Overview
Pico Alto is one of South America's biggest waves and Peru's premier heavy-water reef, breaking off the point south of Lima in the Punta Hermosa district. It's an offshore reef peak that draws out of deep water, and it's all about the drop: negotiate the takeoff and the right opens into a long, thundering wall. The wave breaks both left and right but favours the right, while the left carries less wall before fading into deeper water.
When It Works
The reef draws swell from south through west (S-W), with southwest (SW) the standout direction. It works from 2.4 m / 8 ft to 4.6 m / 15 ft, and it's a thick, deep-water reef that needs genuine size before it starts to break. The rides only get longer as the swell builds. Autumn and winter are the seasons to watch, and it stays moderately consistent across a season.
Wind and Tide
Look for east (E) offshore wind to clean up the face. It can work through most of the tide, low, mid or high, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is expert-only water, gun territory for surfers with real big-wave experience. The hazards match the size: huge surf and two-wave hold-downs are part of the deal, so specialist equipment and experience are essential. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's on, with an atmosphere that can feel a little reserved.
Access
Getting out is a serious effort in itself, with a paddle of around a kilometre from shore to reach the break.
