Lift off from San Martín Port for a focused aerial tour of the Nazca Lines—ancient geoglyphs best appreciated from the air. This shore excursion includes port pickup, a roughly 1 hour 45 minute flight over 14 major figures, and return transfer timed for cruise schedules.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the gangway into the dry Pacific breeze at San Martín Port and the desert opens ahead like a ruled sheet of earth. A short transfer to Pisco airport, a safety briefing and then the little aircraft lifts; below, brown plains and the long, clean scratches of the Nazca Plateau spread out. The Hummingbird, Monkey, Condor and the so-called Astronaut resolve from lines into recognizably deliberate figures as the plane banks, and the older Palpa markings appear in different styles along the route.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours (including transfers, flight ~1h45m)
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—ability to board a small plane and walk short distances at the port.
Wildlife
History
The Nazca lines were produced by the Nazca culture between about 200 BCE and 600 CE; their scale and preservation result from arid conditions and careful removal of surface stones.
Conservation
The desert surface is fragile—tourism is regulated with flight paths and ground restrictions to prevent erosion; avoid walking on the figures and follow operator guidance.
Reserve your spot on the Nazca Lines from Pisco CRUISESHIP TERMINAL today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring your original passport
Boarding requires an original passport—request it from your cruise line at least a day in advance to avoid missing the flight.
Declare accurate weight
There is a strict 110 kg (242 lb) weight limit per passenger and on-the-spot weighing—honest declarations avoid heavy penalties or denied boarding.
Prepare for motion
Small aircraft maneuvers to show both sides of the glyphs; take anti-nausea medication if you have susceptibility to airsickness.
Fast camera settings
Use a fast shutter speed and a wide aperture to counter motion blur—hold your camera steady against the window frame.
Original passport
Required for boarding the aircraft and access within port facilities.
Sunglasses & sunscreen
The coastal desert and reflective fuselage increase sun exposure during transfers and while boarding.
Motion-sickness remedies
Small aircraft banking maneuvers can trigger nausea—bring meds or acupressure bands.
Light windproof jacket
Aircraft cabins can be cool; a thin layer is useful during early-morning pick-ups.