The Spot - B4 Kitesurfing Zanzibar
Paje is known as the "Pearl of Zanzibar" and is one of the world-class kitesurfing spots. Vast white sandy beaches and beautiful turquoise water, it is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Paje has a lot fewer tourists than the North of the island, but it still has plenty going on in the evenings. The majority of tourists that go to Paje are mainly there for kitesurfing lessons, so the town itself feels a lot more traditional and less 'touristy'. Zanzibar is a magical place, the locals are humble and honest, and the white sand is finer than we've had ever felt anywhere else!
What about the kitesurfing conditions?
The wind and its’ seasons
The windy season is split into two: mid December to February, which is known as the Kaskazi, this blows from the North at around 12-25 knots, most days between 15-18 knots.
The Kuzi blows from the South to SE from May to October, but can start in April. The Kuzi is the stronger of the two and blows most days between 12-25 knots but averages between 15-18 knots. Calmer in the morning and gets stronger normally after lunch.
Best months are June, July, August and December, January, February where you can expect excellent wind most days.
The tide changes everything
The tide in Paje dramatically changes the spot throughout the day: Low tides see most learners gathering in the lagoon closest to the reef. The mirror-like conditions are simply stunning! The water is so clear and transparent; it’s unbelievable. If the winds blow strongly, you are feeling the Zanzibar kiteboarding experience!
Half-way during ebbing and flooding is probably the time for the best kiteboarding sessions. The water will vary from ankle to waist, ideal for learners who still need to stand up but need some depth to practice their skills. These couple of hours are also perfect for advanced and experienced riders to try tricks and jumps.
At high tides, the waves can come crashing up to the resorts and palm trees. That time is ideal for experienced kiteboarders who can enjoy the fewer crowded lagoon with rental or own equipment.
No wind? No problem!
There is plenty to do on the island when there is no wind! SUP is very popular, and SUP downwinders and tours are through the kitesurfing/surfing centres. Diving/Snorkelling are also top of the 'no wind' list, the marine life around Paje is stunning, and there is a big chance of spotting dolphins as well as humpback whales.
Jozani Forest is also something you want to experience. Home to one of the last remaining Red Colobus monkey sanctuaries in the world. The forest is 6,207 acres in size and was declared a nature reserve in the 1960′s — a breathtaking forest with so much history.
