Destination guide
Zanzibar East Coast, Tanzania
A reef-held lagoon on the Indian Ocean side of Zanzibar, where the tide empties the flats twice a day and two monsoons divide the year.
About Zanzibar East Coast
Zanzibar's east coast is one long shallow lagoon behind a barrier reef: white sand, turquoise water, dhows on the horizon and a tide that moves the shoreline hundreds of metres twice a day. Paje and Jambiani sit at the southern end, Kiwengwa further north.
Two monsoons carry the season. Kuzi blows from the south-east between June and September, reaching 25 knots and running parallel to the shoreline — the flattest, smoothest water of the year, with July and August averaging around 20 knots. Kaskazi arrives between December and March, a little softer at around 20 knots. April is the quiet month, averaging closer to 8 knots, and is best avoided.
The tide is the thing to plan around. At low water the lagoon opens into an enormous flat shallow expanse — ideal for learning, though it involves a walk out. At high water the waves come closer in and launching becomes an advanced proposition. Stone Town, the spice farms and the Mnemba atoll are all within reach of a morning, which is why Zanzibar tends to be a two-week trip rather than a one-week one.
When to go
Best months: January, February, March, June, July, August, September, December.
Kite areas
3 distinct riding areas documented within this destination.
Curated places to stay
- Sharazād Boutique Hotel Jambiani
For the non-kiting partner, yoga, diving, food and the slower character of Jambiani provide a meaningful holiday beyond session times.
- Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa
For the non-kiting partner, privacy, food and wellness stand entirely on their own, making this one of the collection’s strongest shared experiences.