previously undiscovered images of the Nazca lines.

What are some other names for the Pelican geoglyph?

The Pelican geoglyph, also known as Alcatraz (an old Spanish name for Pelican), is one of the Nazca Lines Images that presents a challenge regarding its distinct identification. Apart from the name Pelican, this geoglyph is associated with several other names, such as Flamenco, Cormorant, and even Phoenix.

What is the representation of the Nazca dog geoglyph?

The Nazca dog geoglyph is a lesser-known figure among the Nazca Lines images. It portrays a dog in a state of surprise and alertness. This depiction showcases the dog standing upright, with its limbs and tail fully extended, its ears pointing upward, and its eyes and mouth open. However, this posture may simply be the dog stretching its body. The dimensions of the dog geoglyph do not exceed 170 feet in length. It is widely believed that this representation specifically references the Peruvian Inca Orchid, a native breed of dog found in Peru, known for its hairless appearance.

What is the significance of the whale geoglyph?

The whale geoglyph holds significant meaning within the context of the Nazca culture and the famous Nazca lines. Representing a fairly uncomplicated yet easily distinguishable design, the whale geoglyph was one of many indigenous animals depicted on the vast canvas of the Peruvian desert by the Nazca people. Specifically, the whale geoglyph is a remarkable example of the immense diversity celebrated through the Nazca lines. In addition to the whale geoglyph, there is another intricate depiction of an Orca or Killer Whale, further showcasing Nazca artwork’s complexity. This particular geoglyph, however, proves to be more challenging to differentiate. The presence of these whale geoglyphs highlights the Nazca culture’s deep appreciation for the rich variety of animal life that surrounded them. Their depiction serves as a testament to the knowledge, skill, and artistry of the Nazca people in capturing the essence of these majestic creatures on the desert landscape, ensuring their enduring legacy for generations to come.

What is the significance of the spider geoglyph?

The spider geoglyph holds significant importance due to its distinctive features and intricate portrayal. The varying width of the drawn lines, stretching up to 210 centimeters in the widest areas and reducing to approximately 40 centimeters in narrower sections, adds to its captivating allure. This precise craftsmanship highlights the creators’ meticulous attention to detail and skill. Its unique characteristics make the spider geoglyph stand out among other figures, making it a must-see attraction for visitors exploring the area.

What is the significance of the parrot geoglyph?

The parrot geoglyph is significant among the vast lines and figures in the Nazca desert. Although not immediately apparent due to the many other lines in the area, its distinct features are indeed discernible to those with keen observation. Its beak, head, and an evident large crest on one side contribute to the identification of this avian representation. The parrot geoglyph showcases a unique artistic style, predominantly characterized by circular forms. However, the image has suffered alterations over time due to natural erosion and human interference, particularly in the lower section, where the construction of paths and roads occurred. Despite these modifications, the outline of its wings is still discernible. Intriguingly, these wings are portrayed through parallel rectangular shapes, which deviate from a strictly natural representation, suggesting a deliberate artistic choice. The enigmatic nature of the parrot geoglyph has stirred the imagination of various theorists and academics. Its unconventional design has sparked countless theories and interpretations, contributing to the ongoing discussion surrounding the Nazca lines. This geoglyph’s presence has become a subject of intense curiosity, as it holds clues and symbolism that inspire scholarly exploration and provide insights into the ancient civilization that etched these remarkable formations onto the desert floor.

What is the significance of the hummingbird geoglyph?

The hummingbird geoglyph holds great significance due to its representation of a revered deity or flying god in the ancient Nazca culture of Peru. Peru is known for its diverse hummingbird species, with over 125 recorded species, and it is believed that the Nazca population held the hummingbird in high regard. According to Maria Rostorowski, a prominent Peruvian historian, offerings were made annually to appease the god Hummingbirds and prevent drought and lack of rain. This geoglyph not only attracts attention but also exhibits remarkable craftsmanship. Its design allows it to be easily identified during flights over the Nazca lines. The wingspan of the hummingbird geoglyph reaches an impressive 97 meters, while its pointed beak adds further detail to its portrayal. Stretching across a length of 320 feet and a width of 216 feet, this massive depiction emphasizes the contrast between the small size of the hummingbird and its larger-than-life representation in the geoglyph. Overall, the hummingbird geoglyph is a testament to the cultural significance placed on this bird by the Nazca people. Its creation and size highlight the devotion and respect given to the deity it represents. It also serves as a visual reminder of the connection between the gods and the natural world in the Nazca belief system.

What is the significance of the astronaut geoglyph?

The astronaut geoglyph found among the Nazca lines has intrigued researchers and experts for years, as its significance remains a mystery. The geoglyph, also called the giant or the owl-man, stands out amongst the faithful representations of key animals in Nazca culture. This particular geoglyph depicts what appears to be a figure of a human being with large eyes and boots on its feet. Some experts propose that it may belong to the Paracas culture, predating the Nazca culture. Others suggest that it could represent a fisherman, as a net is seen in the figure’s left hand, which is logical considering the area’s proximity to the sea. However, the true intention and purpose behind the astronaut geoglyph remain enigmatic. Academics and researchers continue to debate its meaning, leading to various outlandish theories. Some believe it to be a celestial being or a representation of an extraterrestrial visitor, while others assert that it symbolizes an important figure in Nazca religious or mythological beliefs. To truly appreciate and understand the astronaut geoglyph, one must observe it from above by flying over the Nazca lines. This perspective provides a comprehensive view of its intricate design and scale, providing further context for its possible significance. Despite extensive analysis and speculation, the true nature and purpose of the astronaut geoglyph still need to be discovered, leaving room for ongoing exploration and interpretation by future researchers. Its enigmatic presence continues to captivate and intrigue those interested in the ancient Nazca civilization.

What is the significance of the monkey geoglyph?

The monkey geoglyph in the Nazca lines holds significant meaning and offers insights into the ancient Nazca civilization. This large geoglyph, measuring approximately 330 feet long and 190 feet high, is among the most iconic and emblematic images among the diverse collection of Nazca lines. The monkey geoglyph is particularly intriguing because it represents Peruvian Amazon fauna, as monkeys are not typically found in the arid Nazca desert region. This suggests that the presence of the monkey geoglyph may indicate the existence of trade routes during the time when the Nazca culture flourished. The depiction of a monkey, a creature primarily associated with the Peruvian jungle located far away from the desert, showcases the Nazca civilization’s profound knowledge about the entire fauna of Peru. It is a testament to their understanding and appreciation of the diverse ecosystems within their country. Intricately portrayed with nine fingers and a distinctive spiral-shaped tail, the monkey geoglyph captures the vast catalog of Nazca lines imagery. Exploring these lines during a Nazca lines tour allows one to marvel at the tremendous undertaking of the ancient Nazca civilization, which undertook the creation of these massive and intricate geoglyphs. The significance of the monkey geoglyph lies not only in its representation of an unusual fauna for the Nazca desert region but also in its potential connection to trade routes and the complex knowledge possessed by the Nazca civilization concerning the fauna of Peru. It serves as a reminder of this ancient civilization’s ingenuity and cultural depth, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness it.

What is the significance of the condor geoglyph?

The condor geoglyph is significant among the Nazca lines as one of the most famous and instantly recognizable images. However, recent suggestions by expert groups propose that the figure more closely resembles that of a Chicago, a bird known for hovering near the lines. This theory gains credibility because Andean condors, although associated with Peru’s Andes, are typically observed over 100 miles away from the Nazca area. It is common to find depictions of animals from other regions in the geoglyphs, as seen in other figures. The condor geoglyph is truly remarkable in size, measuring an impressive 130 meters in length and 115 meters in width. Descriptions and photographs need to capture these ancient wonders’ true grandeur and magnificence. It is highly recommended that one witnesses the Nazca lines firsthand to truly appreciate their intricate craftsmanship and ponder the methods used to create them.

How is the Geography of Nasca Lines?

The geography of the province of Nasca is characterized by valleys and rivers (Ingenio – Changuillo, Aja, Socos, Tierras Blancas, Taruga, Trancas, and Poroma rivers), all tributaries of the Grande river basin. There are immense pampas and hills typical of the coastal desert, highlighting the pampas of Jumana where the famous geoglyphs or Nasca Lines are found. To the province’s east, you can appreciate gorges that give beginning to the first Andean foothills. Coastal features include the inlet of San Fernando and the bays of San Nicolas and San Juan in the southern end of the province.

Specifically, the place where the Nasca culture developed is a tablazo, i.e., a tectonic uplift, which in the case of the tablazo of Ica flows into the sea in the form of a low cliff. The climate is warm, rainfall is scarce, and the terrain is arid, with sandy pampas and quite porous, with numerous subway filtrations that change the course of the rivers, which on many occasions emerge several kilometers away, constituting oases. 

What is the Geological Profile of Nasca Lines?

An intricate tapestry has been painted onto a fan-shaped canvas in the Nasca desert for thousands of years. This immense work is comprised of alluvial deposits beginning as far back as the Pleistocene and spanning to modern times; some areas are covered with dunes or other evidence left by climactic fluctuations. The resulting geoglyphs stand today in testament to those who created them long ago.

The stunning Aeolian landscapes of the region are composed of faceted triangles and fans created by alluvial deposits, dissected further still by mighty Urupalla and Socos Gorges. Hills, mountains, and debris slopes – each featuring a unique combination of subvolcanic rocks, sediments, and continental/marine sedimentary rock – make up the impressive topography. These geological marvels provide captivating glimpses into an ancient world that few can ever witness in person.

Soils and sediments in the region can be divided into two primary categories. The first comprises mostly alluvial deposits, ranging from well-rounded gravels to subangular pebbles embedded in a sandy or silty matrix. In some areas, there are higher concentrations of finer particles, such as clays and silts, associated with water flows indicated by pampas features. The second sector consists mainly of weathering soils containing clay adjacent to existing intrusive rocks that may manifest hardened crusts over time due to their exposure to elements like wind and sand sun rays.

A unique soil formation was discovered in the pampas’ northern reaches. It had formed atop an ancient desert alluvium with limited rainfall and no signs of natural disturbance. On further inspection, it became evident that this sedimentation process was due to sustained wind patterns rather than transport from other landscapes – meaning its preservation is virtually intact! This area’s weather cycles vary significantly across seasons, making it interesting to explore their meteorological data in-depth. 

The Nasca pampas have been steadily affected over time by the El Niño events, which cause climatic anomalies in certain areas. These alterations are evident with streams like Urupalla and Socos where rain washes away finer particles from slopes as well as accumulation of coarse materials on them.

What are the findings in Nasca Lines?

There are three basic types of Nasca Lines: straight lines, geometric designs, and pictorial representations.

There are more than 800 straight lines on the coastal plain, some of which are 48 km long. 

In addition, there are more than 300 geometric designs, including basic shapes such as triangles, rectangles, and trapezoids, as well as spirals, arrows, zigzags, and wavy lines.

The Nasca Lines are best known for their depictions of 70 animals and plants, some of which are up to 370 meters long. Some examples are a spider, a hummingbird, a cactus, a monkey, a whale, a llama, a duck, a flower, a tree, a lizard, and a dog.

The Nasca also created other forms, such as a humanoid figure (nicknamed “The Astronaut”), hands, and some unidentifiable representations.

In 2011, a Japanese team discovered a new geoglyph that appears to depict a decapitation scene. At about 4.2 meters long and 3.1 meters wide, is much smaller than other Nasca figures and is not easily seen from aerial surveys. 

In 2016, the same team found another geoglyph, this time one depicting a 98-foot-long (30 meters) mythical creature with many legs and mottled markings sticking out its tongue.

In 2018, Peruvian archaeologists announced that they had discovered more than 50 new geoglyphs in the region, using drones to map the landmarks.

This year, the team of academics from Yamagata University, led by Japanese researcher Masato Sakai, found 168 new geoglyphs near the Nasca lines with the help of Peruvian archaeologists, drones, and aerial images.

Where was the recently discovered Cat geoglyph found, and what are its characteristics?

The recently discovered Cat geoglyph, which measures 31 meters or 121 feet in length, was found on a natural mound near the Nazca lines. Located at a natural viewpoint, this impressive figure had gone unnoticed by many tourists who passed by it every day. The Cat geoglyph stands out due to its unique characteristics. It depicts a cat with pointy ears, large round eyes, a long striped tail, and an open mouth. Its expression conveys a sense of wonder, setting it apart from the typical Nazca figures. Interestingly, the image of the cat was already present in ceramics and fabrics of the Nazca culture, indicating its significance and association with the ancient civilization. Through carbon 14 dating, it has been estimated that this magnificent geoglyph could have been created between 200 and 100 B.C., making it older than many of the other Nazca figures in the surrounding area. The discovery and preservation of this ancient artwork is truly remarkable.

What is the nearest city to Nasca Lines?

Nasca is a city just 21 kilometers from the fascinating Nasca Lines, located in Peru. Just 6 hours and 20 minutes by car will take you on a fantastic journey from Lima – the capital of Peru to these mysterious figures etched into the landscape.

What are the books about Nasca Lines?

You can consult the following books about the Nasca Lines: 

• Contributions to geometry and astronomy in ancient Peru. REICHE, María. Editorial Epígrafe. 1993. 
• Peru. The secret of the desert. REICHE, María. Ministry of Education of Peru. 2001.
• Nasca Lines. Of the men who drew the desert. HERRAN, Eduardo. Editorial Faculty of Communication Sciences, Tourism and Psychology of the USMP. 2016.
• The Mystery of the Nasca Lines. MORRISON, Tony. Publisher Woodbridge. 1987.
• The Nasca. SILVERMAN, Helaine. PROULX, Donald. Blackwell Publishers. 2008

Who are the scientists who worked on Nasca Lines?

Among the most influential scientists, archaeologists, and researchers who have worked on the Nasca Lines are the former Peruvian archaeologist Toribio Mejia Xesspe, the American Paul Kosok, the German Maria Reiche, and the Japanese Masato Sakai.

Peruvian archaeologist Toribio Mejia Xesspe was the first researcher to study the lines in 1926 systematically. However, since they are practically impossible to identify from ground level, they only became known to the public with the arrival of commercial flights over Peru in the 1930s. 

American professor Paul Kosok investigated and found himself at the foot of a line on June 22, 1941, just one day after the winter solstice. At the end of a full day studying the lines, Kosok looked up from his work to see the sunset aligned directly with the line. Kosok called the 310-square-mile expanse of the high desert “the greatest astronomy book in the world.”

The German Maria Reiche, the Lady of Nasca, followed Kosok. Reiche studied the lines for 40 years and fought tirelessly to confirm her theories about the astronomical and calendrical purpose of the lines. 

The team of academics from Yamagata University, headed by Japanese researcher Masato Sakai, found 168 new geoglyphs near the Nazca lines with the help of Peruvian archaeologists, drones, and aerial images.

What do the straight lines of Nasca Mean?

The magnificent Nasca Lines – sprawling geoglyphs carved into Peru’s coastal plain – have been a source of wonder and mystery for over two millennia. From bird-like shapes to animals and plants, these enormous etchings can only be truly appreciated from above due to their immense size. As much as 80 years after first being studied by researchers, many of its secrets remain unsolved—a testament to humankind’s captivating ancient art forms that continue to move us today!

Which district is Nasca Lines in?

The Nasca Lines are located in the Department of Ica, precisely in the Province of Nasca. 

Is Nasca River close to the Nasca Lines?

Yes, the Nasca Lines are located near the Nasca River. This river basin and the Rio Grande basin where the Nasca River flows into affected and influenced the history of the lines and the civilization that developed them.

Are the Nazca Lines close to the Nazca desert?

Yes, the Nazca lines are indeed located within what is considered the Nazca desert. The Nazca Desert, also known as the Nazca Plains, is a desert located in the department of Ica in the southern area of Peru, along the south coast of the Pacific Ocean. It is famous for the Nazca Lines, a series of enormous geoglyphs etched into the desert floor. These geoglyphs were created by removing the reddish-brown iron oxide-coated pebbles covering the Nazca Desert’s surface, revealing the light-colored earth beneath. The Nazca Lines are best viewed from the air and depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes.

Does the Nasca River affect the History of Nasca Lines?

The Nasca River has influenced and affected the history of the Nasca Culture and the Nasca Lines.

The Nasca Lines are located in the desert plains of the Rio Grande river basin, into which the Nasca River flows. This account is, in turn, an archaeological site covering more than 75,000 hectares and is one of the driest places on Earth.

It is an area where it practically does not rain but where there is water because these rivers, at least annually, provide a flow from the rains that occur in the Andes. In such a way that these rivers become oases, thanks to which it is possible to develop agricultural activities. 

Since the Nasca Lines are located in a place where less than one liter/m² of rain falls per year. The terrain is arid, and the composition of the soil, with a high gypsum content mixed with the morning mist and dew, keeps the Earth and stones “attached” to the ground, preventing them from being carried away by the movement of the air. This warm air acts as a cushion that prevents the lines from being erased because it forces the wind to change its direction.

The Nasca culture developed mainly in the valleys of the department of Ica, Peru. Its center was located in Cahuachi, on the left bank of the Rio Grande, in the current province of Nasca.

It is known that water supply played an essential role in their development. In several excavations, small cavities have been found in the geoglyphs in which offerings of agricultural products and marine animals have been found, which had a religious character. Some researchers consider that the drawings of the Nasca Lines were part of a ritual landscape whose purpose was the invocation of water.

The Nasca culture consolidated a remarkable hydraulic technology: building aqueducts, canals, and wells, allowing them to supply water to their cultivated lands permanently.

