Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SURFING
With consistent, uncrowded waves and plenty of remote breaks to explore, Peru has a
mixed surfing scene that attracts dedicated locals and international die hards alike.
Waves can be found from the moment you land. All along the southern part of Lima,
surfers ride out popular point and beach breaks at Miraflores (known as Waikiki), Barran-
quito and La Herradura. Herradura's outstanding left point break gets crowded when there
is a strong swell. In-the-know surfers prefer the smaller crowds further south at Punta Her-
mosa. International and national championships are held at nearby Punta Rocas as well as
Pico Alto, an experts-only 'kamikaze' reef break with some of the largest waves in Peru.
Isla San Gallán, off the Península de Paracas, also provides experts with a world-class
right-hand point break only accessible by boat; ask local fishermen or at hotels.
Peru's north coast has a string of excellent breaks. The most famous is Puerto Chicama,
where rides of more than 2km are possible on what's considered the longest left-hand break
in the world. Also, very consistent waves can be found at Pacasmayo, and outside Chiclayo
at Pimentel and Santa Rosa.
The water is cold from April to mid-December (as low as 15°C/60°F), when wet suits
are generally needed. Indeed, many surfers wear wet suits year-round (2/3mm will suffice),
even though the water is a little warmer (around 20°C, or 68°F, in the Lima area) from
January to March. The far north coast (north of Talara) stays above 21°C (70°F) most of
the year.
Though waves are generally not crowded, surfing can be a challenge - facilities are lim-
ited and equipment rental is expensive. The scene on the north coast is the most organized,
with surf shops and hostels that offer advice, rent boards and organize surfing day trips.
Huanchaco is a great base with these services. Serious surfers should bring their own
board.
The best surfing sites include
www.peruazul.com
,
www.vivamancora.com
and
www.wannasurf.com
,
with a comprehensive, highly detailed list of just about every break
in Peru. Good wave and weather forecasts can be found at
www.magicseaweed.com
and
