Downwind – Day Trips Near Ilha do Guajiru in Ceará, Brazil
Ceará, located in northeastern Brazil, is famous for its exceptional kiteboarding conditions, especially around Ilha do Guajiru. This region offers steady winds, stunning landscapes, and multiple kite spots, making it perfect for epic downwind rides. A downwind trip is an adventure where riders follow the wind along the coast, typically starting at one point and finishing at another, with return transportation arranged. This allows kiters to explore different spots while enjoying the thrill of the sport and the natural beauty of Ceará’s shoreline.
At Ilha do Guajiru, we at 7 Beaufort Brasil offer guided downwind day trips, led by experienced instructors. There are options for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Beyond the adrenaline, these trips are a great way to discover Ceará’s coast. Below, we highlight some of the most popular routes.
Content of this article:
- Downwind Tours in Ilha do Guajiru
- Downwind from Almofala to Ilha do Guajiru
- Downwind from Ilha do Guajiru to Antonio
- Downwind from Ilha do Guajiru to Arpoeiras
- Day trip & Downwind from Patos
- Why Choose a Downwind Tour Near Ilha do Guajiru?
- Plan Your Downwind Trip to Ceará
1. Downwind from Almofala to Ilha do Guajiru
Overview of the Almofala Downwind:
- Duration: approximately 1.5 hours
- Distance: about 15 km
- Skill level: experienced downwind kiters
- Transfer time to starting point: around 30 minutes
- Starting point: Almofala
- Destination: Ilha do Guajiru
This downwind is perfect for experienced kiters looking for a dynamic and varied ride. It’s also our favorite downwind due to the diverse landscape and the highlight of riding through mangroves. The journey starts in Almofala, a small village about a 20-minute drive from Ilha do Guajiru. Participants are first taken to a wide sandy beach where they can set up their kite gear. Initially, you’ll need to overcome a shorebreak before kiting along the coast on open water. The first section passes over a small sandbank before continuing on a river that runs roughly 5.5 km parallel to the shore. This calm river section offers mirror-smooth water, ideal for freestyle tricks and enjoying nature.
After leaving the river, the adventure continues on the open sea, where fun in small waves is guaranteed. The trip ends with a detour to the "Secret Spot" in the lagoon area, featuring smooth flat water—another chance to show off all your tricks. The final stretch winds through the lagoon of Ilha do Guajiru. After about 2 to 3 hours, participants return to Beaufort Brasil in Ilha do Guajiru with unforgettable memories.
2. Downwind from Ilha do Guajiru to Antonio
Overview of Antonio Downwinder:
- Duration: about 1 hour
- Distance: approximately 7 km
- Skill level: from beginners to advanced
- Transfer time to starting point: not included
- Starting point: Ilha do Guajiru
- Destination: Antonio
This shorter and more relaxed downwind is perfect for beginners, even as a first downwind experience, or for those who prefer a leisurely ride. The start is directly at 7 Beaufort Brasil in Ilha do Guajiru. Participants ride downwind along the coast for about 7 km to Barraca Aconchego do Mar, a local beach bar where they can refresh with fresh seafood - often even local lobster - and a cold drink.
The ride is especially magical at sunset and is perfect for relaxing after a day of kitesurfing. The tour is guided by professional instructors who ensure participants' safety and provide support when needed.
3. Downwind from Ilha do Guajiru to Arpoeiras
Overview of the Arpoeiras Downwind:
- Duration: approx. 2-3 hours
- Distance: approx. 25 km
- Skill level: advanced downwind kiters
- Transfer time to starting point: 40 minutes
- Starting point: Ilha do Guajiru
- Destination: Arpoeiras
This challenging downwind offers 25 km of coastline to explore and is ideal for advanced kiters. The departure is at 7 Beaufort Brasil in Ilha do Guajiru, and participants ride along the coast towards the village of Arpoeiras. This route offers a mix of shallow water sections and small estuaries, providing mirror-smooth conditions perfect for freestyle maneuvers. We choose the optimal time so participants can make the most of the shallow water areas.
The landscape along the route changes dramatically - from vast lagoons to picturesque fishing villages and palm-lined coasts. A stop along the way allows participants to refresh before reaching the quiet, rustic village of Arpoeiras, known for its charming atmosphere and some kite accommodations. This tour offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural immersion, making it an unforgettable experience for experienced kiters.
4. Day trip & Downwind from Patos
Overview of the Patos Downwind:
- Duration: approx. 2 hours
- Distance: approx. 15 km
- Skill level: experienced downwind riders
- Transfer time to starting point: approx. 45 minutes
- Starting point: Patos
- Destination: Ilha do Guajiru
The Patos Lagoon offers a unique day trip combined with a downwind experience, being a hidden gem of Ceará and a unique kite spot in Brazil, located south of Ilha do Guajiru. The vast shallow water area of the lagoon, combined with constant winds, makes it an ideal kite destination. The journey to Patos takes you through picturesque sand dunes and idyllic rural landscapes, where you might encounter friendly animals like donkeys and cows. After arriving at the lagoon, participants can kite for a few hours in the calm, flat waters. A BBQ with meat, sausages, fish and vegetarian options provides enough energy for the day. In the afternoon, participants decide how they want to proceed:
For those who want to extend the adventure, a downwind ride back to Ilha do Guajiru offers an exciting conclusion to the day. For others, a vehicle is ready to take them back to Ilha do Guajiru. Depending on the tide, the downwind can take place either along the river or the sea. This tour also includes a cultural component, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty and rustic charm of the region. Optionally, a visit to the National Park around Patos Lagoon can be included in the tour, making the experience even more adventurous.
2. Why choose downwind tours near Ilha do Guajiru?
Located in the state of Ceará, Ilha do Guajiru is one of the most exciting kite destinations in Brazil. This region is known for its constant winds, shallow waters and pristine beaches, making it ideal for downwinders.
Moreover, there's something for every taste and skill level - whether it's a leisurely 1-2 hour ride or an adventure in the sea, on the river or through the mangroves - there's a perfect downwinder for everyone.
3. Book a Downwind in Ceará
Whether you want to try a short downwinder or experience a longer, more challenging adventure - the coast of Ceará has something for everyone. Are you interested in a downwinder near Ilha do Guajiru?
Then send us a message, and we can share our upcoming available dates or organize a day trip for your group. See you in Ilha do Guajiru, our favorite kite spot in Brazil!