How did Nasca Lines live in the Past?

Some recent research indicates that the purpose of the Nasca Lines was related to water. A precious asset in the arid lands that form the Peruvian coast. According to these studies, the geoglyphs were not used as an irrigation system or a guide to finding water but as part of a ritual to the gods, an effort to attract much-needed rain.

On this basis, they point out that the representations of animals -some of which are symbols of rain, water, or fertility and have been found in other ancient Peruvian sites and in ceramics- are proof of this.

In 2015, at the 80th annual meeting of the American Society for Archaeology, it was presented that the purpose of the Nazca Lines changed over time. At first, pilgrims on their way to Peruvian temples used the geoglyphs as ritual processional routes. Later, as part of a religious rite, groups would break ceramic pots against the ground at the point where the lines intersected.

How was Agriculture in Nasca Lines?

The Nasca culture was a civilization whose subsistence economy was based on intensive agriculture.

The basis of the economy was agriculture, an activity that was a difficult challenge for the Nazca to overcome due to the geographic characteristics of the region where they developed: a relatively dry climate, little agricultural land, and little water for irrigation.

In this regard, the Italian scholar Antonio Raimondi observed that:

Located in the depths of Nazca, a subterranean waterway runs closer than four or five meters underground – unfortunately, too deep to irrigate its arid land. The river usually is dry throughout most months, yet thanks to remarkable works by the ancient civilization centuries ago; it has been able to sustain life in this otherwise desolate landscape for over ten months annually.

The way the Nasca solved this problem is one of the most admirable achievements of their culture. Applying remarkable hydraulic technology, they built aqueducts, canals, and wells that allowed them to permanently supply water to the cultivated lands, thus developing solid agriculture.

Their crops were: corn, beans, squash, pumpkin, cassava, peanuts, peppers, guava, lucuma, pacae, and cotton. With the latter, they developed their textiles and clothing.

How was Mining in Nasca Lines?

The Nasca culture used gold and silver to make masks, ear flares, nose rings, and other ritual objects decorated by embossing as sheets. These objects were for ceremonial and/or religious uses.

How was the economy of Nasca Lines?

The Nasca people, a Peruvian pre-Columbian civilization on the Pacific coast, developed an advanced economy based on intensive agriculture and fishing. Aqueducts provided irrigation for their cultivated land, while plentiful sea resources were taken advantage of through marine life, such as whales depicted in ceramic artworks. In addition to regional trade exchanging goods like textiles with neighboring societies of Andean culture, such as the Huarpas in the highlands, these ancient South Americans laid down solid foundations that contributed to cultural prosperity in this part of Peru long ago.

How was Daily Life in Nasca Lines?

At the top of the Nasca social pyramid were the principal authorities: lords and priests. These could organize community work and direct complex ceremonial activities. This elite lived in pyramidal buildings, in particular sectors whose rooms were made of adobe and walls covered with a layer of plaster or lime to cover cracks.

At the service of these authorities were many specialized artisans, such as potters and textile makers, astrologers, musicians, and soldiers, who lived in small towns and ceremonial centers, among which Cahuachi was the most important. The warriors in particular, formed a highly respected and feared social class because they were characterized by their strength and pride in both ceramics and textiles.

At the base of the society were the farmers and fishermen, who lived scattered in different parts of the territory. The farmers had almost all of the valleys in this way; they could develop agriculture with more space and fertile land.

The Nasca culture did not have a unified government or a capital but was a grouping of local lordships. These lordships occupied the valleys, at the ends of which were the settlements, since the rest of the territory along each river was dedicated exclusively to agriculture.

These lordships eventually made alliances, the only common bond being religion, in addition to culture. The struggles between them must have been ongoing.

The Nasca were very fond of war. They were always looking for trophy heads and painted their faces imitating the falcon’s spots, as seen in their artistic representations.

It is presumed that the expansion of this culture was military in nature, based on the following facts:

• The sudden appearance of Nasca ceramics in some sites
• The existence of fortified cities in the area of Nasca influence
• The large number of weapons found in the tombs
• The custom of head-trophies

Their expansion must have been due to the search for new arable land in the face of the desertification process that threatened their territory.

The practice of trophy heads originated in what is now known as Sitio Arqueologico Chavin de Huantar and Paracas cultures. However, it became widespread under the Nasc, so much so that it is even profusely represented in their early ceramics.

It was widely believed that they were war trophies: the victorious warrior had the right to cut off the head of the defeated enemy and turn it into a trophy that he always carried with him. However, the finding of children’s and women’s heads not associated with war contexts has led to the assumption that they could also be practices linked to the cult of fertility.

According to studies carried out in the tombs of Cahuachi and other Nazca sites, Helaine Silverman suggests that approximately 5% of the Nasca inhabitants ended up as trophy heads, which gives us an idea of the enormous diffusion of this practice.

What were the Religious Beliefs in Nasca Lines?

The Nasca civilization performed rituals to the divinities of the sea, the sky, the Earth, fire, water, wind, and the creator God. A significant part of their constructions and elaborations were made for the gods so there would be no droughts, and the canals would not dry up. Their religion was also related to the Nasca Lines, considered an agricultural circle and astronomical calendar by some researchers. Others point out that they were the site of numerous rituals dedicated to their gods. 

Typical Nasca burials were generally individual, inside a shallow pit. In the Middle and Late Nasca periods, burials appeared in deep burial chambers, with lined walls and more outstanding grave goods than in previous periods, suggesting the appearance of powerful elites and more significant social differentiation. At the site of La Muña, in the Palpa Valley, this type of burial chamber has been found associated with ceremonial architecture. Still, unfortunately, it has already been looted and stolen.

The position of the buried person could be flexed or lying down. The angled bodies (fetal position) were wrapped with several shrouds until they formed a bundle, similar to those of the Paracas Culture. Some bundles had a so-called “false head,” a slight bulge in the upper part that simulated a head. The burial was accompanied by various offerings, ma or vessels filled with food, weapons, and clothing accessories such as hats, plumes, and bouquets. 

The importance of the deceased can be determined by the complexity of the chamber’s roof and the number of objects it contains. The tombs of the men and women of the village lack luxury.

A typical Nasca cemetery is located in Chauchilla, 30 km from the city of the same name. It is composed of burial chambers and pits roofed with cane and mud. Unfortunately, it has been plundered intensely, losing much of the information that it kept. 

How is the Past of Nasca Lines presented to the visitors?

The best way the Nasca lines are presented to visitors is written by the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) on its web page;

| In the southern Peruvian desert, giant etchings of spiders, whales, people, and trapezoids stretching across 450sqkm have adorned the landscape for 2,000 years.

Preserved naturally by the hot sun and a dry climate, the Nasca Lines have been embedded with mystery ever since the Nazca culture collapsed around 600 AD. 

The ancient Nascas scratched their drawings into the sand by removing rocks from the desert soil.

The manmade wonder resulted from a collection of shapes and pictures only discernable from great heights—the question of why has lingered over these images for centuries.

As more and more is uncovered about the ancient civilization that once lived on this arid coastal plain, the Nasca Lines will continue to intrigue for academics and ordinary people. Travelers to Peru can only hope that preservation efforts can make this archaeological treasure last for generations to come.

Today, the Nasca Lines are a World Heritage Site attracting curious tourists and academics worldwide. But the etchings may be under threat. Nasca’s incredible lines and geoglyphs have been placed on the World Monument Fund’s 2012 Watch list.

As a result, the Ministry of Culture is working on a master plan to regulate tourism and industrial activity in the area. That plan will likely include tactics for responding to flooding caused by El Niño and La Niña climate patterns.

Several tour operators offer trips to Nasca, and a few bill themselves as eco-tourism businesses. Outfitters Eco Service Tours and Sacred Earth Travel offer three-day tours to view the geoglyphs from above and up close on the ground.

Preserving the Nasca Lines should be in the Peruvian government’s best interest. The alluring history of these cryptic lines could have the potential to rival Machu Picchu as a tourist destination.

How is the Preservation of Nasca Lines?

Given the desert’s scarcity of rain, wind, and erosion, the geoglyphs have been preserved well over the centuries.

Unlike other relics worldwide, the Nasca Lines were primarily saved from unintentional destruction, thanks to their location in the desert.

But they are not entirely risk-free.

In 2009, the Nasca Lines suffered the first recorded rain damage in their millennial history. The heavy downpours deposited sand and clay on three fingers of the hand-shaped geoglyph. This makes us consider climate change a risk to be considered for preserving this World Heritage Site.

Five years later, Greenpeace’s environmental group damaged an area near the hummingbird geoglyph. Activists disturbed the top layer of rocks next to the hummingbird figure when they trampled the forbidden area of the desert to put up a large sign promoting renewable energy.

In 2018, a truck driver who got lost on the Pan American highway was arrested after he drove over a portion of the Nasca Lines, etching deep scars in an area approximately 100 feet by 330 feet (about 50 meters by 100 meters). The damage caused by the truck driver renewed calls for increased security and site surveillance.

Is there a modern town of Nasca Lines?

Nasca is a Peruvian city, the capital of the district of the same name, located in the province of Nasca in the department of Ica. Geographically, it is situated on the right bank of the Aja River, a tributary of the Rio Grande, in a valley 520 meters above sea level 439 km south of Lima.

It is a very vibrant city thanks to the many visitors arriving daily to see the Nasca Lines and its surroundings’ mining, agricultural, and commercial development.

Its population is approximately 50,000 inhabitants.

Do Nasca Lines have a No-fly Zone?

In Peru, overflight is prohibited in restricted areas, such as the Government Palace, military zones, airports, archeological sites (including the Nasca lines), and protected natural areas, unless authorized by the corresponding entities.

What are the prominent historical landmarks in Nasca?

Among the main places of historical interest in Nasca, in addition to the lines themselves, we consider the following areas to visit:

• Plaza de Armas is the central square of Nasca, where several hotels and restaurants are located. There is also a museum of the same name, which exhibits mostly ceramics of the ancient Nasca culture. 

Conveniently located a short distance from the small Maria Reiche Neuman airport, which usually handles tourist traffic, it is the liveliest place in town.

• Cahuachi is a citadel and ceremonial center of the ancient Nasca culture. There, we can find two staggered adobe pyramids.
• Chauchilla Cemetery: It is a pre-Inca necropolis. Some sources relate it to the ancient Huari Culture and others to the Nasca Culture. In the cemetery, you can see pottery fragments, textiles, and mummies.
• The Nasca culture built the Aqueducts of Cantalloc, and they work until today. Demonstrating the technological advances in hydraulic engineering that the Nasca civilization had. More than 40 aqueducts were built, which were used throughout the year to develop efficient agriculture and meet the needs of its population.

Is Nasca Lines a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Since 1994, the Nasca Lines have been considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

What is the contribution of Nasca Lines to Tourism in Peru?

Every year, more than one hundred thousand people visit the Nasca Lines. The lines are important for the province of Nasca, as they generate employment and a great deal of fluidity in the local economy.

According to National Geographic, preserving the Nasca Lines should become a priority for the Peruvian government. This is because, according to an American scientific publication, this great work has all the potential to rival Machu Picchu as a tourist destination.

Are the Nazca Lines in danger?

The Nasca Lines are in danger of disappearing in our lifetimes. Despite having survived thousands of years, the Lines could easily be swept away by a major storm, a risk in the age of climate change.

However, humans are the greatest threat to the Nasca Lines: urbanization, road construction, and modernity are more severe threats than any other natural reason.

The best-known case of damage caused by human actions to the Nasca Lines occurred in 2014 when twelve Greenpeace activists illegally entered a 40m2 area where the Colibri geoglyph is located. In this space, 45 yellow canvases were placed with the message “Time for Change! The future is renewable, Greenpeace”. 

The events occurred during the UN Climate Conference held in Peru that year.

In 2015, the executive director of Greenpeace International, Kumi Naidoo, acknowledged that the activity was a mistake. “Greenpeace should never have done the activity in the Nazca lines,” he assured and affirmed that they would repair the damage.

Is Nasca Lines floated in the Past?

The Nasca lines did not float in the Past.

The Nasca Lines are located where less than one liter/m² of rain falls annually. As this is an arid terrain, the composition of the soil, with a high gypsum content mixed with the morning dew, keeps the dirt and stones “attached” to the ground, preventing them from being dragged by the movement of the air.

 This hot air is a cushion that prevents the lines from blurring because it forces the wind to change its direction.

How many Artifacts exist in Nasca Lines?

To date, more than 1,500 geoglyphs are known to have been crafted by the ancient Nazca culture.

 These geometric drawings and figures extend over 400 square kilometers in southern Peru. The figures are up to 1.9 kilometers long, and the lines are up to 10 kilometers.

Currently, in December 2022, new drawings and figures continue to appear. There are many theories about why the Nazca people could have been drawn these lines

Some Sample Artifacts from Nasca Lines?

Below is a list of the artifacts in the Nasca lines;

Hummingbird Figure – Nasca Lines

The figure of the Hands – Nasca Lines

The figure of the spider – Nasca Lines 

Monkey Figure – Nasca Lines

Nasca Culture Textiles  

Mug with pelican motifs – Nasca Culture.

What are the movies about Nasca Lines?

Several films, reports, and documentaries have been made about the Nasca Lines. Some have been productions made with all the seriousness and rigor in the information of National Geographic, as well as other works made solely for entertainment, as is the case of Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull and the soon-to-be-released movie Transformers: The Awakening of the Beasts. 

1 – The documentary series ‘The Nazca Lines’, was produced by Edge West Production in association with National Geographic Television for National Geographic Channel. 

2- BBC News report – Skydivers’ 8,800ft jump over Peru’s Nazca lines

3 – Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull (2008). Indiana Jones makes one of his last adventures in Peru. During his stay in the country of the Incas, he visits Cusco and the ancient Nasca lines.

4 – Transformers: Awakening of the Beasts. (2023). So far, the last great confrontation between Autobots and Decepticons takes place in Peru, in some of its most ancient peoples famous historical and millenary places.

Who are the famous people who visited Nasca Lines?

Among the essential explorers, scientists, archaeologists, and researchers who have worked in the Nasca Lines, we can consider the Spanish Pedro Cieza de León (in the XVI century), the Peruvian Toribio Mejía Xesspe, the North Americans Paul Kosok and John Reinhard (the latter is a recognized member of National Geographic), the German Maria Reiche and the Japanese Masato Sakai.

From the world of fiction, the movie hero Indiana Jones (represented by Harrison Ford) lived adventures in the Nasca Lines that we were lucky enough to see in the movie “Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull”. The movie’s filming took place in the USA, but, as an anecdote and from fantasy, great Indiana once again saved the world, in this case, from Nasca.

Unlike Indiana Jones, who did visit the Nasca Lines, and filmed scenes of his new movie in Peru, were the Autobots. Their next confrontation against the evil Decepticons takes place in Peruvian territory: Nasca, Cusco, and the Amazon jungle. In 2023 we will see them in Transformers: Awakening of the Beasts.

What is the address and contact information for Evolution Treks Peru?

 Evolution Treks Peru is located in Calle Chile Q-17, Cusco Peru. 

What are some popular tours in Peru offered by Evolution Treks Peru?

Evolution Treks  Peru offers a variety of popular tours in Peru that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are a few examples: 1. Classic Tour: Mysterious Nazca Lines and Machu PicchuDuration: 7 days / 6 nightsHighlights: Lima, Ica, Paracas, Nazca, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu PicchuThis tour takes you to explore the enigmatic Nazca Lines, witness the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu, and discover the rich cultural heritage of Cusco and the Sacred Valley. 2. Classic Tour: Peru Magic; Duration: 12 days / 11 nightsHighlights: Lima, Ica, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu PicchuDiscover the true magic of Peru with this comprehensive tour. This tour promises an unforgettable journey from the mysterious Nazca Lines and the mesmerizing landscapes of Colca Canyon to the captivating beauty of Lake Titicaca and the iconic Machu Picchu. 3. Luxury Tour: Mysteries from the Air; Duration: 9 days / 8 nightsHighlights: Lima, Ica, Paracas, Nazca, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Embark on a luxury adventure that combines the charm of Peru’s ancient wonders with exclusive aerial experiences. This tour features visits to the Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, and other sacred sites while offering unique opportunities to witness the mystique of Peru from the air. These are just a few examples of the popular tours offered by Evolution Treks Peru. Whether you’re seeking classic cultural exploration or a luxurious adventure, they have a diverse range of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles.

Miguel is a professional tour guide from Cusco, Peru, with almost 20 years of experience leading tours and a deep knowledge of Peru’s cultural and ecological diversity. He is also an advocate of ecotourism and cultural sensitivity and has lectured on these topics in the US and Europe. He co-founded Evolution Treks Peru, a worker-owned travel company based in Cusco.

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Machu Picchu, Cusco and the Nazca Lines, 10 Days

$1,595 per person** (based on 2 people sharing)

Fly the Nazca Lines and discover all the most important Inca sites in the Cusco region in this comprehensive 10 days tour. See the famous mysterious etchings of Nazca in Peru’s Pampa desert, and tour in and around the Andean City of Cusco, before spending the night at one of South Americas best tourist attractions – Machu Picchu

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Day 1 – Arrive Lima

Today your international flight will arrive into Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima (most flights arrive in the evening). We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the up-market district of Miraflores.

Day 2 – Guided Tour of Lima

You will have the morning free to take a late breakfast and relax. In the afternoon we will collect you for an afternoon colonial tour of Lima . The tour includes Lima’s Plaza de Armas, Lima Cathedral, The Church and Convent of San Francisco and The Museum of Religious Art.

