Excursion to the Cahuachi Ceremonial Center: Nasca History and Culture

4 Hours
  • Tourist Mobility
  • 18 People
  • 520 meters.
  • Easy
  • Nasca
  • Throughout the year
  • Certified Guidance
  • Religious - Cultural
  • English - Spanish

Overview

Explore the Ceremonial Center of Cahuachi

Delve into the heart of the Nasca culture with this fascinating excursion to the Ceremonial Center of Cahuachi. Considered the largest mud citadel in the world, this archaeological complex is one of the most important in Peru.

Highlights of the tour

  • Discover how the Nasca culture used this site as a spiritual and administrative center.
  • Admire the adobe architecture and the vestiges of a society advanced for its time.
  • Learn about the archaeological investigations that have revealed the secrets of this enigmatic place.

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Cahuachi Ceremonial Center: Nasca History and Culture

    08:00 AM | Pick up and departure from Nazca

    We start the tour by picking you up from your hotel or from an agreed point in Nasca. Then, we will go in a comfortable transportation to the Ceremonial Center of Cahuachi, located about 25 km away.

    09:00 AM : Arrival to Cahuachi and guided visit.

    Upon arrival, we will begin the guided tour of this ancient ceremonial center. Together with your guide, you will tour the adobe pyramids and learn about their construction, function and significance. You will also visit temples and plazas where important rituals were performed.

    10:30 AM | Stop at the viewpoints

    We will climb to a lookout point with a wide view of the site and the surrounding desert. Here you will be able to take pictures while the guide continues to share interesting details about the site and its value to the Nasca culture.

    11:00 AM : Funeral areas

    We will then visit the tombs where human remains and offerings were found. The guide will explain in a clear way how the funerary practices were and what beliefs they had about life after death.

    12:00 PM : Free time

    After the tour, you will have free time to walk on your own, take more pictures or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the desert.

    12:30 PM | Return to Nasca

    Then, we will start our way back to the city. During the trip, you can continue to enjoy the scenery and remember everything you have learned.

    14:00 PM : Arrival in Nasca

    Finally, we will arrive at your hotel or meeting point. Thus ends this enriching experience in one of the most important sites of the Nasca culture.

    Note: Schedules may change depending on weather, traffic or the pace of the group.

Includes

  • Minimum 2 people.
  • Pick up from your hotels (Cercado de Nasca).
  • Professional guide.
  • Permanent assistance.

Does not include

  • Meals.
  • Entrance fee: S/10.00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the importance of Cahuachi in the Nazca culture?

Cahuachi was the main ceremonial and religious center of the Nazca culture (200 BC - 600 AD). It was a place of pilgrimage, rituals and offerings, related to the famous Nazca Lines and their cosmovision.

What is the best time to visit Cahuachi?

Cahuachi can be visited all year round, but the months of May to November offer more pleasant temperatures and clear skies.

Where is Cahuachi located?

Cahuachi is located about 28 kilometers west of the city of Nazca, in the department of Ica, Peru. It is located in the Nazca river valley, surrounded by a desert landscape.

How long is the tour?

The average duration is 3 to 5 hours, depending on the starting point and the activities included.

Can I combine this visit with other nearby destinations?

Of course! It is common to combine Cahuachi with:

  • Nazca Lines Viewpoint.
  • Cantalloc Aqueduct.
  • Ceramic and gold workshops in Nazca.

If you need more information or help planning your excursion, you can contact us!