Machu Picchu, Incan marvel nestled in the Peruvian Andes, epitomizes the grandeur of pre-Columbian architecture and culture.
TOUR TO THE BALLESTAS ISLANDS AND NAZCA LINES FROM LIMA
Embark on the Tour to the Ballestas Islands and Nazca Lines from Lima with a private, door-to-door adventure. Start with an early pickup and then travel to Paracas Bay, where a speedboat tour will reveal the stunning Ballestas Islands and the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph. Next, proceed to Nazca for an aerial tour over the iconic Nazca Lines in a Cessna aircraft. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch in Nazca and visit the Nazca Lines Metallic Tower. Finally, conclude your journey with a comfortable return to your Lima hotel. Experience the highlights of Peru in one unforgettable day.
“From the Marine Life of Ballestas Islands to the Ancient Nazca Lines”
“Unveiling Peru’s Coastal Wonders, One Highlight at a Time”
“From Candelabra to Sea Lions: Experience the Magic of Ballestas Islands”
Discover the breathtaking Ballestas Islands on an unforgettable boat tour that showcases the natural beauty of Peru’s coast. First, marvel at the enigmatic Candelabra, a giant geoglyph etched into the hillside and visible only from the sea. Then, as you cruise around the islands, you’ll encounter a vibrant array of wildlife, including playful sea lions, charming Humboldt penguins, and flocks of seabirds. Additionally, enjoy stunning marine vistas and the pristine, rugged landscape that make the Ballestas Islands a must-see destination.
“Spot Humboldt Penguins: A Unique Adventure on the Ballestas Islands”
Experience the thrill of spotting Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat during our Ballestas Islands boat tour! First, see these charming black-and-white birds as they waddle along the rocky shores or swim gracefully in the sea. Additionally, while you cruise through the pristine waters, keep your eyes peeled for these delightful penguins and, consequently, witness their playful antics up close.
“From Astronomical Calendars to Alien Theories: Unravel the Mysterious Purpose of the Nazca Lines”
The purpose of the Nazca Lines continues to be one of history’s greatest enigmas. Despite extensive research and numerous theories, the exact reason behind these vast and intricate geoglyphs remains elusive. Scholars have proposed various explanations, ranging from their use as astronomical calendars to align with celestial events, to serving as pathways for religious rituals and ceremonies. Some even speculate that these colossal designs could have been created as symbolic markers or possibly even as landing sites for extraterrestrial visitors. The multitude of theories only adds to the allure and mystique of the Nazca Lines, which are now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
“Marvel at Ingenious Construction”
The Nazca Lines are a masterpiece of ancient engineering wrapped in enigma. To begin with, the builders used a fascinating technique to create these colossal and intricate geoglyphs: they meticulously removed the top layer of reddish-brown pebbles, thereby revealing the lighter-colored earth beneath. This method was not only ingenious in its simplicity but also crucial in preserving these designs for centuries. Furthermore, the striking contrast between the dark surface pebbles and the lighter ground beneath allowed the lines to stand out with remarkable clarity.
“A Mystical Masterpiece Visible Only from Above”
The full extent and intricate details of the Nazca Lines can only be appreciated from the air, making a flight over the plateau an essential experience for truly understanding the scale and artistry of these ancient creations.
“Additional Viewing Opportunities”
To enhance your adventure, our tour includes a visit to the iconic metallic observation tower in the Nazca desert. Firstly, this strategically positioned tower offers a unique vantage point, revealing not only beautiful geoglyphs but also huge geometric forms. As you climb the tower, you will, in turn, gain a deeper appreciation of the immense scale and complexity of the Nazca Lines. Moreover, this included stop adds a valuable dimension to your journey, allowing you to connect more intimately with the mysteries of these ancient geoglyphs.
NAZCA LINES MAP
The map below highlights the location of the Nazca Lines, which you’ll have the opportunity to see from the air during the aerial tour included in this package.
Tour Summary
You’ll be picked up from your Lima hotel at 4:30 AM and travel to Paracas Bay by private transport. Board a speedboat to explore the Ballestas Islands, spotting the famous Candelabra figure, diverse marine life, and Humboldt penguins. After the boat tour, head to Nazca for an aerial view of the Nazca Lines via a small plane, with a detailed video briefing beforehand. Enjoy lunch in Nazca before returning to Lima, with a stop at the Nazca Lines Metallic Tower to view additional figures. Arrive back in Lima by evening.
Starting Point
Your hotel in Lima.
Departure Time
04:30 h.
Return Time
22:00 h.
Route Map
Why Travelers Choose This Trip
Convenient Door-to-Door Service
Experience seamless transportation with our door-to-door service, ensuring a hassle-free journey that begins and ends directly at your Lima hotel, providing exceptional convenience for travelers.
Freedom to Explore
With private transportation, travelers have the freedom to explore at their own pace, making stops for coffee breaks or restroom breaks at comfortable establishments along the journey.
Unique Aerial Perspective
Witness the iconic Nazca Lines from a unique aerial perspective aboard a Cessna plane, with each participant guaranteed a window seat for optimal viewing of the ancient geoglyphs.
Expert Guided Experience
Travelers are guided by knowledgeable English-speaking guides throughout the journey, enhancing understanding and enjoyment of the experience.