Day 3 – Travel to Nazca

In the morning you will take the Cruz del Sur luxury bus service from Lima to Nazca (6 hours). The journey travels south from Lima following the Pan Americana highway through the dry and arid desert of the Peruvian coast. You will travel in the comfortable VIP class seating , which offer fully reclining leather seats, and snack service. On arrival in Nazca you will be met and taken to your hotel for the afternoon.

Day 4 – Over flight of Nazca Lines

From the small airstrip in Nazca you will take morning flights of the famous Nazca Lines , the only real way to get a true perspective of this pre-Columbian mystery. The Nazca people created a vast tapestry of trapezoids and triangles, creating some 70 strange animal and plant figures which have mystified observers for thousands of years. The strangest of all is the spaceman, with a clear body and bubble shaped helmet, scribed onto the side of a small mountain. Your flight will last approximately 40 minutes.

In the afternoon you will take the Cruz del Sur VIP service back to Lima, where you will spend one further night. Should you wish we can extend this section of the trip to include tours of the Ballestas Islands, Paracas National Park or perhaps dune buggy’s at Huachachina.

Day 5 – Guided Tour Cusco

In the morning you will fly to Cusco in the heartland of the Inca Empire. You will have the morning to relax and settle in before we collect you for an afternoon tour of Cusco and surrounding attractions. The Cusco city tour includes attractions not only within the city, but those of Saqsayhuman, Q’enco and Tambomachay located on the outskirts of Cusco. Within the city the tour gives you the opportunity to visit Cusco’s Cathedral and Korikancha – The Inca Temple of the Sun.

Day 6 – Guided Tour of the Sacred Valley

Today you will take a full day tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you will visit the market town of Pisac and the small village of Ollantaytambo. In Pisac you will visit the beautiful mountain top ruins which include a small Inca village and a well preserved royal temple, before heading along the valley and lunching in Urubamba. In the afternoon you will climb the hillside fortress at Ollantaytambo , where the Incas fought one of their last battles against the Spanish Conquistadores. On your return to Cusco there is the opportunity to visit the small yet stunning church of Chinchero.

Day 7 – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Today you will catch an early train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. After your transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, you will take a scenic two hour train ride along the beautiful Sacred Valley before arriving to Machu Picchu. You will take a two hour guided tour of Machu Picchu , including stops at the Caretakers Hut, the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb, the Three Windowed Temple and Intihuatana (the Solar Clock). You will stay overnight near Machu Picchu in the small village of Aguas Calientes.

Day 8 – Re-visit Machu Picchu

A sunrise return to Machu Picchu awaits you today, and the option of an extended guided tour to some of the citadels hidden secrets. You can discuss with your guide what suits you best, but many visitors choose to hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) high above Machu Picchu or alternatively a leisurely climb up Huayna Picchu , the ubiquitous mountain overlooking the citadel. In the afternoon you will return to Cusco.

Day 9 – Free Day in Cusco

Today you will have a free day to relax and explore the vibrant Andean city of Cusco . Perhaps you would like to take a gentle walk to Cristo Blanco high above Cusco, or maybe meander around the many cobbled streets taking in a coffee. You can also use your Cusco Tourist Ticket (included in the price) to enter many of the interesting museums dotted around Cusco.

Day 10 – Depart

Today you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we collect you from your hotel and transfer you back to Cusco Airport for your onward flights.

What’s Included

Recommended 3 star accommodations Airport transfers Guided tour of Lima Overflight of Nazca Lines Guided tour of Cusco (including full Cusco tourist ticket) Guided tour of The Sacred Valley, including buffet lunch. Two days guided tour of Machu Picchu

What’s Not Included

Domestic or international flights.

**Prices quoted in US Dollars. Prices are based on two people or more sharing, using our recommended 3 star hotels, low season rates and gtravelling in our standard group tour (max 16 people). Alternative hotels and itineraries are available for this tour; contact one of our travel advisors for pricing information. Surcharges may be applicable to certain credit cards used for payment. Our Terms and Conditions

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Package Nazca Huacachina & Paracas from Cusco or Arequpa ending in Lima

Nazca Nazca Lines from Cusco 

Nazca Lines from Cusco

Nazca Lines from Cusco or Arequipa – 3 Days and 2 Nights ending in Lima

TOUR DETAILS

• Start time and place:  17:20 hrs pick up from your hotel in Cusco
• Tour duration: 3 days 2 nights
• Minimum required: 02 passengers
• Anticipation of reservation: anticipated coordination.
• Type of service: personalized
• Availability: every day.
• Tour language: Spanish / English
• End of the tour: Lima

PACKAGE DECRIPTION

On this tourist package, you will have the opportunity to visit the most important tourist sites in the southern region of Peru: NAZCA- ICA -HUACACHINA-PARACAS.

TOUR ACTIVITIES

• Walk, walks and overflight.
• Archaeological visits
• Cultural and gastronomic visits
• Guided visits
• Historical visits

HIGHLIGHTS (highlights of the tour)

• Modern boat with the best view towards the Ballestas and Candelabro Islands
• You will have the opportunity to learn about history, culture, gastronomy and more
• Each seat of the plane has its own window to clearly observe the lines
• Professional guides and certificates in tourism.

  Day 1º. Departure from Cusco to Nazca

Picking up our customers from your hotel in Cusco to transfer them to the bus station.

16:20 hs. Pick up from your hotel in Cusco by a representative private Car Emotion Tour Peru and transfer to the bus station CRUZ DEL SUR.

17:00 hs. Departure from Cusco to Nazca by Cruz del Sur, first floor Vip Service ..

*Night on the bus until you arrive to nazca next day early morning.

Departure from Arequipa to Nazca

9:20 p.m. Pick up from your hotel in Arequipa and transfer to the Cruz del Sur bus station 10:15 p.m. Departure from Arequipa to Nazca in Cruz del Sur (arriving in Nazca the next day between 07:00 am to 07:30 am).

Day 2º Arrival in Nazca, Nazca Lines Flight – Acueductos – Huacachina – Paracas

08:00 a.m. Arrive time to Nazca, reception service and transfer to Maria Reiche airport.  Before to Flight, you will see an informative video of the Nazca Lines , after you will board the airplane to fly over the impressive Nazca lines for 35 minutes.

For the Overflight we use small airplanes with capacity for 4 and 5 people, Cessna single-engine aircraft, each person with a window seat;

after some basic information about the Lines and safety instructions you will board the airplane. During this flight you will see perfect representations of large animals, such as birds, including a condor, a hummingbird, a pelican, a parrot among others. As for the other species, you will see a big monkey, a spider, a whale, a lizard, and a famous design known as the astronaut. Besides the designs you can also find hundreds of lines that run throughout the desert and large geometric shapes that resemble huge runways. Finally we will return to the airport.

After the Overflight, we will leave in our private mobility towards the area of Cantalloc.

On the way we will see the Inca ruins of Caxamarca, an Inca Ruin used in the past as a resting place. Today local people call this place Paredones, which was built long ago when the Incas expanded their empire on the Nazca Valley, here we will know more of this Inca Ruin and of history in this place.

Then you will visit a sector known as the needles, where it is possible to observe a huge trapezoid from the top of a little hill, here you will be able to be very close to a genuine Nazca trapezoid and will also get a good insight into the meaning of the Nazca Lines.

Afterwards, we are going to visit the ancient channels of Cantayo.

On this place we will visiting the enormous spirals holes and also the channels. Our guide will explain how the Nazca people built all these channels and also will take us for a stroll in the surrounding fields to see some crops produced by the native community.

After visiting this place we will go to the city center for you to have lunch or go straight to Huacachina (2 hours trip).

When you arrive to Huacachina, you will know this beautiful Oasis and at the indicated time we will begin the adrenaline tour in the desert with Buggy and sandboarding.

16:30 hs. Extreme Tour in the desert with Buggies and sandboarding.

In this tour you will cross Ica’s desert in a 4×4 buggy vehicle, and will make various stops along the way for pictures. The desert of Ica is the most beautiful in our country and, offers stunning landscapes, not only of sand dunes, but also of the Huacachina lagoon, from above.

There will be some points where you will have the opportunity to experience the exhilaration of one of most popular sports in Ica “Sandboarding”.

Our driver will take you to the summit of some dunes, and from the very top you will be able to slide down. Before you start to sand surf, our guide/instructor will teach you specific techniques to ensure a safety ride. There are actually plenty spots to sandboard around Huacachina Oasis, with a wide variety of dunes, suitable for the very beginners, as well as for professional sand boarders. Keep in mind that on this tour you will not have to walk up the dunes to go for a second or a third ride, our driver will do all the lifting job for you, finally when you return, we will make a last stop at the top of a dune and we will have a beautiful view of the oasis. Then you will return to Huacachina. The whole tour will take about 1 hour and a half.

18:10 hs . Finish of the tour

18:30 hs. Transportation from Huacachina to Paracas by Private car.

Hotel Night in Paracas.

Day 3º Ballestas Islands & Paracas National Reserve Tour – Lima

On this second day you will continue the itinerary. You will visit the Ballestas Islands the Paracas National Reserve and finish in Lima.

07:40 a.m. Pick up from the hotel in Paracas and transfer to the tourist pier.

08:00 a.m. Tour Ballestas Island and Candelabro (02 hours tour by speed boat)

Begin the tour from the port of Chaco Paracas where we will board a speedboat to share with other clients, then a fifteen minute tour of the Paracas Bay, arrive at Candelabra, here our guide will explain the different theories out there about this figure enigmatic, after fifteen minutes of travel around the Ballestas Islands where we will see rock formations and a variety of marine species, sea lions, Humboldt penguins, chuitas, guanays, pelicans, oystercatchers tendrils, thousands of sea birds, then arrive Maternity of wolves, then return to port.

10:00 a.m.  Return of the tour and transfer to Hotel

11:00 a.m.  Pick up from hotel to start the tour Paracas National Reserve by private car.

During this trip we visit interpretation center of Reserve which have very interesting pictures and interactive videos and all the history as important data of this protected area. We also do a route by peninsula of Paracas gazing the colorful desert redness, yellow, we will observe the rocky formations, made by two architects the wind and the waves, beaches like Yumake beach, Red beach, La Mina beach, in this beach you can enjoy and swim on this beautiful beach.

Then we will come to Lagunilla beach in this beach we do a stop, you can do a walk around, look for the best pictures, go for lunch in one of the best restaurants seeing the beach.

15:00 hs. Return to Paracas and transfer to the hotel.

15:00 hs. Pick from you hotel and transfer to the bus station.

16:10 hs. Departure time from Paracas to Lima by Cruz del Sur, First Floor – Vip Service.

20:00 hs. Arrival time to  Lima/ reception service and transfer to your hotel.

END OF SERVICES

PRICE: US$ 449 per person

IT INCLUDES

✔ Transfer in Cusco from your hotel to bus terminal Cruz del sur. ✔  Bus tickets by Cruz del sur from Cusco to Nazca – First Floor – Vip Service. ✔ Pick up in Nazca of the bus station and transfer to the Airport Maria Reiche. ✔  Overflight Nazca Lines. ✔ Visit Acueductos of Cantalloc in private car. ✔  Private car from Nazca to Ica (Huacachina) ✔  Tour in the desert with bauggies and sandboarding. ✔  Private car from Ica (Huacachina) to Paracas. ✔  Ballestas Islands Tour and Candelabro. ✔  Tour Paracas National Reserve in private car. ✔  Guide. ✔  Tourist entrances fees according to the itinerary. ✔  Bus ticket from Paracas to Lima by Cruz del Sur – First Floor – Vip Service. ✔ Pick up in Lima of the bus station to hotel.

✔   Hotel in Paracas 3 STARS

DOES NOT INCLUDES

✘ Airport Taxes $ 20 per person. ✘ Meals

RECOMENDATIONS

• The average temperature in Paracas Ica and Nazca approx. 23 ° C.
• In autumn and winter it is advisable to use windbreaks.
• Do not eat heavy food before the tour of the Ballestas Island and overlflight nazca lines
• Do not eat heavy food before the flight to the birth lines
• If you travel as a family, you must carry the documents of all the children.
• Do not forget to take your identity document or passport with you to board the plane.
• For additional information you can easily contact us through direct WhatsApp Chat

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Experience the Nazca Lines: Flight Tours Updated Price Information

by Tour Leaders Peru | Jan 12, 2024 | Peru Travel Blogs | 0 comments

The Peru Nazca Lines Images and Tour – All you need to know from prices, itineraries, what’s included, what to bring, and more, from the official tour information website of Line of Nazca.

The best way to see the Lines of Nazca is by taking an official Nazca Lines flight tour Operator. A few different companies are offering this flight with guided pilots. Flights range from $90-$120 but below we will recommend the best value companies.

Looking for another fantastic way to experience the Peru Lines of Nazca?

Head to the Nazca Lines Viewing Tower! Although it can be a bit challenging to reach independently (With Our Private Tour Buses We can stop Anywhere ), the view is truly remarkable.

But hey, here’s a tip: nothing beats the awe-inspiring perspective you’ll get from a flight!

Nazca Lines Tour From Ica, Pisco, and Lima – BEST Flight Companies

Firstly, we strongly recommend you book with  Tour Leaders Peru  as we have made a deal with Aero Nazca , the number 1 flight operator, to  include an extended flight time to get an aerial viewing of the Cantalloc Aqueduct Systems Video Below (only available for the 11:00 am and 11:30 am flight) .

Below are the ONLY 2 companies of Nazca Lines Flights From Ica or Pisco that we recommend and their prices as of 2024.

• Aero Nazca – $79 not Include Taxes
• Mobil Air Nazca – $89 No Taxes Include

Although Movil Air is a decent airline, we believe that the extra $10 is not justified. In our opinion, the $79 deal with Aero Nazca which offers an extended flight time, provides the best value for money on a Nazca Lines Of Peru.

OUR Best Package: Nazca Lines, Amazon, and Inca Trail 4 Days “Discover Hidden Gems in Peru on a 12-Day Adventure Ideal for Groups of Families and Friends.”

A Journey Back in Time of Peru Nazca Lines

Our adventure begins with a bit of a history lesson. The Lines of Nazca, located in the arid Peruvian desert, are a collection of hundreds of geoglyphs, or large designs etched into the ground, created by the ancient Nazca culture around 500 BCE to 500 CE. These mysterious lines depict everything from simple geometric patterns to intricate representations of animals, such as hummingbirds, spiders, and monkeys.

Most Popular South Tour Package: 11 Days Peru With Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca

Above Nazca Lines Let’s Take Flight!

Now that we’re Familiarized with a bit of the history, let’s take to the skies! There’s no better way to appreciate the vastness and intricacy of these lines than from above. Our tour takes us on a small aircraft, offering panoramic views of these awe-inspiring creations. As we ascend, the desert floor transforms into a massive sketchbook, revealing the full glory of the Nazca Lines Images.

Capturing the Moment

Remember our friend from Blissful Travel Escapes Just like them, you’ll want to have your camera at the ready. Each moment offers a new perspective on these ancient wonders, perfect for capturing stunning aerial shots. So, whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just love sharing your travels on social media, this flight over the Nazca Lines is a must-do.

Related: Places to Visit in Peru Besides Machu Picchu

Beyond the Nazca Lines Flight Tour

But wait, there’s more! This incredible region of Peru has so much to offer. Get ready to explore the captivating town of Nazca, the picturesque Huacachina, the vibrant city of Pisco, and even the Peruvian Galapagos Ballestas Island. Peru is a treasure trove of history, culture, and mouthwatering traditional cuisine. With endless possibilities to satisfy your wanderlust, get ready for an adventure like no other!

Escape to Huacachina

After flying to Lines of Nazca, we visit Huacachina the unique oasis in South America to relax and unwind. This stunning desert resort town, nestled among towering dunes, is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Take a dip in the natural lagoon, enjoy some adrenaline-pumping activities like sandboarding or dune buggy, or simply soak up the breathtaking scenery.

And don’t forget to try the local specialty – Pisco Sour, a refreshing cocktail made with Peru’s national liquor.

Discovering More of Peru

If you’re still craving more adventure, why not explore other fascinating destinations in Peru? From the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant capital city of Lima, there’s something for every type of traveler. And with its rich history, diverse landscape, and delicious cuisine, Peru is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the wonder of the Nazca Lines and beyond. This journey will be one for the books – or should we say, one for your sketchbook?

A Sustainable Adventure

As we embark on our journeys, we remain acutely aware of the significance of sustainable tourism. We wholeheartedly embrace the values of cultural immersion and environmental sustainability that define the essence of tourism.

Our tours are designed to respect and preserve these incredible sites for future generations. So, while we marvel at the Nazca Lines’ beauty, we’re also committed to their conservation.

Nazca Lines Video

We had an amazing time filming this video during the summer! It took us more than 4 days to capture the perfect shots, despite challenging weather conditions like fog and dust. Flying our drone was quite a challenge, but we’re thrilled with the result. We hope you enjoy it too! Don’t forget to check out our YouTube page for more content.

The Nazca Lines Images

The fascinating Nazca lines images consist of over 300 enormous and enigmatic geoglyphs of plants, animals, and humanoids. These intricate designs were created by the pre-Inca Nazca culture between 1 and 600 AD in the vast desert of southern Peru, near the capital city of Lima. Among these engravings, the animal figures are particularly captivating. Together with our partners at Machu Travel Peru, we’d love to share some insights into the most remarkable Nazca line images. These ancient mysteries continue to intrigue the world. Let’s explore the key Nazca lines images to admire:

The Astronaut

The hummingbird, the pelican.

