Overview:
Nazca, Peru Brief Summary:
- Home to the Nazca Lines, the infamous huge geoglyphs etched in the Peruvian desert.
- The city’s name derives from the Nazca culture that emerged in the area between 100 BC and 800 AD.
History:
Information:
How to get to Nazca:
- Public bus
- Escape From Lima bus
Nazca is roughly a 6-hour drive from Lima. Many public bus companies operate the route from Lima to Nazca. Once you have compared all of the different prices and select the company you want to travel with, you will have to find the company’s terminal and make your way there by taxi since there is no central bus terminal in Lima.
Escape From Lima busses offer a comfortable and safe trip to Nazca, with free hotel/hostel pickups and drop-offs wherever you’re staying. We also include free additional stops and tours on the way to Nazca which will make you’re a much more memorable one!
Must do in Nazca:
- Take a flight over the Nazca Lines.
- Climb up to the top of the Nazca Lines viewing tower to see 3 of the Nazca Line drawings (included in Escape From Lima passes).
- Walk around Nazca town.
It is widely believed that the Nazca Lines were a form of religious worship associated with the availability of water for crop growth (Nazca is one of the driest places in the world). Whatever their reason, these lines are not only as fascinating as they are mysterious to both historians and tourists but they are also an officially made UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994. All of the lines vary in size, ranging from 30 metres to 200 meters. The lines are shaped in the form of animals such as monkeys, lizards and sharks among others. Best viewed from above, there are many tour companies that offer flights over the lines (the lines stretch for about 80km). The tours last up to 30 minutes and will cost approximately $110, but you will get some wonderful pictures and the best possible view of the lines.
Alternatively, the viewing tower allows you to see up to 3 of the lines from an elevated point. This stop is included in Escape From Lima passes and makes for a good photo opportunity for those who decide not to book a flight.
Nazca safety tips:
- Beware of some unsafe tour companies, accidents have happened on some of these flights so please do your research.
- If staying overnight, discuss with your guide as to what hostels they recommend.
- Beware of pickpockets and never carry your passport/credit card unless 100% necessary.
- Avoid using ATM machines at night.
Overall, Nazca doesn’t have much of a draw apart from the spectacular lines. It is possible to see the whole town in one day so there is no need to stay overnight if short on time.
