Embalse Puclaro is hands down the best spot in Chile to learn kitesurfing. With freshwater, 9 months of consistent wind a year, and a solid 18 to 25 knot wind range, it’s the ultimate choice for taking lessons and locking in new tricks.
This wind isn’t an occasional gust: it’s thermal wind, generated by the temperature difference between the Elqui Valley and the coast, and it blows predictably almost every afternoon during the season (September to April) at 20 to 25 knots (source: Kitesurfing in America). That’s why Puclaro is the benchmark spot for kitesurf schools throughout the region, not just ours.
Traveling to Chile and want to add kitesurf lessons to your trip? Check out our kitesurf lessons guide for travelers, with prices in euros, lesson formats and everything you need to know before arriving in Puclaro.
Kitesurf Lessons in Chile: Why Choose Puclaro Reservoir?
Despite its reputation for fluctuating water levels, it remains spacious enough to accommodate both riders and students. While it’s true that there is no sand and the shoreline features rocks and trees, it is nothing to worry about when taking lessons with certified instructors or, for independent riders, by following the right-of-way rules.
The History of Gualliguaica and Embalse Puclaro:
The reservoir was created for irrigation and human consumption. To make it a reality, the inhabitants of the lower part of the valley had to be expropriated, and their homes and fields were flooded by the waters of the Elqui River. Despite constant struggles, construction was finally completed in 1999, and on October 15th of that same year, the reservoir began flooding with 200 million cubic meters of water to fully cover the area. The towns that were affected by the reservoir’s construction are:
La Polvada and Punta Azul: Small settlements that disappeared beneath the crystal-clear waters of the reservoir.
Gualliguaica: A town that was renowned for its vast vineyards and charming little country houses.
El Embalse Puclaro
Established in the year 2000 following the flooding of the town of Gualliguaica, Embalse Puclaro in the Elqui Valley is a premier destination for kitesurfing, thanks to its steady and consistent winds nine months a year. This location combines an iconic history with ideal conditions for learning and practicing the sport.
Kitesurfing in Elqui Valley: Styles & Disciplines
Our beloved sport blends all the elements—wind, water, sun, and earth. It consists of being powered by a kite as we ride the water and soar through the skies. Surfstyle, Big Air, Freeride, and Wakestyle! There are disciplines for all styles… right here, you’ll find the one that fuels your passion!
El Valle de Elqui
An emblematic valley in Chile’s Norte Chico, renowned for having the clearest skies in the world, it boasts the highest concentration of astronomical observatories, a rich local culture with vestiges of the Diaguita civilization, and breathtaking trekking locations. It maintains a pleasant climate all year round.
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