Additionally, there are new Nazca lines images to discover:

• The Humanoid

Join us in unraveling the secrets of these extraordinary creations!

Enicmatic Nazca Lines Tehories

The engravings on the Nazca lines have sparked debate among archaeologists and scientists for years, leading to various theories. While some hypotheses are widely accepted, others delve into theoretical scenarios that cannot be tested. Some scholars propose that these engravings were created by two different pre-Inca cultures, the Paracas (700 BC – 200 AD) and the Nazca (1 BC – 600 BC). The lines are named after their last designers.

The Nazca line figures differ greatly in size, shape, and complexity. They were formed by removing the reddish and rusty soil to a depth of 30 to 40 cm, revealing a lighter, yellowish layer of dust. The width of each line can range from 40 to 210 centimeters. Two distinct styles of figures can be distinguished: larger animal forms spanning up to 400 square miles, believed to have served as worship areas (as evidenced by the presence of Nazca ceramic remains nearby), and smaller humanoid figures extending from 15 to 365 meters, located near ancient paths, possibly serving as reference points.

The engravings’ creators and their primary purpose remain subjects of ongoing investigation, but the Nazca lines continue to captivate our imagination with their intricate designs and mysterious origins.

The condor geoglyph is a famous Nazca line image, but some experts suggest it resembles a Chaucato, a long-tailed nightingale. This theory is supported by the bird’s proximity to the lines. Andean condors can be seen over 100 miles away in the Peru Andes. It’s not surprising to find representations of animals from different areas in the geoglyphs. The condor geoglyph is one of the largest, measuring 130 meters long and 115 meters wide. To truly appreciate these ancient wonders, we recommend seeing them in person. Standing before them, you’ll wonder how the Nazca lines were created.

The Nazca Monkey is a large geoglyph, measuring about 330 feet long and 190 feet high. It’s one of the most iconic and emblematic Nazca line images, featuring a monkey with nine fingers and a spiral-shaped tail. This representation of Peruvian Amazon fauna is unusual for the Nazca desert region, suggesting possible trade routes during the rise of the Nazca culture. The Nazca civilization’s knowledge of Peru’s fauna is evident in their depictions. During a Nazca lines tour, you can admire this figure and others, marveling at the incredible achievements of this ancient civilization.

Most of the Nazca line drawings faithfully depict key animals from the Nazca culture. However, there are a few enigmatic figures that defy explanation, such as the astronaut, giant, or owl-man. These geoglyphs have sparked countless theories about their purpose and meaning. Some researchers even suggest that they predate the Nazca culture and belong to the Paracas culture. Specifically, the humanoid figure with large eyes and boots is believed by some to represent a fisherman, given the area’s proximity to the sea. Regardless, this mysterious figure continues to puzzle academics. To truly appreciate the astronaut image, one must take to the skies and fly over the Nazca lines.

The hummingbird undoubtedly holds a prominent place in articles, studies, and photography collections about the Nazca Lines tour. In Peru, there are more than 125 registered species of hummingbirds, endowing it with great significance as a deity or flying god in the eyes of the Nazca population. To appease the God Hummingbirds and avoid droughts, offerings were made annually. This captivating figure is easily identifiable by its well-defined wings and pointed beak, spanning an impressive length of 97 meters. The remarkable Nazca line image measures 320 feet long and 216 feet wide, depicting a colossal representation of this tiny creature.

Spotting the Parrot amid other lines can be challenging. A keen eye can discern its beak, head, and prominent crest. Most shapes are circles, showcasing the distinct style of this magnificent creature. Unfortunately, erosion and human interference have affected the lower portion of the image, with paths and roads. Yet, the Parrot’s wings remain visible as two parallel rectangular shapes that deviate from natural proportions. This enigmatic figure captivates theorists and academics with various theories about the Nazca lines.

The spider, among the awe-inspiring Nazca lines, stands out as a remarkable figure. Discovered by scholar Paul Kosok, it spans 150 feet and holds religious and astronomical significance. The intricate lines vary in width, ranging from 210 to 40 centimeters. Appreciate this fine creation on your next tour!

It’s no surprise that the ancient Nazca culture revered the majestic whale found near their shores. The Nazca lines depict a variety of indigenous animals, immortalizing them on the vast canvas of the Peruvian desert. Among them, a second geoglyph resembling an Orca or Killer Whale stands out with its intricate design. These animals showcase the remarkable variety of the Nazca lines.

Believe it or not, the Nazca Lines hide an intriguing geoglyph – a depiction of a dog! This remarkable image captures the dog in a state of surprise and attentiveness. The artwork showcases the dog’s upright posture, with extended limbs and tail, perked ears, and wide-open eyes and mouth – or perhaps it is simply stretching. The dog geoglyph spans about 170 feet and is believed to represent the Peruvian Inca Orchid, a native breed of hairless dogs. This unique representation adds fascination to the Nazca Lines, offering a glimpse into the cultural significance of this ancient civilization.

The Nazca Lines feature challenging images, like the Pelican (also known as Alcatraz), a geoglyph with a winged body, long zig-zag neck, and a head. This remarkable geoglyph stretches up to an impressive 935 feet, making it one of the longest in the Nazca region. Despite its length, locating this geoglyph is surprisingly effortless!

2004 New Research Become to Life in the Nazca Lines

In 2004, a team of researchers, led by Professor Masato Sakai of Yamagata University, collaborated with Peruvian archaeologist Jorge Olano and utilized advanced AI systems, including the PAIRS gyroscope from IBM, to unveil over 140 previously unseen Nazca lines images. These images, which were highly deteriorated and nearly imperceptible to the human eye, astounded the world and sparked renewed interest in these remarkable geoglyphs.

While Google Maps does showcase some of the Nazca lines, it is important to note that only the most significant ones are visible, not the entire collection of 300 geoglyphs. Unfortunately, due to the low Earth orbit of Google Earth (approximately 300 km high), the resolution is limited to about 15 degrees or 500 arc seconds, slightly surpassing the visual acuity of the human eye. As the Nazca lines are less than a meter thick, they remain invisible on Google Earth. However, fret not, as I have provided images and explanations of these fascinating lines for your perusal.

So, are you ready to take flight over the Nazca Lines? To capture breathtaking photos, immerse yourself in rich history, and experience a truly unforgettable adventure? If the answer is yes, then pack your bags and join us on this once-in-a-lifetime journey. After all, as Sofia Martinez would say, the world is full of wonders waiting to be explored!

Remember, the sky isn’t the limit; it’s just the beginning. Fly high with us over the Nazca Lines and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s create our lines in the sands of time!

Book Your Nazca Lines Adventure Now!

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I’m Cesar Conde Licensed Tour Guide in Peru, owner of Tour Leaders Peru and Travel Advisor. My other side job is a Digital Nomad. I share my amazing travel experiences, stories, guides, and itineraries for travelers like you and me!

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Peruvian Wonders 7-Day Nazca Lines & Machu Picchu Tour

Home » Booking Objects » Peruvian Wonders 7-Day Nazca Lines & Machu Picchu Tour

7-Day Peru Adventure: Nazca Lines & Machu Picchu Exploration

Embark on a 7-day exclusive tour of Peru , blending the ancient mystery of the Nazca Lines with the iconic splendor of Machu Picchu . Start with a mesmerizing flight over the Nazca Lines , witnessing thousand-year-old geoglyphs etched into the desert landscape. This awe-inspiring experience unveils the enigma of an ancient civilization. Continue to the historic city of Cusco , where Spanish and Incan influences intertwine. Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas , including the vibrant Pisaq Market and the geometrically fascinating streets of Ollantaytambo . Your journey peaks with a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu , the lost city of the Incas, perched majestically in the Andes. This tour offers a profound exploration of Peru’s rich heritage , ideal for those seeking an authentic, sustainable , and purposeful travel experience. Book your unique adventure in Peru now. Join our intimate 7-day tour to the Nazca Lines and Machu Picchu , and unleash your spirit of discovery in the heart of ancient Peru .

• Nazca Lines Aerial Wonder: Experience an aerial tour over the Nazca Lines , marveling at thousand-year-old geoglyphs etched in the desert, revealing an ancient civilization’s mysteries.
• Cusco’s Cultural Blend: Immerse in the historic city of Cusco , where Spanish colonial and Incan influences beautifully intertwine, offering a rich cultural tapestry.
• Sacred Valley’s Incan Essence: Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas , a realm of vibrant markets like Pisaq and the well-preserved Incan architecture of Ollantaytambo.
• Machu Picchu’s Majestic Journey: Board a scenic train to Machu Picchu , witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the Andean landscape en route to the iconic Inca citadel.
• Peru’s Heritage Exploration: Discover Peru’s rich heritage through a comprehensive journey that includes flying over the Nazca Lines and exploring the historical depths of Machu Picchu .

Brief Itinerary

Day 1 – Lima Arrival Excellence Begin your Peruvian adventure in Lima . Settle in and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy and rich history of Peru’s capital.

Day 2 – Discover Lima’s Rich Heritage Explore Lima’s treasures with a visit to the Larco Museum and a city tour. Delve into the city’s colonial past and rich cultural tapestry.

Day 3 – Overflight Nazca Lines, Pisco Vineyard & Tasting Tour Experience an aerial view of the mysterious Nazca Lines , followed by a delightful visit to a local Pisco Vineyard for a tasting tour of Peru’s famous spirit.

Day 4 – Memorable Cusco Journey Travel to Cusco , the ancient Inca capital. Explore its historic streets, marvel at Incan architecture, and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere.

Day 5 – Wonders of the Sacred Valley Journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas . Discover its archaeological sites, vibrant markets, and stunning Andean landscapes .

Day 6 – Magic of Machu Picchu Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Machu Picchu . Explore this iconic Incan citadel, learning about its history and enjoying breathtaking views.

Day 7 – Farewell to Cusco Conclude your journey with a day in Cusco , reflecting on the extraordinary experiences, before your departure and journey home.

Prices for this trip

Includes and excludes.

• Comfortable Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable stay for 6 nights in Lima, Cusco, and Aguas Calientes hotels, with breakfast included.
• No Hidden Costs: Your journey comes without surprise expenses—every admission fee for Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu is included.
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking local guides will lead your tours.
• Hassle-Free Transfers: We provide all necessary transfers, including airport, train station, bus station transfers, and hotel pickups and drop-offs.
• Efficient Train Travel: Journey smoothly with a train ticket for the Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Cusco route (Vistadome train).
• Air ticket: to overflight Nazca Lines.
• Culinary Delights: Savor mouthwatering meals as per your itinerary, with special dietary options available upon request.
• Convenient Ground Transportation: Enjoy reliable ground transportation services for the duration of your Adventure.
• Round-the-Clock Support: Our local staff is available 24/7 to provide you with any necessary assistance.

Not Included

• Pisco Airport taxes US$ 16 + Boleto Turistico (BT) S/ 47.
• Flights: Both domestic and international flights are not covered. For flight arrangements, please consult a travel agency if needed.
• Visa and Insurance: Procedures related to visas, travel insurance, and any pre- or post-tour accommodation are not included.
• Personal Expenses: Any additional personal expenses, such as alcoholic beverages and laundry, are not covered.
• Gratuities: Gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff are not included in the price.
• Language Guidance: If you require guidance in a language other than English (e.g., German, French), please inquire with your travel agent.
• Additional Items: Costs related to items that are not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary description are not included.
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Entrance fees for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are also not covered.

Trip code: NMP7D02-PVT

Day 1: Lima Arrival Excellence: Your Journey Begins Here

• Welcome to Lima: As your plane touches down in Lima, the enchantment of your journey awakens. Sun Gate Tours warmly welcomes you at the airport, ensuring a seamless and comfortable transfer to your Lima hotel.
• Effortless Arrival: Leave the complexities of navigating a foreign airport to us. Our dedicated team is here to guarantee a smooth and stress-free experience right from the moment you land.
• Private Transportation: Step into the comfort of our private transport, meticulously designed to make your journey as pleasant as possible.
• Settle In and Unwind: With no scheduled activities upon arrival, you can seamlessly check in to your accommodation and take this opportunity to recharge for the incredible adventures that await you.
• Stay the Night at Lima Hotel
• Meals: None.

Day 2: Discover Lima’s Rich Heritage: Larco Museum and City Tour

• Larco Museum Exploration: Begin your day with a delicious hotel breakfast before embarking on a cultural journey. At 09:00, our team will pick you up from your hotel and transport you to the historic Pueblo Libre district to visit the renowned Larco Museum , founded in 1926. This museum is a treasure trove of Peruvian pre-Columbian history , housed within a captivating 18th-century vice-royal mansion built atop a 7th-century pre-Columbian pyramid. Explore its enchanting gardens and delve into its remarkable galleries, which offer a comprehensive overview of 3000 years of Peruvian heritage—Marvel at the finest gold and silver collections from Ancient Peru and the famed erotic archaeological exhibit. With over 45,000 archaeological artifacts , this museum narrates five millennia of Peruvian history.
• Culinary Delights: Your experience doesn’t end with the museum; the Larco Museum’s property includes a stunning garden and an exceptional restaurant . Prepare for a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds with flavors, textures, and temperatures from various regions of Peru . Enjoy a six-course meal, each thoughtfully curated to offer a diverse and authentic culinary adventure .
• Historical City Tour: After your museum exploration and delightful meal, our Adventure continues with a captivating city tour of Lima’s historical center . Discover the rich heritage of Peru’s capital , founded in 1535 and known as the “ City of the Kings .” Our expert guide will unveil Lima’s downtown area’s palaces, castles, and treasures. Explore the grand Saint Francisco Monastery and its impressive underground Catacombs , revealing another layer of Lima’s intriguing history .
• After the visit, transfer to the hotel. The tour will end around 18:00.
• Stay the Night at the Lima Hotel
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 3: Overflight Nazca Lines, Pisco Vineyard & Tasting Tour

• Experience the breathtaking Nazca Lines and the rich flavors of Pisco with this exclusive, private day tour, blending cultural discovery with culinary delight.
• Morning Departure : Begin your day with a hotel breakfast before your 06:30 pickup and transfer to Paracas . The journey by car takes approximately 4 hours along the South Pan-American Highway .
• Nazca Lines Overflight : Upon arrival at Pisco airport at 10:30 , meet with our representative and embark on the classic Nazca Lines tour . Witness incredible lines and geometric figures including the Trapezoids, The Whale, Compass, Astronaut, Monkey, Dog, Hummingbird, Condor, Spider, Alcatraz, Flamingo, Parrot, Hands, and Tree , as well as the Palpa Hummingbird and the Star The entire excursion, including departure and return, takes 1 hour and 20 minutes , with 30 minutes spent flying over the Nazca lines. Schedules are subject to programming, the number of passengers per day, and weather conditions.
• Pisco Vineyard Tour : Continue with a visit to an authentic winery in Ica. Explore a charming hacienda and take a guided tour through its picturesque vineyards . Witness the fascinating process of transforming grapes into Pisco , Peru’s beloved national beverage, from the initial grape harvest to the final bottled product. Enjoy various complimentary tastings.
• Delectable Lunch : Enjoy a delectable lunch at the same hacienda following the tour.
• Return to Lima : After lunch, depart for Lima around 16:30 , arriving back at your hotel at approximately 20:30 .
• Overnight at the Hotel in Lima.

Day 4: Embark on a Memorable Cusco Journey: Explore the Ancient Inca Capital

• Enjoy a hearty hotel breakfast. At 06:30, we’ll whisk you away from your Hotel and smoothly transfer you to Lima airport. Get ready to take a flight to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital.
• Arrival in Cusco: Touch down in Cusco, where our team will eagerly wait at the airport to assist you and ensure a seamless transfer to your lodging.
• Free Time to Explore: The day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take it easy to acclimate to the altitude and discover the wonders of this captivating city.
• Vibrant Market Discovery: At 14:30, we’ll pick you up for an exciting walking tour starting at the lively San Pedro market. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Cusqueños beyond the picture-perfect main square. Your expert guide will narrate the market’s history as you wander through narrow aisles brimming with colorful fabrics, delectable meals, fresh fruit juices, aromatic bread, and intriguing shaman stalls.
• Golden Legacy: The Adventure continues as we visit Qorikancha, where Santo Domingo’s convent sits atop an ancient, once fully gold-plated temple. Discover the mysteries that left early invaders in awe of its grandeur.
• Unearth Inca Majesty: Prepare for a voyage to Sacsayhuaman . This awe-inspiring Inca architectural masterpiece boasts breathtaking megalithic ruins perched majestically atop a hill overlooking Cusco.
• Cusco Unveiled: As you reach the hill’s summit, be prepared for awe-inspiring panoramic views of Cusco. This city harmoniously bridges the ancient and the contemporary.
• The tour will end around 17:30.
• Stay the Night at the Cusco Hotel
• Meals: Breakfast.

