Named by the Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top 10 most exciting surf destinations in the world, Peru offers up miles of coastline, year-round swell and dozens of surf camps catering to a range of budgets and skill levels.
Urcia Surf School offers highly-rated,affordable surf schools in Huanchaco (Photo: BookSurfCamps.com)
You can surf along most of Peru’s wind-whipped coastline all year round due to its wide Pacific swell window, though the best waves can be found on the north coast. The stretch between Piura and Ancash is the most popular surfing spot in the country, where the waters are warmer and you’ll find superstar swells like the Playa Chicama, the world’s longest left wave. There are now dozens of surf camps scattered across the country, each offering affordable lessons and guidance, comfortable accommodation and other perks, such as yoga lessons. With so many to choose from, we’ve rounded up the best surf camps in Peru based on value for money, variety of courses and location.
Urcia Surf School
Urcia Surf School offers a handful of highly-rated, affordably priced surf schools in Huanchaco, on the north coast. Courses range from a three-day ‘just surf’ camp, which includes daily surf lessons, free surfing equipment rental and accommodation, to the epic 31-day Spanish and surf camp, which combines surf and Spanish lessons. Accommodation is at the Indigan Surf Hostel, a small and friendly family-run hostel with self-catering options. Most lessons are taught by John Urcia, a vice-champion surfer and teacher with 20 years experience. From €93 per person.
Book at BookSurfCamps.com
Bravo Surf Camp
Surfers can choose to stay in two blockbuster surfing locations with Bravo Surf Camp (Photo: BookSurfCamps.com)
Bravo Surf Camp hosts surf courses in two locations: Punta Hermosa and Punta Negra. Punta Hermosa is the busier surf town of the two, though Punta Negra is moments from the Punta Rocas, the world’s most consistent wave. The school offers a variety of specialist courses, including a dedicated Vegan Beginner Surf Camp that includes daily surf sessions, yoga, freshly-prepared vegan meals and accommodation. Other popular courses include the 7 Day Surf Camp for Experienced Surfers and the 4 Day Surf Camp for Beginners. Guests either stay at the original lodge in Punta Hermosa or the newly renovated lodge in Punta Negra, which boasts an outdoor pool and barbecue facilities. From €94 per person.
Book at BookSurfCamps.com
Waves Surf Camp Peru
Conveniently located just one hour from Peru’s colourful capital Lima, Waves Surf Camp offers two seven-day surf retreats with dates throughout the year. The most affordable option includes daily surf guidance, transportation to surf spots, three meals per day, accommodation and unlimited WiFi. The camp is located in Punta Hermosa, which is renowned for its big swells. With 12 breaks in a 12-mile radius, and the Punta Rocas, El Huaico and Penascal Beach close by, you’ll squeeze plenty of practice into the week. From €293 per person.
Book at BookSurfCamps.com
Wild Kite Peru
Wild Kite Peru offers a wide range of surf camps in an idyllic eco-lodge (Photo: BookSurfCamps.com)
Wild Kite Peru is an IKO-certified surf camp in lovely, laid-back Mancora. Courses are suitable for all levels, from beginners to shredders, and include surf lessons, rental, accommodation, breakfast and airport transfers. Guests can choose from one of six bedrooms in La Maison Eco-house, a green boutique guest house set next to a palm grove. There’s also a dining room, living room, sprawling terrace and swimming pool. The school specialised in kite surfing, so it’s the perfect place to pick up a new hobby too. From €463 per person.
Book at BookSurfCamps.com
Surf Racer House Peru
Set on Peru’s northern shores just outside Mancora, Surf Racer House offers a variety of surf schools throughout the year. Popular retreats combine surfing with other activities, such as kitesurfing, skating and yoga retreats. Courses cater to all levels, from beginner to advanced and include surfing lessons with experienced ISA instructors and coaches, surf equipment, accommodation and three nutritious Peruvian meals per day. It’s ideal for those looking to switch off and disconnect from the every day thanks to its secluded location away from bars, nightlife and shops. From €497 per person.
Book at BookSurfCamps.com