Colombia, a paradise for enjoying water sports

Colombia is a perfect destination for water sports: 2 seas, over 50 rivers, and more than 1000 lakes make the country stand out for its water richness. Additionally, the variety of climates, without seasons and with winds year-round, means you can come at any time to practice water sports and enjoy the best of nature with the adrenaline and excitement that water offers.

KiteSurf: the power of wind and water

“...You release your anger, your hunger, your sleep; you forget everything. And jumping... it's like flying,” says Christina, a Swiss journalist and passionate about this sport who lives in Cartagena. Gliding over the water propelled by the force of the wind in a kite, KiteSurf is a sport that has been gaining popularity in Colombia. The country offers 10 months of winds, perfect waves, and over 15 spots for practicing it. We are one of the favorite places for this sport worldwide. Here are some spots you should visit if you want to enjoy the adrenaline:

Barranquilla: this city in the Atlantic department has its best months from December to May, when the wind is medium/strong, ranging from 15 to 35 knots. The best spots include Punta Astillero, Puerto Mocho, Puerto Velero, and Salinas del Rey, located 30 minutes from Barranquilla; it will host the Kitesurf World Championship 2023 from March 1 to 5.

La Guajira: in this department in the northwest Caribbean region, you can enjoy the contrast between the desert and the sea. Wind speeds vary from 25 to over 35 knots. For KiteSurfing, visit Punta Gallinas, Manaure, Pusheo (the windiest spot in Colombia), Cabo de la Vela, Mayapo, and Riohacha.

Valle del Cauca: Being located on the Colombian Pacific, it’s important for everyone wanting to brave these waves to wear a wetsuit due to the cold water. Wind speeds here range from 15 to 25 knots. The most sought-after spot is Lake Calima, with a difficulty level between medium and low.

Boyacá: this department is just 2 hours from Bogotá, in the northeastern center of the country. Wind speeds can vary from 10 to 25 knots; the best months to visit are December and January. If you want to enjoy one of the most popular spots among local kitesurfers, go to Chivor, which has a low-medium difficulty.

Feel the waves while practicing Surfing

Playing with the waves, focusing on the perfect turn, and achieving the desired maneuver; that’s what Surfing is all about: a sport where concentration is crucial and balance is necessary. To practice it, you only need good waves and a board, whether short, medium, or long, depending on your style.

In Colombia, the Colombian Surf Federation organizes the National Surf Validity along with two other expert institutions. This event takes place once a year. The best spots for surfing include:

Nuquí: Terquito Beach and the coasts of Cabo Corrientes, Pico de Loro, Pela Pela, Juan Tornillo, and El Derrumbe.

Santa Marta: Tayrona National Park, where Mendihuaca Beach is located.

Cartagena: La Boquilla, Castillo Grande, Las Velas, Las Tenazas, and Playa Blanca.

Face the force of the river or the calm of the water in your Kayak

This sport is perfect for experiencing pure adrenaline in rapids or peacefully navigating the sea. The idea is to leverage the current of the water to maneuver the kayak and navigate with the help of paddles.

In rapids, the goal is to navigate upstream: to challenge the water and maintain balance against the currents. Flat water kayaking is practiced with different sized vessels, designed for navigating in the sea or some lakes.

You can practice here:

San Gil: Fonce River;

Tobia: Negro River;

Santander: Chicamocha River

Huila: Magdalena River.

Contemplate the colors of the sea while Snorkeling

Imagine seeing underwater and observing the marine flora and fauna in their natural environment. It’s an incredible sensation that can be experienced when practicing snorkeling. This activity consists of swimming at the water's surface with a mask and a snorkel that allows you to breathe comfortably while enjoying the view.

In Colombia, you can practice it at:

Providencia: This island lets you enjoy a sea of 7 colors, coral reefs, and over 400 marine species.

Santa Marta: in Tayrona National Natural Park, specifically at La Piscina beach, you’ll find an ideal spot to see turtles and a great variety of fish.

Cartagena: at Barú Island, you can enjoy the soft sand, the diversity of fish, and the crystal-clear waters this place has to offer.

Experience a new adventure on a Paddle Board

Paddle Boarding can be easily practiced by anyone. You can even use surfboards or inflatable boards, which are perfect for transport, along with a paddle that will help you navigate. The key to succeeding in this sport is having concentration, balance, and strength.

It’s not hard to find places to practice, as you only need calm waters; however, here are some recommended spots:

Coveñas: La Caimanera swamp, a place where nature will surprise you and you can enjoy various animals in their natural habitat.

Antioquia: El Peñol, a place with great weather and breathtaking landscapes.

Santa Marta: on the Don Diego River, you can find a wealth of characteristic fauna and flora of this region.

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