Training Independent Kitesurfers
Select the kitesurfing lesson module according to your current level and define your kitesurfing progression goals.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Kitesurfing?
The time required to learn kitesurfing depends on several factors, such as the type of course chosen (private or semi-private), your experience with other board sports, and your physical condition.
On average, it takes about 12 to 15 hours of lessons to learn the basics of kitesurfing and become fully independent in the sport.
By “being independent in kitesurfing,” we mean not posing a danger to yourself or others during regular practice.
The most important thing is not to focus on quantity but on quality.
Everyone progresses at their own pace, and it’s essential to keep in mind each fundamental step of the learning process to fully enjoy kitesurfing.
From the age of 7, children can discover kitesurfing through tailored lessons that combine games and learning. A fun, play-based approach focused on enjoyment and progress allows them to learn while having fun.
The equipment is specifically adapted to their size and weight, ensuring easy and safe handling. Lesson duration is adjusted according to their age, attention span, and motivation, guaranteeing a positive and stress-free experience.
The Key:
With an adapted teaching method and a playful approach, children can start kitesurfing from the age of 7 in a safe and stimulating environment.
It’s an excellent way to discover this sport while developing skills such as coordination, self-confidence, and respect for nature.
On your side everything you need to have a good time: swimsuit, sunscreen, glasses, water and above all lots of good humor.
On our side, we provide all the technical and educational material for the practice of kitesurfing. (Harnesses, neoprene suits, 50N life jackets, helmets, Radio, Kite leash, kites, bars & boards)
Kitesurfing all year round in Tarifa!
With wind statistics exceeding 300 days a year, one can easily understand the reasons that make Tarifa a world class spot. If you are already an experienced kitesurfer I would say “All year round”.
The best times to take lessons are from March to November because the wind blows mainly Levante (coming from the East) and thus makes the body of water flat with a sustained wind. This is the ideal.
From November to March during the winter period, the wind is more often Poniente (from the West). In these periods there are more waves, but if you are a confirmed strapless practitioner then, Welcome to the kite paradise
This is one of the big advantages of Tarifa, even if the wind is present more than 300 days a year.
The custom here is to say “A mal tiempo buena cara” which can be translated as “Against bad luck, good heart”.
In fact, a windless day is the perfect opportunity to discover the region, go hiking, climbing, scuba diving, horseback riding …
In short, go on an adventure or simply take the opportunity to relax.
At the end of each course module, your instructor will certify you with the International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO).
This allows you to track your progress and, once you reach the independent level, rent equipment at any IKO-affiliated center worldwide.
The duration of a kitesurfing lesson typically ranges between 2 and 3 hours, depending on various factors such as your skill level, motivation, weather conditions, and the type of course you choose (private or semi-private). During your kitesurfing course, you will work closely with your instructor to establish a pace that suits your needs and level, ensuring the best possible results.
With the radio headset, you’ll never be alone in the water! Your instructor will guide you in real-time as you progress, saving valuable time in your learning process and providing instant feedback.
 | IKO Discovery Kiteboarder |
|---|---|
| A | SEA (Spot, Environment, Activity) assessment Hold, carry, and secure a kite on land Kite setup |
| B | Safety systems use Pre-flight check Launch and land as an assistant |
| C | First piloting and explore the wind window’s edge Let go of the bar Twist and untwist the lines |
| D | Fly one-handed Trim introduction Walk while flying the kite Launch and land as a pilot Wind window theory |
| E | Inflight quick release activation Self-land Equipment packing |
 | IKO Intermediate Kiteboarder |
|---|---|
| F | Enter and exit the water while controlling the kite Water relaunch |
| G | Body-drag with 2 hands, kite stable Body-drag with power stroke |
| H | Body-drag upwind Body-drag with the board |
| I | ROW (Right Of Way) rules introduction Steady-pull Waterstart Controlled stop |
 | IKO Independent Kiteboarder |
|---|---|
| J | Control of speed by edging |
| K | Ride upwind |
| L | Sliding transition |
| M | Ride toeside Jibe |
| N | Self-launch Self-rescue and pack down in deep water |
 | IKO Advanced Kiteboarder |
|---|---|
| O | Basic jump |
| P | Power jibe |
| Q | Jump with a grab |
| R | Jump transition |
| S | Rider recovery |
| T | Board recovery |
| U | International kiteboarding signs |
| V | ROW (Right Of Way) rules |
| W | Equipment |
| X | Weather and tides |
| Y | Aerodynamics |
 | IKO Strapless & Wave Riding |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wave and current analysis |
| 2 | Pass the shore break |
| 3 | Exit the water with shore break strapless |
| 4 | S-turns strapless |
| 5 | Jibe strapless |
| 6 | Ride on waves over 1m (all previous skills) strapless |
| 7 | Floater strapless |
| 8 | Snap back strapless |
| 9 | Tack strapless |
| 10 | Ride on waves over 2m (all previous skills) strapless |
| 11 | Downwinder on waves strapless |
| 12 | Jump on a wave strapless |
MATOS TARIFA
Learn to kitesurf with MATOS TARIFA
Kitesurfing school in Tarifa, IKO & FAV certified centre.
Kitesurfing courses and camps from beginners to advanced levels Strapless / freestyle / Wave Riding & Tiki
Welcome to the Matos Family!
