Chauchilla Cemetery
An ancient Nazca burial ground where remarkably preserved mummies rest in their tombs, offering a haunting glimpse into pre-Incan life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday desert heat
Chauchilla Cemetery
Best Time
Avoid midday desert heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient Nazca burial ground where remarkably preserved mummies rest in their tombs, offering a haunting glimpse into pre-Incan life.
"It’s haunting, it’s fascinating, and it’s unsettling in a way that sticks with you."
🚗 Accessing the Site
It's remote; a 4x4 or guided tour is recommended. Roads can be rough.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert sun is intense. Bring more water than you think you'll need.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Preserved Mummies in Tombs
Ancient burial chambers
Witness remarkably preserved mummies in their original tombs, a haunting testament to ancient funerary practices.
Archaeological Artifacts
Throughout the cemetery
See remnants of pottery and burial goods, offering glimpses into the lives and beliefs of the Nazca and Wari cultures.
Desert Landscape
Surrounding Nazca Desert
Experience the stark beauty of the Nazca desert, the silent guardian of this ancient necropolis.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Sacred Ground
Prepare for the Desert Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Accessing the Site
It's remote; a 4x4 or guided tour is recommended. Roads can be rough.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert sun is intense. Bring more water than you think you'll need.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven desert terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
The entrance fee is very low, making it a budget-friendly historical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Accessing the Site
It's remote; a 4x4 or guided tour is recommended. Roads can be rough.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert sun is intense. Bring more water than you think you'll need.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven desert terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
The entrance fee is very low, making it a budget-friendly historical experience.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but be mindful and respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chauchilla Cemetery is a hauntingly fascinating and unsettling historical site, offering a rare glimpse of remarkably preserved mummies in their ancient tombs. While the raw history is compelling, the site's condition, marked by looting, is a somber reminder of its fragility. Visitors often leave with a profound sense of awe and a deeper appreciation for ancient cultures, despite the tragic impact of past disturbances.
"Tough one to rate. How do you “review” a place where looters have ransacked graves, leaving human bones scattered across the desert? It’s haunting, it’s fascinating, and it’s unsettling in a way that sticks with you.
Full marks for the raw, unfiltered history—actual mummies still sitting in their tombs, preserved by the dry air. But the lack of funding shows. This isn’t some pristine archaeological site; it feels abandoned, which somehow makes it even more tragic. If you’re in Nazca, go. Just be prepared to leave with more questions than answers."
Rich Potter
"This place is amazing and needs to be saved. Already torn to pieces by graverobbers, who threw the mummified remains of the Nasca peoples into the desert. Some have been recreated but all grahe sites have been robbed of the pottery, jewlery, and other "valuables". This is a rare site where the mummies are kept on-site. Please go see this site and promote its protection and welfare. Be respectful and stay in the paths. Only 8 soles to get in and was one of our most memorable places we visited in Perú."
Sarah “Red” Dezelin
"A Nazca cemetery. Great to see how this civilization used to bury their loved ones. Unfortunately all the graves have been looted so there's little left of the pottery and utensils"
Anto Bellog
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chauchilla Cemetery is located about 30 kilometers south of Nazca. The journey involves driving on desert roads, which can be challenging. Many visitors opt for a guided tour or hire a taxi/private car, often a 4x4, for easier access. Some tours combine a visit with the Nazca Lines.
Yes, it's possible to visit independently if you have your own vehicle, preferably a 4x4 due to the sandy terrain. However, be prepared for a remote location with limited facilities.
Public transportation directly to the cemetery is not readily available. Most visitors rely on organized tours or private transportation from Nazca.
The drive from Nazca to Chauchilla Cemetery typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions and your mode of transport.
Absolutely! Many tours and independent itineraries combine a visit to the Chauchilla Cemetery with viewing the Nazca Lines, as they are in the same general region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is quite affordable, often around 8 soles, making it a very accessible historical site.
The cemetery is an open-air archaeological site. While official hours might vary, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Some reviews mention it being accessible even during pandemic closures.
Tickets can usually be purchased on-site. Booking in advance is generally not necessary unless you are part of a pre-arranged tour.
While not always mandatory, hiring a local guide at the site can greatly enhance your understanding of the history and significance of the cemetery.
Yes, you can visit independently if you have transportation. However, a guide can provide valuable context about the Nazca and Wari cultures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see ancient tombs containing remarkably preserved mummies, some still in their original burial positions. You can also observe remnants of pottery and other artifacts, offering a direct connection to pre-Incan cultures.
Yes, the mummies are real and have been preserved by the dry desert climate. While some graves have been disturbed by looters, many original mummies remain in situ.
Some visitors report a haunting or eerie atmosphere due to the nature of the site and the presence of human remains. It's a place that evokes a sense of history and mystery.
The cemetery has unfortunately suffered from looting, with graves disturbed and artifacts removed. This has left some areas looking ransacked, but the preservation of the mummies in situ is still remarkable.
Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for a desert climate. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the sandy terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography of the mummies and focus on capturing the historical context and the desert landscape.
Capture the stark desert scenery, the unique tomb structures, and the preserved mummies (from a respectful distance). The contrast between the ancient site and the vast desert is striking.
While there aren't usually strict rules, always be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid flash photography directly on the mummies if possible, and never touch or disturb anything for a photo.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel for photography, while also being cooler.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area, as it's an archaeological site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided tour that can tailor explanations to a younger audience, focusing on the historical context and cultural practices rather than the more macabre aspects. The drive through the desert can also be an adventure in itself. Remember that the site is remote, so pack snacks and ensure everyone has comfortable footwear for walking.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Engage with local guides if possible, as they can offer deeper insights into the archaeological significance and the ongoing challenges of preservation. Understanding the context of the Nazca Lines and how this cemetery fits into the broader cultural landscape of the region will enrich the experience. Be prepared for a raw, unfiltered historical encounter that sparks curiosity and contemplation.
👻 Paranormal & Mystery Seekers
While the site's history is rooted in ancient funerary practices, its reputation for being haunted adds an extra layer of intrigue. Explore the tombs, absorb the atmosphere, and let your imagination wander. Remember to approach the site with respect, even as you seek out its more chilling aspects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Nazca and Wari Cultures
The preservation of the mummies is a remarkable feat of nature, largely due to the extremely dry and arid conditions of the Nazca desert. This environment naturally desiccates the bodies, preventing decomposition. The mummies are often found in a seated position, wrapped in textiles, and accompanied by grave goods such as pottery, tools, and personal ornaments. These items offer invaluable insights into their daily lives, social status, and spiritual beliefs.
Unfortunately, the archaeological integrity of Chauchilla Cemetery has been severely compromised by grave robbers over the centuries. Many tombs have been looted, and artifacts have been stolen or scattered. Despite this, the site remains a crucial location for understanding ancient Peruvian cultures, with many mummies still resting in their original tombs, offering a poignant and haunting connection to the past.
Preservation and Challenges
However, the cemetery faces significant challenges. Looting has been a persistent problem, with grave robbers disturbing tombs in search of valuable artifacts like pottery and jewelry. This has not only led to the loss of historical objects but has also desecrated the burial sites, scattering human remains. While efforts are made to protect the site, its remote location and open-air nature make it vulnerable. Visitors are strongly encouraged to be respectful, stay on designated paths, and avoid touching any remains or artifacts to help preserve what is left for future generations.
The site's condition, while impacted by looting, still offers a profound experience. The raw, unfiltered history, with mummies still in their tombs, is both fascinating and unsettling. It serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of historical sites and the importance of conservation efforts.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit