Surfing

       In ancient Peru, "wave riding" was practiced since the beginning of civilization in this part of the American continent. Peruvians from the coast rode waves coming in from fishing in a daily and obliged ritual. To be a fisherman in ancient Peru you had to be a surfer, a reed boat surfer.
      Times have changed, people evolved and so did men tools. Old wooden boards in Hawaii or Peruvian reed boats were replaced by modern and lighter surf boards made of synthetic foam and fiber glass, although the ecstasy feeling of riding a wave remains intact in the hearts and souls of those who ride waves today.
     A special combination of adventure spirit, courage, commitment and the interminable search of the perfect wave characterize this unique tribe of men and women who travel the world dancing on the crest of the waves.
     Peru is one of those privileged places on earth where nature's generosity offers innumerable breaks with waves from every size, from every type. From beginners to advanced surfers, children, men, women, there is a wave for every one in this country where surfing is possible 365 days a year, with lots of surf spots to be discovered and where many, many waves pass unridden.
     Surfing in Peru offers one of nature's miracles: Chicama.It is the world's longest wave and is situated north from Trujillo. Chicama has a wave that stretches over 4kms, and paddling back is not an option. Ride as many waves as it takes to get you down the point and then walk back up. Even at 2ft Chicama breaks like a machine down the point, it is hypnotising to watch. Morocco may well be the land of the point break but Peru certainly gives it a run for its money. Chicama is superb and worth the visit alone.
    The Peruvian coast is littered with such point breaks. Pacasmayo is about 60km further north and picks up more swell than Chicama. Perhaps not quite as good but more raw and worth the trip on the flat days at Chicama. There are multiple points between the two and with a bit of searching you'll be rewarded with some gems. The locals may even help you out in your search. There are a huge variety of waves throughout the country.
     Big lows from deep down south send the swells northwards, and many of the surf spots receive an incredibly persistent offshore winds, and can find waves at any time throughout the year. If you are after a variety of uncrowded, offshore, good quality waves then Peru is a great stop off point. South America in general has some great waves and is an inexpensive surfing destination.