2-3 Weeks Kitesurf Trip to Brazil

June 4, 2024
Kitesurf Trip

2-3 Weeks Kitesurf trip to Brazil Beginners

Brazil is a must seen for every kitesurfer. Amazing long white beaches, clean side onshore trade winds, decent infrastructure, great roads to travel and well visited by kitesurfers from around the world. Given the versatility of the various spots on the northern coast of Brazil it is imperative to travel around and not just stay in Cumbuco and call it a day. There is nothing bad about Cumbuco at all, it is very well developed, offer all amenitie and is close to the airport.

Cumbuco Beach heavily photoshoped but looking nice
Brazil - Cumbuco

Cumbuco is the closest kite spot to the airport and as such is a pretty common first stopping point for kitesurfers visiting Brazil’s amazing Northern coastline. This former fishing village has become a popular tourist town built primarily around kitesurfing, which is also very popular with Brazilian tourists as well. There are hotels, hostels, restaurants and bars to suit all budgets, and it’s where you’ll find the biggest parties and loads of other kitesurfers to hang out with. 

The beach front is a very popular kitesurfing spot and during the season you’ll see hundreds of kites all the way up and down the beach, with a few waves breaking here and there on the various sandbars. There are 2 popular lagoons nearby as well, so you can choose whether you want to kite directly off the beach in the ocean, or travel a little to visit the perfect flat water spots. Because it can get so busy it’s not for everyone, but it’s also a nice place to spend a night after a long flight, before heading further North to explore more of what Ceara has to offer. It’s also a popular starting point for the super long downwind trips you can do in Brazil.

Some basics before we talk about the trip

There are a few things to consider before planning your route that will be valid for all traveling north of Fortaleza.

Car Rental

Get a car with high clearance to avoid getting stuck in sand. Roads like Praia do Prea to Jericoacoara can be challenging without clearance. A 4x4 is a luxury but not necessary. Getting a car right from the Airport is recommended. If you arrive at night, drive with your car and better do not make any stops at night.

Route Planning

Stay longer in fewer spots for a relaxing trip. Loading the vehicle in the heat can be time-consuming and exhausting.

Wind Conditions

Wind is consistent from August to November, ranging from 5 Bft (16-22 knots) to 6 Bft (22-28 knots). The wind blows side-onshore, ensuring safety without the need for lifeboats. It's stable and gust-free which makes it a kitesurfing paradise.

Ocean Conditions

Water temperatures are between 27-29°C (80.6-84.2°F), making wetsuits unnecessary. Beaches are sandy with few shells, and obstacles are rare. Conditions include flat water, waves (0.5 to 2.5 meters), lagoons, and river mouths. Use our kitesurf spot finder to get more inspiration about spots.

Kitesurf Downwinders

Brazil offers excellent downwind kitesurf safaris, allowing exploration of new spots while accompanied by a vehicle. Trips range from 3-day, 169 km (105 miles) trips to 24-day, 1500 km (930 miles) journeys.

Free Space

Despite the fantastic conditions, Brazil's vast 573 km (356 miles) coastline in Ceará alone ensures ample space for kitesurfing without crowds.

Air Temperature

Temperatures are around 30°C (86°F) year-round, with a cooling sea breeze. Sunscreen, UV-protected Lycra, and board shorts are sufficient for daytime. A light sweatshirt is recommended after sunset. Nights do not drop below 22°C (72°F).

Landscape

Brazil's diverse geography includes rainforests, plateaus, hills, and mountains. The northeast has 1835 km (1140 miles) of coastline across five states, offering sandy beaches, lagoons, estuaries, and sandbanks ideal for kitesurfing.

Food and Drink

Brazilian cuisine is diverse and affordable, featuring seafood, regional meat, and popular dishes like pizza and burgers. Enjoy a caipirinha or local beer on the beach after a kite session. Freshly squeezed juices and chilled coconuts are also popular. Be careful eating meat in cheap restaurants. He cold-chain might have been interrupted during transportation from south to north. Needless to point out what this means for meat. In more exquisite places you can expect that the Chef is ordering from places where this is not the case.

