Colombia's Secret Kitesurfing Spot
- Home
- Colombia's Secret Kitesurfing Spot
- Mayapo, Guajira
With white sand beaches and pristine blue waters, Mayapo is probably one of the most beautiful places to kitesurf on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Mayapo is far away from mass tourism and beach salespeople and it’s the entrance point of the great Guajira desert, home of the indigenous Wayuu culture. As a kitesurfing spot, it’s great for beginners and experienced kitsurfers alike, with a local school that gives lessons in English, Spanish and German.
Experience Required and Conditions:
No special experience required. If the wind is favorable beginners can learn on the beach, and if it’s not, instructors will take you to a small lake nearby where it’s safe to learn. Winds blow at a speed between 20-30 knots and the water is warm enough so that it’s not necessary to use a wetsuit. Wind tends to pick up in the afternoon.
Getting There:
Getting to Mayapo is fairly simple. Fly into Riohacha’s Almirante Padilla Airport, then take a 30-minute taxi to Mayapo. Hotels are beachside right next to the launch spot.
Kiteschools and Rental:
KiteAddict is a great place to rent or learn. They have lessons in English, Spanish and German, and support local indigenous children who want to kitesurf.
What Else to Do:
- Do a 3-day desert trip to Cabo de la Vela, Punta Gallinas and Taroa Dunes.
- Visit a flamingo sanctuary in the town of Camarones.
- Visit the Wayuu capital of Uribia. Learn about the local indigenous culture.
- Enjoy the quiet, pristine beaches of Mayapo.
Seasons and Best Time
to Travel:
The best time to visit is from December to April when the winds are most reliable and days are sunny. The second season is from mid June until early September. Avoid traveling here in October and November because of the rainy season.
4-Day Itinerary Learning to Kite:
Day 1: Arrive at Riohacha and take a 30-minute taxi ride to your hotel in Mayapo. Settle in and enjoy some beers with dinner by the beach in the evening while star gazing.
Day 2: Wake up early for morning yoga. After breakfast, prepare for your kitesurf lesson. Get in the jeep and drive to the nearby lake where you’ll receive the fundamentals of kitesurf. Practice the rest of the day, and come back to the hotel for dinner and chill by the beach.
Day 3: After breakfast head back to the lake. Yesterday’s lessons should start to kick in and you’ll begin to feel more confident with the kite. Maybe you’ll even start getting out of the water and ride! But patience, learning to do kitesurf is a long game.
Day 4: If the wind is favourable, it’s time to test the open sea. Two days of training are enough to have a fundamental understanding. Enjoy the morning wind, and after lunch take a taxi back to Riohacha to catch your afternoon flight back home.
What to Pack:
- Kitesurfing gear (if not renting locally)
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Sunglasses
- Biodegradable mosquito repellent
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen
- Rash Guard
- Hat or cap
- Reusable water flask. Help us reduce plastic use.
- If you're allergic to insect bites, bring your own medication.
- Cash (there are limited ATMs)
- Personal power bank
Best Hotels:
Watú Kite House
Casa Solea
Palaa Ecolodge
Health and Safety Guidelines:
Although it’s an intermediate spot, it’s always important to be aware of the potential dangers of doing extreme sports like this. Also be sure to stay hydrated, wear appropriate sunscreen and respect local customs and traditions, the Wayuu indigenous people are a proud people.