Nestled on the northern coast of Peru, approximately 600 kilometers north of Lima, lies Chicama—a destination that has revolutionized the possibilities for foil surfers and tow foilers worldwide. Home to the longest rideable left-hand wave on the planet, Chicama represents far more than a single break; it’s an entire ecosystem designed to unlock the full potential of modern hydrofoil technology.
Understanding Chicama: Geography and the Legendary Waves
The World’s Longest Rideable Wave
Chicama is located 600 km north of Lima in northern Peru, near a small charming fishermen village, and features the longest rideable left-hand wave in the world. This isn’t hyperbole—it’s geographic fact that has transformed the entire foiling landscape.
The wave structure at Chicama is unique in its composition. There are two breaks—”the cape” and “the point”—where the wave at “the point” (right beneath the hotel) is 2.3 km, and the wave at “the cape” is 2 km. When the two of them join they form a 4.3 km long wave. Additionally, the longest recorded ride exceeded 6 minutes and 43 seconds, stretching over 5.7 km.
Climate and Water Conditions
Although not far from the equator, Chicama features a very dry climate with not much rain. Daytime temperature is around 25°C (77°F), with strong sun. Water temperature ranges from 17-20°C (63-70°F), requiring a wetsuit year-round.
Foil Surfing Possibilities at Chicama
The Perfect Wave for Foil Surfing
Chicama Point is one of the best waves on the planet for foil enthusiasts, where guests can pre-reserve private boats and tow into 2-mile long rides from the very top of the point.
Why Chicama Redefines Foil Surfing:
The first half of the wave is perfect for foiling (SUP & surf) as there are barely any sections that close out. This characteristic is crucial for foilers—it means consistent, predictable wave shape that allows riders to focus entirely on technique development rather than scrambling to avoid closeouts.
Chicama’s perfectly sectioned waves offer smooth, extended rides that can last up to seven minutes—an adventure like no other. For foil surfers accustomed to brief rides at traditional breaks, Chicama’s extended duration fundamentally changes the riding experience and skill development potential.
Extended Ride Duration Benefits
The ability to maintain foiling for multiple minutes creates opportunities impossible at conventional breaks:
- Technique Mastery: Extended rides allow for deep practice of subtlety and refinement
- Energy Efficiency Learning: Discover optimal pumping and carving efficiency over extended periods
- Wave Reading: Develop advanced understanding of wave behavior across varied sections
- Mental Endurance: Build confidence and composure over sustained sessions
Wave Consistency and Reliability
The surf season is from April to October, with the best months being April and September, offering a 97% chance of good swell. This consistency is rare in the foiling world and crucial for serious skill development.
March offers consistent swells with wave heights typically ranging from 3 to 6 feet, ideal for intermediate and advanced wingers and foilers.
Tow Foiling: Chicama’s Revolutionary Application
The Tow Foiling Experience
Tow foiling at Chicama represents a distinct evolution in hydrofoil sport, offering advantages unavailable at traditional foiling destinations.
Two small speed boats bring surfers back to the point at the end of each wave, so that surfers don’t have to waste energy getting back either on foot or paddling. These boats can also be used to practice foil “flying” towed by the boat before entering the waves, allowing surfers to reach 30-35 waves in one session (approximately 3 hours), twice a day.
The Volume Advantage
The ability to achieve 30-35 waves per session fundamentally changes skill progression trajectories. Traditional foil surfing sessions might yield 5-10 quality waves. Chicama’s tow system multiplies this by 3-7 times, creating an unprecedented learning acceleration opportunity.
The foil camps at Chicama offer 14 towing sessions across seven nights, with tow-in provided by zodiacs where the wave begins at la Punta, with zodiac assistance picking up riders after the end of the wave.
Progressive Skill Development
The tow foiling setup at Chicama creates a natural progression pathway:
- Initial Tow Practice: Build towing comfort and fundamentals with the zodiac
- Guided Wave Entry: Practice entering tow-created rides with support
- Independent Wave Riding: Progress to self-generated foiling on the point break
- Extended Rides: Develop endurance and technique depth
Physical Preparation and Recovery
The high-volume riding schedule necessitates comprehensive support. The Chicama Boutique Hotel features a training center (Gym) equipped with all essentials for pre and post-foil sessions, along with a serene Yoga room offering panoramic bay views.
Additionally, accommodations include exclusive use of pool, sauna, and jacuzzi facilities with ocean views, and free yoga sessions. This comprehensive recovery infrastructure allows riders to maintain performance across multiple daily sessions.
Wing Foiling at Chicama
Wave and Wind Combination
While foil surfing dominates Chicama discussions, wing foiling adds another dimension to the destination.
March sees offshore winds most consistent in the mornings providing clean waves, with afternoons bringing stronger winds. Early tow foil sessions are recommended followed by afternoon wing sessions.
Chicama’s long, smooth waves are perfect for intermediate and advanced wingers and foilers looking to enjoy lengthy rides and improve their skills.
Multi-Discipline Training
Chicama’s unique combination creates opportunities for comprehensive foil training:
- Morning Tow Foiling: Focused work on technique and extended wave riding
- Afternoon Wingfoiling: Condition adaptation and cross-training
- Full-Day Energy Management: Learning to optimize performance across multiple disciplines
Waves in Chicama can be fast due to long period swells, so riders should bring their fastest setup to ensure they’re not overfoiled.
The Professional Foiling Community at Chicama
World-Class Training Ground
Chicama boasts the world’s longest surfable left-hand waves, attracting renowned surfers like Laird Hamilton and Kai Lenny. These names aren’t marketing—they represent the destination’s credibility in the professional foiling world.