People and Culture

Brazilians are cheerful, hospitable, and helpful. While crime is high in large cities, it decreases in rural areas. English is not widely spoken in northern Brazil, so using Google Translator with the Portuguese language package is helpful.

Value for Money

Brazil offers good value with accommodations and dining options for every budget. No visa is required for entry or exit, making travel more convenient.

Nightlife

For nightlife, head to Jericoacoara or Pipa for lively parties. Smaller villages close early, ensuring that kitesurfers get plenty of rest.

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Brazil for Beginners 2-3 weeks

The spots listed below are meant for Beginners that are unable to ride consistently upwind. Strong winds often create turbulent water and waves. Many spots are not really beginner friendly. Either because there are too many small waves to hop in, or the way out of the water further down wind is not pleasant (walk of shame back, that we all did). During peak season in November where the spots are busy, you can skip places like Cumbuco, Paracuru, Icarai and head straight to Ilha do Guajiru to learn riding upwind. Here is a spot selection that are all suitable for beginners due to their easy conditions. If you are advanced, head to our Brazil country page and see all spots.

1 - Start in Ilha do Guajiru and learn riding Upwind properly

Keep an eye on the tide calendar. Ilha do Guajiru is rideable +/- 3h around low tide only. In case of no water you can surf further down at Hura Beach. Before you even consider starting your travel in Ilha do Guajiru you have checked that the rideable times in the Lagoon suit your preferences. Meaning, some folks prefer to kitesurf in the morning and chill around the rest of the day and vice-versa. Here is a link to Wikisurf that helps.
Great place to stay is the 7beaufort - run by Jörg who build this place in 2009.

View from Restaurant to Ilha do Guajiru lagoon with grass landing field
Brazil - Ilha do Guajiru

Ilha do Guajiru is one of the largest kitesurfing lagoons in Brazil, and is very popular with everyone from total beginners to pro riders. The wind blows for about 8 months of the year from June/July until January/February, and as it’s a little further North the wind in Ilha tends to blow a bit longer than some of the spots closer to Fortaleza. There are an abundance of good quality pousadas on the spot, and it can get pretty busy in the season particularly when a large tour group descends, but luckily the kite lagoon is large enough that you can always find some free space to kitesurf away from the crowd. There are a number of different kite spots in the lagoon, and it’s also a popular place to do downwinders, which can be arranged via the pousadas or you can just jump in a taxi and get dropped off somewhere upwind if you’re feeling adventurous!

2 - Head up to Praia do Prea

It is a decent 1.5h ride from Ilha do Guajiru to Praia do Prea. Prea is a small fishing village right before Jericoacoara. It is still evolving and not yet overcrowded. The good thing about Praia do Prea is space. The beach is big which allows to safely start and land. You can get out of the water all along the coast and walk back. The conditions are a bit rougher and the wind can be strong at times but still, this is a great spot to practise for Beginners. If you manage to ride upwing in Praia do Prea you should be safe for more advanced spots. Take your time, make some night trips to Jericoacoara, relax and focus on your kitesurfing progress.
Some ideas where to stay:

Na Beira do Mar

Ranxo do Peixe

Kiter getting ready for session in Praia do Prea
Brazil - Praia do Prea

There are good reasons why in November 2018 the GKA Kitesurf World Tour was hold in Praia do Prea in the state of Ceara. In the international known "land of the wind" Brazil you will be surprised about the endless wind you can enjoy along the 15km coast side all day long. Praia do prea, unlike its brother Jericoacoara, is rather calm and laid-back, perfect to focus on your kiteboarding progression. Praia do Prea, nestled on the stunning coast of Brazil, is a dream destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts. With its consistent winds, vast sandy beaches, and breathtaking natural surroundings, it offers an unforgettable kitesurfing experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, Praia do Prea has something to offer for everyone.

