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On an arid plain 22km north of modern day Nasca are the world famous 'Nasca Lines'. Straight lines, abstract designs and outlines of animals are etched on the dark desert surface revealing a lighter colored soil beneath. Images of birds predominate, some measuring up to 60m across, but there are also outlines of a whale, a dog, a monkey, a spider and a flower. The lines were not 'discovered' until spotted from above by aircraft in 1939. They are thought to have been drawn by the Nasca civilization (which reached its peak about 700 AD). There have been numerous theories about why the lines were drawn. Maria Reiche, a German mathematician who spent most of her life studying the phenomenon, believed they formed part of a giant astronomical calendar. The more eccentric Eric Von Daniken attributes them to visitors from another planet. As many of the lines are orientated towards water sources, many people now suggest that they are likely to be processional routes designed to be walked upon as part of the ritual worship of water (a very important commodity in the desert). The best way to see the lines is to take to the sky. Flights over the lines leave regularly throughout the day on small planes which take between 3 and 5 passengers. The flight should last from 30-40 minutes and cost around $40 plus $2 departure tax per person. The flights can be a bit bumpy with less turbulence in the mornings. Tours can be organized through several local tour operators or through a reputable hotel (Hotel Nasca Lines and Hotel Alegria are examples). Aerocondor in Lima also offers flights over the lines from Lima as part of a 1-day tour.
LIMA NAZCA PARACAS ICA
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