First-Hand Review of Atins, Tatajuba, Ilha do Guajiru, Icaraizinho & Beyond
This month, I had the opportunity to return to one of my favourite destinations in the world: the extraordinary north coast of Brazil. Over the course of several weeks, I travelled the coastline from Atins to Fortim, inspecting hotels, revisiting partners and searching for new experiences that we can offer our clients.
One thing that became immediately apparent during this visit was the remarkable level of investment currently taking place across northern Brazil. We are now beginning to see a growing collection of high-quality boutique hotels and small luxury properties opening throughout the region.
ATINS & LENÇÓIS MARANHENSES
Atins remains one of the most unique destinations anywhere in South America. Located on the edge of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, it combines vast dunes, freshwater lagoons, river systems and the Atlantic Ocean in a way that feels unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Historically, accommodation in Atins was relatively simple. Today, several excellent boutique properties allow travellers to enjoy genuine comfort while retaining the sense of remoteness that makes the destination so special.
The kitesurfing remains exceptional, particularly within the tidal lagoon system and, of course, within the Lençóis Maranhenses itself, where freshwater lagoons form between the dunes after the rainy season.
Want to learn more about Atins? Read our complete guide to Kitesurfing in Atins , including accommodation options, wind statistics, Lençóis Maranhenses excursions and the best time to visit.
THE JOURNEY SOUTH
One of the defining characteristics of northern Brazil is that the journey between destinations often becomes part of the experience. Travelling by 4×4 along beaches, crossing river mouths and navigating remote fishing communities creates a sense of adventure that is increasingly rare.
The crossing of the Parnaíba Delta remains one of the highlights, particularly the boat journey through the mangroves and waterways.
BARRA GRANDE & MACAPÁ
Barra Grande remains one of Brazil’s premier flat-water kitesurfing destinations, largely thanks to the exceptional riding area at Macapá. Historically accommodation standards were limited, but a newly opened boutique property has significantly improved the options available.
Planning a trip to Barra Grande?
Read our Barra Grande Kitesurfing Guide for information on Macapá, accommodation options, flat-water conditions, wind reliability and how best to include Barra Grande within a wider northern Brazil itinerary.
TATAJUBA
Tatajuba is home to one of the most remarkable tidal lagoons in Brazil. At low tide it appears almost entirely sand, while at high tide it transforms into a vast flat-water playground. It remains one of the country’s most iconic destinations for dedicated flat-water kitesurfers.
A HIDDEN GEM
One of the highlights of the trip was discovering a remarkable new luxury property hidden within a remote river-mouth location. Combining exceptional architecture, genuine luxury and world-class kitesurfing, it was one of those rare discoveries that reminds you why site inspections remain so important.
CAMOCIM & MACEIÓ
Maceió Beach remains one of the few locations in Brazil suitable for kitesurfing, wingfoiling and windsurfing. While accommodation directly on the beach is limited, the wider area continues to offer excellent boutique accommodation options.
JERICOACOARA & PREÁ
Jericoacoara and Preá continue to offer very different experiences. Jericoacoara remains lively and popular, while Preá offers a quieter, more refined atmosphere and access to some of Brazil’s highest-standard accommodation.
In my opinion, Casana remains the only genuinely ultra-luxury kitesurf-focused resort in Brazil.
ILHA DO GUAJIRU
Ilha do Guajiru continues to be one of the most complete watersports destinations in Brazil. Easy access, reliable wind and extensive flat-water riding areas make it one of the core destinations in our programme.
A newly discovered property at the northern end of the lagoon offers a compelling combination of excellent accommodation, kitesurfing, wingfoiling and accessibility.
ICARAIZINHO
Icaraizinho has evolved into one of Brazil’s premier wingfoiling destinations. A newly opened property has added much-needed capacity while retaining the authentic sports-focused atmosphere that makes the destination so appealing.
CUMBUCO
As one of Brazil’s original kitesurfing destinations, Cumbuco remains important thanks to its accessibility and lively atmosphere. While newer destinations now offer more remote experiences, Cumbuco remains an excellent gateway into northern Brazil and a common starting point for downwinder adventures.
FORTIM
Fortim is the final destination of this trip and remains under evaluation. Its combination of accessibility, authentic atmosphere and reputedly excellent flat-water kitesurfing makes it one of the most exciting new prospects for our programme.
INITIAL CONCLUSIONS
Having now travelled almost the entire length of Brazil’s northern coastline, one thing becomes abundantly clear: it is almost impossible to adequately describe the scale and diversity of what this region has to offer.
The season across northern Brazil typically runs from July through to December, making it one of the most reliable wind destinations anywhere in the world.
For travellers seeking reliable wind, warm water, authentic culture, outstanding accommodation and genuine adventure, there are very few destinations that can compete with northern Brazil.
Combined with the Amazon, Pantanal, Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls and Fernando de Noronha, Brazil offers one of the most diverse and rewarding travel experiences anywhere on the planet.
And that is precisely why we keep coming back.