Destination guide
Pemba & Murrebue, Mozambique
Thirty kilometres of turquoise lagoon in northern Mozambique, where you will often be the only person on the water.
About Pemba & Murrebue
Murrebue is a small beach village near Pemba in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique's northernmost province, and it fronts something remarkable: thirty kilometres by four of clear turquoise water, held between white sand and a reef.
The main season runs May through August, when the south-east trade wind — the Cuzi — blows on roughly ninety per cent of days at 15 to 30 knots. A secondary season runs November to March on north-easterlies, though rain interferes with its consistency. Water sits at 26 to 28°C through the windy months, so lycra and shorts are usually enough.
The lagoon is shallow, clear and large enough for downwinders from neighbouring villages such as Mecufi, and it accommodates every level. Hazards are limited to specific zones with rocks and sea urchins; much of the bottom is coral sand.
The real challenge is remoteness. Tourism infrastructure is minimal, lodging is expensive for what it is, and getting here takes multiple flights. In return, this is a place where people routinely kite alone.
When to go
Best months: January, February, March, May, June, July, August, November, December.
Kite areas
2 distinct riding areas documented within this destination.