Day 5: Discover the Sacred Valley – Andean Village Life and Agricultural Marvels

• Experience the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley with this exclusive, private tour, ensuring a memorable and immersive journey.
• Journey Begins : Start your adventure with a 09:00 hotel pickup as we set off for the enchanting Sacred Valley of the Incas . Our first stop is the picturesque town of Chinchero , a historic Incan outpost adorned with a traditional church dating back to the late 1400s.
• Andean Hospitality : The day’s highlight is a visit to an authentic Andean Quechua village , just 15 minutes from Chinchero. You’ll be warmly welcomed, serenaded by traditional Andean music, and offered a sip of soothing muña tea . Immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals, partake in their activities, and relish a delectable meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Discover the region’s agricultural treasures and the enduring use of ancient tolos.
• Weaving Wonders : Marvel at the artistry of skilled weavers who employ age-old techniques. A weaving demonstration will reveal the intricate process of transforming alpaca and sheep wool into stunning fabrics. Explore the vibrant world of natural dyes and appreciate the dedication invested in each tapestry, from spinning to weaving.
• Cultural Culinary Tour : Embark on a one-of-a-kind culinary experience where you’ll have the privilege of participating in the preparation of Pachamanca . This is not just a typical lunch, but a true immersion into the history and culture of the area. Alongside the locals, learn the art of cooking this legendary dish, a technique passed down from the times of the Incas. Witness the construction of a traditional stone oven , meticulously heated before cooking in a pit dug into the earth. Taste select meats such as pork, chicken, lamb, and guinea pig , perfectly paired with Andean potatoes, green fava beans, oca tubers , and other native products. This lunch is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, traditions, and hospitality .
• Moray’s Agricultural Marvel : Continue your adventure with a visit to the awe-inspiring Moray archaeological site . Encounter vast circular and semicircular agricultural terraces that served as experimental fields for the Incas to nurture over 3,000 plant varieties, including potatoes and corn.
• Conclude the Tour : Head to the Ollantaytambo railway station to board the train to Aguas Calientes , the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome followed by a seamless transfer to your hotel.
• Train schedule: Ollantaytambo (19:04) – Aguas Calientes (20:45)
• Stay the Night at the Aguas Calientes Hotel

Day 6: The Magic of Machu Picchu – An Unforgettable Journey

• Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and spiritual essence of Machu Picchu with this exclusive, private day tour, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
• Begin Your Adventure : Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, preparing you for the incredible journey ahead.
• Machu Picchu Bound : At 08:00 , hop on a bus to the legendary Machu Picchu archaeological site ( 2,430m/7,972ft ). This UNESCO World Heritage Site and wonder of the modern world is a mountaintop fortress that lives up to its notoriety.
• Guided Exploration : Around 09:30 , your expert guide will lead you through the astounding ruins and ancient streets . Wander through the town squares and climb intricately carved stone stairways . Machu Picchu holds a special place in esoteric wisdom as the world’s spiritual center. The guided tour lasts approximately two hours , ensuring you don’t miss any of the site’s wonders.
• Return to Aguas Calientes : From 12:30 to 13:30 , take a bus back to Aguas Calientes , where a delicious local restaurant lunch awaits you.
• Return to Cusco : Later in the day, board the train for your return to Cusco . Arrive at Poroy station and be picked up for a comfortable transfer to your Cusco hotel.
• Train schedule: Aguas Calientes (15:20) – Cusco (19:05)

Day 7: Farewell to Cusco: Your Departure Day Adventure

• Seamless Departure: Make the most of your final day with a leisurely morning after a hearty breakfast. Then, we’ll ensure a smooth, stress-free transfer to the airport for your journey back home, with a convenient layover in Lima.
• Effortless Departure: Say farewell to Cusco in style and comfort as we handle all the details for your transfer.
• Lima Layover: While heading home, take advantage of a brief stop in Lima, a city known for its rich culture and culinary delights.
• Leave Cusco with cherished memories, and trust us to make your departure a breeze.

Price per person

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Sun Gate Tours is an Adventure Tour Operator and DMC in Peru with more than 11 years of experience, dedicated to bringing you innovative and active travel experiences.

Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, Cusco & Sacred Valley Tour

8 days | from $3,590.

Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, Cusco & Sacred Valley Tour

Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines and explore Paracas National Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site. A boat trip to the Ballestas Islands offers great perspective of the desert coastline and up-close viewing of coastal birds, sea lions, and fur seals. Then visit the mysterious ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu

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• Vacation Style Holiday Type
• Activity Level
• Accommodations

Discover Peru’s abundance of coastal wildlife and its most fascinating, mysterious historic sites.

• TRIP LENGTH 8 days
• STARTING AT $3,590
• DEPARTURE DATES  Daily

*Prices based on 2 travelers

• Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines
• Boat to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands
• Explore stunning Paracas National Reserve
• Visit Machu Picchu with a private guide
• Private tour with professional Andean Discovery guides
• All lodging in double or triple occupancy
• All activities per itinerary
• Flight over the Nazca Lines
• Airport transfers
• Internal airfare (additional cost)
• Detailed pre-departure materials
• Dedicated Andean Discovery US & South American staff assisting you every step of the way!
• International round-trip airfare to Lima
• Fees for passport and travel insurance

Expand All Collapse All

Meet your Andean Discovery guide and transfer to your hotel, located just steps away from the airport.

Meals : On your own

Lodging: Wyndham Lima Airport

Options & Add-ons: Add an extra day in Lima to explore this vibrant city, boasting some of the best restaurants in all of Latin America

Get a bird’s eye view of the Nazca Lines, animal and geometric shape formations, etched into the earth thousands of years ago.

After an early breakfast, travel 4 hours by private vehicle to the Nazca Lines. Originally thought to be the remains of irrigation lines beyond the verdant Nazca Valley, it wasn’t until they were seen from the air that the lines were recognizable as giant animals and geometric figures. The lines are thought to have been etched by three different groups from 900 BC to AD 630. Take to the sky to see for yourself during a short, comfortable flight. Please note that, due to weather conditions, a short wait should be expected before boarding your flight. Lunch and dinner are on your own.

Standard Lodging: San Agustin Paracas

Superior Upgrade: Hotel Paracas Luxury Collection

Observe sea birds, penguins, sea lions and fur seals on a boat ride to the Ballestas Islands, explore the landscapes of Paracas.

This morning transfer 45 minutes to the pier in Paracas for a group boat trip to the Ballestas Islands. This extraordinary archipelago is teeming with wildlife including thousands of resident and migratory sea birds— pelicans, boobies, cormorants, terns, and penguins among them—along with sea lions and fur seals. The famous candlestick design, a Nazca civilization figure etched on the desert face, can also be seen during the boat ride. After returning to the mainland, explore Paracas National Reserve with your guide. A UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site, the reserve is home to 216 bird species. As you explore, learn about pre-Inca cultures who thrived in this rugged landscape over 1000 years ago. Transfer to Lima in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner today on your own.

Meals : B, L

Standard Lodging: Antigua Miraflores

Superior Upgrade: JW Marriott Lima

Meet friendly llamas and alpacas and enjoy lunch at a private Andean estate.

Wake up knowing the capital of the ancient Incan Empire awaits! An Andean Discovery staff member will ensure your journey to Cusco goes smoothly by assisting the check-in for your one-hour flight. After a spectacular trip over the Andes Mountains, your Andean Discovery guide and driver will greet you and you’ll begin your descent into the Sacred Valley. This area extends from Cusco, the Imperial City, to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. In this area, ancient civilization and modern life collide with an intriguing mix of archeological sites and vibrant small towns. Meet fluffy llamas and alpacas and learn about the important role of weaving in Peruvian culture , and visit an artisan textile market. Enjoy a traditional lunch in a private estate and peruse its fine collection of Inca and colonial artifacts. Later this afternoon, you’ll check into your room at an Andean paradise with fragrant gardens and mountain views.

Meals : B, L, D

Standard Lodging: Tierra Viva Sacred Valley

Superior Lodging : Hacienda Urubamba. Enjoy stargazing, panoramic views, and more with this upgrade

Options & Add-ons: Visit a crafts market in Pisac and walk a trail up to ancient temples

Visit the fortress at Ollantaytambo and embark on the famous train ride through the cloud forest toward Machu Picchu.

This morning continue down the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, home to the royal estate of the ninth Inca, Pachacuti, one of the most important Inca rulers because of his role in expanding the empire throughout South America. Today, Ollantaytambo is thought to be the only remaining example of pre- Colombian urban planning. It still retains the original street plan and foundations designed by the Incas. Later this morning, experience one of the world’s great train rides as you embark on the journey to Machu Picchu. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views as the mighty Urubamba River carves its way through the Andean peaks outside your window. Descend into the cloud forest and arrive in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. If you opt for the upgraded lodging, our staff will assist you to your boutique eco-lodge, Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, situated in 13 acres of cloud forest garden along the Urubamba River. This afternoon is free to spend as you desire, with opportunities to visit thermal hot springs, a natural sweat lodge sauna, and a serene orchid pavilion.

Standard Lodging: Casa Andina MP

Superior Lodging : MP Pueblo Hotel. Enjoy hot springs, nature trails, and other activities in the cloud forest with this upgrade

Options & Add-ons: Extra visit to Machu Picchu – Short Inca Trail trek to MP

Travel back in time as you explore Machu Picchu with your guide and enjoy a hike up nearby Wayna Picchu.

Take a short bus ride through tropical mountain forests to reach Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas. Flanked by steep Andean peaks on all sides and the mighty Urubamba River gorge below, it’s no wonder the Spanish were never able to find this secret Incan hideaway. Journey back in time with a walking tour through the complex and learn about the mysterious origins of this other- worldly citadel, which once served as a private retreat for Inca royals and their families. Marvel at the intricate and sophisticated stonework of its dwellings, sculptures, terraces and waterways, all of which make Machu Picchu one of the greatest architectural achievements of all time. Visit the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Plaza, and the famous Intihuatana stone, a sacred stone carved by the Inca to mark the solstice and determine the beginning and end of each agricultural year. After exploring Machu Picchu, relax and watch the clouds of mist roll in over the mountains or opt for an exhilarating hike up to the summit of Wayna Picchu for an unparalleled aerial view of the ruins. Return to Cusco this evening. Dinner on your own.

Standard Lodging: Casa Andina Cusco

Superior Lodging : Palacio del Inka

Options & Add-ons: Hike to the summit of Wayna Picchu for a birds- eye view of Machu Picchu

Visit the Coricancha sun temple, Sacsayhuaman, and a local food market, then fly to Lima and depart.

This morning you will explore Cusco, the capital of the Inca empire and known as the ”Navel of the World” in the Quechua language. Quechua- speaking descendants of the Incas fill the streets, proof that this ancient culture is still vibrant today. Meet your guide and wander down cobbled walkways admiring the architecture, a unique blend of Inca and Spanish influences. The first stop is a local, open-air market where Cusquen?os buy their produce, meats, and cheeses. Discover exotic fruits, and several varieties of Quinoa, the Andean superfood, as well as unusual items like guinea pig and live frogs. Sample local delicacies, such as Chuta bread, which is cooked in traditional wood-burning ovens. Later this morning, visit the Coricancha, a temple dedicated to the sun that was once covered in sheets of gold and filled with golden figures and statues. This afternoon enjoy some free time to explore Cusco on your own. Explore the colorful artisan shops of the San Blas neighborhood and search for the famed twelve sided stone. Later this afternoon you will be transferred to the airport in time for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, check in for your international flight. Dinner not included.

Lodging: Overnight flight

Options & Add-ons: Peruvian cooking class and food market tour with a local Chef

• Day 8 Arrive Home

Lima Airport Wyndham Hotel | Lima, Peru

Conveniently located within Jorge Chavez International Airport, the Lima Airport Wyndham Hotel offers guests first class accommodations and services.

Hotel Paracas Luxury Collection | Paracas, Peru

Located on the Peruvian coast in front of the Paracas National Reserve, the Hotel Libertador is a 120-room luxurious resort spa. It is the ideal starting point for excursions to the Nazca Lines and Ballesta Islands. Hotel amenities include two swimming pools, a spa, restaurant, bar, business center, and private dock.

JW Marriott Hotel | Lima, Peru

Hacienda Urubamba | Sacred Valley, Peru

Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the luxurious Hacienda Urubamba is a contemporary hacienda-style lodge. Set on a 100-acre property, the lodge is surrounded by imposing green mountains and boasts awe-inspiring panoramic views. All 12 rooms in the Casa Hacienda and 24 stand-alone luxury casitas feature breathtaking views of the valley, immersing guests in open space, serenity and relaxing solitude. The architecture and interiors are inspired by the area's cultural history, with colonial furniture, handcrafted woodwork, and authentic Inca masks that add to the hacienda's local charm. An "Earth to Table" culinary concept is operated with its own 10-acre organic plantation where guests are welcome to pick their own produce. Carbon-free crops such as quinoa, Urubamba giant corn, medicinal herbs and a variety of potatoes are farmed with traditional hand tools and oxen, as done centuries ago.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel | Urubamba, Peru

Inkaterra Machu Picchu is an intimate 85-cottage luxury hotel tucked within 12 secluded acres of cloud forest. Waterfalls and streams gently cascade through acres of orchids, and multiple species of hummingbirds whiz around the property. Guests follow stone pathways to their rooms, located in comfortable one- or two-story whitewashed casitas.

Palacio del Inka | Cusco, Peru

A storied mansion dating back nearly five centuries, Libertador Palacio del Inka Hotel is perfectly located in the historic center of Cusco. Directly across from the Koricancha, the temple of the sun, it is a five-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas main square and less than a mile from an array of museums, markets, and restaurants. Uniting the past and present, Palacio del Inka offers traditional spa treatments and an indoor therapy pool. The Inti Raymi restaurant offers authentic Peruvian and international dishes.

Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Lodge | Amazon, Peru

Inkaterra's Reserva Amazonica is situated on the banks of the Madre de Dios River and is right next to the Tambopata National Reserve, which is also known as the biodiversity capital of Peru. The Reserva Amazonica offers 35 private cabanas and offers four different types of cabanas. The cabanas include a screen porch with a hammocks, ceiling fans, warm water showers, lanterns, organic bath products, low-impact electricity, bathrobes, and slippers.

City Tour of Lima, Peru

Spend an afternoon visiting colonial-era Lima. Founded by the ruthless Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima went on to become a viceroyalty of the Spanish empire before it became the capital of the newly independent republic.

Peruvian Cooking Class | Cusco

Peruvian cuisine is at once incredibly varied and surprisingly unique. It draws on the nation’s rich confluence of cultures and its diverse geography, which provides chefs with an extensive natural pantry. Peruvians have long been deeply proud of their gastronomic tradition but more recently the rest of the world has caught on to the fact

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Please fill out the form below and we will be in touch with you shortly with more details about this trip., reserve now, want to design your own trip please fill out the form below, and we will be in touch with you shortly to help you create an authentic experience defined by your travel style., best time to visit colombia.

Colombia is a great place to visit throughout the year because of its proximity to the equator. Although the official dry season is from December to March, the Caribbean coast and Medellin experience warm, dry weather all year round. The tourist high season is December to February and areas like Santa Marta and Tayrona National Park can be crowded during this time. Generally, Colombia requires light clothing suitable for warm to hot weather. During these months, the nights in the highlands can become chilly in areas of higher altitude so travelers should pack layers for when the sun goes down.

The lowlands enjoy similar tropical temperatures year-round but more frequent rain showers occur in April to June and again in October and November.

Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon climate is wet all year long. Pack very light clothing but long sleeves and trousers to prevent mosquito bites during the evenings. It is also essential to have waterproof clothing in preparation for downpours.

What to Pack

The style of clothing worn by local Colombians generally depends on the region they inhabit. To fit in with the locals, pack a selection of light, summer-friendly options for visits to tropical Cartagena and a variety of big-city brights and fashionable nightwear for cities like Medellin and Bogota. Dressing in lightweight, easy-dry layers is a great way to stay cozy and comfortable throughout your trip to Colombia as the weather varies in each region depending on the time of day you travel.

Residents throughout Colombia pride themselves on being fashion forward and formal dress is often expected for fancy dinners and night-time activities. Male visitors may wish to purchase a Guayabera, or “fancy white shirt” after they arrive in Colombia as these garments are favored by locals and are considered acceptable attire for nearly any social situation within the country.

Where You’ll Stay

Colombia is a popular hotspot for international tourists and South American natives alike and travelers have several options for accommodations during their stay. Our personalized Colombia tours offer a wide variety of lodging experiences and guests are able to choose from a huge selection of the best Colombia hotels available. We partner with several leading accommodation providers from small hostels to five-star hotels to ensure you have the best experience possible on your trip to Colombia!

Colombia’s tourism sector has experienced huge growth over the last decade – and for good reason! Read on to learn more about the top trips and tours in Colombia at Andean Discovery!

COFFEE TRIANGLE

Coffee lovers curious about the origin of their morning buzz will love exploring eje cafetero, home to world-renowned Arabica coffee. The area’s mysterious scenery, an assortment of flora and fauna, charming Andean villages, and tasty traditional trucha (trout) will captivate the interest of people who don’t even drink the famed beverage.

Colorful colonial history, tropical Caribbean setting, and wonderful weather come together in Cartagena. Enjoy a laidback ambiance as you explore Ciudad Amurallada, one of the world’s best-preserved walled cities containing a plethora of flowers, colorful buildings, and intimate plazas. Make sure to pack your dancing shoes because Cartagena has a variety of authentic salsa joints where the bands play as their pay depends on getting people to dance.

AMAZON CALANOA LODGE

View the Amazon rainforest from the comfort of a low-impact, small-scale settlement with easy access to natural marvels. The Calanoa Project promotes respectful tourism by working with nearby indigenous communities to preserve ancestral knowledge and cultural practices. They have planted hundreds of hardwood trees, fruits and palms have been planted in order to supply food, fibers, and building materials for a self-sufficient operation. You will also enjoy Calanoa’s cuisine, a fusion of local Amazonian traditions with Brazilian, Colombian, and Peruvian influences using organic and fresh local produce.

NATIONAL PARK TOUR

One of Colombia’s most popular national parks, Tayrona National Park, encompasses the Caribbean coast from the Bahí­a de Taganga near Santa Marta to the mouth of the Rí­o Piedras. Tayrona National Park includes beaches, a rainforest, and even an arid landscape with cacti and light-brown hills in the western section. The park is home to at least 56 endangered species.

