The destination is well worth the journey, as adventurists and adrenaline junkies flock to the southern coastal desert of Peru to enjoy the unique experience of sand skiing and “sand”boarding on some of the highest sand dunes on the planet. Getting there is only half the fun.
Peaks of pure white/golden sand, such as Cerro Blanco, blanket the arid district Ica district, where ample sunlight and a desert climate averaging a paltry 1 inch of annual precipitation, provide the ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts. At a height of over the 3,600 feet, the treasured mountain of fine particles which literally translates from Spanish to “white hill”, offers thousands of feet of vertical drop and the opportunity to escape from the summer heat and shred. Located less than 50 miles from the Pacific coast, and a mere 7 miles as the crow flies from the town of Nazca, the views can range from surreal to breathtaking. Intriguingly, average winter high temperatures (summer in North America), top out in the mid-80’s, facilitating the theme of a ski resort, and minus the bitter cold, a lodge, and chairlifts to the summit.
Satellite View Of Cerro Blanco. Is that powered sugar?
In fact, the only downside to the satisfying descent, is having to hike back to the top for another run. The early morning transport to the trailhead and experiencing Cerro Blanco, or in the Quechua language “Yuraq Orqjo” is another factor to consider. Don’t forget the sunblock and gallons of water.
Of course, the apolitical realm of YouTube is chock full of content featuring high definition camera and some of the most stunning vistas on the planet. User Great Big Story does not disappoint, as a pair of Swedish National Ski Team members are documented, successfully taming the “white hill” of southern Peru.
WATCH: Desert Skiing With The Pros:
