If you're a kitesurfing enthusiast or want to get started in this exciting sport, you can't miss the Salinas del Rey Water Sports Center, in the municipality of Juan de Acosta, Atlántico. This location is set to become the world epicenter of kitesurfing, thanks to its ideal climatic and geographical conditions for practicing this sport.

Governor Eduardo Verano inspected the project, which is 70% complete, and highlighted the importance of this project for extreme sports and tourism. "The goal is to turn the department of Atlántico into a tourist destination specializing in water sports, thanks to the benefits of Salinas del Rey, its climate, the size of its waves, and strong winds throughout much of the year, especially in March, when breezes are considered the second strongest in the world at that time of year, surpassed only by those in Hawaii," he said.

The Nautical Sports Center was designed to truly become a major world center for kitesurfing. "I believe we have something unique. The winds here are as strong as those in Hawaii, and therefore we will be more attractive to people from all over the world who have this sport as their main goal in life," the governor stated.

The Water Sports Center has a modern and functional infrastructure, including classrooms, an infirmary, restrooms, changing rooms, storage rooms, administrative areas, tourist information offices, a terrace, a kitchen, technical rooms, a cloakroom, and a first aid area. It also has ample parking, a camping area, a swimming pool, a gym, a restaurant, and a sporting goods store. Everything you need to fully enjoy your passion for kitesurfing. 🙌

The director of the Atlantic Sports Institute, Iván Urquijo, reported that the Nautical Sports Center has received an investment of nearly $28 billion in high-quality materials. "We have a strategic location for practicing various water sports, and we must focus our efforts on kitesurfing. Here, the winds allow for bigger waves, and athletes can practice their sport more successfully," he said.

The mayor of Juan de Acosta, Carlos Higgins, stated that this project will have a positive impact on tourism in the area, not only in the municipality of Juan de Acosta, but also throughout the department, due to the benefits it will bring. "We look forward to working with Governor Eduardo Verano to continue promoting tourism development, not only in sports, but also in the diverse range of activities that exist and are practiced today in Juan de Acosta," he stated.

Melissan Arteta, a kitesurfer from Juan de Acosta, said she is completely grateful to the Governor's Office for carrying out all these projects, which will benefit not only the athletes but also the members of the schools, who also see a path to sustainable development in the municipality. She requested greater support for those interested in these disciplines. "With the Water Sports Center, this area will gain greater international visibility. This location will become a hub that boosts water sports tourism in the department and the Caribbean region," she stated.

As a complement to this article, we inform you that on January 3rd, the Juan de Acosta Sports Tourism Roundtable was formed, the first in the Atlantic, seeking to promote this sector in a sustainable and inclusive manner. This initiative is led by local entrepreneur Melissa Arteta, CEO of Orillazul, and advised by Chilean expert Andrés Sarmiento, CEO of Turismo Deportivo Chile. The first session covered topics such as the concept, context, resources, attractions, and activities of sports tourism in Juan de Acosta, as well as the Kitesurfing World Championship. The roundtable includes representatives from the public and private sectors and aims to position Juan de Acosta as a benchmark for sports tourism in the Atlantic and the Caribbean.

Thanks to Melissa Arteta and Andrés Sarmiento for the direct information they are giving me.

For local leader Melissa Arteta, the formation of this working group is a first step. "Forming this Working Group is historic for Juan de Acosta and the Atlantic. This is the first step, as we firmly believe in the full potential we have to become a benchmark for sports tourism in the Atlantic and the Caribbean. It will be a long road, but with our commitment and the advice of Andrés Sarmiento, we will make it a reality."

"Finally, I would like to highlight that we were able to bring together the public and private sectors. The participation of the new Secretary of Culture and Tourism of the Mayor's Office demonstrates that we will all work together for the local development of Juan de Acosta," added the CEO of Orillazul.

"What happened today demonstrates that Juan de Acosta is at the forefront of tourism and sports. This roundtable will seek to contribute to the development of sports tourism through collaborative initiatives that strengthen this ecosystem in the region," said engineer Andrés Sarmiento.

On the other hand, the owner of La Mar Sabor Peruano Restaurant emphasized the importance of this table: "We truly needed this space for the growth of Juan de Acosta and all its districts. It's important to boost the economy, and now sports tourism is a tool to do so. Challenges and emergencies lie ahead, such as the creation of our work plan."

Don't hesitate any longer and come discover the Salinas del Rey Water Sports Center, Colombia's kitesurfing paradise. Here you can learn, practice, and compete with the best, enjoying an unforgettable experience. We look forward to seeing you! 😎