NATURE RESERVE

Birders and wildlife enthusiasts shouldn’t miss El Dorado Reserve, considered to be a Holy Grail for birding in the Americas. This 1,600-acre reserve hosts the highest concentration of continental, range-restricted bird species found anywhere in the world, just a two hours drive from the tourist city of Santa Marta. You can also find endemic and threatened amphibian specie, as well as local flora and fauna.

A historically infamous city, Medellin is now gaining attention for its incredible rebirth and inventiveness. Colombia’s second-largest city even beat cities like New York and Tel Aviv to be awarded “World’s Most Innovative City” in 2013. Known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’, the area boasts pleasant temperatures year-round and supports lush botanical gardens in its picturesque location in the Aburrá Valley. This vibrant city is filled with public art, modernist architecture, and impressive museums, but the party really starts when the sun goes down and rhythms of Colombian Salsa and Vallenato music fill the air. This city likes to eat, drink, dance, and watch soccer in its numerous bars and restaurants.

Little is known about the natives who inhabited the area that is now Colombia before the Spanish arrived in 1500.

Shortly after arriving, the Spanish established the colony of New Granada and built the settlement of Santa Fe de Bogota, which subsequently becomes known as Bogota. These new colonies thrived and many African slaves were taken to these cities to assist with building and maintenance. After a 14-year struggle, Simí³n Bolí­var’s Venezuelan troops defeated the Spanish at the battle of Boyacá in Colombia in 1819. The resulting Republic of Gran Colombia united Colombia, Venezuela, Panama, and Ecuador as a single country under one central leader. Due to regional differences, Gran Colombia dissolved in 1829-1830 when Bolí­var lost Venezuela and Ecuador to separatists.

In the 19th century, Colombia was a troubled country and suffered eight civil wars between its liberal and conservative parties as conservatives believed in a strong central government and a powerful church while liberals believed in a decentralized government, strong regional power, and a limited role of the church. Political instability continued through the late 19th century and culminated in the War of a Thousand Days which began in 1899 and resulted in the death of nearly 120,000 people.

In the early 20th century, social legislation was introduced and Colombia was generally peaceful and without conflict – trade unions were encouraged, the economy developed and the export of coffee increased. This period of rest was short-lived however and the assassination of the well-liked and respected left-wing mayor of Bogota in 1948 caused riots and began a civil war that lasted until 1957.

At the beginning of the 21st century, the situation in Colombia improved. In 2000, the United States pledged $1.3 billion to fight drug trafficking with “Plan Colombia”. Violence in Colombia declined after 2002 when President Alvaro Uribe increased Colombia’s security, aggressively campaigned against the drug trade, and passed several economic reform bills.

In 2012, the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CTPA) went into effect. This agreement eliminated tariffs and other trade barriers to the exchange of goods and services between Colombia and the United States. In the early 21st century, the Colombian economy grew rapidly and poverty and unemployment declined. Today, Colombia is booming, tourism is increasing and the country has a bright future.

History of Peru

The history of Peru (before the Inca era) as we know it today has been uncovered, in large part, through large archaeological excavation endeavors. Historical artifacts including ceramics, textiles, and cave drawings have been collected, sorted, and displayed throughout Peru’s archaeological museums – a collection of clues as to the lives of Peruvian inhabitants who lived and worked nearly 20,000 years ago. Advanced hunting tools and well-planned irrigation systems lead many to believe that these early colonies were cutting-edge, organized, and well-established.

The Incan empire ruled from around 1400 A.C. to 1500 and is widely considered one of the largest dynasties in American history before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. This small tribe of peoples was based out of Cusco, which served as the country’s capital city throughout Inca rule. Machu Picchu is one of the most well-preserved ruins left behind by the Incan peoples, and thousands of tourists flock to visit the historical site’s peak each year. The Incas grew to be one of the largest and most powerful forces in South America and had a complex and interesting society that is well studied to this day.

Spanish soldiers arrived in the South American land in 1532 and began plotting to take over the rule of the fertile and bountiful country. These European soldiers brought smallpox and other illnesses into Peru, killing thousands of “New World” inhabitants including Huayna Capac who served as the 11th Inca or King. Capac’s sons were each given half of his kingdom and a civil war that began between the brothers helped to quicken the downfall of the Incan empire. Spanish rulers changed the capital of Peru from the land-locked Cuzco to coastal Lima to accommodate arriving soldiers and facilitate trade.

Peru’s Independence Wars were fought from 1810 until 1824 when a battle led by General Antonio Jose de Sucre secured freedom from Spanish rule. Peru continued to fight for freedom throughout the 1800s and 1900s – defeating Spanish rulers in 1866 and losing a large piece of land to Chile in a war that spanned from 1879 to 1883. A war with Ecuador in 1941 over borders wasn’t resolved until 1998 when Peru agreed to allow Ecuador access to the Amazon rainforest in exchange for keeping control over the land.

In 2001 Peru elected its first Native Indian President, Alejandro Toledo. The country has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of South America and thousands of tourists visit to hike, swim, shop, and to learn more about Peruvian history firsthand through the exploration of archaeological sites and artifacts each year.

What to See in Peru

Peru is one of the most popular countries for tourist travel in South America. Although visiting Machu Picchu tops the bucket list of many adventurers worldwide, seasoned explorers know that this beautiful and eclectic country is not just a one-stop destination. Learn more about the top five things to do when visiting Peru below.

MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu is one of the most famous archaeological sites in all of South America and the popular peak has definitely earned its reputation for awe-inspiring views. Voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2001, the “lost city of the Incas�? contains so many historical monuments and examples of Inca architecture – it’s best to have a tour guide to walk you through the history, legend and folklore surrounding this mystical place. Travel to the peak of this historical mountain by hiking, or via a spectacular train ride via Ollantaytambo train station.

CUZCO (SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS)

This colorful city was once the capital of the Incan empire and remains a cultural hotspot to this day. This exciting town is extremely close to Machu Picchu and provides an excellent resting point for travellers who are looking to spend a bit of down time before they hike the popular summit. Visit an indigenous market in Pisac to purchase handmade crafts and to sample authentic Peruvian foods or take a brief hike throughout the cities’ ruins that previously made up the Incas’ agricultural system.

HIKING THE INCA TRAIL

This 26 mile trek isn’t for the faint of heart – but the satisfaction gained by finishing this challenging expedition more than makes up for the struggle of navigating a historical land. From beautiful mountain scenery to tropical jungle, hikers experience the beauty and wonder of many Peruvian landscapes. Begin your hike by crossing Cusichaca (aptly named “The Bridge of Happiness�?) and plan to spend around 6-8 hours hiking over a four day period to cross the finish line and enter Machu Picchu.

LAKE TITICACA

This large and diverse lake borders Peru and Bolivia and is home to over 500 species of aquatic life. Visit the floating islands of the Uros people to learn about a unique community with a spectacular way of living – or spend time in the small town of Puno, where folklore is cherished and celebrated in weekend festivals and markets.

COLCA CANYON & AREQUIPA

Peru’s epic Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and is home to large families of spectacular Andean Condors. Plan your trip from the comfort of Arequipa, a nearby town that offers hiking, hot springs and magnificent views.

Peru is one of the most popular destinations for travelers to South America and popular tourist areas offer a variety of hotels, hostels and lodges that are as diverse and eclectic as the country itself! Our local guides have an intimate knowledge of the Peruvian landscape and know which locations provide the best experience overall for tourists and travelers alike. We partner with high-quality hotels to make sure each and every guest has the adventure of a lifetime. Read on to learn more about some of the lodging options we offer for custom tours to Peru!

Peru is one of the most diverse countries in Latin America – with warm coastal deserts, cool rainforests and even snowy mountain regions. Located south of the equator, Peru experiences weather patterns that are opposite to those experienced by individuals living on the East Coast of the United States – so cold and snowy weather in Boston is a likely indicator of warm and sunny skies in Lima. If you’re planning to see everything that this amazingly unique country has to offer, you’ll need a wide variety of clothing options to keep you comfortable throughout the trip.

The weight limit for checked luggage on most internal flights, including Cusco and the Amazon is currently 20 kilos (44 pounds) per person. If you are over that limit, you’ll likely need to pay a surcharge.

Large suitcases are not permitted on the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, although these cases can be stored securely at the lodge during excursions. A small weekend bag is recommended as you’ll need a change of clothes and essential items when travelling to Machu Picchu overnight.

The typical dress code throughout the country is functional and casual – female travellers may want to bring one dress and a pair of dressier sandals for night-time outings or fancy dinner reservations.

Packing lightweight layers is an easy and effective way to make sure you’re prepared for any climate – fabrics should be waterproof whenever possible to allow for protection during short and sudden rainstorms.

Best time to visit Peru

Peru is made up of three distinct geographical subsections, each with their own weather and temperature patterns. The country is split (N to S) by the Andes mountains and contains parts of the Amazon jungle in the East. Although each of these locals experiences slightly different weather patterns, November through March is generally considered to be the “Wet season�? and April through October is generally considered to be the “Dry season�? throughout the entire country. Read on to learn more about the best times to visit Peru on your next vacation!

COASTAL REGION

Temperatures are generally warm throughout the year and the coastal region usually experiences little rainfall. High daytime temperatures (80+ F) and lower nighttime temperatures (50+ F) make for a relaxing vacation. The city of Lima can get quite foggy from April through October but the sun breaks through clouds the further out from Lima you travel. The capital city is warm and humid from November through March.

ANDES / MACHU PICCHU

Expect high temperatures and dry climates from April through October – although temperatures vary by altitude so light layers are encouraged for those planning to visit the peaks of Machu Picchu. Sudden, heavy showers occur from November through March so raincoats are a must.

AMAZON RAINFOREST

Humidity is high throughout the year and rainfall should be expected from November through March. Warm days and cool nights demand layers for travelers who expect to be outside for long periods of time.

History of Ecuador

Ecuador’s written history as we know it today begins with the concentration of early cultures of indigenous peoples throughout coastal areas that supported the majority of inhabitants from as far back as the year 9000 B.C. These early pioneers lived relatively peaceful lives in small clans and large tribes who survived by fishing, hunting, and eventually farming on the region’s fertile land. These wandering tribes eventually settled down into permanent societies including the Valdivia peoples who created intricate ceramic pottery creations, the Quitus peoples (after whom Quito is named) and the Caras who enjoyed considerable power and prestige in the region until the mid 1400’s when the small country was invaded by the Incas of Peru.

The Incas were ruthless in their pursuit of power over Ecuadorian land and many lives were lost defending the area – to no avail. Quechua, an Inca language still widely spoken in Ecuador was introduced to natives at this time and many great buildings and cities were built throughout the region. The Inca empire enjoyed its rule over Ecuador until the mid 1500’s when Spanish forces took the land in yet another series of bloody battles that ultimately led to the total conquering of Ecuadorian peoples. A period of enslavement ensued, and Spanish rulers continued to profit from the work of Ecuadorian citizens until major worldwide financial depressions caused economic downfall in the period between 1700 and 1800.

This collapse allowed for the possibility of native revolt and Ecuadorians from all walks of life banded together to retake the cities once ruled by their ancestors. Ecuador became fully independent in 1830 – but internal power struggles created a period of instability and fear. Democratic leadership and free elections in the 20th century helped to create a more peaceful society that has prospered over time – and tourism quickly became one of the fastest growing industries in this small South American hotspot.

What to See

Ecuador is truly a place of beauty and of diverse landscapes – offering a wide selection of travel options that include epic volcano treks, wildlife-rich island hopping tours and mysterious jungle adventures. From the Andean Highlands to the Galapagos Islands, this small country is packed full of experiences that are hard to pass up. Learn more about the top five things to do in Ecuador below!

TRAVEL IN STYLE TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

View the flora, fauna and wildlife of this unique and historical site on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Galapagos Islands!

VISIT THE ANDEAN HIGHLANDS

Travel throughout the colorful and welcoming indigenous villages that house generations of native Ecuadorian people. Visit authentic markets, view active volcanic peaks and discover the natural beauty of the land on a custom tour throughout the Highlands!

TOUR THE ECUADORIAN AMAZON

Venture deep into the heart of the largest existing rainforest on this planet to view native flora, fauna and wildlife on a customized tour in the Ecuadorian Amazon!

HIKE THROUGH THE CLOUD FORESTS

Be one with nature while visiting one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the Northern Hemisphere – the Mashpi Reserve! Located on the western slopes of the Andes, this three-thousand acre reserve is home to a comfortable lodge that acts as the perfect homebase for nature lovers!

QUILOTOA LOOP TREKKING TOUR

Truly experience nature in all of its spectacular glory on this five-day hiking trek through one of South America’s most scenic routes: The Quilotoa Loop.

Ecuador is a small country with a big tourism industry and travelers generally have no problems finding accommodations that suit their specific travel style. Our customized Ecuador tours allow for a wide variety of choices in lodging that include everything from high-quality hotels to inexpensive hostels to luxury Galapagos cabin rooms! We work hard to ensure that each and every guest is given a safe and comfortable room that acts as a home-away-from-home throughout your stay. Read on to learn more about the lodging options we offer in Ecuador!

Ecuador Packing List

Ecuador’s unique landscape includes four diverse subregions that all have individual weather patterns and climates – so travelers should consult with their individual itineraries to pinpoint which areas they will visit during their stay. Although some areas (like Guayaquil and the Ecuadorian Amazon region) experience extremely high, humid temperatures at times during the year, other locations (like the country’s’ capital city, Quito) have consistently mild temperatures that hover below seventy degrees (fahrenheit) throughout the year.

If you are travelling to several regions during your stay, packing a suitcase full of light layers can help to accommodate temperature changes and keep you comfortable during your stay. Some areas at high-elevations experience light snowfall during the winter months, so a fleece jacket is recommended for travel during that time. All fabrics should be quick-drying as short rainshowers are common in many areas around the country.

The primary currency used in Ecuador is the US dollar and many personal-hygiene items are available for purchase so don’t bother loading your suitcase full of shampoo, toothpaste or the like. Purchasing clothing and shoes can be difficult, especially large sizes, as the average Ecuadorian is shorter than US travelers. No matter what region you will visit during your stay, make sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes that have been broken in before your trip to ensure comfort throughout your visit.

When to Visit Ecuador

Ecuador is a small country with a hugely diverse population and a wide variety of biologically unique plants and animals. The peak travel season for tourists runs from June through September and from December through January – although stable weather patterns create a friendly environment for visitors throughout the year. There are four major climate zones in Ecuador, so tourists are able to plan travel around the current climate of each zone.

The Andes Region, including Quito and the Andean Highlands experiences cool and dry temperatures throughout the winter season which lasts roughly from June through September. Warmer temperatures are enjoyed during the summer months (December through March) but this time period is also considered the country’s rainy season so visitors can expect to experience a few showers during their travels.

The Amazon region experiences rainfall year round but temperatures are generally high – reaching 90+ degrees fahrenheit throughout the year. Heading towards the Pacific Coast region, travelers can expect high temperatures and sunny days, mixed in with short rainshowers during the day. Cooler temperatures and cloudy skies from June to September mean it will be too chilly to swim during the dry season in this area.

Finally, the Galapagos Region experiences dry weather and cool temperatures from June to December with rainy conditions and warmer weather starting in late December and lasting until May.

The 15 Most Iconic Species of the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands Wildlife & Nature – a Trip Approach: The Galapagos Islands , named after the shells of saddleback Galapagos tortoises, is a mind-blowing experience. The animals have no instinctive fear of humans, allowing you amazingly close encounters with unique species. Nowhere else in the world can you experience such a diverse group of wildlife in such close proximity: swim and snorkel with sea lions, watch a penguin waddle into the water, scuba dive with hammerhead sharks, stand right next to two male iguanas fighting for a mate, view a waved albatross, with its 8-foot wingspan, soar along coastal cliffs, and ponder a 400-pound giant Galapagos Tortoises

Andean Discovery has compiled this handy list of the 15 most iconic Galapagos species. Whether you choose to do a Galapagos land-based tour or a Galapagos cruise , you are sure to have the wildlife experience of a lifetime.

Galapagos Islands Descriptions

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are made up of 13 main islands and 48 islets. Scattered over an area of 36,000 square miles around the equator, none of the islands have ever been connected by land to any mainland area. The Islands are entirely volcanic and are considered to be one of the largest and most active sets of oceanic volcanoes in the world. The formation of the Islands began between three and five million years ago, very “young” in geologic terms. Volcanic eruptions broke through the ocean floor and initiated the building of underwater mountains, which continued to grow with successive eruptions and form the Galapagos Islands. The islands are still active today with new eruptions typically occurring in the western part of the archipelago.

Explore the Galapagos Islands visitor sites below and contact us to start planning your adventure!

GALAPAGOS CENTRAL ISLANDS

Santa Cruz Island |  Santiago Island |  Santa Fe Island |  North Plaza Island | Bartolome Island

GALAPAGOS WESTERN ISLANDS

Fernandina Island  |  Isabela Island

GALAPAGOS NORTHERN ISLANDS

Genovesa Island |  Darwin Island

GALAPAGOS SOUTHEASTERN ISLANDS

Floreana Island |  Espanola Island |  San Cristobal Island

History of the Galapagos

The first visitors to the Galapagos Islands were Native Americans from mainland South America . The islands bear no archaeological remains of dwellings or other structures, so it is quite unlikely that any native colonies were ever established there. Pirates and renegades first inhabited the islands during the early 1500s. They would hide and camp out on the islands after raiding Spanish colonial ports. Due to their inhospitable nature and lack of water, the Spanish paid the islands little attention, giving them the name “Las Encantadas” or bewitched islands.

