Lobos por Siempre: Legendary Big Wave Surfing in Punta de Lobos
A Surf Championship in Chile That Honors the Ocean
Lobos por Siempre takes place in Punta de Lobos, the crown jewel of Pichilemu, known as the South American surf capital. In this iconic surf spot, where waves exceed six meters and southern winds carve perfect tubes, this Big Wave surfing championship in Chile is more than a competition—it’s a tribute to the ocean and the surfers who face it with respect and passion.
Organized by Fundación Punta de Lobos: Surf with a Purpose
The event is organized by the Fundación Punta de Lobos, led by Patricio Mekis. According to Mekis, the goal of Lobos por Siempre is to raise funds for ongoing conservation efforts. Thanks to the foundation, this unique coastal sanctuary—visited by over 600,000 people annually, more than even Torres del Paine—was saved from real estate development and permanently protected.
Today, its mission includes ecological restoration, native reforestation, and community-based environmental education.
A Big Wave Surfing Format Inspired by Hawaii
No Eliminations—Just Pure Surfing
Unlike traditional surf contests, Lobos por Siempre is inspired by the legendary Eddie Aikau competition in Hawaii. There are no elimination rounds. Instead, two heats—morning and afternoon—feature groups of 4 to 6 surfers wearing color-coded jerseys for transparency.
The goal isn’t to win, but to showcase Big Wave surfing at its best, with style, courage, and control.
A Carefully Monitored Waiting Period
The Search for Perfect Surfing Conditions
We spoke with José Ignacio Vargas Celis, head judge of Lobos por Siempre, who explained that the waiting period runs from April 15 to July 15. During this time, organizers monitor three essential natural factors:
- Long, tubular swell systems, without accompanying storms
- Gentle southern winds that lift and groom the waves
- Favorable tides that allow for long, clean surf sessions
The event is only activated when a minimum two-day window of optimal conditions is forecasted. The official event date is announced through Lobos por Siempre’s social media channels.
A Champion Without a Podium
Community Over Competition
After each day of surfing, judges tally scores and recognize the surfer who successfully rides the biggest wave. There is no overall champion. Instead, awards go to:
- The most impressive maneuver—especially the drop
- The surfer who rides the largest wave
- All participants, who share the prize money equally
This approach reinforces the spirit of community and mutual respect among Big Wave surfers.
In 2023, Reinaldo “Chacha” Ibarra earned top honors after riding the event’s biggest wave. His performance, captured by Óscar Fredes, later won “Biggest Paddle” at the New Big Wave Challenge in Nazaré, Portugal. Chacha is known globally for paddling into giant waves without jet ski assistance, a rare and respected feat.
Environmental Awareness at the Heart of Lobos por Siempre
Surfing and Sustainability Go Hand in Hand
Beyond the waves, Lobos por Siempre is a green surf event rooted in conservation. Punta de Lobos is a protected nature reserve, and its well-being is non-negotiable. The event:
- Minimizes waste
- Promotes environmental education
- Encourages a harmonious connection with nature
This environmental ethic also connects with what’s happening inland in the Colchagua Valley, where sustainable tourism projects thrive. Eco-friendly wineries, low-impact lodges, and traditional food producers make Colchagua a destination for responsible travelers.
Where to Stay During Lobos por Siempre
Pichilemu offers a variety of comfortable and scenic accommodations.
Best Post-Surf Escape: Wine and Relaxation in Colchagua Valley
After the excitement of Lobos por Siempre, it’s the perfect time to relax and recharge. In under two hours, you can go from powerful waves to peaceful vineyards in the Colchagua Valley.
“It’s an incredible idea to ride the waves in Pichilemu and then, before returning to Santiago or flying out, spend a few days in Santa Cruz, Lolol, or nearby vineyard stays to unwind from the Big Wave intensity.”
In Santa Cruz, Chile’s wine heartland welcomes you with:
- Historic vineyards
- Boutique wineries
- Farm-to-table restaurants
- Peaceful accommodations built for disconnection
DISCOVER COLCHAGUA: WINERIES & SANTA CRUZ →
Final Invitation: Colchagua Welcomes You to Lobos por Siempre
“Colchagua invites you to Lobos por Siempre” is more than a catchphrase. It’s a call to connect with the raw power of surfing and the tranquility of Chilean wine country.
Experience Chile’s most legendary surf event followed by its most restorative landscapes.
Follow the waves at: @lobosporsiempre
Plan your full experience at: disfrutacolchagua.com
