What to Do in Nazca, Peru: A Complete Travel Guide

So, what is there to do in Nazca, Peru? Plenty! This mystical desert town is famous for its enigmatic Nazca Lines, ancient archaeological wonders, and thrilling desert adventures. Located in southern Peru, Nazca is a must-visit for travelers intrigued by pre-Columbian history, mysterious geoglyphs, and unique natural landscapes.

Whether you're here to fly over the famous Nazca Lines, explore ancient pyramids, or ride through towering sand dunes, this guide has you covered. In this complete travel guide, you’ll find the top attractions, insider travel tips, and the best places to stay—so you can make the most of your time in this extraordinary destination.

How to Get to Nazca, Peru

Nazca is located about 450 km south of Lima, making it a popular stop on Peru’s travel route. Here’s how to get there:

🚌 By Bus – The Most Popular Option

✅ From Lima: Buses take 7-8 hours and operate frequently. Companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa offer comfortable and safe rides.
✅ From Arequipa: The journey takes 9-10 hours, with overnight buses available.
✅ From Cusco: It’s a long 14-16 hour bus ride, so consider making a stop in Arequipa or Pisco to break up the trip.

💡 Insider Tip: Book VIP bus seats (180-degree recline) for maximum comfort on long rides.

🛩️ By Plane – The Fastest Option

There are no direct flights to Nazca, but you can fly to Pisco Airport (PIO) and then take a bus or private transfer (3 hours) to Nazca.

🚘 By Car – For Ultimate Flexibility

If you prefer a self-drive adventure, renting a car from Lima or Arequipa allows you to explore at your own pace. However, be prepared for long desert highways with few services in between.

Best Things to Do in Nazca, Peru

🛸 Fly Over the Nazca Lines

Arguably the main reason travelers visit Nazca, the Nazca Lines are a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising massive geoglyphs etched into the desert floor. These figures, ranging from simple geometric shapes to complex animal depictions, have puzzled historians for decades.

• How to See Them: The best way is by taking a scenic flight from the Nazca airport.
• Best Time: Early morning flights offer clearer skies and less turbulence.
• Top Operators: Aeroparacas, Movil Air, and Alas Peruanas.
• Flight Cost: Prices range from $80–$120 per person, depending on the airline and season.

💡 Pro Tip: Flights last around 30 minutes; choose a window seat for the best views and bring motion sickness medication if needed.

💡 Insider Tip: The morning flights (8-10 AM) offer the clearest views with less turbulence.

⛰️ Visit the Nazca Lines Viewpoint

If flying isn’t an option, you can still admire the lines from a viewing tower along the Pan-American Highway.

• What You Can See: The Tree, Hands, and Lizard figures.
• Cost: Small entrance fee (approx. 5-10 soles).
• Ideal for: Budget travelers who prefer a ground-level perspective.

💡 Pro Tip: Best Time is the sunset as it provides a striking contrast for the lines.

🏺 Explore the Chauchilla Cemetery

A fascinating yet eerie experience, the Chauchilla Cemetery showcases mummies dating back over 1,000 years, preserved by the region’s dry climate.

• Highlights: Open tombs, well-preserved skeletons, and ancient burial traditions.
• How to Get There: About 30 minutes from Nazca, accessible via tour or taxi.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the desert heat.

💡 Insider Tip: Wear a hat and sunscreen—there’s no shade in the desert!

🏛️ Discover the Cantalloc Aqueducts

The Nazca civilization was known for its advanced irrigation techniques, and the Cantalloc Aqueducts are a testament to their ingenuity.

• What You’ll See: Spiral stone wells and underground canals still in use today.
• Why Visit? Learn how the Nazca people survived in an arid desert environment.
• Best Time: Early morning for cooler temperatures.

💡 Insider Tip: Combine this visit with the Nazca Lines Viewpoint, where you can see some geoglyphs without taking a flight.

🏜️ Visit the Cahuachi Pyramids

Once a major ceremonial center of the Nazca culture, Cahuachi consists of pyramid-like adobe structures used for rituals.

• Distance from Nazca: 30 km, accessible by guided tour or private transport.
• Why It’s Special: Largest Nazca religious site, featuring unexcavated ruins.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (May–October) for better accessibility.

💡 Pro Tip: Many tours combine Cahuachi with Chauchilla Cemetery for a comprehensive Nazca history tour.

🪐 Experience the Maria Reiche Planetarium

For those interested in astronomy and the mystery of the Nazca Lines, a visit to the Maria Reiche Planetarium is a must.

• What to Expect: Night sky observation and an in-depth explanation of theories behind the Nazca Lines.
• Location: Inside the Hotel Nazca Lines.
• Best Time: Evening for stargazing opportunities.

