The 8 Best Surf Camps in Peru
Although it is relatively undeveloped, Panama is home to a ton of legit surf camps, amazing waves for all levels, and incredible nature experiences.
Why Peru?
Peru boasts a rich history of surfing. Many agree that what we call surfing really originated in Peru, and the tradition continues. Home to the longest left-hander in the entire world, Peru has a ton of amazing breaks. The downside is that the water may not be tropical, but with a wetsuit you’re bound to find some world-class waves here of all levels. In addition to the great surf, Peru is an awesome place to explore. There are a world-renowned culinary tradition, archaeological zones, beautiful hiking, and a lovely vibrant culture.
Mancora
Mancora is generally considered best in the winter months (April-October), but you can find waves here year-round. During the winter months, the wind is more likely to be offshore and create nice glassy waves. It’s definitely not the most consistent spot in Peru, but that’s okay for beginners! The smaller waves on the inside are often there, and the beach is full of surf camps and surf schools. There’s a solid surf culture here, so you’ll have no problem finding likeminded people and places to surf.
Surf Camps in Mancora
Surf Racer House - Surf Racer House is an awesome little surf community. They have surf lessons, skateboard lessong, and kitesurfing lessons. They offer both affordable 5 day camps and all-inclusive 5 day camps. They have their own little skae bowl as well!
La Maison Eco House - Just a few minutes from the beach, is an awesome surf camp located within walking distance of everything in town. They offer 5 day camps and weeklong camps.
Lobitos
Lobitos is a great surf spot for beginners or intermediates year round. In the winter you’ll find bigger waves, but the summer will still offer consistent swells rolling in. There are multiple breaks in Lobitos including La Punta, El Hueco, Baterias, Los Muelles, and Generales. Although the waves on the outside can be far to big for most beginner surf schools, there are inside waves where the surf classes and camps line up. As far as surf camps in Peru go, Lobitos will probably offer you one of the most consistent options and the most options in wave selection.
Surf Camps in Lobitos
Che Lobitos - Close to, but not directly on the beach, Che Lobitos is a nice little double apartment with views of the ocean. A relatively bare-bones surf camp, they have awesome instructors and know the surrounding breaks better than anyone. They offer 4 day and 7 day surf camps.
Surf Lobitos - Pretty straightforward surf school in Peru. I’ve had 0 interaction with them, but have had it recommended by a couple friends who loved it.
Huanchaco
Huanchaco is another surf spot that works all year long. Winter tends to be more consistent, but you really can go any time on a surf trip here. There are great beginner breaks at La Curvita, and bigger point breaks out at El Elio. There’s even a righthander in town, which is rare for Peru. As the place where surfing originated, there’s a beautiful and interesting culture to be found here.
Surf Camps in Huanchaco
Indigan Surf Hostel - The most solid surf hostel in Huanchaco, they offer options for any surf trip. They offer budget surf camps (3 days and 6 days), normal surf camps (3 days and 6 days), and private surf camps with Urcia (more below). They also offer a monthlong Spanish and Surf Camp for those wishing to stay a little longer.
Urcia Surf House - Urcia is located right near the beach, and offers everythign you could want in a reasonable surf camp. They have daily lessons, video reviews with a coach, healthy food, and include things like tours with the cababallitos de totora. Urcia also partners with Indigan Surf Hostel to offer 3 Day Private Camps and 6 Day Private Camps.
Lima
Lima is a great place to surf for several reasons. First, there are a ton of fun and fat waves. You won’t find a lot of advanced waves here, but they are great for beginners and intermediates. Also, it’s way closer to the international airport than other destinations in Peru. Many of the best waves in Peru take some time to get to, but this is not the case with Lima. You’ll find a relatively welcoming local scene at the beginner breaks, plenty of options to visit, and lots of surf camps and surf schools.
Surf Camps in Lima
Bravo Surf Camp - Bravo surf camp offers different surf trips for different budgets and people. Generally with lodging in Punta Hermosa at the southern end of Lima, you will have the opportunity to check out several of the different waves in the area. They offer a 4 day camp, 6 day camp, and a 5 day budget camp.
Surfari Hostel - Catered toward beginner surfers, Surfari Hostel offers many different options for surfers. Most of their camps also include meals (vegan options available), yoga classes, and all equipment. The hostel also has live music, an outdoor movie theater, and tons of other activities to interact with other guests. They have 4 day private surf camps and 7 day camps.
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