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Atins is a favoured destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts, offering ideal conditions with constant winds, shallow waters and a peaceful, picturesque atmosphere. Located at the mouth of the Preguiças River, in the heart of the Lençóis Maranhenses, Atins has become a popular meeting point for kitesurfers from all over the world.
Video – Kitesurfing in Atins
Atins
1. Why Atins is Ideal for Kitesurfing
Here’s a detailed guide to kitesurfing in Atins:
1. Wind Conditions
- Constancy: The winds in Atins are constant and strong, usually blowing between 15 and 25 knots during the kitesurfing season, which runs from June to January.
- Direction: The prevailing winds blow from the south-east, creating perfect conditions for kitesurfing along the coast and at the mouth of the river.
2. Waters
- Shallow and Calm: The waters are shallow and relatively calm, especially in the area where the Rio Preguiças meets the sea, providing a safe and comfortable environment for kitesurfers of all levels.
- Ample Space: The long beach and wide water area allow plenty of room for manoeuvres and practice, even during the busiest periods.
2. Kitesurfing Schools and Venues
1. Kitesurfing Schools
- Atins has several kitesurfing schools that offer lessons for all levels, from beginners to advanced. These schools also rent out equipment and offer packages that include transport and accommodation.
- Certified Instructors: Most of the schools have certified and experienced instructors, guaranteeing safe and efficient learning.
2. Main Kitesurfing Locations
- Atins Beach: The main practice area, with large stretches of sand and shallow waters. Ideal for beginners and for practising manoeuvres.
- Mouth of the Preguiças River: Area where the river meets the sea, offering unique conditions with flat water and constant winds. Very popular with advanced kitesurfers.
- Lagoas dos Lençóis: During the rainy season, some schools organise kitesurfing trips in the lagoons formed in the dunes, a unique and spectacular experience.
3. Tips and Accommodation
1. Equipment
- Rental: If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent it from one of the local schools. Check the quality and condition of the equipment before renting.
- Safety: Always wear appropriate safety equipment, including a life jacket, helmet and safety leash.
2. Lessons and Training
- For Beginners: If you are new to kitesurfing, it is strongly recommended that you take an introductory course with a kitesurfing school. Lessons include theory, practice on the sand and in the water, and safety techniques.
- Advanced Training: Experienced kitesurfers can benefit from advanced lessons focused on specific manoeuvres and perfecting techniques.
3. Wind and weather conditions
- Best Time: The best time to kitesurf in Atins is from June to January, when the winds are stronger and more constant.
- Weather Forecast: Always check the weather forecast and wind conditions before going kitesurfing.
4. Accommodation and Infrastructure
- Atins offers a variety of accommodation options, from simple pousadas to more luxurious accommodation, many of which are prepared to receive kitesurfers.
- Facilities: Some pousadas offer packages that include kitesurfing lessons, equipment hire and transport to the best practice spots.
5. How to get to Atins
From Barreirinhas
- Boat: The most popular way to get to Atins is by boat, departing from Barreirinhas via the Preguiças River, with a scenic journey that takes around 3 hours.
- 4×4: Another option is to go by 4×4 vehicle, which can take around 2 hours through sandy roads and trails.
5. Conclusion
Atins is a true kitesurfer’s paradise, combining ideal wind and water conditions with the natural beauty of the Lençóis Maranhenses. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kitesurfer, Atins offers an unrivalled kitesurfing experience, with the guarantee of breathtaking scenery and a welcoming, peaceful atmosphere.
Plan your trip, prepare your equipment and make the most of everything this incredible destination has to offer.
See the map Lençóis Maranhenses in Maranhão
See When to go to Lençóis Maranhenses
Kitesurfing invades Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Maranhão