Just Kite It.

by Jessica Valenzuela, travel vignette share by Craig Austin

We’d love to hear about your kiting journey write to jessica@justkiteit.com to contribute to Just Kite It.

"Get blown or go home." Tom Court. photo courtesy of Konstantin Other for MaiTai Brazil 2009

A sleepy-eyed fishing town situated approximately 25 kilometers from Fortaleza the State Capital of Ceara. A great starting point for any kiteboarding or kitesurfing downwinder adventure to Cauipe, Pecem, Taiba, Fleicheras, Prea and Jericoacoara specially if you are staying for three weeks or more.  For those who have not kitesurfed in Brazil, Cumbuco is the sweet spot to learn the basics and get used to the 30-35 knot winds.

Follow the main road. I wish I could offer more mystique around this. It is purely logistical in nature. Would you need a tour guide? Really dependent on your comfort level when traveling to exotic places. The thoughtful answer would be yes indeed, don’t be too cheap make sure you have a tour guide who will arrange all your transport arrangements, including lodging. Hire someone who comes with recommendations from previous kiting trips and/or your friendly local contact.

Downwind to a barraca for a sumptuous seafood meal you will never forget.

Cumbuco’s unique landscape in the Northeast of Brazil is smacked between famous sand dunes and the deep blue. Craig raved about a place called Dream Village, which offers water access right in front of your door step. For kiters who prefer perfect flat water, finish up at Lagoa de Banana! Meanwhile, your non-kiter companion could indulge in a perfect Brazilian tan while hanging out on the soft sandy beaches in between launching and catching your kites, which is an exciting hobby to have while tanning. After the beach, head to the center of town for a view of the football arena in the center of town and the nearby sand dunes. There are horse backriding and buggy tours for the more adventurous non-kiter. Then of course you can ride with your buggy entourage and meet your kiter at one of the barraca’s for a delightful seafood feast ~ IMO perfect after a hard and long downwinder. Not convinced? Check out our gallery of memories and souvenirs, many thanks to our supporters and friends! Lastly, don’t forget to try the local barmen’s generous  serving of caiprinha or caipiroska. When in Rome, be like the Romans.

How did Cumbuco treat you? We’d love to hear about your kiting travels to this little fishing village. More on Brazil.

We’d love to hear about your kiting journey write to jessica@justkiteit.com to contribute to Just Kite It.