Destination guide
Kitesurfing in Zanzibar East Coast
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.
Plan your kitesurfing holiday
Use the local kite area guides to check riding conditions and access, then match your travel month and accommodation to your experience and travel companions.
Explore the region
Kite areas
3 distinct riding areas documented within this destination.
Curated places to stay
- 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.
- 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.