A new period began in 1832 when Ecuador proclaimed its sovereignty over the islands. There were only a handful of permanent settlers at that time but their number had increased to around 300 by 1835 when the HMS Beagle arrived with Charles Darwin on board. Darwin spent five weeks in the Galapagos collecting and preserving specimens from four separate islands. His field observations led him finally to conclusions published in On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection in 1859. The first Galapagos colony was established on the island of Floreana. The archipelago experienced many attempted settlements from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century by individuals from Norway, the US, and the UK. During World War II, a United States Army Air Force base was established on Baltra Island. From Baltra, crews patrolled the eastern Pacific for enemy submarines and provided protection for the Panama Canal.

Paddle the shores while kayaking where Darwin first set foot on our  Galapagos Multisport Adventure  or board a  Galapagos Cruise  to navigate the archipelago.

What to See in Galapagos

Home to one of the most pristine ecosystems in the world, the islands of the Galapagos contain animals, flora and fauna that delight and mystify visitors and locals alike. Visiting the Galapagos Islands is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers of all ages – but tourists will want to reserve more than just a day trip in their itinerary to ensure they get the most out of this beautiful and historic area!

ISLAND ADVENTURE

Explore the islands at your own pace and take advantage of the many family-friendly activities available to travelers with Andean Discovery. Whether you want to head out for a bike ride to gain a scenic view of the coast or zip-line through a cloud forest to get your adrenaline pumping – we offer a wide variety of fun and fabulous things to do on the Galapagos Islands!

GALAPAGOS CRUISES

Experience the thrill of visiting pristine, white sand islands with all the comforts of home on a Galapagos Cruise! Travel in style on a cruise ship, luxury boat, or first class boat where you’ll have a cabin to yourself, air conditioning, and spectacular views! For travelers looking to add a bit of unconventional excitement to their trips, consider booking a snorkeling or scuba diving tour to view the majestic and stormy Galapagos sea from below!

MACHU PICCHU & GALAPAGOS CRUISE

Visit both of these popular tourist destinations on the same trip with one of our fully customizable Machu Picchu & Galapagos tours! You’ll have the time of your life seeing history in action as you explore the home of the ancient Inca culture in Peru. Then hop on one of our luxury cruise ships to the Galapagos and discover the natural atmosphere that inspired Darwin’s scientific breakthroughs. Our friendly local tour guides accompany you throughout the entire trip so you’re sure to have the time of your life!

MULTISPORT ADVENTURE

While some travelers prefer to sun themselves on the white sand beaches of the Galapagos, others like to get out there and get active! Thankfully, we offer several options for individuals who are hoping to make the most out of their time outdoors – ask about how you can kayak in the ocean along the Galapagos coast, hike through an active volcano or even snorkel with friendly Galapagos sharks when booking your trip with Andean!

DARWIN DISCOVERY TOUR

Travel back in history as you explore the famed islands once inhabited by Charles Darwin himself. Visit Isabela and Santa Cruz islands and observe the animals that led Darwin to discover the theory of evolution and that forever changed the world of science as we know it!

Whether you’re looking to book passage on a luxury cruise ship, hoping to sign up for an intimate small-yacht tour, or just trying to visit the islands during a day trip – our friendly and knowledgeable tour guides can help you pick out the perfect itinerary to create an island vacation that is sure to please!

Begin your adventure by deciding which method of travel you’d like to utilize to reach the islands – via luxury yacht, cruise ship, first-class boat, or airplane. Read on to learn more about the advantages of each and to find out how you can begin preparing for your travel today!

GALAPAGOS LUXURY BOATS

Luxury Boats boast deluxe sleeping cabins, spacious common areas, delicious international cuisine, and unmatched personal attention. An excursion aboard a Luxury Boat ensures you superior Galapagos Naturalist Guides who are eager to share the islands with you. Luxury Boats range in size from 100-passenger ships to 16-passenger yachts and catamarans. No matter which boat you choose, you will have access to several amenities, such as mini-pools, jacuzzis, glass bottom boats, and libraries.

Galapagos cruise ships are the largest vessels to sail the Islands and tend to be more luxurious and more stable in the water than most smaller yachts in the Galapagos. Cruise ships carry between 40 and 100 passengers, so they are still small compared to cruise ships that sail in other parts of the world, though it enables you to enjoy the Galapagos free of crowds.

FIRST CLASS BOATS

Take a cruise through the Galapagos Islands in one of our Galapagos first class boats, yachts, and catamarans such as the Galapagos Archipell I Catamaran , Millennium Catamaran ,  Eric, Letty and Flamingo , and more. First-class level cruises offer an excellent combination of value for your money and quality. Relax on the sun deck and soak in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the unique wildlife that the Galapagos has to offer in a more private setting.

Galapagos Packing List

Perfecting a packing list for the Galapagos can be difficult – even for the most seasoned traveler. The close proximity of these small islands to their home country of Ecuador means that domestic flights will likely be utilized at some point during the trip – so packing light is a must for individuals who wish to make weight limits for their flights! Individuals who will be flying from Quito should dress appropriately for the cool weather in the Ecuadorian town – a waterproof jacket is ideal and can be used several times throughout your trip.

The fewer things you actually bring on your trip to the Galapagos, the better – but tours often begin or end in other destinations that might require more substantial luggage arrangements. Packing a small, lightweight backpack that can act as a weekend bag is a great way to make sure you aren’t stuck with a ton of luggage on your trip. The Island’s proximity to the equator makes them a prime target for harsh sun rays, so a high UV blocking sunscreen is absolutely essential for any traveler who visits during the day.

Water shoes can be useful in protecting feet from coral and plant life so plan on packing an already-broken-in pair of comfortable sandals. If you’re heading out on a Galapagos cruise or chartered boat, make sure to speak with the captain to learn more about the luggage storage options available during your trip!

Galapagos Cruise vs. Land-Based

When making this once-in-a-lifetime trip, travelers have two main options to explore the islands: either through a land-based trip or a boat-based cruise through the islands. Find out what to expect and the relative advantages of each so you can choose the best option for making your Galapagos dreams come true.

What to Expect on a Galapagos Cruise

Your home for the duration of your Galapagos visit will be a live-a-board boat of your choice, ranging in size from 16-100 passengers. You will eat, sleep and relax on this vessel, which will be your base for the duration of your 4, 5, or 8-day expedition. Each morning, after a hearty breakfast, you will disembark into a 16-passenger dinghy, known locally as a “Panga” The Panga will take you for wildlife excursions, either onshore, or at snorkel sites. Your Galapagos naturalist guide will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the local wildlife, either on land or in the Galapagos Marine Reserve. After a morning of close encounters with some of the famous species of the area, you return to the boat for lunch and to prepare for the next excursion as the vessel navigates to another visitor site. Usually, your afternoon excursion will take you to a completely different island to add a whole new perspective to your Galapagos experience.

Advantages of A Cruise:

• Once you arrive in the archipelago, you can unpack your bags once and for all you’ll stay in the same room on the vessel for the entirety of your stay.
• Cruises are the most efficient way to visit the archipelago, especially remote islands without any human habitation.

What to Expect on A Galapagos Land-Based Trip

On land-based trips, you stay in eco-lodges or hotels in the port towns on the islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz, and San Cristobal. While you don’t visit as many islands as a cruise-based trip, land-based trips allow you to explore fewer islands in greater depth. From your land-based, you can get intimately acquainted with the island, independently exploring the wonders of the Galapagos in a small, private group with a Galapagos naturalist guide. Although it is impossible to visit as many islands as you would by sea, land-based trips will allow you to enjoy a variety of activities. For example, in the evenings relish fresh seafood at a family-run eatery then go for a sunset walk on Isabela’s beach and observe marine iguanas crawling out of the ocean onto the pristine white sand. During the day, active explorers might opt for sea kayaking, hiking on a dormant volcano, or mountain biking among coastal mangroves.

Advantages of a Land-Based Trip:

• Land-based excursions allow you to spend more time on each island, with opportunities to visit multiple sites and engage in a variety of activities.
• You will have more flexibility to experience the islands according to your own schedule and interests.

Both of these modes of exploration will allow you to meet most, if not all, of the iconic Galapagos species and expose you to many of the island’s distinct treasures. While your preference may depend on whether you prioritize flexibility or efficiency in visiting multiple islands, you cannot go wrong with either way of experiencing this extraordinary place.

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Best time to visit galapagos, wildlife year-round.

Because most of the wildlife remains on the islands year round, there’s always a lot to see. No matter when you visit, you’re guaranteed to encounter one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the planet!

The Galapagos Islands have a sub-tropical climate with two seasons, the Hot Season and the Dry Season. The seasons on the islands are set and defined entirely by the ocean currents that surround them. The Hot Season starts in December and gradually works its way until May . During this season, warm waters from the Panama Current move south and bath the islands creating tropical conditions. Seas are generally calm, and the warmer temperatures and evaporation cause occasional tropical showers, which turn the islands green and lush. Air temperatures are hot and humid and range from 79 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature averages 77 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a great time to enjoy the warmer waters for snorkeling and to view green sea turtles that come into the islands to breed.

From June to November, the cooler Humboldt Current runs up the west coast of South America carrying rich oceanic upwellings from Antarctica that stimulate the breeding season for sea lions and sea birds. A desert spreads gradually in this tropical paradise. Evaporation decreases and this forms a thin layer of clouds over the islands that opens and closes throughout the day. This is known as the Dry Season with air temperatures ranging from 72 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit and sea temperatures averaging 67 degrees Fahrenheit (a wetsuit is recommended for snorkeling). This is the best time of year for observing dancing boobies, courting albatrosses, baby sea lions, whales, dolphins, and whale sharks.

Machu Picchu & The Nazca Lines

Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines itinerary combines the best of the Cusco region with a few days exploring the coastal desert of Peru, including the overfly of the mysterious Nazca Lines. Travel to Cusco to explore its markets, bohemian neighborhoods, and cobblestone streets. Visit the Sacred Valley’s most important sites, such as Pisac, with its famous market and archaeological site, and the Ollantaytambo fortress. Finally, enjoy a beautiful train ride to the lost city of Machu Picchu. End your trip on the sunny coast of Paracas, exploring the raw beauty of the Paracas National Reserve, flying over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, and sailing to the Ballestas Islands. Get ready to discover Peru’s must-sees!

Why we love this trip!

• Fly over the enigmatic Nazca Lines.
• Discover Cusco as a local.
• Get ready to explore Machu Picchu, the famous Inca Citadel.

Itinerary day-by-day

Welcome to Peru! Upon landing at Cusco airport, we will greet you and take you in private transportation to your hotel. We will have a short briefing on your trip, and the rest of the day will be free to relax and acclimatize to the high-altitude. Remember to take it easy on the first day! According to your time of arrival, we have plenty of suggestions for you to make the most of your first day in Cusco.

Get ready for a soft hike around Cusco city center and the surrounding countryside! Start in the outskirts of the city visiting Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. Continue with an easy one-hour descent walk through a small portion of an old Inca road until arriving at the iconic San Blas neighborhood. Our walking city tour will take us not only through the most touristic sites in Cusco, such as the Main Square, Cathedral, and Koricancha, also known as Temple of the Sun. You will walk along ancient streets, local markets, and old neighborhoods where you will discover the magic of Cusco. This hike is the perfect way to get a genuine feel of this marvelous city and its people.

Set off to the Sacred Valley of the Incas to visit some of the most impressive Inca sites. Our first destination will be Pisac’s traditional village, where we’ll have a look at it’s well maintained archaeological site and picturesque Andean market. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Urubamba and visit Ollantaytambo, a charming village that has not changed much since Inca times. This town is famous for the Ollantantaytambo archaeological site, a place with impressive Inca stonework only seconded by Machu Picchu. Later, board the train to Aguas Calientes town, where you spend the night.

The big day is finally here! Early in the morning, take a 30-minute bus up the steep zigzagging road to Machu Picchu Citadel, located on an impressive mountain setting. We’ll have a 3-hour guided excursion to have a better understanding of Machu Picchu and the Incas culture. Your guide will be happy to answer all the questions you may have. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a last walk around the town and have lunch before boarding your return train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arriving, we will take you to your hotel in Cusco city.

After taking your last walk around Cusco, we’ll head to the local airport to board your flight to Lima. Upon arriving, we’ll drive you in a private shuttle to your hotel located in the heart of Miraflores. The afternoon will be free to enjoy this pretty seaside district on your own. You can stroll along the parks overlooking the ocean or try some ceviche in one of Lima’s top restaurants. If you are interested in culture and history, we recommend the Amano Museum and prehispanic pyramids of Huaca Pucllana, both within walking distance in Miraflores. Of course, we’ll be providing you with maps and plenty of tips for you to make the most of your time in Lima!

Start your day leaving Lima behind as you travel towards Paracas, located 3 hours south of Lima. We’ll first drive to Pisco airfield and board a modern Cessna Caravan aircraft to fly over the enigmatic Nazca Lines and the discoveries of Palpa Lines. During the flight, observe the mysterious figures of animals, humanoids, and geometric shapes perfectly crafted in the desert. Continue to your beach hotel at the shores of the Paracas Bay. The rest of the day is free to spend at your pace. You can join a nautical activity, relax at the oceanfront pool, taste a delicious Pisco cocktail, or walk along the Bay.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and go to the hotel’s pier and board the fully equipped speedboats towards the Ballestas Islands, also known as the little Galapagos, because of their great variety of wildlife. Try and spot the sea lions, penguins, and other bird species that live here! On route, take a moment to observe The Chandelier, an enigmatic figure that we can only see from the sea. Finally, start your journey back to Lima’s airport to board your connecting flight back home. If time allows, we can visit the Paracas National Reserve on the way.

What’s included ?

• Personalized attention before and throughout your trip
• Brief presentation prior departure
• All transfers and transports
• Entrance fees
• Local English-speaking guide focused on personalized trips
• Accommodation at well-thought hotels according to your travel style
• Mentioned meals

What’s not included ?

• Services not specified in the program, extras & tips
• Domestic flights
• International flights
• Travel Insurance

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Nazca Lines Flight

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Nazca Lines Tour: 2024 Updated information about the Nazca Lines Flights from how to get there, itineraries, prices, and FAQs!

Nazca Lines Flight Brief Summary:

• Nazca Lines Flights are a once-in-a-lifetime experience and usually last 30 minutes.
• The lines, some over 2,000 years old, are spread over almost 80km of desert and a Nazca Lines flight over the Nazca Lines is the only way to do justice to these incredible landmarks.
• There is no way to fly directly to Nazca. Peru Hop is the #1 recommended bus company on Tripadvisor.
• Click HERE to book a Nazca Lines Flight for prices cheaper than directly with the airlines!.

A Nazca Lines flight is a great experience for travelers who want to see the history of the lines. You can take a flight over the lines starting from Paracas, but most commonly they are taken from the town of Nazca. Check with our Peru Hop experts for more information, and help booking your Nazca Lines flight!

Below we have created our extensive guide to the Nazca Lines Flight based on our expert local knowledge having helped to transport over 250,000 travelers here since our formation in 2013.

Nazca Lines Flight Guide Contents:

• How to get to Nazca – Compare transportation options.
• Nazca Lines Flight Tour Information – Check time, prices, and more.
• Did you know? – Nazca Lines fun facts.
• What to bring to the Nazca Flights – Be prepared for your tour.
• Nazca Lines FAQs – We answer your frequently asked questions.
• Photo Gallery – A few of the best photos of the Nazca Lines.

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How To Get To Nazca

If you are looking for information on the best buses to take to Nazca, visit our passes page. Select your departure city, the countries you want to visit, and amount of time you have to travel. Then browse our passes to see which include your desired stop in Nazca.

Nazca Lines Tour Information

Peru Hop does not operate any Nazca Lines Flights. To see Peru Hop’s recommended operators for this tour read below.

Nazca Lines Flight 

Price: $85 USD (plus 30 soles airport tax and 47 soles for the Nazca Lines Tourist Ticket, both paid in cash upon arrival)

Times: The time of the flight can be arranged when you book the tour. Flight conditions are best during the morning when winds are favorable.

Duration: 30 minutes flight time.

Special deal for Peru Hop Passengers: Tours booked via FindLocalTrips.com include extended flight time to get an aerial viewing of the Cantalloc Acueduct Systems (only available for the 11:00am and 11:30am flight) and they allow date changes up until the evening before your tour begins at no extra cost.

Note: Passengers who exceeds the weight limit of 95 kg, will have to pay for an additional seat.

BOOK A NAZCA LINES FLIGHT NOW

If you are looking for information about Nazca Lines’ Flight, visit FindLocalTrips.com where you can compare itineraries, operators and prices.

Did You Know?

• Varying from simple lines and geometric forms to diverse and complex forms, the Nazca Lines are mysterious earth drawings that are over 1500 years old.
• The site of the Nazca Lines is a UNESCO world heritage site since 1994.
• The lines can only be truly appreciated from above, yet they date back from a time when there was no means of aerial flight.
• The most iconic figures include many animals such as the humming bird, monkey and spider which are often replicated in modern jewellery and ceramics today.
• Historians’ theories investigating the creation of the lines range from the mapping of an astrological calendar, to marking the path of underground desert aqueducts, all the way to some kind of alien creations! There is still no consensus on how or why the lines were made.
• Like the Nazca Lines, historians still debate about when the aqueducts were built.

What To Bring On A Nazca Lines Flight

• Original passport – Important!

