What to Pack for a Kitesurf Trip to Madagascar?

This article is written by the founder of Madakitecamp, an IKO-certified kitesurf instructor based at Sakalava Bay, Diego Suarez, since 2012. Here's the real list of what to bring before you leave, and more importantly, what you don't need to pack.

Do you need to bring your own kite gear?

No, it's not necessary. All the gear is available on-site at Madakitecamp, for kitesurfing, wingfoiling, and windsurfing, at every level from beginner to expert, regardless of how long you're staying. If you have your own equipment and prefer to ride with it, you're of course free to bring it, but it's in no way a barrier to traveling light.

One thing worth considering if you bring your own kites: the wind is often strong at Sakalava Bay, so if you're traveling with your own gear, make sure to pack a small size (5 to 7 m²). If you don't have one, the club has everything you need on-site.

Do you need a wetsuit?

It depends on when you're traveling. Most of the year, a shorty is more than enough. Between June and September, when the wind is at its strongest and the water is cooler, a long-sleeve shorty in 2.2 or 3.2 mm is more comfortable, or even a full wetsuit for those who run cold. For the full month-by-month temperature breakdown, check our [wind and season guide].

What sun and wind protection should you bring?

This is the point worth taking most seriously: sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap or hat. The sun is intense year-round in Diego Suarez, and kite sessions in strong wind increase exposure without you always noticing it in the moment.

If your luggage happens to arrive late (a rare situation, but one that can happen), don't worry: a shop on-site at the hotel carries the essentials, toothpaste, toothbrush, sunscreen, hygiene products, among others. Shampoo and shower gel are provided in the bungalows regardless.

Should you bring cash, and in which currency?

Yes, this is worth planning ahead for: credit cards aren't accepted yet at Madakitecamp, and more broadly, card payments remain rare across northern Madagascar. Bring cash in euros or ariary (US dollars aren't accepted), or arrange a bank transfer before your arrival.

Should you pack a first-aid kit?

Diego Suarez has several well-stocked pharmacies, carrying the same medications you'd find in Europe, and the hotel also has what's needed for everyday minor injuries. That said, it's still worth traveling with a small personal first-aid kit for basic care, along with a broad-spectrum antibiotic, handy in case you need it urgently before reaching a pharmacy.

The typical packing list

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, cap or hat
• A shorty, plus a long-sleeve version (2.2 or 3.2 mm) if traveling between June and September
• Your own kites if you have them, including at least one small size (5-7 m²) given the usual wind strength
• A small first-aid kit with a broad-spectrum antibiotic
• Cash in euros or ariary to pay for your stay on-site

Continue planning your trip

Our article on [how to get to Diego Suarez] covers flight and transfer options, our [wind and season guide] helps you choose the best time based on your tolerance for cold and wind, and our guide to [Kitesurfing Madagascar, every spot] gives you an overview of the destination.

Book your stay at Sakalava Bay

Gear, coaching, and the day-to-day essentials are all taken care of on-site. Contact us to plan your trip, whether you pack light or bring everything with you.