Short itinerary
Day 1: Nazca – Chauchilla
- Depart from Nazca by car, traveling 20 km on the Panamericana highway and 7 km on a well-maintained unpaved road to reach Chauchilla Cemetery.
- Explore the ancient necropolis, seeing exposed skeletons, skulls, and well-preserved tombs with mummies and grave goods.
- Visit a local ceramic workshop to learn about traditional pottery techniques.
- Stop by an informal gold mining site to observe their continuous work.
- Return to Nazca.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Nazca – Chauchilla
This tour usually starts either before or after your Nazca Lines flight. You’ll travel south from Nazca along the Panamericana highway for about 20 km, then take a well-maintained unpaved road for another 7 km until reaching Chauchilla Cemetery—a fascinating pre-Inca necropolis dating back over 1,000 years.
For centuries, this ancient burial site was looted by grave robbers who took valuable items such as gold, silver, ceramics, and fine textiles, leaving many tombs destroyed and bodies exposed to the harsh desert climate. Today, visitors can still see human skeletons, skulls, and some remarkably intact tombs where mummies rest alongside the personal belongings they were buried with, reflecting the belief that life continued after death.
After exploring the cemetery, you’ll stop at a local ceramic artisan’s workshop, where you’ll see how beautiful Nazca-style pottery is made using techniques passed down through generations. You’ll also visit an informal gold mining area to observe the miners at work—a glimpse into another side of life in southern Peru.
Finally, return by vehicle to Nazca, completing a journey that offers a unique perspective on the rich history and living traditions of the region.
Included
- Land transport from Nazca
- Professional guide
- Entrance fees to Chauchilla Cemetery
Not included
- Meals
- Tips
Recommendations
- The best time to visit is during the dry season for pleasant weather and clear skies.
- Wear light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and bring water to stay hydrated in the desert climate.
- Have some cash on hand for souvenirs or small personal expenses.
- Follow your guide’s instructions and respect the archaeological site to help preserve its history.