Nazca Lines FAQS

Do we recommend the Nazca Lines Flight?

Yes. The flight is the ONLY way to see the classic pictures on postcards with views of the lines from above. There are hundreds of figures scattered across the desert, which you will only be able to see by taking the flight! The astronaut, the monkey, the hummingbird and the spider can only be truly appreciated from the air.

Can Peru Hop help me reserve the flight?

We recommend to book your Nazca Lines Flight a couple of days in advance using the booking link on this page. The flight price is $85 USD (plus 30 soles airport tax and 47 soles for the Nazca Lines Tourist Ticket, both paid in cash upon arrival). Pre-booking ensures that you have your flight slot booked for when you arrive. In addition, Nazca Airlines will pick you up from the bus terminal to take you to the airport and drop you off after the flight back in the town centre.

SPECIAL DEAL FOR PERU HOP PASSENGERS – Tours booked with this selected operator Nazca Airlines via FindLocalTrips.com allow date changes right up until the day before your tour begins at no extra cost.

I have read that there are a lot of accidents. Is the flight safe?

Yes, years ago there were occasional accidents as there was not so much control on flight safety. Now flights are only authorized to leave during appropriate weather conditions and all the flight companies must adhere to strict safety guidelines. If the weather conditions change then no flight company is allowed to depart from the airport. Weather conditions are best early in the morning, so we always recommend getting down to Nazca as early as possible for the flight to avoid disappointment. There have been no accidents for many years and we only work with the safest company, Nazca Airlines.

I suffer from motion sickness. Would you still recommend the flight?

The flight is not recommended for those susceptible to flight sickness. The planes are typically small 8/10 seat passenger planes and although the flight duration is around 30 minutes, it allows passengers on both sides of the plane see all the Lines. Consequently, the plane must encircle each line first from one side and then from the other.

What else is there to see in Nazca?

The main thing to do in Nazca is the Nazca Lines Flight. Other than that there are a couple of museums that are worth a look and also the Chauchilla cemetery with excellently preserved ancient mummies. We advise against spending more than the day trip here.

I am traveling from Lima to Cusco and want to do the Nazca Lines Flight but do not want to have to spend a night in Nazca itself. Is this possible?

For an easy transfer, private shuttles ($16 USD / one-way / 2.5 hrs) make direct trips from Huacachina to Nazca every day. The service includes pick-up directly from Huacachina (Wild Rover Hostel) and drop off at the airport in Nazca for the flight.

I want to see the Nazca Lines but do not want to pay for the flight…

Travelling with Peru Hop will also give you the opportunity to see the Nazca Lines for free. A visit to the Nazca Lines Viewing Tower is included in your pass from where you can see three of the Lines. The onboard guide will give you information on the intriguing history behind the ancient Nazca culture and ongoing theories behind these mysterious Lines.

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Nazca Lines Tour Including Visits to Machu Picchu, Lima & Cusco

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• Trip Overview

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

Your 7-day Peru adventure tour has you bask in the sensational history of the country tailored to take you deep into the magnificent past. From the mysterious illustrations carved into the Nazca desert to the decadent ruins of Machu Picchu, you will find the history of the nation steeped within the diversity of its natural beauty. You can make the journey and indulge in the captivating marvels of Peru.

Customizable Itinerary

Lima – pride on display.

Welcome to the capital city of Lima where the modern city stretches over the lengths of a Spanish colonial past bordered by the sea and framed with colorful neighborhoods. You can see homes shining bright green, blue, and orange, climbing up the mountainside in the distance. The gentle scent of ocean mist breezes along the streets. Stroll through the historic center of the city and see the Plaza de Armas, where the opulent stunning bronze fountain at the center of the square is a reminder of the plaza’s importance as the center for the Spanish continent-wide empire.

Explore the Museo de la Nacíon, located inside a brutal concrete tower, fortress-like, and guarding the treasures of Peru’s history.  The museum is almost perfumed with the clay pottery and knotted ropes of the country’s past. Chavín stone carvings create deep faces on rocks and boulders, lines creasing around mouths, beneath formidable cheekbones. Knotted quipus , colorful ropes used for recording data, shine beneath the museum lights. The largest treasure of the museum is the Yuyanapaq, an exhibit named after the Quechua word for ‘to remember.’ The white walls and pristine tiled floor of the exhibition give a contrasting glow to the ambiance. The gallery is filled with photos of remembrance, a moving display and tribute of the internal conflict surrounding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in the early 2000s. The culture of Peru, from the ancient to the modern, fills the museum and the countryside, ready to be experienced.

What's Included:

Nazca – Mysteries and Positive Wonders

Rise early in the morning to the sun glistening off of the sea. The cool marine layer dissipates early, the sound of the waves rushes against the sand. You can feel the mist touch your cheeks. The city rises with you, the bustle of crowds going to work, playing soccer along the beach, and cruising the rush of the surf. Today you will make your way out of the city’s sprawl and wonder, venturing along the coast where the hot, bright sand shifts to vibrant, red clay along the stretch of water. The ocean recedes from view as the desert wraps around you and you enter the small, arid town of Nazca.

Arrive in Nazca and board a sightseeing plane that will take you over the arid plains of the desert to witness the famous and mysterious Nazca Lines. The pre-Columbian civilization carved hundreds of razor-straight lines into the sun-baked earth of the desert. From the ground, the lines would be practically invisible, indistinguishable from the sweeping scorched plain. From the air, as you glide through the open sky, you look onto earth and notice the bright color of the lines, compared to the tanned stretch bordering the images. You can make out each drawing along the ground, from a monkey to a hummingbird take up vast spaces in the open desert. You pass over a perfectly symmetrical spider and can only imagine how the images were created, and the mystery of their purpose continues to generate theory and debate. The wonders of ancient cultures shine along the open ground of Peru.

Lima – Whitewater and Colorful Beaches

Depart from the sands of the desert. You can hear the familiar and welcome sounds of waves in the distance as the sandy horizon gives way to opulent blue. Along the water you will board a boat to Ballestas Islands. The cool mist of the water is a welcome change from the hot arid desert air. The rush of wind blows against your cheeks with the sweet scent of ocean surrounding you. You can see the expansive wingspan of pelicans as they soar along the boat. Look back along the shoreline and see the impressive geoglyph of a candelabrum etched into the hills.

The illustration looks over the beach and the water, an early reminder of the wonders of Nazca and the mysterious reach of the wonderment. The waves fade into the distance and are replaced with the gruff bark of sea lions. The boat comes alive with excitement as you look along the islands to witness the sunbathing sea lions, their bodies slick from an early swim, stretched out along the sand. Some roll along the shore while others frolic along the waterline, splashing at the gentle lull.

You can see tiny caves littering the islands and look out over the holy limestone in search of a buried treasure within the secluded earth. In confines of caves, you spot Humboldt penguins. They waddle along the craggy surface. Their white and black feathers are vibrant against the blue of the water. Upon your return to the shore you will venture along the coastline, hearing the bark of sea lions fade away as you travel back to Lima. The city lights illuminate the sky like simulated moonlight, glowing along the history of the Plaza de Armas. The lighthouse shines on the ocean, and you discovered that the wonders of Peru are not just in its uncovered history but can be found also in its glorious wildlife.

Cusco – Like an Outdoor Museum

Today you will depart from the diverse cultural neighborhoods of Lima and arrive in Cusco, the Inca capital set 10,750 feet above sea level. The city rests between the undulating hills of the vast Andes Mountain Range. Cusco is permeated with modern culture set against the backdrop of a colonial past. The large clover shaped fountain trickles in the center of the Plaza de Armas. Local women are dressed in modern designer jeans and blouses, while you can also see women of the Andes strolling along the cobblestone giving water to their pet llama, the clopping of the llamas hooves echoing down the street. Spanish colonial buildings stand on top of Inca foundations. The tangy scent of pisco , the traditional Peruvian spirit, drifts from cafes. Settle into the afternoon and explore the various wonders of the city.

The boulders of Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress, watch over the city from atop a hill. The monoliths rise into the sky as you look at their magnificent and intimidating presence from below. The stones were cut and pressed together like puzzle pieces allowing the walls to stand together for centuries without the use of mortar. The forest surrounds the fortress and emanates a pleasant earthy aroma around the impressive walls.  Deeper within the stronghold you can climb along the large tiers created with smaller stones, and venture through large trapezoidal archways, the awkward shape again allowing for structural integrity without the need of a binder. The fortress acts as the head of the all-important Puma, while the city below represents the body of the animal. Some boulders rise over 30 feet and as you press your hand to the stone to feel its strength and grandeur, you can only imagine the effort and tenacity it took to create such a magnificent structure. The wind blows against the sloping foothills. The magnificent fortress stands tall and proud over the city, and the wonders of another culture begin to be revealed.

Aguas Calientes – When History Becomes Legend

The cobblestone streets blend into the paved roads of the outer city. The homes that rise along the foothills begin to fade behind the lush green plains and open air. Arrive at the train station in Ollantaytambo. You can see the impressive ruins of the Inca rising along the mountainside, standing tall over the city below, similar to the fortress of Cusco but somehow astoundingly different. Board the train and relax in the plush comfort as the car becomes aromatic with rich coffee and sweet pastries. The glass dome of the car gives you an unparalleled view of the valley as you wind your way through the countryside. The undulating peaks reach the sky and the whitewater of the Urubamba River mists the windows. The lavish jungle drifts along the windows taking over the mountaintops with added color and vibrancy. Arrive at the station of Aguas Calientes and stand within reach of the Lost City of Machu Picchu.

Ascend the stone staircase that winds along the mountainside. The craggy structure is cool on your hands as you guide yourself along. You can feel your heartbeat quicken, not from the climb but from the anticipation. Each step brings you closer to this Wonder of the World. The staircase ends and opens onto a terrace. The Lost City of Machu Picchu rises. The stone city climbs along the mountaintop and watches over the valley below. Large terraces sweep along the mountainside giving a sensational green to the rough slopes. Ascend the central staircase and witness the remaining buildings below looking like a labyrinth. Along the heights of the city you can see Intihuatana, commonly referred to as a Sun Dial, but is more accurately a calendar.  The carved rock pillar stands atop the hill and enabled Inca astronomers to predict the solstice. Wander through the temples, over the tiers, around the trails and experience the open-air museum, where history comes alive and the culture is absorbed.

Cusco – Standing Among Historical Majesty

Watch the sunrise over the lost city and enjoy the light glinting off of the stones like a halo. The morning clouds drift along the mountain peaks. The river never ceases to rush along the foothills. Warm your hands and insides with fresh and decadent Peruvian coffee before returning to the Lost City to scour the ruins once more. A deep shadow runs along the mountain, cast from the light drifting across the stones of surrounding buildings. Climb down the stairs to Condor Temple and watch the ruins rise above you as the scent of earth and stone surrounds you. The carving of the condor is less prevalent but still recognizable along the plateau floor.

This is your chance to experience the less traveled road within the beautiful remains of the Lost City. Whether that means climbing the impressive peak of Huayna Picchu or following the trail over the gorge to the Sun Gate, both give you a fabulous view of the city from a distance. But a remarkable venture into the city’s past and hidden culture means a visit to the Temple of the Moon.  Follow the trail from the base of Huayna Picchu, but instead of traveling up the path, you veer into the stunningly carved caves hidden around the bend. The overhang of the mountain looks like a Martian crater with the rotating white and red of the rock. The temple is poised beneath it as you witness the throne carved from smooth and pearled stone. The majesty of Machu Picchu is enhanced by the mystery and wonders of the Temple of the Moon, and, as the rest of the Lost City, is ready to be explored.

Cusco – A Relic in Space and Time

The hills of Cusco become a fond memory as you ascend into the sky and make your way home. From the Nazca Lines to the lines that shaped Machu Picchu, you have traversed the wonders of Peru to see the fantastic beauty within its contained history, whispered mythology, vibrant nature, and famous ruins. The country’s history is riddled with beauty and pain, connection and loss, but you have witnessed the majesty and the wonders wrapped decadently in the proud culture of Peru.

Trip Highlights

• Witness the mythological fame of the Nazca Lines
• Wander in and around the Lost City of Machu Picchu and understand its magnificence
• Cruise along the Pacific Ocean and around the stunning Paracas Nature Reserve to mingle with Peru’s wildlife inhabitants
• See the extensive collection of pre-Columbian art at the Museo de la Nacíon
• Discover Cusco, where the past and present collide
• Experience the grandeur of Sacsayhuaman
• Explore the Inca capital and the remaining connections to its historic past
• Glide through the jungle by way of glass domed train
• Trek to Huayna Picchu, the Sun Gate and the Temple of the Moon

Detailed Description

Peru vacations are full of history, and this 7-day excursion is meant for desert dwellers, mountain men, beach bodies, nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and myth seekers. Venture to the unexplained and impressive Nazca Lines that illustrate the Wonders of the World and onto desert plains. Watch playful sea lions bask in the sun. See remnants of cultures that predate the Inca and glisten beneath museum light. Walk along the famous steps of Machu Picchu and be swept away by the majesty of the hilltop city. This is Peru, where the modern world mixes with the collective decadent past and gives you the opportunity to submerse yourself in history.

Begin your indulgent historical wandering with your arrival in Lima. The capital city spreads along the expanse of flatlands until reaching foothills and the sea. The Museo de la Nacíon contains relics of Peruvian civilizations throughout history, including the Chavín stone carvings that glow beneath the museum lights. Travel into the desert and ascend into the sky. Spread across the arid earth lays a number of perfectly symmetrical drawings that range in size, carved deep enough into the ground to be visible from the air, and large enough to not be seen at eyelevel. Cruise into the Paracas Nature Reserve, out into the sapphire water of the Pacific to the Ballestas Islands. Blue footed boobies and pelicans glide through the air while Humboldt penguins soar through the water.

Arrive in Cusco where the Inca capital is filled with beautiful contradictions, from the opulent architecture and fabulous modernity, to the colorful connection to history, within its people and foundation. Journey into the Sacred Valley and board a stunning train that will take you to Machu Picchu, bringing you along the valley floor, through dense jungle, and onto the foothills of the Lost City. Scale the stone stairs of the hillside and watch as the walls open up and Machu Picchu stands grandly before you, climbing up and atop the mountain. Return to Cusco with the history of the country still shining in your eyes before you depart for home. The country’s history is riddled with beauty and pain, connection and loss, but you will witness the majesty and the wonders wrapped decadently in the proud culture of Peru.

Starting Price

$1,997  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Travel agency in Cusco

Nazca lines

We departure from Lima early in a private car or share bus along the coast line for 5 hours with beatiful views of the Atacama desert, one of the dries desert of the world. Also small vilages for fishing and surfing. Once we get to nazca we wil board our aurplane to see the enigmátic ancient lines. After we will go for lunch and explore the town. I the afternoon we can visit the museum and town.

After a good breakfast and time to relax we will board a our boat to the islands to see sea life. We will see in the Ballestas islands where sea lions as well many birds and the neo tropical pinguins of Humbolt. After the Tour we go for lunch and then back to Lima or continue to Arequipa, Cusco, Puno.

Transportation,transfer round trip, Tour guide, snacks, all Meals, tours to Nazca lines and ballestas islands, fly over the lines,

The Nazca’s were originated in the coast of Peru as well with the Paracas culture who were before them in the same area in a very dry desert call it the Atacama Desert were this civilization built the Nazca lines. Nazca means the people of the sandy places; this culture built one of the amazing places in the world. The time line where the Nazca live here dated was from 700 AD to the 1100 AD, when they were conquered by the Chancas coming from the Andes and expanding their territory who occupied this place and territory by the 1100 hundreds ad and took all his knowledge in hydraulic technics besides other technology from the Nazca’s this event occurred after a war in between the two civilizations. The Nazca’s had great technology in hydraulic technics to obtain water from one of the dries places in the world by using conical shapes holes and siphons in the desert to get the water from underground as well they had an advance technology in agriculture and astronomy as well in the construction of the lines.

Apparently the lines were built with a sophisticated method of mathematical equations and measures since when you see the lines you will understand that they did about 60 cm by removing the layer s of oxide of iron in the dirt, sand and the calcification on the botom will maintane and remain the lines a matemática equatiob will be requiere as well if not really the removing work and diggibg prrhaps the scale and magnitud of the work done and the perfection to obtain the magnificent figures.

As well a very intricate method of calculations and measuring’s in a very aligned way so they can be perfectly aligned and pointed one each other and with the sky and constellations as we know. The purpose of the lines still in the mystery since they not see what they were building and the only way to see it is by flying over which is something very difficult in these times but what scholars say is that was a ceremonial place dedicated to the Gods to worship them as well it was an advance center of astronomy since the lines resemble some of the constellations that we know in modern times. For example the spider constellation was also the Orion belt in modern times.

Also the lines and directed to the sources of water even some of the lines are pointing the jungles and mountain of Peru where the water come from, you need to understand that water was vital for them to survive. What is amazing is that lines have a very complex mathematical system and they perfectly match with the firmament and the constellation as well vary simetric.they are hundreds of figures and designs that resemble animals and other goods and objects of this culture, for example the humming bird figure that is found in this place.

Not matter still in the mystery and all kind of controversies come out of the origins and the methods that they did used perhaps they say that some of the lines where built before nazca times and speculation related this place with the extraterrestrial that came here to this desert to obtains minerals for energy for their space ships and the Nazca in return of this incredible event build the lines to worship then and wait for their return so the build the lines to oriented them in their return. However despite these speculations and what we know is that this place was astronomical and ceremonial but still a lot to find out about this amazing civilization of ancient Peru.

machupicchu

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