Discover the Nazca Lines of Peru

Photo courtesy of Hat.Net

Scientists have been baffled by large geometric figures and lines spread across the Peruvian desert since their discovery in 1939. According to About.com, there are over 300 of these drawings, the largest of which is 1000 feet across. They are approximately 2,000 years old and were etched by three different native groups.

No one has been able to explain the purpose of these figures but there are several theories. The most interesting (and perplexing) is the theory put forth by Erich von Daniken who "argued...that they are the remains of a giant extraterrestrial airport".

The Nazca Lines are very popular tourist destinations in Peru. There are several ways to see the lines: You can catch a bus, charter an airplane, or take a hot air balloon ride over the desert. There are plenty of other things to do in the area, as well. Several museums and archeological sites dot the landscape in this region of Peru.

Related:

Nazca Travel Guide at Peru For Less
Volunteering in Peru
The History of Nazca, Peru

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