3 - Head up to Jericoacoara

Jericoacoara, a former fishing village in Northern Brazil, is renowned for its strong, consistent winds (20-35 knots from August/September to November/December). The town offers a mix of traditional Brazilian culture and vibrant nightlife. Kitesurfing directly from Jericoacoara's main point is restricted to windsurfers, so kitesurfers typically travel by buggy to nearby spots like Prea, Guriu, and Tatajuba. These areas provide varied conditions from flat lagoons to choppy ocean waves. Jericoacoara is well-suited for all kitesurfing levels but is particularly famous for its downwinders. Even for Beginners the Downwinder from Jericoacoara to Guriu is safe. You can get out and hop on the buggy at any time since the driver is following you along the road. The Downwinder as a beginner takes 1-2h, mostly, because you developed a tendency to ride upwind all the time. This is normal, but something you do have to work on and train.
There are countless places to stay in Jericoacoara.
Please read the How to get there section on our spot detail page, as it is not straight forward.

Part in roof top bar over Jericoacoara
Brazil - Jericoacoara

Jericoacoara is a popular tourist stop in Northern Brazil and has been a windsurfing mecca since the 80s. It is a former fishing town in the middle of the sand dunes with pumping wind, and the town offers a nice mix of traditional Brazilian feeling and crazy parties all night long. This is a popular stopover when you fancy a bit of a rest from kitesurfing, rather than a main kitesurf spot itself, and great for a party and soaking in the vibes. You can kitesurf from the sunset dune if you like but actually kitesurfing from the main point in Jericoacoara is forbidden and reserved for windsurfers only. In front of the dune is gusty and not much fun, so in order to kitesurf you will either want to get a buggy to the nearby lagoons and beaches, or launch your kite from Jericoacoara, kitesurf downwind and get picked up at the end. The local kite schools offer shuttles, trips and downwind services so the best bet is to get in touch with them for more info.

This is basically it for Beginners. I would not recommend squeezing in more spots despite it might be tempting. This route ensures smooth progress in very favourable conditions in the beginning (Ilha do Guajiru), some more Ocean feeling (Praia do Prea) and Downwind experience with a great lagoon for jumping (Guriu). Nevertheless, let me add more Beginner rated spots below.

View from Restaurant to Ilha do Guajiru lagoon with grass landing field
Brazil - Ilha do Guajiru

Ilha do Guajiru is one of the largest kitesurfing lagoons in Brazil, and is very popular with everyone from total beginners to pro riders. The wind blows for about 8 months of the year from June/July until January/February, and as it’s a little further North the wind in Ilha tends to blow a bit longer than some of the spots closer to Fortaleza. There are an abundance of good quality pousadas on the spot, and it can get pretty busy in the season particularly when a large tour group descends, but luckily the kite lagoon is large enough that you can always find some free space to kitesurf away from the crowd. There are a number of different kite spots in the lagoon, and it’s also a popular place to do downwinders, which can be arranged via the pousadas or you can just jump in a taxi and get dropped off somewhere upwind if you’re feeling adventurous!

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Brazil - Praia de Guriu

Nestled along Brazil's northeastern coastline, Praia de Guriu beckons kitesurfing enthusiasts to a tranquil haven of wind and waves. In this guide, we'll unravel the secrets of Praia de Guriu, from its reliable wind conditions that make every ride memorable to the local charm that adds an extra layer of bliss to your kitesurfing adventure. Let's dive into the details and ensure your visit to this hidden Brazilian paradise is everything you've dreamed of.

Kiter getting ready for session in Praia do Prea
Brazil - Praia do Prea

There are good reasons why in November 2018 the GKA Kitesurf World Tour was hold in Praia do Prea in the state of Ceara. In the international known "land of the wind" Brazil you will be surprised about the endless wind you can enjoy along the 15km coast side all day long. Praia do prea, unlike its brother Jericoacoara, is rather calm and laid-back, perfect to focus on your kiteboarding progression. Praia do Prea, nestled on the stunning coast of Brazil, is a dream destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts. With its consistent winds, vast sandy beaches, and breathtaking natural surroundings, it offers an unforgettable kitesurfing experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, Praia do Prea has something to offer for everyone.

high angle short of hte beach and the oceian in fortaleza brasil
Brazil - Fortaleza

Welcome to the coastal gem of Fortaleza, a kitesurfer's haven where azure waters and steady winds converge to create the perfect playground for kite enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider seeking thrilling waves or a beginner eager to master the art of kitesurfing, Fortaleza promises an unforgettable experience.

