Nazca & Paracas

The mysterious Nazca Lines

Nazca and Paracas

This region, about 5-6 hours south of Lima is most famous for the so-called Nazca Lines, a mix of long lines, geometrical figures, and giant drawings in the desert sand. The lines were created by removing surface stones, revealing the lighter-colored soil below. The most mystifying thing about the images is that they are so huge that the only way to view most of them is from the air – which leads many to wonder how the Nazca people created them with such exactness.

About 3 hours up the coast from Nazca (and 15 minutes from the home of the famous Peruvian liquor, Pisco) is the Paracas National Reserve. Located on the Paracas Peninsula, this huge reserve includes more than 700,000 acres of rugged shoreline, mountains and desert as well as an amazing array of marine wildlife and birds. From Paracas and/or Pisco you can also visit the Ballestas Island – fondly called the “Galapagos of Peru.”

A visit to Nazca and Paracas can easily be added onto the beginning or end of any trip to Lima or other southern destination. Trips can be customized based on your individual preferences, including type of lodging, preferred activities and budget.

Please inquire about a visit to Nazca and Paracas when you submit your booking information and we can provide you with all relevant details!

Plan Your Trip »

Overview
Most visitors head south from Lima for the Nazca Lines, but are pleasantly surprised by the striking beauty of the Paracas Reserve and Ballestas Islands!

Nazca

  • Fly over the Nazca Lines
  • Visit the Nazca Lines Museum
  • strong>Paracas

    • Ballestas Islands
    • Paracas Reserve
Optimal trip length
Since the roundtrip drive to Nazca is 12 hours, you should allow about 2 days to visit both Nazca and Paracas.
Best time of year to visit
Nazca and Paracas are fine to visit throughout the year.

Weather
The weather is dry and sunny all year round. The average temperature is about 27°C (80°F) from December to March and 65°C (27°C) from June to September.

Transportation to Nazca and Paracas
The only way to reach Nazca and Paracas is by car/bus. Nazca is about 6 hours down the Pacific coast from Lima and Paracas falls around the midway point (3 hours from both Lima and Nazca).
Some other important details you might find useful: