Arica is in Northern Chile and has big powerful waves for the more experienced surfers. It is super consistent, with plenty of different waves to choose from. Surf is guaranteed in this area. Crowds are small to none, mostly because of the level needed to surf here. Strong barrels and 10+ foot walls are common. World Championships have come to this region, calling this event one of the gnarliest ever. There are also hundreds of unexplored breaks, which will be fun to visit and be the first to ride.
This trip is what we like to call a surf and cultural adventure. We start immediately with surfing in Arica. In the first 5 days, we will explore all the waves that Arica has to offer. Total surf adventure. We have one 4x4 vehicle for every three travelers and will explore and surf the world-famous Arica waves and the not-so-famous ones as well.
After being surfed out, we will land or air travel to San Pedro de Atacama for 4 to 5 days to immerse into a natural oasis in the middle of the desert. Here we will visit national parks, geysers, Andean Lakes, and one-of-a-kind natural hot springs. We cannot describe in words the energy and magic that draws travelers from all over the world to this town in the middle of the desert — a must for every intrepid traveler.
Culture
Since colonial times, the Chilean culture has been a mix of Spanish colonial elements with elements of indigenous (mostly Mapuche) culture, as well as that of other immigrant cultures. Chile is the most stable educated country in South and Central America. It is generally safe and welcoming. People are courteous and keep to themselves unless approached. They are kind to foreigners.
Food, drink, and social scene
Some of the best wine in the world comes from Chile and it blends perfectly with the local food. Assados or barbeques are a huge part of this culture. There is always a reason to gather around a fire and cook a great meal. Having a 2,700-mile coastline also means having a large variety of delicious seafood. Although meat and seafood are a huge part of the Chilean diet, there are always options for vegetarians/vegans. The local drink is Pisco, a strong liquor that derives from grapes and is usually consumed before meals as pisco sour. During meals, there are fine wines and at parties, the Chileans drink Piscola: pisco with coca-cola. Chile has great bars and party scenes, generally mellow and safe. San Pedro is a world-known tourist attraction, has a large variety of foods, famous chefs as well as local foods.
We will sleep in lodges in Arica and San Pedro de Atacama. There is a huge variety of lodging, from economic to boutiques. Each itinerary is tailor-made, and we will work with options according to each group's preferences.
Types of accommodation include a surf lodge on the beach, a city hotel and a luxury boutique in San Pedro. Send us a message and we can work on options for you!
I am Alex Otero, originally from the Dominican Republic now settled in Chile. Film and photography have been my profession for the past 30 years and surfing and windsurfing my passion for the past 40. My love for nature and great surfing brought me from the Caribbean to Chile, where I feel the earth and the person become one.
The Pacific coastline of 2,700 miles (4,300km) and the breathtaking Andes Mountains make this a unique experience for anyone and everyone. I have been exploring this country thoroughly as a surfer and as a documentary photographer for decades, even before moving here permanently. I love being a host and sharing with people the natural gem Chile is.