Kitesurfing on Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera

Kitesurfing (also called kiteboarding) is all about the wind.  If the wind isn’t right, the sport can be ineffective in one extreme and dangerous in another.

In El Gouna, just 20 minutes north of Hurghada City, experts say that the winds are usually perfect for the sport with regular cross-shore and cross-onshore winds prevailing.

This may well explain why the world’s largest kitesurfing centre opened here in 2006 and there are now five kite centres in El Gouna.

Each year an event called KiteJamboree takes place in El Gouna and it is run in conjunction with the International Kiteboarding Organisation – thousands of fans of this amazing sport flock to El Gouna from all over the world.  It is expected to take place in September 2011 with dates anticipated soon.

Kitesurfing has been described as a cross between wakeboarding, windsurfing, surfing and paragliding where the rider is propelled through the sea on a small surfboard – by those all-important winds.

Last year’s event in El Gouna took place over eight days in June and included freestyle and course racing competitions, demonstrations, and seminars for the seriously dedicated.

There were also fashion shows, competitions, beach parties, screening of films and photos from the previous days’ events.  Free demo kitesurfing lessons attracted beginners. KiteJamboree 2011 is expected to include the same successful and fun elements.

Still on the activity front, beach aerobics, boat trips, scuba diving and snorkelling together with quad safaris and horse riding are also available during KiteJamboree.

El Gouna has accommodation to suit all budgets including 4 and 5 star hotels at competitive prices and some stylish self catering apartments for more independently minded travellers.

Some 20 years ago, El Gouna started as a simple real estate project and is now one of the most sought after and chic resorts on the Red Sea and very conveniently located close to Hurghada city.

Nevermind having perfect winds for the perfect kitesurfing experience.

It’s time to enjoy getting wet on a small board in El Gouna – in year-round sunshine. 

For more information, visit: egypt.travel