Kitesurfing in Lamu Island: Where Wind Meets History

What if you could kitesurf on pristine, empty beaches stretching for miles, then wander through ancient Swahili streets unchanged for 600 years?

Welcome to Lamu Island, Kenya's most remote and enchanting kitesurfing destination. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage archipelago, Lamu offers something no other spot can match: the combination of excellent wind conditions, unspoiled natural beauty, and one of Africa's most fascinating cultural experiences.

Kitesurfing in Lamu is about more than just riding—it's about immersing yourself in a place where time seems to stand still, where donkeys still outnumber cars, and where the wind has been filling sails for centuries.

Two Wind Seasons

Kaskazi Season (December to March/April): The most consistent season for Lamu, with warm northeast winds averaging 20 knots from around 10 AM to 6 PM. The Lamu Islands work particularly well with Kaskazi winds—more stable conditions and less aggressive swell than the southern coast.

Kuzi Season (June to September): South-southeast winds of 15-20 knots, often stronger than conditions further south. The Kuzi gets stronger as you travel north, making Lamu windier than Watamu during this season.

The Spot: Kizingoni

Kizingoni Beach offers miles and miles of pristine sand to explore. A huge sandbar extends several kilometers offshore, creating excellent flat water conditions around low tide. At high tide, small 1-meter waves break way out on the sandbar.

The beauty of this spot lies in what it doesn't have: no coral, no sharks, no sea urchins, no rocks, no crowds—just sand, warm water, and wind.

Climate

During Kaskazi season, expect air temperatures of 35-40°C with water around 28°C. The Kuzi season is slightly cooler but still warm enough for boardshorts year-round. No wetsuit ever needed.

The Lamu Experience

Rest days here are as memorable as kite days. Explore Lamu Old Town's narrow streets, visit ancient Swahili architecture, cruise on traditional dhow boats, or simply relax on deserted beaches. The pace of life is refreshingly slow.

Getting There

Fly into Lamu Airport (LAU) via Nairobi or Mombasa. The island has no cars—transport is by foot, donkey, or boat. Most kite schools arrange transfers and accommodation.

Local Tips

Book through the established kite center for beach access and local knowledge. During Kaskazi, afternoon sessions are best; during Kuzi, the wind builds from mid-morning. Don't miss the pre-breakfast or full moon sessions—kitesurfing under the stars is a Lamu specialty.