💡 Pro Tip: Arrive early to get good seats for the presentation.

🏄  Try Sandboarding & Dune Buggies

For thrill-seekers, the Nazca desert is perfect for adventure sports like sandboarding and dune buggy rides.

• Where to Go: Cerro Blanco, one of the world’s tallest sand dunes.
• Tour Options: Guided sandboarding tours available.
• Best Time: Late afternoon for breathtaking desert sunsets.

💡 Insider Tip: Visit at sunset for breathtaking views and cooler temperatures.

Where to Stay in Nazca, Peru

No matter your budget or travel style, Nazca has great accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays.

Best Luxury Hotels

Hotel Majoro: Set in a converted 17th-century convent, this hotel offers spacious rooms with rustic charm, surrounded by expansive gardens. Book here.

Casa Hacienda Nasca Oasis: A hacienda-style hotel offering comfortable rooms with garden views, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. Book here.

Mid-Range

Casa Andina Standard Nasca: A centrally located hotel offering modern rooms and convenient amenities, ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Book here.

Hotel Alegria Nasca: Featuring a restaurant, garden, and outdoor swimming pool, this hotel offers free Wi-Fi and American breakfast, located 400 meters from the main square. Book here.

Hotel Oro Viejo:  A charming hotel offering comfortable accommodations with a touch of local flair, set in a tranquil environment. Book here.

Budget: Nasca Travel One Hostel

Nasca Travel One Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel offering clean and comfortable rooms, perfect for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing quality. Book here.

Hostal Boulevard: A centrally located hostel offering basic accommodations with essential amenities, suitable for budget-conscious travelers. Book here.

Nasca Lodge: A cozy lodge providing comfortable rooms and personalized service, offering excellent value for budget travelers. Book here.

Best Time to Visit Nazca, Peru

Nazca’s desert climate means hot days, cool nights, and very little rainfall throughout the year. However, choosing the right season can make or break your experience, especially if you plan to fly over the Nazca Lines or explore outdoor attractions.

🌞 Best Season: May–October (Dry Season)

✅ Why Visit? This is the ideal time to visit Nazca, as the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities. Clear skies ensure optimal visibility for flights over the Nazca Lines, while daytime temperatures range from 25–30°C (77–86°F). At night, temperatures drop to a comfortable 10–15°C (50–59°F), making it pleasant for evening exploration.

💡 Travel Tip: Mornings are the best time for flights, as the winds are calmer and visibility is sharpest. Book an early flight to avoid afternoon turbulence.

🌧️ Avoid: January–March (Rainy Season & Flight Cancellations)

🚫 Why Not Visit? While Nazca is a desert region, January to March brings unexpected rainfall, especially in February, which is the wettest month. Although rain doesn’t last all day, even a small amount of precipitation can cause flooding in lower-lying areas, and more importantly, frequent flight cancellations due to cloud cover.

💡 Travel Tip: If you must visit during this season, plan flexible dates for your Nazca Lines flight, as cancellations are common. Book with airlines that offer free rescheduling.

🏜️ Shoulder Season: April & November (Mild & Less Crowded)

✅ Why Visit? These months offer a great balance—you’ll still get mostly clear skies, fewer tourists, and slightly cooler temperatures compared to peak season. Prices for flights, hotels, and tours are often lower than in May–October, making this a great time for budget travelers.

💡 Travel Tip: If visiting in April, pack a light rain jacket—occasional brief showers are possible, but they rarely disrupt travel plans.

🫕 Must-Try Dishes in Nazca

Ceviche – A classic Peruvian seafood dish made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, chili, and onions, often served with corn and sweet potatoes. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal!

Lomo Saltado – A popular Peruvian stir-fry with marinated beef, onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce, typically served with fries and rice. A must-try for meat lovers!

Pollo a la Brasa – Peru’s famous rotisserie chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked to perfection over charcoal, giving it a smoky, juicy flavor.

Rocoto Relleno – A spicy stuffed pepper dish, originally from Arequipa but also popular in Nazca, filled with ground meat, cheese, and a flavorful sauce.

Pisco Sour – Peru’s national cocktail, made with Pisco (grape brandy), lime juice, egg white, and bitters. It’s a perfect way to cool off after a day of sightseeing!

Final Thoughts

Nazca is a fascinating destination that offers mystery, history, and adventure all in one place. Whether you’re flying over the Nazca Lines, exploring ancient pyramids, or sandboarding down massive dunes, this region is unlike anywhere else in Peru.

If you’re planning your Peru itinerary, Nazca is 100% worth the stop—and now, with this complete travel guide, you’ll be ready to make the most of your trip!