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The Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are gigantic geoglyphs located in the Nasca Desert, a high arid plateau that stretches 53 miles between the towns of Nasca and Palpa on the Pampas de Jumana in Peru. The lines were created by the Nasca culture between 300 BC and 700 AD. There are hundreds of individual figures, ranging in complexity from simple lines to stylized hummingbirds, spiders, monkeys, and lizards. As well as the individual figures there are also large cleared areas.

Theories as to why the lines were created vary but the most popular is that they represent an astronomical calendar. This theory was backed by Maria Reiche who spent much of her life studying the lines and is responsible for much of their fame.

Other theories include running tracks and meeting areas for the straight lines and cleared spaces as well as theories relating to water and of course UFO´s! The geoglyphs themselves are thought to represent different groups within the Nazca culture.

The Nazca Lines cannot be recognized as coherent figures except from the air. Since it is presumed the Nasca people could never have seen their work from this vantage point, there has been much speculation on the builders' abilities and motivations. One theory is that shamans having taken hallucinogenic substances could “fly” above the lines whilst in a trance. Another theory is that the Nazca Culture developed hot air balloons and so could fly over the lines.

The actual construction of the lines is simple. The desert here is rich in iron and with the heat the top few inches become oxidized and are red in color. The builders simply cleared away this top layer to reveal a lighter colored earth below. The lines have remained largely intact thanks to the dry climate.

If you wish to see the lines you will first see an interesting video and receive updated information about the Nasca lines from a qualified guide before being transferred to a specially designed Cessna light airplane for your flight. Flights can be taken from Nazca itself or from the town of Ica.

Ask us about all the options.