Chile has long been a dream destination for many windsurfers, with numerous pros spending the winter here. At the end of 2022, Marc Paré set off in search of new spots south of Matanzas and Topocalma! He followed rumours about the Surazo wind, which is said to be stronger in the south. Using only Google Maps and the help of friendly locals, he ventured to unknown places and even into a conflict region to find the perfect waves.
In the three-part YouTube series "Chasing Surazo", Marc takes us on a journey and shows us some spectacular action. All parts are now available:
(click to watch the videos)
Interview with Marc Paré about his Chile series "Chasing Surazo"
Why did you want to explore this part of the Chilean coast of all places?
I heard rumours from locals and other surfers about good windsurfing conditions further south and that the Surazo wind moves further south in the hotter summer months and blows stronger in this area. This aroused my curiosity and my explorer's instinct and led me to search Google Maps for possible new spots and ask locals.
How did you find the best spots for windsurfing?
We found the best spots by identifying a few possible locations on the maps, and luckily our cameraman knew a few breaks that he had surfed before. We then checked there to see if there was enough wind. Unfortunately, the wind was blocked by rocks or mountains at almost all of them - except at one spot, which turned out to be stunning!
What was the most challenging part of the trip?
As with every trip, the most frustrating thing was when the spots didn't fulfil our expectations. It's pretty tough when you want to discover wind and waves but everything seems to be conspiring against you. But when you do find some, the reward is indescribable.
What was the most memorable moment?
It's hard to pick out a single moment, there were so many little moments that made this trip so special. But two of the spots we went out to were special, and some of the people we met. For example, Seba, a local surfer who builds custom boards out of wood. His life and attitude were absolutely captivating and unique. Seba was incredibly talented at making beautiful surfboards by hand, but his passion for the ocean and his commitment to sustainability were truly inspiring. Seba was more than just a shaper - he was a true artist and a wonderful human being.
Have you ever felt unsafe when travelling?
Yes, there were definitely a few dicey situations. The first time was when we arrived at Lebu harbour and a group of guys tried to break into our car just after we'd gone down to check out a spot. Luckily our friends Richard and Vicho were running a little late and arrived just in time. They shouted at the thieves, who then quickly ran off. It was also dangerous in the south, where the Mapuche live. There is a conflict there and we were told that it is better not to cross certain villages. Chile is a very safe country overall, and you just have to be careful in certain places or at certain times, like everywhere else.
How did you prepare for the trip?
You can never be too prepared on a trip like this. But apart from the information the locals gave us and the places we had marked on the maps, we basically just improvised and got involved in the situations.
What do you think about the culture of the towns and villages you visited?
It was heartwarming how simple, happy and helpful the people in these smaller towns were, and it was definitely a super fulfilling experience too!
How did you feel when the journey came to an end?
It's always worth going and it's like a big wave of happiness and excitement that hits you! In the end, it's always hard to drive away again and know that it could crash without you being there.
How did the locals react to you?
It was a super positive experience with the locals, they made us feel very welcome and they helped and shared with us as much as they could, which is amazing! We went to a few "pure" surf spots, and yet the surfers there were the first to explain to us how to get in and out, and shared their waves with us.
What would you do differently next time?
I wouldn't do anything differently, except come back when the forecast is very good!
What advice would you give to other surfers planning a trip to Chile?
Buy a good wetsuit because the water is freezing cold, and be respectful and friendly to the locals!
How much material did you have with you?
I didn't take too much equipment with me for this trip, but the basic "Chile quiver" of medium and large boards (in my case 81 and 87 grip), sails from 4.2 to 5.0 Super Hero, a few forks and a few spare masts.
How were the logistics - planes, cars, accommodation/excess baggage and Covid measures?
To enter Chile from Europe, you just need to have a current COVID passport and that's it. The COVID measures in Chile are exactly the same as in Europe. We were able to stay in Matanzas at the house of our friends Richard and Vicho, who are great hosts, and they also accompanied us on the trip. When it comes to sleeping, there are many "cabanas" along the coast where you can stay, it costs about 50-70 euros per night for a 6-person cabin. You just have to ask around, the locals are happy to help!
How was the atmosphere compared to your last visit?
The mood and atmosphere in Chile is still as special as I remembered it! In this case, however, I was able to get to know the local culture and people even better, which was an amazing and fulfilling experience!
Any funny moments?
Sleeping by a campfire on the beach at night can be really great, but it can also be a nightmare if your tent mate has stomach problems.
Any tips for travelling to Chile?
You should go there once in your life! But you have to be well prepared, the conditions are tough and you should have some wave riding skills to really enjoy it!
