Sakalava

“The” Kitesurfing Spot in Madagascar | Sakalava Bay

Located 20 km from Diego Suarez, in northern Madagascar, Sakalava is renowned for its perfect kitesurfing conditions throughout the trade wind season, from March to December. Explore the unique features of this spot, such as the ideal times for practice, wind strength, and water quality. Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience in an idyllic setting in Madagascar.

Optimal Conditions for Kitesurfing in Madagascar: Flat Water

Flat water and waves suited for both beginners and experienced riders. A consistent and strong wind, a wide open beach with a sandy bottom. The bay provides optimal safety for kitesurfers, and the water is pleasantly warm.

WIND:

Mid-March to late April: 12 to 25 knots - Kites from 7m to 14m.
May and June: 20 to 30 knots - Kites from 6m to 12m.
July to September: 25 to 35 knots - Kites from 5m to 10m.
October: 20 to 30 knots - Kites from 6m to 12m.
November to late December: 15 to 25 knots - Kites from 7m to 14m.

WATER TEMPERATURE:

March / April: 26°C to 28°C.
May / June: 24°C to 26°C.
July / August / September: 22°C to 24°C.
October: 23°C to 25°C.
November/December: 24°C to 26°C.

OUTDOOR TEMPERATURE:

March / April: 28°C to 34°C.
May / June: 26°C to 30°C.
July / August / September: 20°C to 26°C.
October: 24°C to 28°C.
November / December: 26°C to 32°C.

At low tide, the water becomes as smooth as a mirror, offering ideal conditions for beginners and freestyle practice. The reef waves, located 500 meters from the beach, just in front of Madakitecamp, are easily accessible and reach heights of 1 to 2.5 meters. You can enjoy kitesurfing in the waves almost daily during the trade wind season. The wind, blowing side-onshore (from the southeast), always brings you back to the beach if needed. Additionally, at low tide, you can stand in the entire bay for 4 to 6 hours a day.

Kite foil and Wing foil

You can practice wing foiling or kite foiling at Sakalava only during mid-tide and high tide, offering 4 to 6 hours of navigation per day depending on the tides. The tidal range varies from 40 cm to a maximum of 2.5 meters.

Best Time to Visit

From May to October, northern Madagascar offers ideal conditions for kitesurfing, thanks to particularly favorable weather. During this period, the winds are both strong and steady, ensuring optimal sessions and wind throughout your stay.

Wind forecast for Sakalava: https://www.windguru.cz/55902

Tidal forecast for Sakalava for 1 month: https://fr.wisuki.com/tide/73/baie-de-sakalava

Annual tidal forecast for Sakalava: https://marine.meteoconsult.fr/meteo-marine/horaires-des-marees/diego-suarez-759/octobre-2024

Practical Tips for Visitors Bringing Their Own Equipment

To make the most of your stay, here are some practical tips.
Kitesurfers bringing their own gear, consider packing:

A lycra top and a shorty wetsuit (2.2 to 3.2 mm thickness) will suffice. The water temperature never drops below 22°C.
Sunscreen with SPF 50.
Sunglasses.
Booties are not necessary but can be useful.
A small kite (5 or 6m² depending on your weight) between July and September.

Wind paradise awaits you!

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