Kitesurfing in Zanzibar — FAQ
What level of experience do I need to learn kitesurfing?
None. Most people who learn with us have never touched a kite. Paje is one of the easiest places in the world to start — flat, shallow water at the right tide, warm sea and steady wind. All our instructors are IKO-certified.
What's the best time of year to kitesurf in Zanzibar?
Two windy seasons. The strong one runs June to September; a lighter second season runs late December to February. For wind almost every day, come June to September.
How long until I can ride on my own?
Plan for at least 12 hours on the water, plus practice time. Riding on your own and feeling comfortable takes a minimum of 12 hours or more for most people.
How are the kite conditions in Paje?
Excellent, especially for learning. Warm water, steady trade winds and a flat, shallow lagoon that opens up at low to mid tide. We've run the first kite school in Zanzibar since 2006, so we plan every lesson around the day's wind and tide.
What do I need to bring?
Just swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen — plus a lycra top, a cap and sunglasses if you burn easily. We provide all the kite gear.
What equipment is included in a lesson or rental?
Everything you need to kitesurf: kite, bar, board, harness, helmet and lifejacket. Swimwear isn't included, so bring your own.
What if there's no wind on my lesson day?
No problem — your lesson carries over to the next windy day, free. Zanzibar is windy most days in season, but if it isn't, you don't lose anything.
Can I rent gear if I already ride?
Yes, for independent riders. We'll ask to see your IKO card, or have a quick chat about your level first.
Do you offer wing foiling?
Yes, we teach wing foiling alongside kitesurfing.
How do I book, and where do I see prices?
Use the “book now” button on kitecentrezanzibar.com (bottom-left of the screen) — that's where you see all prices and reserve. We recommend at least 9 hours if you learn semi-private (2+ people), or 6 hours private.
Can you recommend accommodation?
Yes — you can stay right at the spot. Our Kite & Stay resort has beach rooms and lofts a few steps from the water, and guests get a discount on lessons and rentals.
Do you offer activities besides kitesurfing?
Yes — wing foiling plus a range of island and resort activities.
Do I need to book in advance?
It's a good idea, especially in the busy June–September season when spots fill up. Off-peak you can often book last-minute, but booking ahead guarantees your instructor and gear.
Do you provide lessons in different languages?
We teach in English and Dutch.
What gear brands do you use at the centre?
We use Duotone gear throughout the school.
What size kites should I bring to Zanzibar?
Bring kites in the 7–17 m range to cover Zanzibar's lighter and stronger days. Not sure what to pack? Ask us first — or just use our Duotone gear here.
When is Kite Centre Zanzibar open?
We're open daily during the season and closed in April and May, the low and rainy months. Any other time of year, come by any day.
Do I need a visa for Zanzibar?
Is there malaria on Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a malaria area, so it's worth planning ahead. We wrote an honest, up-to-date guide — read
Malaria in Zanzibar.
