Kitesurfing in Colombia - A Complete Guide
Colombia is an excellent destination for kiteboarding enthusiasts, with a number of top-notch kitespots spread throughout the country. In this guide, we'll take a look at the wind conditions and some of the best kitespots in Colombia.
Wind Conditions in Colombia
The wind in Colombia typically blows from the northeast, known as the "Trade Winds," with an average speed ranging from 15 to 25 knots, providing optimal conditions for kiteboarding. The best months to go kitesurfing in Colombia is from December through July when the wind is strong and consistent. Northern spots like Punta Gallinas and Cabo de la Vela have good wind through August.
Local wind patterns, such as the sea breeze or "Briza," can also impact kitesurfing conditions, usually picking up in the late afternoon.
It's important to be aware of seasonal variations, with the dry season from December to March typically offering stronger and more consistent winds compared to the wet season from April to November. Overall, Colombia offers thrilling opportunities for kitesurfing, and understanding the wind conditions is crucial for a successful and enjoyable kitesurfing experience.
Kitesurfing Spots in Colombia
Punta Gallinas
Just a short distance from Cabo de la Vela is Punta Gallinas, another popular kitespot in Colombia. The spot offers a mix of flat water and waves, wind speeds ranging from 20-30 knots, mostly side-shore. The best time to visit Punta Gallinas is from December through August.
December - August Flatwater - Little wavesCabo de la Vela
Located on the northern coast of Colombia, Cabo de la Vela is a world-renowned kitespot known for its consistent wind and stunning scenery. The spot offers shallow flat water, making it ideal for freestyle riding. The wind is strongest from December to August, with average wind speeds ranging from 20-30 knots.
December - August FlatwaterMayapo
Mayapo is a hidden kitesurfing gem nestled on the northern coast of Colombia. With its pristine sandy beaches, warm Caribbean waters, and consistent winds, Mayapo offers an idyllic setting for kitesurfers of all levels.
December - July Flatwater - Little wavesSanta Veronica (Salinas del Rey)
Just a short drive from Cartagena is Santa Veronica, a popular kitespot that offers a mix of flat water and waves. The wind is strongest from December to March, with average wind speeds ranging from 20-30 knots. Santa Veronica is a great spot for intermediate riders.
December - July Flatwater - Little wavesCartagena
Located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, Cartagena is a vibrant city known for its colonial architecture and lively culture. But it's also a great kitespot, offering flat water to small waves and consistent winds. The best time to kite in Cartagena is from December to April, with average wind speeds ranging from 15-20 knots.
December - April Flatwater - Little wavesSan Andres Island
Located in the Caribbean Sea, San Andres Island is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. It's also a great kitespot, offering a mix of flat water and waves. The wind is strongest from December to April, with average wind speeds ranging from 15-20 knots.
December - April Flatwater - Little wavesCalima Lake
Calima Lake, also known as Lago Calima, is a reservoir located in the Valle del Cauca department of Colombia, 100 km northwest of Cali. There is a year-round sideshore thermal present ranging from 18 to 30 knots, which starts blowing at noon until sunset. Kitespots are situated on the northwestern side of the lake.
May - September November - March Flatwater - ChoppyIn conclusion, Colombia offers a wide variety of kitespots that cater to riders of all levels. Whether you're looking for flat water or waves, consistent wind or a challenging ride, Colombia has something to offer. So pack your bags, grab your kite gear, and get ready for an unforgettable kitesurfing adventure in Colombia!
Nearby countries
If you didn't find a good spot, check Aruba and Curacao, since they also have great kitespots to kitesurf.