One of the things that Geneva was most looking forward to in Peru was the chance to see the mysterious Nasca Lines. We were fortunate to have time to explore these from several different viewpoints and even some of the surroundings and related places. By the way, we have chosen the spelling Nasca. But the alternative spelling is Nazca, and is also acceptable. The two are interchangeable and both appear throughout the region on signage, print materials and even taxis.
Just outside of Nasca (the city) we camped near an abandoned church. The eerie shell of the church is still standing after many years. And some of the beautiful painting and architecture can still be seen. At sunset we explored this beautiful relic which was completed in 1740 and dedicated in 1744.
As we approached the city of Nasca we spotted a tall look out tower on the horizon. Then looking to the left and right we could see some changes in the surface of the soil. We climbed up the tower, and found ourselves looking at two of the Nasca figures. The lizard and the tree of life were below us. Sadly, the tail of the lizard was sliced through by the Pan-American Highway. But the tree appears entirely.
But that was just a small portion of the mysterious lines. Our first campsite was at a place called the Pampa Lines or Pampa Reloj (clock).

Our next campsite was at a small home with lodging, just outside Nasca. This little farm offered comfortable shade and terrific hot showers. The resident peacock seemed to be in charge of strutting around and keeping things in order.
Pacha was somewhat nervous about the huge, colorful bird. She preferred to watch it from inside the camper!
Flying over the Nasca lines had long been a dream of Geneva’s. And this was the day it would happen. We entered the tiny airport, hounded by the agents trying to get us to fly with their group package. But our research told us that we wanted a private flight for the best views. We selected our company and purchased a package that included this flight plan.
The copilot took us out onto the tarmac where we met the plane and the pilot. This was exciting for both of us, as Mike loves airplanes and Geneva was fulfilling a long-term goal!

The next stop was the nearby museum to learn more about the people of the Nasca area. This was a very well done museum, which included a variety of displays. The harsh winds and weather of this area have destroyed most of the housing structures, but this little model of a living and working arrangement, was found in the sands near Nasca. However, dry sand has done a terrific job of preserving textiles, footwear and mummies. These little effigies each have a pouch made of fabric, which coordinated, with the attire of the mummy they were buried with. Most mummies had a small effigy and pouch.



And they showed detail and care in their textile work which included this decorated belt and a wall hanging representing an ocean fish.
So cool that you guys were able to see these famous weird lines and to be able to go up in the plane and really see them
How beautiful. I would so love to see the Nasca lines. Thank you for sharing.