Paje – Zanzibar
Tanzania · Kitesurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds S (Kusi), NE (Kaskazi)
- Level Beginner · Intermediate · Pro
- Water Flat water
- Best months Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb
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About this spot
Paje on Zanzibar's east coast is the best-known kite spot in East Africa. A fringing reef about 1.5 km offshore smooths the Indian Ocean into a huge, gently shelving lagoon – standing-depth flat water at low tide, small kickers near the beach and waves out at the reef as the tide floods. Two monsoon seasons drive the wind: the Kusi from the south-east (June–September, peaking July/August) brings stronger 18–25 knots for jumps and advanced riding, while the Kaskazi from the north-east (December–February) brings gentler, steady 14–18 knots – ideal for learning.
When is the best time to visit Paje? Both wind windows work: June–September for power, December–February for relaxed beginnings. Thanks to the sheltered lagoon and shallow water, Paje ranks among the top beginner destinations worldwide, yet works just as well for freestyle and wave riding at the reef.
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Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 68 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the south. The most reliable period runs from May to July. The least wind is in November (1 %). The water ranges from about 26 to 30 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
23 %
| 9 kn | NE | 28 °C | 29 °C |
| February |
27 %
| 9 kn | NE | 28 °C | 30 °C |
| March |
10 %
| 8 kn | NE | 28 °C | 30 °C |
| April |
15 %
| 9 kn | S | 27 °C | 29 °C |
| May |
62 %
| 12 kn | S | 27 °C | 28 °C |
| June |
64 %
| 12 kn | S | 26 °C | 28 °C |
| July |
68 %
| 13 kn | S | 26 °C | 27 °C |
| August |
34 %
| 11 kn | S | 25 °C | 26 °C |
| September |
10 %
| 10 kn | SE | 26 °C | 26 °C |
| October |
6 %
| 9 kn | SE | 26 °C | 27 °C |
| November |
1 %
| 8 kn | SE | 27 °C | 28 °C |
| December |
2 %
| 7 kn | NE | 28 °C | 29 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from S, NE (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
At high tide the lagoon offers open water and small kickers near the beach; at low tide it is glassy standing-depth – watch the reef on the outer edge. The Kaskazi (14–18 kn) calls for bigger kites, while in the stronger Kusi (18–25 kn) go smaller.
⚠︎ Hazards
The fringing reef turns sharp and shallow at low tide – avoid the outer edge. The large tidal range changes conditions quickly, and sea urchins and coral patches make booties advisable.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Videos from this spot
Trips & camps
Zanzibar Kite Center in Paje
by ION CLUB
Kite and wing foil station on Paje beach on the south-east coast of Zanzibar with lessons for all levels. Season per the page June to September and December to March.
Frequently asked questions
Is Paje – Zanzibar suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Paje – Zanzibar suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate · Pro (water: Flat water).
Which wind works at Paje – Zanzibar?
Best with wind from S (Kusi), NE (Kaskazi). In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the south.
When is the best time for Paje – Zanzibar?
The best months are considered to be Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (68 % of days).
How warm is the water at Paje – Zanzibar?
Over the year about 26 °C in August to 30 °C in March (model data).
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