Recent foiling trips to Chicama have included sessions with Laird Hamilton and Titouan, with participants gaining considerable learning opportunities in a small community of dedicated foilers.
Development Pathway
Chicama’s professional presence creates a development ecosystem where intermediate and advanced riders can:
- Train alongside elite athletes
- Access high-level coaching and expertise
- Participate in sponsored events and camps
- Connect with the global foiling community
Accommodation and Infrastructure Excellence
Chicama Boutique Hotel: Purpose-Built for Foilers
The accommodation experience at Chicama has been specifically designed for foiling-focused travelers. The boutique hotel features 20 spacious rooms including 3 luxury suites, all available with stunning ocean and/or garden views, creating the perfect base for foiling adventures.
The hotel location provides clear views of this amazingly long wave at all times from every spot at the hotel, including well-kept clean surfboard storage rooms where boards are taken by staff upon return, outdoor showers near wetsuit drying rooms.
Culinary Excellence
The hotel offers very high culinary level based on local ingredients and flavors, fresh seafood, meat, and various vegetarian and vegan options. The food is considered as good as the wave.
Safety and Medical Infrastructure
The hotel features a very well equipped, well-organized first aid kit including oxygen. One hour from Chicama there is a private medical practice, and a helicopter pad at the hotel allows fast transfer to a hospital for extreme cases.
Coaching and Video Analysis
All surf coaching is included daily—in-water and video coaching during stay, as well as daily surf theory lessons. A photographer is down on the beach and in the water daily to capture rides, with video footage transferred either during stay or immediately after.
Specialized Foiling Camps and Programs
Structured Training Programs
Multiple operators now offer comprehensive foiling camps at Chicama:
Seven-night accommodations include 7 breakfasts a la carte, 7 lunches a la carte, and 7 dinners a la carte with selected soft drinks, 14 towing service and assistant zodiac sessions with tow-in at la Punta, emergency protocol in case of accidents, TV and lounge area for video analysis, and free yoga sessions.
Customizable Experience Levels
REAL Watersports offers full resort takeover experiences for intermediate and advanced riders, with personalized attention from guides with over 15 years’ experience in Peru.
Programs cater to different skill levels and objectives, from foundational foil development to advanced technique refinement.
Seasonal Considerations and Optimal Travel Timing
Best Season Windows
While the overall season is April to October, the best months are April and September with 97% chance of good swell.
March to November sees consistent swells, challenging even the most experienced surfers.
Strategic Timing
- April: Excellent conditions, ideal for most skill levels
- September: Peak conditions with consistent waves
- May-August: Reliable but potentially crowded
- October: Still excellent but approaching end of peak season
Practical Logistics for Chicama Foil Trips
Getting There
Chicama can be reached either by short connecting flight to Trujillo (the nearby town) or by 8-hour ride in an air conditioned luxury bus from Lima.
Equipment Considerations
Riders should travel with their own wingfoil/foiling equipment—board, foil, and wings—and bring the fastest setup, as waves in Chicama can be fast due to long period swells.
A 3/2mm wetsuit is typically sufficient for the water temperatures in Chicama.
Documentation and Practicalities
The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN), with the hotel accepting US dollars (though local shops in town do not). Complimentary WiFi is available at the hotel, though travelers should check with their provider about international phone coverage.
The Cultural Experience Beyond Foiling
Chicama exists within rich cultural and historical context. Peru is rich with culture and history. At Chicama, guests can explore amazing sites like Chan Chan, Huaca del Brujo, and more.
Positioned along the Moche Route, Chicama serves as an ideal base for exploring historical surroundings.
The Foiling Revolution: Why Chicama Matters
Unprecedented Skill Development Acceleration
Chicama’s combination of world-class waves, professional tow foiling infrastructure, and comprehensive support systems creates an unparalleled skill development environment. Riders can compress months of normal progression into weeks of intensive training.
Wave Technology Innovation Hub
Professional foilers, equipment manufacturers, and coaches use Chicama as a testing ground for new techniques, equipment configurations, and training methodologies. The destination has become innovation central for the foiling world.
Community and Inspiration
The concentration of serious foilers at Chicama creates a community environment where riders push each other toward progression while sharing knowledge and experience.
Accessible Elite-Level Training
What was previously available only to sponsored athletes and wealthy enthusiasts is now accessible to dedicated riders willing to invest in focused training trips. Chicama democratizes access to world-class foiling development.
Conclusion: Chicama as the Foiling Paradigm Shift
Chicama represents more than just another wave destination—it’s a fundamental shift in what’s possible for foil surfers and tow foilers. The world’s longest rideable wave, combined with professional-grade infrastructure, expert coaching, tow foiling systems, and world-class accommodations, creates an environment specifically optimized for hydrofoil development.
Whether you’re an intermediate foiler seeking to accelerate progression, an advanced rider looking to master advanced techniques, or a professional athlete pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a foil, Chicama offers transformative possibilities unmatched anywhere else on the planet.
The extended wave duration forces deeper engagement with foiling fundamentals. The tow system multiplies learning opportunities exponentially. The professional community provides inspiration and knowledge transfer. The infrastructure removes logistical obstacles to focused training.
For serious foil surfers, a trip to Chicama isn’t just another vacation—it’s an investment in your progression and an immersion in the cutting edge of foil sports development. In a sport that’s barely a decade old, Chicama has already established itself as the definitive proving ground where foilers come to push their limits, refine their techniques, and experience what’s truly possible when wave, foil, and preparation align perfectly.
The question isn’t whether Chicama belongs on your foil bucket list. The question is: why haven’t you booked your trip yet?