Windmills at Icaraizinho Beach in Brazil
Brazil - Icaraizinho

Half way between Fortaleza and Jericoacara there is Icaraizinho, a small fishing village with a handful of restaurants, bars and tiny supermarkets. The kitesurfing bay along the beautiful sandy beach is very relaxing. A great place if you really want to chill, relax in the sun, live life easy without too many choices and surf during the day. It is a great stop by before you go up to crowded Ilha do Guajiru or when you have had enough of the density stress and you are on your way back home. One way or the other, a great place to be for a couple of days. 

Long sandbank at Galinhos Brazil Kitesurfspot
Brazil - Galinhos

The Kite Spot Galinhos is still an uncrowded Spot that offers more than some other Spots in Brazil. This spot is a real highlight with unique spot characteristics. In addition, due to some local strengthening effects, the Kite Spot Galinhos also has an even stronger wind than the area around Fortaleza. The wind blows mostly continuously, but builds up to full strength only by midday. 

Funny looking guy with stupid sunglasses kitesurfing in Tatajuba
Brazil - Tatajuba

The secluded fishing village of Tatajuba, midway between Jericoacoara and Camocin, is a peaceful oasis with a beautiful kitesurfing spot in Brazil. If you're visiting Brazil for kitesurfing and want to forget about the stresses of your daily life, Tatajuba is a must-see destination. The major attractions of this location are the beaches and lagoons, and there are also a few reasonably priced restaurants and various little bars to get a cold Caipirinha. There aren't many stores here, but there is a market nearby to get all the basics.

Tatajuba is a calm and peaceful Kite Spot in Brazil which provides ideal conditions for everyone, from beginners up to professional kiteboarders. You may well bump into some pro riders if you are lucky, as many of them head to Tatajuba to train their big air kiteboarding. This great kiteboard spot in Brazil is ideal for Wake style, Freeride, and Freestyle kitesurfers, but the strong wind means big air kiteboarding is amazing here!

Cumbuco Beach heavily photoshoped but looking nice
Brazil - Cumbuco

Cumbuco is the closest kite spot to the airport and as such is a pretty common first stopping point for kitesurfers visiting Brazil’s amazing Northern coastline. This former fishing village has become a popular tourist town built primarily around kitesurfing, which is also very popular with Brazilian tourists as well. There are hotels, hostels, restaurants and bars to suit all budgets, and it’s where you’ll find the biggest parties and loads of other kitesurfers to hang out with. 

The beach front is a very popular kitesurfing spot and during the season you’ll see hundreds of kites all the way up and down the beach, with a few waves breaking here and there on the various sandbars. There are 2 popular lagoons nearby as well, so you can choose whether you want to kite directly off the beach in the ocean, or travel a little to visit the perfect flat water spots. Because it can get so busy it’s not for everyone, but it’s also a nice place to spend a night after a long flight, before heading further North to explore more of what Ceara has to offer. It’s also a popular starting point for the super long downwind trips you can do in Brazil.

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Brazil - Atins

Nestled on the northeast coast of Brazil, Atins is an undiscovered gem that offers an unparalleled kitesurfing experience. This tranquil fishing village is framed by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the mesmerizing Lençóis Maranhenses National Park on the other, providing a backdrop of undulating sand dunes and emerald lagoons that make kitesurfing in Atins an unforgettable encounter.

Roger doing a high jump that he will never land but it looks cool
Brazil - Praia de Macapa

Welcome to the kitesurfing haven of Praia de Macapa, a hidden gem nestled north of Barra Grande. With its pristine shores and wind-kissed waves, this spot beckons both seasoned riders and newcomers to experience the thrill of kitesurfing in a truly magical setting.

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