ISLAND KITE SCHOOL — Local services in Sal

In brief, I had a great time, learnt more than I thought I could have and the team were friends and welcoming. I’ll be coming back!

I have been to a couple of kite schools on a number of different holidays and Island Kite School really brought me on loads. I had 8 hours broken up into 2 hour lessons over 4 days. Leo was a great instructor. Patient and clear with his explanations and instructions. The school it self didn’t move me about the island which was a bonus for me. They had a selection of kites and equipment which meant they were able to adapt to all conditions. Helmet and life vest provided and in great condition. There was not just for show but really show the schools professionalism and pride. And a light wet suit which might seem a weird idea for Cape Verde, however meant I didn’t have to cover my body in sun screen but also kept the slight chill from the water at bay and allowed my to concentrate of surfing.

The lessons were structured but when there was elements that weren’t coming together Leo changing certain aspects and adapted to my questions for me to get clarity. This is invaluable to me getting on the board.

Outside of the kite surfing the team were great with local food recommendations and knew exactly what my wife and I were looking for.

Great time and great experience. See...

There I was, waiting on the sun-kissed sands of a Santa Maria beach, staring out at the Atlantic like some deranged mariner who couldn't figure out how to conquer the realm of Poseidon. The wind howled as if beckoning and warning me all at once, while swirling the other kites overhead like a electric jellyfish, I knew then, Ah yes, its my time to learn this seemingly mystical art of Kite Surfing.

Enter: Island Kite School and my instructors Tiago and Leandro. My shepherd for my foray into Kite surfing was Tiago - my guru - my savior (far too many times to mention here LOL) who was the perfect sherpa through gnarled peaks and valleys of kite controlled chaos. The patience and knowledge displayed by Tiago the wind whispering shaman made me feel safe and extremely cared for as a beginner.

Leandro was the other instructor whose mere presence alone seemed to make the wind a little smoother and forgiving; post session beers a little colder.

Darling Santa Maria, I will return to dance with the wind, ride the waves and probably get dragged across the sand a few more times. Until then, keep the wind strong, the waves high, and the beer ice-cold.

Viva Cape Verde. Viva Kite Surfing. And Viva Tiago and Leandro, the high priests...

I recently took two kitesurfing lessons at Island Kite School with instructor Mario. Going into it, I knew this sport would be challenging – and I was right! There’s a lot to take in, especially at the beginning, and I was reminded that my learning pace has slowed a bit with age. However, Mario’s patience, dedication, and focus made the experience truly enjoyable.

Mario is incredibly committed and does his absolute best to ensure his students improve. His knowledge and control over every aspect of the lesson were evident, making it easy for me to trust him completely.

I highly recommend Island Kite School and especially Mario as an instructor – you won’t be disappointed! With his guidance, I’m already looking forward to finishing the course on my next...