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Archaeological site · Nazca, Ica
Acueductos de Cantalloc
Subterranean aqueducts of the Nazca culture, about 4 km from town, with spiral stone entrances, the ojos, that lead to the water which still flows and irrigates the valley fields.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Acueductos de Cantalloc
The Cantalloc aqueducts are about 4 km east of Nazca center, in the Nazca river valley. They are subterranean aqueducts, called puquios, built by the Nazca culture more than 1,500 years ago to draw water from the groundwater layer and bring it to the fields in a place where it almost never rains.
The channels run underground and are lined with stone, with roofs of slabs and logs. At intervals the ojos appear, the spiral entrances, like stone funnels that descend in a spiral to the water. They allowed the channels to be cleaned and regulated the passage of air, which helps the water flow. Many aqueducts still work and irrigate the valley's cotton and fruit fields.
The visit follows a path among the ojos, with views of the channels and spirals. Some allow you to descend a few steps to see the water running below. Nearby, tours usually include the sites of Paredones, ruins of an Inca road-control center, and Los Telares.
The place is open and without shade. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
Late afternoon, with the sun lower, or early in the morning. It's easy to fit on the return from the Cemitério de Chauchilla or after the flight.
How to get there
It is about 4 km from Nazca center, a 10-minute taxi ride on the road to Puquio. Agencies include Cantalloc in half-day tours.
Tip
Descend the steps of one of the ojos, when allowed, to hear the water running. Combine it with Paredones on the same route.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Acueductos de Cantalloc
Do the Cantalloc aqueducts still work?
Yes. Many puquios in the region still carry water to the fields of the Nazca valley.
What are the ojos?
They are the spiral stone entrances that descend to the underground channels and allowed the aqueducts to be cleaned and regulated the flow of air.
Who built the aqueducts?
The Nazca culture, the same one behind the Linhas, more than 1,500 years ago, to capture groundwater in a place where it almost never rains.