Nazca lines

The Nazca lines are a large group of ancient geoglyphs etched into the arid coastal plain of southern Peru in the Ica Region, created by removing surface stones to reveal lighter subsoil. They are among the most extensive collections of geoglyphs in the world and are recognised for their size and preservation.

The site includes hundreds of straight lines, geometric shapes and figurative animals and plants; experts commonly cite on the order of several hundred individual figures alongside many long straight alignments that run for kilometres. The best views are from the air in small planes or from elevated observation platforms near the Pan-American Highway that provide close-up views of select figures.

Archaeological study attributes the works primarily to the Nazca culture and neighbouring groups, created between roughly 500 BCE and 500 CE by removing the dark surface stones to expose the pale ground beneath. The purpose of the lines is debated by researchers but interpretations include ritual, astronomical or hydrological functions.

The geoglyphs lie on the flat, dry Pampas between the towns of Nazca and Palpa in southern coastal Peru, in a region of low rainfall and sparse vegetation that aided their preservation.

• Viewing methods: Small observation towers beside the Pan-American Highway and small-survey aircraft are the two main ways to view the geoglyphs, with aircraft offering the widest perspective.
• Flight advice: Morning flights generally provide calmer air and better visibility for aerial views; book with licensed operators and expect short single-engine aircraft.