Nazca | Peru

Nazca is a town in southern Peru, known primarily for the Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs that are among the most mysterious and fascinating archaeological features in the world. The region is rich in history, ancient culture, and natural beauty, attracting visitors with both its unique attractions and cultural significance.

1. Geography and Climate

• Location: Nazca is located in the Ica Region of Peru, about 450 kilometers (280 miles) south of Lima. It sits on the Pampa Colorada, a flat, dry plateau surrounded by mountains and deserts.
• Climate:
  • Desert Climate: The area experiences very little rainfall throughout the year, with warm, dry conditions. Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) during the day, with cooler evenings.

2. History

Pre-Inca Period:

• The Nazca culture flourished between 200 BCE and 600 CE in the region. This culture is known for its advanced knowledge of water management, agriculture, and pottery.
• The Nazca people are also famous for creating the Nazca Lines, large-scale geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, whose purpose remains unclear.

Inca Period:

• Although the Nazca culture predated the Incas, the region came under Inca control in the 15th century. The Incas appreciated the Nazca Lines but did not create them.

Spanish Colonial Era:

• The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century disrupted the local cultures, and the Nazca area became largely forgotten until the discovery of the lines in the early 20th century.

3. Main Attractions

1. Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are the star attraction of the region. These are enormous geoglyphs, some up to 1,200 feet (370 meters) long, etched into the desert floor. The lines form various shapes, including animals, plants, geometric patterns, and human figures.

Key Geoglyphs:

• The Hummingbird: One of the most recognizable figures, it is a large bird-shaped design.
• The Spider: A geometric pattern that some believe symbolizes fertility.
• The Monkey: A famous figure with a long curly tail, showing a high level of artistry and symmetry.
• The Astronaut: A humanoid figure often linked to theories of ancient astronaut contact.

Viewing the Lines:

• The best way to view the Nazca Lines is from the air. Small aircraft fly over the desert and provide a bird's-eye view of the massive designs.
• There is also a Mirador (viewpoint) on the Pan-American Highway where visitors can get a ground-level perspective of some of the lines, though these are less impressive compared to the aerial views.

2. Chauchilla Cemetery

• Located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Nazca, the Chauchilla Cemetery is an ancient burial site used by the Nazca culture. It contains well-preserved mummies and skeletons that were buried with grave goods.
• The mummies are often still visible in their tombs, offering a fascinating look into ancient Nazca burial practices.

3. Cahuachi Pyramids

• Cahuachi is an archaeological site located near the Nazca Lines and was once the center of Nazca civilization. It contains a series of adobe pyramids, temples, and other ceremonial structures.
• The site is thought to have been a major religious and cultural hub for the Nazca people, where they may have performed rituals connected to water and fertility.

4. Nazca Regional Museum (Museo Arqueológico Nazca)

• This museum houses a collection of Nazca artifacts, including pottery, textiles, and tools. It provides context for the history of the Nazca civilization and its culture.
• The museum also displays information about the Nazca Lines and other local archaeological discoveries.

4. Culture and Traditions

• Nazca Culture: The Nazca people were skilled in pottery, weaving, and metalwork. Their art often depicted animals, plants, and geometric patterns, which can be seen in their ceramics and textiles.
• Traditional Festivals:
  • Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria (February): Though primarily celebrated in Puno, it is also observed in Nazca with religious ceremonies, music, and dancing.
  • Festival de la Vendimia (March): A wine and grape harvest festival in the nearby Ica region, celebrated with live music, traditional dances, and tastings of local wines.

5. Gastronomy

Nazca’s cuisine is influenced by the coastal and Andean regions, offering a variety of flavors based on local ingredients such as corn, potatoes, fish, and seafood from the nearby Pacific Ocean.

Main Dishes:

• Ceviche: Fresh fish or seafood marinated in citrus and seasoned with chili and onions.
• Carapulcra: A stew made from dried potatoes and pork, typically flavored with chili and garlic.
• Adobo Nazqueño: A local pork dish, slow-cooked with spices and served with rice and potatoes.

Drinks:

• Chicha de Jora: A traditional corn-based drink that is fermented and consumed by locals.
• Pisco Sour: While Pisco is produced throughout Peru, the nearby Ica region is a major producer, and the Pisco Sour is often enjoyed in Nazca.

6. Nearby Natural Attractions

1. Oasis of Huacachina

• Located about 150 kilometers (93 miles) north of Nazca, Huacachina is an oasis town surrounded by sand dunes. It is a popular spot for sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The oasis offers a relaxing escape with lush palm trees and a serene lagoon.

2. Cantalloc Aqueducts

• The Cantalloc Aqueducts are a set of ancient water channels built by the Nazca people to irrigate the region’s dry landscape. These channels are still in use today and offer an insight into the Nazca's engineering and water management skills.

3. Ballestas Islands

• Located off the coast near Paracas, the Ballestas Islands are known for their wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds. The islands are often referred to as the "Galapagos of Peru" for their rich biodiversity.

7. Travel Tips

• Altitude: Nazca is located at a relatively low altitude (520 meters / 1,709 feet) compared to other Peruvian cities like Cusco. This makes it easier to acclimatize for most visitors.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit, with clear skies ideal for viewing the Nazca Lines.
• Getting There:
  • By Air: The Nazca Airport offers flights to Lima and other destinations, though most visitors arrive via bus from Lima or Ica.
  • By Bus: Buses are available from Lima (around 7-9 hours) and Ica (1.5-2 hours).

8. Sustainability and Preservation

• The Nazca Lines are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and efforts are underway to protect the lines from erosion and damage caused by human activity. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site and follow guidelines to minimize environmental impact.

Nazca is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of ancient history, culture, and natural beauty. The Nazca Lines, along with nearby archaeological sites and the town’s vibrant traditions, make it a must-see location for anyone interested in Peru's rich heritage.