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Kitesurfing in Trancoso, Bahia: The evolution of an extreme sport in natural beauty

Trancoso is the ideal place to practise various sports, such as mountain biking and kite surfing, attracting many visitors. Situated in an area of natural beauty, Trancoso was discovered by hippies in the 1970s and, despite its development, has preserved its natural riches.

Adventure and tranquillity

For those looking for quiet or adventure, Trancoso is perfect. Kitesurfing uses the force of the wind to pull a board across the water with a kite, combining elements of surfing, windsurfing and wakeboarding.

Surfers and windsurfers can take advantage of the sea conditions, while wakeboarders have an alternative when the wind is blowing.

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Kitesurf em Trancoso na Bahia

Origin of kitesurfing

The origins of kitesurfing date back to the 13th century when the Chinese used kites for various purposes. However, the development of modern kitesurfing began in the 1970s and 1980s. The concept of kitesurfing was patented by Gijsbertus Adrianus Panhuise in 1977.

Later, in the 1980s, French brothers Bruno and Dominique Legaignoux created the first inflatable kite, revolutionising the sport by allowing kites to be launched on the water.

The first kitesurfing world championship took place in Hawaii in 1998, consolidating the sport as a competitive practice.

Kitesurfing in Brazil

In 1999, Swiss David Varilek brought a kite to Brazil and helped popularise the sport in Trancoso.

The creation of the Brazilian Kitesurfing Federation and the organisation of national championships were fundamental to the growth of kitesurfing in Brazil, which is now one of the main places for training and competition.

Learning to kitesurf

Learning to kitesurf requires space, water, wind, swimming ability and peace of mind, as well as the right equipment. Safety is paramount and it’s essential to follow rules such as keeping a safe distance from other riders, wearing a life jacket and checking wind and water conditions before going out.

Manoeuvres and versatility

Imagine gliding across the sea using only the power of the wind, performing manoeuvres that mix styles from different water sports. The kite can also be used to power carts, skates, snowboards and snow skis.

Evolution and regulation

Today, kitesurfing has diversified into different disciplines such as freestyle, wave riding and racing. Technological innovations continue to improve equipment, making it lighter and safer.

The sport is now regulated by bodies such as the International Kiteboarding Association (IKA) and the Global Kitesports Association (GKA), which ensure safety and organisation of competitions. Kitesurfing is now a global sport with competitions and events all over the world.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 03/01/2013 · Updated on 20/07/2025

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