Discover Peru: Combining Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines Tours
Peru is a country rich in history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. From ancient Inca ruins to bustling modern cities, Peru offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Its landscapes range from the lush Amazon rainforest to the arid coastal deserts and the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains.
Alpaca Expeditions is proud to be the #1 tour operator in Peru, dedicated to creating unique and memorable adventures for our clients. We are known for our superior service, experienced guides, and carefully crafted itineraries that showcase the best of Peru.
One of our most exciting offerings is the combined Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours. This tour blends two of Peru’s most famous attractions: the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu and the mysterious geoglyphs of the Nazca Lines.
With this tour, you can explore the ancient Inca city high in the Andes and then take to the skies to view the enormous drawings etched into the desert floor. This journey provides a perfect mix of historical exploration and natural wonder, making it a must-do for any traveler seeking to fully experience Peru’s unique heritage.
Machu Picchu: The Inca Empire’s Jewel
Machu Picchu is one of the most important sites of the ancient Inca Empire. Built in the 15th century, this citadel is perched high in the Andes Mountains and remained hidden from the outside world for centuries. It was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The journey to Machu Picchu is an adventure in itself. You start with a scenic train ride from Cusco, winding through the beautiful Sacred Valley. The train journey offers stunning views of the Urubamba River and lush mountains. Once you arrive, a short bus ride takes you up to the entrance of the ancient city. A guided tour helps you explore the site and learn about its history and significance.
Key landmarks within Machu Picchu include the Sun Gate, which offers a breathtaking view of the citadel, the Temple of the Sun, which was used for astronomical observations, and the Intihuatana stone, believed to be a ritual stone associated with the astronomic clock or calendar of the Inca. Combining machu picchu and nazca lines tours allows visitors to experience the best of Peru’s cultural and historical wonders.
Nazca Lines: Mysteries from the Sky
The Nazca Lines are a group of large, ancient geoglyphs found in the Nazca Desert of southern Peru. Created between 500 BCE and 500 CE, these massive designs were etched into the desert floor and can only be fully appreciated from the air. Their exact purpose remains a mystery, but many believe they were made for religious or astronomical reasons.
On a tour of the Nazca Lines, you’ll take an exhilarating flight over these incredible designs. From the airplane, you’ll see massive figures carved into the earth, such as the hummingbird, spider, and monkey. Each of these figures is surprisingly clear and detailed, stretching across the landscape in a way that shows their complexity and precision.
Combining a visit to Machu Picchu with a tour of the Nazca Lines offers an unforgettable adventure. With Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours, you’ll experience the majestic beauty and enigmatic history of Peru’s most famous landmarks.
Combining the Tours: A Perfect Adventure
Combining the Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours offers a truly unique and comprehensive experience of Peru. These two iconic destinations showcase the best of Peru’s historical and natural wonders.
Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel nestled high in the Andes, provides a glimpse into the rich history and architectural genius of the Incas. Its breathtaking views and mystical atmosphere make it a must-see.
On the other hand, the Nazca Lines present a fascinating mystery of ancient geoglyphs that are best appreciated from the air. These large-scale drawings in the desert include shapes like animals and geometric patterns that remain a puzzle to this day.
By combining these tours, travelers get to explore Peru’s diverse offerings—from the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu to the enigmatic Nazca Lines. The travel itinerary ensures you experience both the cultural heritage and the natural beauty of Peru, providing a well-rounded adventure that captures the essence of this incredible country.
This blend of historical insight and natural wonder makes the Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours an unforgettable journey through Peru.
Detailed Itinerary:
Paracas, Islas Ballestas, Sun Dunes, Nazca Lines, and Wine Tour
Day 1: Lima to Paracas
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Lima. You’ll head south for about 3.5 hours to reach Paracas, a beautiful coastal town. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting off to explore the Islas Ballestas.
These rocky islands are home to diverse wildlife, including Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and various sea birds. You will also see the famous Pacaras Candelabra, a large geoglyph carved into the hillside.
Next, drive for around 1 hour and 20 minutes to the oasis town of Huacachina. Here, you’ll have lunch and get to experience the stunning desert dunes. The rolling sand dunes offer a unique landscape for exploration and fun. After a day full of sights, continue your journey for a 2-hour drive to Nazca.
Arrive in the evening and check in at the comfortable Casa Andina Hotel. This day sets the stage for an exciting continuation of the Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours, blending history and natural wonders into one unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Nazca Lines and Wine Tour
On the second day of our exciting Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours, you’ll start with a thrilling morning flight over the Nazca Lines. These huge, ancient drawings on the desert floor are best seen from the air, and you’ll be amazed by the intricate shapes, including animals like monkeys and birds.
After your aerial adventure, we’ll head to Ica for lunch. Ica is famous for its wine, so you’ll visit a local wine and Pisco sour factory. Here, you’ll learn about the production process and have the chance to taste some of Peru’s delicious wine and Pisco.
In the afternoon, you’ll drive back to Lima. The drive takes about four hours, and you’ll arrive in the evening, around 8:30 pm. This day perfectly blends the awe-inspiring Nazca Lines with a taste of Peruvian culture, making it a highlight of the Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours.
The Best of Both Worlds: Culture and Nature
Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours offer a unique chance to experience Peru’s incredible cultural and natural beauty.
Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca city high in the Andes Mountains, is a cultural treasure. It was built in the 15th century and is considered one of the greatest achievements of Inca engineering. Walking through its stone pathways and seeing the impressive ruins gives visitors a deep sense of history and wonder.
On the other hand, the Nazca Lines are giant geoglyphs etched into the desert floor of southern Peru. These mysterious shapes, which include animals and geometric patterns, are best seen from the air. They are believed to have been created by the Nazca people between 500 BC and 500 AD, and their purpose remains a fascinating puzzle.
Combining Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours provides an unforgettable blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the high peaks of the Andes to the vast desert landscapes, this tour offers the best of both worlds, showcasing Peru’s rich history and stunning scenery.
Why Choose Alpaca Expeditions?
Superior Service
When you book with Alpaca Expeditions for your Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours, you can expect top-notch service. Our knowledgeable guides are experts in the history and culture of Peru, ensuring you get a deep understanding of each site.
Our comprehensive tour packages cover everything you need, from transportation and accommodation to meals and activities. We aim to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible, with careful planning and attention to detail.
Customer Experience
Travelers who have experienced our Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours often share glowing reviews. Many highlight our friendly and professional guides, who enhance their experience with interesting stories and local insights.
Guests also appreciate our well-organized itinerary, which ensures they get the most out of their time in Peru. One traveler mentioned, “The tour was amazing! The guides were knowledgeable, and the itinerary was perfectly planned. Seeing Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines in one trip was unforgettable!” This feedback shows why Alpaca Expeditions is a top choice for exploring Peru’s wonders.
Winding Up
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking history and mysterious natural wonders, then the Machu Picchu and Nazca Lines tours are perfect for you. Exploring the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu allows you to walk through the remnants of a once-great civilization. While the aerial view of the Nazca Lines reveals gigantic drawings etched into the desert floor that have puzzled historians for years.
Both of these incredible destinations offer unique experiences that showcase the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Peru. By choosing this combined tour, you get to enjoy the best of both worlds in one unforgettable journey.
So, why wait? Start planning your trip today and get ready to be amazed by the wonders of Peru. With Alpaca Expeditions, you’ll have expert guides and a well-organized itinerary that ensures you make the most of every moment. Book your adventure now and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Alpaca Expeditions Recognitions
ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.