Kitesurfing Matemwe

Wind & Conditions

Northeast Zanzibar village with a reef 700 m offshore creating flat-water conditions; cross-onshore winds during Kaskazi (NE, Dec–Mar, 15–25 kn) and Kusi (SE, Jul–Sep); quieter than the south-coast spots.

About Matemwe

Matemwe is a quiet fishing village on Zanzibar's northeastern tip, and that quietness carries through to the kite spot. A reef sitting roughly 700 metres offshore shelters the lagoon between beach and coral, producing flat water that lets you focus on riding rather than fighting swell. The spot runs on two distinct wind seasons. The Kaskazi — the northeast trade wind — arrives December through March, typically at 15–25 knots and cross-onshore to this stretch of coastline. The Kusi follows from the southeast, blowing July through September, again landing cross-onshore here. The usable kite window runs from 5° through to 145°, and both seasons sit comfortably within it. That cross-onshore angle matters: if you have a gear failure or get into trouble, you drift along the coast rather than straight into it. Compared to Zanzibar's south-coast spots, Matemwe is noticeably lower-key. There's less pressure on the water and on the beach, and the crowd dynamic is different — this is a fishing village first, a kite spot second. Riders who want space to work on technique without negotiating with a fleet of other kiters will appreciate that balance. The flat-water lagoon is the main event. The reef does the heavy lifting, and what you get is a consistent, predictable surface well-suited to freestyle practice, transitions, and building confidence. The cross-onshore direction means you also have room to work upwind and downwind without being hemmed in. The same reef that makes the water flat also demands attention at low tide, when shallower sections extend further and water depth needs confirming before you head out. On a rising or high tide the lagoon is at its most generous and the riding area opens up. Accommodation in the area includes Matemwe Beach Village and Minazini Bungelow, both within reach of the water. For food there is a solid spread: Dolphin Local Restaurant, Garden Bob Swahili, Kilimajuu Villages, Makuti Beach, Minazi Restaurant, Mtambo Sisi Kawa Sisi, Nakupenda Restaurant, and Nangani Restaurant all operate nearby. In terms of level, the flat-water lagoon and forgiving wind angle make this a solid fit for intermediates looking to develop. Beginners should factor in the reef — local knowledge matters here. Advanced riders will find the protected water ideal for freestyle moves and transitions where repeatability matters. Matemwe doesn't announce itself. It rewards the riders who show up with a bit of patience and a willingness to dial into village time.

Best Season

Check the Breeza app for the current rideable window at Matemwe.

World Ranking

Not globally ranked, but a kitesurf destination — a local favourite worth a check when the wind lines up.

Location

Matemwe, Unguja North, Tanzania, Tanzania

Lat: -5.882, Lon: 39.352