Paje - Kitesurfing In Paje, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Kitesurfing in Paje, Zanzibar

Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is famous for its azure waters, white sand beaches, and diverse marine life. In recent years, it has also emerged as one of the world's leading kitesurfing destinations. Particularly, Paje Beach, on Zanzibar's east coast, stands out as the kitesurfing hub. If you're looking to experience this exhilarating water sport amidst the Indian Ocean's idyllic setting. Here's what makes Zanzibar, and especially Paje Beach, a kitesurfing paradise.

1. Consistent Winds

Zanzibar boasts two primary wind seasons, making it almost a year-round kitesurfing destination. The Kaskazi winds from the north rule from December to February. This is generally a light wind so bring your big kites! During a two month stay in January/February we had a few days of 25+ Knt winds, but most of the time it was 10-15 Knts. The Kusi winds from the south dominate from June to September and is stronger.

2. Flat, Shallow Lagoons ideal for beginners

Paje Beach, in particular, is favored because of its wide, shallow lagoons. These lagoons are perfect for those new to kitesurfing, as they can easily stand and regain their composure if they fall. Even for advanced kitesurfers, the flat waters offer an optimal condition to practice and perfect new tricks.

3. The Reef

The reef is around 2Km out to sea. At low tide you can walk out to it, but there are lots of sea urchins so be careful where you tread. At high tide when the swell is in the right direction it becomes an amazing playground. Due to the distance out to sea it is rare that many people go that far out, and there are miles upon miles of it so it's never going to get crowded. Just be careful not to get stuck on the wrong side of the reef at low tide as it could be awkward to get back in (speaking from experience!)

4. Downwinders

Since I could not find any organised downwinders I created my own mini adventure and organised some myself. Having done this a few times it is sensible to check the tide. At low tide the reef becomes exposed so you do not want to be caught on the wrong side of that. At high tide in some parts of Jambiani there can be very little beach to land your kite on. Before you go, take a look on Google Maps to get an idea of where you will land. If the wind is blowing and there are plenty of people kitesurfing in Paje then there will be poeple kitesurfing in Jambiani down wind so it will be easy to work out how far down wind you can go. It's best not to go beyond Coral Rocks as getting a taxi will become more tricky.

5. Foiling

Given the light consistent winds in January/February Paje is a great place to learn to foil, but be warned, the waters are shallow so most of the time you will need a short mast and you will only be able to go out at mid to high tide!! At low tide you can walk 2Km out to the reef on sand/ankle deep water!!

Shout out to PajeKitesurf.com

I stayed at the hotel next to pajekitesurf.com and whilst I am an independent kitesurfer and did not have any lessons I can highly recommend these guys. The team are extremely passionate about teaching and seeing their students progress. Nice one Squatter, Kamil & Inno 😁

Forum >> Zanzibar - Kitesurfing paradise off the coast of Tanzania...
Kitesurfing in Paje January / February - what to take?	Sat, 29 Jul 2023, 12:24