Kitesurfing – what is it?
Kitesurfing is easily the fastest growing water-sport in the world. It is a combination of surfing and kite-flying, and uses a powerful kite which is flown while standing on a small surf board in the sea. The kites pull not only in a horizontal direction, but also in a vertical one, which means some huge jumps are possible.
Where can I Kitesurf?
Kenya has some of the best locations in the world for Kitesurfing. Flat wide beaches along a protected coastline and the steady winds of the east African coast combine to make Kenya ideal for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers.
Learning to Kitesurf
Kitesurfing is equally popular with men and women and anyone can learn. It is not about strength, it is simply about mastering the art of flying a kite and standing on the board. One of the requirements for kitesurfing is lots of space. Most of Kenya’s coastline has wide and deserted sandy beaches which make it ideal for learning to kitesurf. Safety is paramount and, once in the water, the protective coral reef about 200 – 300 metres from the shore forms a natural sheltered area in which beginners can develop their skills.
Winds
The eastern coast of Africa has two seasonal winds, the Kuzi and the Kaskazi. Both blow cross-shore, and provide reliable conditions from November through to the start of May. Winds usually blow 10 knots in the morning providing perfect conditions for beginners and by early afternoon they usually increase to between 15 and 20 knots. The monsoons between June and August bring a stronger wind that picks up the reef break to provide excellent wave riding and jumping, although the weather is cooler during this period (in the mid 20’s).
Kitesurfing Schools & Equipment Hire
Kite-Surf Kenya operates from Che-Shale Beach Club, which is a 30 minute drive north from Malindi. This was Kenya’s first kitesurfing school and is situated on a beautiful five kilometre long bay with very wide and completely deserted beaches which are ideal for kitesurfing. A two day course costs approx. £150 per person and includes 1-on-1 instruction covering safety, how to rig the kite, reading the wind and, finally, instructions on the water.
Aqualand is a water-sports centre on Galu Beach, the furthermost beach south of Mombasa. Two day beginner courses cost from £162 per person. These cover all safety aspects and correct flying patterns, and aim to get you up and riding by the end of the second day. Galu Beach is highly regarded by experienced kitesurfers, and highlights for pro’s include the ‘down-wind special’ where kitesurfers are taken up the coast in a 4x4 vehicle for an uninterrupted, high speed and adrenalin packed 12 kilometre run back to base. For more information contact us.
H20 Extreme is based on the beautiful Diani Beach, south of Mombasa, and has a dedicated kitesurfing school, well stocked with the latest Naish equipment. Courses are provided for absolute beginners as well as for experienced kiters, with video analysis as well as rentals and safety boat support. Beginners courses start from £70 per day, and you can also stay in one of the bungalows or chalets onsite and just crawl out of bed onto your board! For more information contact us.
Booking information: for an itinerary and prices email us or call 0207 622 5114 and ask to speak to a Kenya consultant
