Yes, you read that right. Surf in Peru to do something fun AND chip in to save Peru’s coasts. Peru’s surfers are a small group that has a large voice in environmental activism. Because of their achievements, you can help protect the environment by surfing.
How is this possible? Groups like Conservamos Por Naturaleza decided to protect waves. Peru has some of the longest left-breaking waves in the world, so they really are worth saving.
How DO they protect the waves? Essentially, by making sure nothing is done to change the shape and length of a wave. This means pushing back against industrial fishing and certain development projects. So protecting a wave also protects wildlife and shoreline. Because of their work, Peru is the first country to have protected a wave!
How can You Be a Part?
Like many environmental causes, this one is always under threat by other interests. It can be particularly tough to protect a wave in Peru since only a small percentage of Peruvians actually surf. This is slowly changing in the country that invented the sport.
But as a tourist your money speaks. So if you’re a serious surfer or just starting, consider spending some time to rent a board, take lessons, or to contribute in another manner to the surf scene.
Current beaches with protected waves include famous spots like Huanchaco and Cerro Azul near Lima (the very same from the Beach Boys song). Another is Chicama, the world record holder for the longest left leaning wave!
Check out the documentary A La Mar to learn more about saving waves! You can also donate to the cause here at //hazlaportuola.pe/en.
And reach out to us at gringoinca@gmail.com to create your personalized, wave-saving itinerary to surf in Peru :)