ITINERARY
Ballestas Islands & Nazca Lines Full Day Tour from Lima
“Tour to the Ballestas Islands and Nazca Lines from Lima”
Part I: 04:30 h. You will be picked up from your hotel in Lima and then will travel by private transportation to the Paracas Bay (the private transportation is shared with other tourist). The car ride to the Paracas Bay lasts about 3 hours. Upon arrival in Paracas you will be met by our local guide at the port and afterwards you will be led to the local dock of El Chaco where you will board a speed boat to visit the Ballestas Islands.
Part II: During our boat excursion to the Islands, you’ll see several attractions, including the massive Candelabra design etched into a hillside, clearly visible from the sea. Our guide will explain its key theories. We’ll then explore the Ballestas Islands, where you can observe various birds like Peruvian Bobbies, Inca Terns, Pelicans, and Cormorants, along with sea lions on the beaches. If you’re lucky, you might also spot Humboldt Penguins and dolphins. Note that landing on the islands is not permitted, so the tour will be conducted entirely by boat. Afterward, we’ll return to the mainland and continue our journey to Nazca.
Part III: Once in Nazca, you’ll head to the local airdrome for a small plane flight over the Nazca Lines. Before boarding, you’ll watch a 40-minute video about the Nazca Lines and their archaeological significance. Then, you’ll board a Cessna aircraft with room for five, each with a window seat. During the flight, you’ll see notable figures like a monkey, whale, spider, hummingbird, parrot, condor, and geometric shapes. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Nazca, visit the Nazca Lines Metallic Tower, and then return to Lima, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.
End of our service.
What’s Included
- 04:30 h. Pick up from your hotel in Lima.
- Transportation: Lima – Paracas – Nazca – Lima.
- 08:00 h. Boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands. (Group service).
- 10:30 h. Departure from Paracas to Nazca.
- 13:30 h. Arrival in the city of Nazca. Transfer to the airport.
- 14:00 h. Classic Flight over the Nazca Lines + Airport taxes (Group service)
- 15:00 h. Lunch at a local restaurant in Nazca.
- 16:00 h. Visit to the metallic tower of the Nazca Lines on route.
- 22:00 h. Arrival in Lima. Drop off at your hotel.
Extras & Gratitude.
Aircraft & Transport Information
Land Transport
Private Vehicle
All Equipped with Air Conditioning
- 2 people – Sedan Car.
- 3 to 5 people – H-1 Van.
- 6 to 15 people. Sprinter Van.
- 16 to 30 people – Bus.
Air Transport
Cessna Airplanes
Last Generation Aircrafts
- 6 passenger capacity.
- All seats offer window views.
- Highly qualified pilots.
- Nazca Lines Map for orientation.
GOOD TO KNOW
Important Weight Limit Notice
For your safety on the Nazca Lines flight, please note the airline weight limit is 90 kilograms per passenger. Notify us via email if your weight exceeds this limit before booking. Additional fees may apply if an extra seat is needed.
Original Passport Required
It’s crucial to have your passport with you for the Nazca Lines flight. Boarding the plane requires your passport as identification. Without it, you won’t be permitted to participate in this unforgettable aerial adventure.
Customer Reviews
“I cant reiterate and verify every good thing that has been said about this company, Enrique took care of us like we really mattered to them and my friends and I are thankful. Their pricing is great, service, excellent, no regrets at all and I consider myself to find anything to comment on. Thank you guys.”
“Peru is an incredibly beautiful and interesting country, one that you need to visit several times. On my most recent trip to Peru I booked a full day trip to the Nazca Lines with Mystery Peru. All arrangements were made on-line and via e-mail from Canada. Our guide spoke excellent English”
Ready to Book this trip ?
Trip Essentials
Useful Tips and Advice for the Tour to the Ballestas Islands and Nazca Lines from Lima:
Plan in Advance: Before your trip, research and book your Nazca Lines tour in advance to secure your spot.
This ensures you won’t miss out on this extraordinary experience, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Check Weight Restrictions: As there is a weight limit for the Nazca Lines flight, it’s crucial to check and adhere to the limit (200 pounds or 95 kilograms per passenger) to avoid any extra fees or complications on the day of the tour.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear for the tour.
Sun Protection: The Nazca desert can get hot and sunny, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong UV rays.
Be Punctual: Make sure to be on time for the departure from Lima to avoid delays.
Consider Motion Sickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to take medication before the flight to ensure a comfortable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with a pick-up from your Lima hotel at 4:30 AM. You will return to Lima by approximately 10:00 PM the same day.
2. Is transportation to and from Lima included?
Yes, private transportation from Lima to Paracas and Nazca.
3. How long is the boat tour at the Ballestas Islands?
The boat tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you will see the Candelabra figure, a variety of birds, sea lions, and possibly Humboldt penguins.
4. Will I be able to land on the Ballestas Islands?
5. How long is the flight over the Nazca Lines?
The flight over the Nazca Lines lasts about 30 minutes. Each passenger will have a window seat for the best views.
6. Is lunch provided during the tour?
Yes, lunch is included in Nazca at a local restaurant.
7. What happens if the weather conditions are unfavorable?
In the event of poor weather conditions that affect the boat tour or the flight, alternative arrangements will be made or the tour may be rescheduled. Safety is our top priority.