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TheKiteMag 61 The MIssion Flying Downwind Flysurfer 1 1200x800 - The Mission: Flying  Downwind

The Mission: Flying Downwind

Endless sandy beaches, super reliable wind, and postcard-perfect landscapes… it’s no wonder Brazil is a hotspot for kiters from around the globe. FLYSURFER’s mission was to conquer the coastline from Cumbuco to Barra Grande on an epic 450-kilometer downwinder…

THEKITEMAG ISSUE #61
WORDS: Andrea Rutz
PHOTOS: Nikola Bagarov
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The FLYSURFER crew touched down, ready to push boundaries and experience the ultimate adventure. Leading the charge were pro riders Théo de Ramecourt, Roderick Pijls, and later Gian Andrea Stragiotti, while the crew on land – photographer Nikola and videographer Marc Hofman – captured every insane moment with their cameras and drones. Brazil didn’t just offer world-class kite spots; it delivered raw adventure – challenging routes, endless waves, and magical encounters with dolphins and sea turtles. This journey proved why Brazil is among the best kite destinations in the world – and why we’ll definitely be back!

After a long flight, we landed in Fortaleza, the capital of Ceará. From there, we drove an hour north to Cumbuco, known for its iconic beaches and steady trade winds, the perfect starting point. The wind was stronger than expected, so we rechecked the route and conditions. There was an option to head south, but after a detailed wind and weather analysis, we decided to stick to the original northern route, optimizing for the best wind conditions in the mornings and evenings. Local pros Juliano and Davi were invaluable, sharing insider tips on the best spots.

After a power breakfast of tapioca pancakes, fresh fruit and energizing açaí bowls, we were ready to go. The first morning was all about fine-tuning the gear – unpacking kites, checking foilboards, and prepping drones. Our journey began at the legendary Cauipe Lagoon, a playground for world-class kiters. From there, we launched into open water, the natural habitat of Flysurfer’s new Supersonic kite. Perfect conditions awaited us as the kite soared for the first time along the coastline towards Baleia. While Roderick and Théo were on the water, the team followed along the beach, capturing every moment with cameras and drones. Passing Pecém Harbor and the vibrant village of Taíba, civilization slowly faded, giving way to untouched nature. By evening, we reached Lagoinha, a hidden gem with golden dunes and colorful fishing boats. The sunset session was pure magic, one of those timeless moments that stay with you forever.

Heading further north, we raced across open water when suddenly, a pod of dolphins joined us, an unforgettable, surreal experience. Then the next challenge appeared: low tide made it impossible to enter the lagoon at Ilha do Guajiru directly from the sea. Without hesitation, we took a daring shortcut over a narrow sandbar – a bold move that the Supersonic handled with ease. Gliding smoothly over the shallow waters, they arrived right at our KiteSafari Glamping Camp, one of Brazil’s premier flatwater spots. We were warmly welcomed by the locals, surrounded by playful children and curious beach dogs. That evening, we savored a traditional Brazilian churrasco – grilled meat with rice, beans and fresh salads. As the fire crackled, we reflected on a day filled with unforgettable moments and pure kiting joy.

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Our journey continued to Jericoacoara, or “Jeri” as the locals call it. Just getting there was an adventure with vast dunes and dusty trails winding through the hills. Jeri feels like a place lost in time – no paved roads, just sandy paths shared with roaming donkeys and laid-back locals. We passed the iconic Pedra Furada, a rock arch in the sea, where the riders seized the moment for an epic session. The wind was strong, the waves clean, and the backdrop absolutely stunning. By evening, locals and travelers gathered on Duna dos Coqueiros to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Jeri’s vibrant atmosphere, with cozy shops, relaxed bars, and a global kiting community, made it hard to leave.

The adventure continued with a special boat crossing to reach our next destination,filled with anticipation for more unforgettable sessions. The final leg of our journey led us to Barra Grande, one of the most beautiful kite spots on the tour. The lagoon offered perfect conditions for stunning shots. In the afternoon, we finally headed back to Cumbuco, stopping at Praia da Lagoinha, a breathtaking beach with turquoise waters and scenic dunes. Back in Cumbuco, we wrapped up with one last session featuring Gian. The crew made the most of their remaining hours on the water before gathering for a farewell dinner. We laughed about the best moments, relived the highlights, and started planning the next adventure.

“Brazil was nothing short of magical,” Roderick reflected. “Together with my buddy Théo, we kited through endless lagoons, alongside dolphins, turtles and local fishermen who showed us the true spirit of this place. The Brazilian landscapes were absolutely stunning – raw, wild, and perfect for adventure. This trip was one for the books – unforgettable moments, insane conditions, and an amazing vibe on the water.”

Brazil once again proved why it’s a kite mecca. From breathtaking landscapes to culinary delights and epic sessions, this trip was a true adventure. Whether it’s butter-smooth lagoons, gentle waves, or classic downwind stretches along the coast, Brazil offers the perfect playground for every kiter. Add in the laid-back Brazilian lifestyle, refreshing açaí bowls, and the ultimate feeling of freedom on the water, and it’s easy to see why once you’ve kited here, you’ll always want to come back…

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