In short
- Small 2- to 12-passenger Cessna planes make steep banking turns.
- Take medication like Dramamine before you arrive at the airport.
- Fly in the early morning on an empty stomach for calmer air.
In this article
The classic scenic flight over the Nazca desert lasts approximately 30 to 35 minutes. To ensure everyone sees the geoglyphs, pilots tilt the aircraft steeply left and right over each figure. These sharp maneuvers often cause nausea, but you can manage it with a few simple steps.
Why does the Nazca flight cause motion sickness?
The flight requires sharp banking maneuvers so passengers on both sides of the plane can see the ground.
You fly in a small Cessna aircraft that holds just 2 to 12 passengers. The pilots tilt the wings steeply over each of the main figures. The fast-paced combination of circular turns and small-plane turbulence frequently triggers nausea.
Should I take pills for Nazca Lines motion sickness?
Yes, you should take motion sickness medication like Dramamine before arriving at the aerodrome.
Take the medication well in advance of your flight. Do not wait until you feel sick in the air. Bring the pills with you to Nazca, as they might not be available at the airport.
Should I eat before the Nazca flight?
No, you should fly on an empty or nearly empty stomach.
Avoid heavy meals or greasy food before your flight. If you fly in the early morning, skip breakfast until after you land. Staying hydrated with bottled water is fine, but keep your stomach clear.
When is the smoothest time to fly over the Nazca Lines?
Early morning flights offer the calmest air and the least turbulence.
Book the earliest morning slots for the smoothest ride. As the desert heats up later in the day, thermal currents create more turbulence. The months from May through October also provide the calmest winds for flying.
How can I avoid getting dizzy in the plane?
Keep your eyes focused on the horizon when you are not looking directly at the figures.
Looking through your camera or smartphone for the entire 35-minute flight makes motion sickness worse. Use burst mode to quickly photograph figures. Then, look out at the horizon to help your brain reorient.
What else do I need for the flight check-in?
You must bring your original physical passport and cash for local taxes.
Before boarding, operators weigh you to ensure aircraft balance. You must also pay a 30 PEN (approx $8) airport tax and a 47 PEN tourist ticket in cash. Large bags are not allowed on the plane.
Questions travellers ask
How long is the Nazca flight?
The classic circuit flight departing from the Nazca airport lasts 30 to 35 minutes.
What size are the planes?
Operators use small Cessna aircraft that carry between 2 and 12 passengers.
Can I bring bags on the plane?
No large bags or luggage are permitted on the aircraft due to strict weight limits. Small lockers are provided at the aerodrome.
