The 6 best surf spots in Tanzania

Tanzania, with the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro and the tropical paradise of Zanzibar, is one of the most visited countries in eastern Africa. Of course, this also means a well-developed infrastructure and plenty of tourist activities for travelers. And also with the surf spots Tanzania is one of the top countries on the east coast of Africa, especially along the coastline east of Zanzibar. Along the southeast and northeast coasts, you'll find several reef breaks that are seemingly untouched: There are hardly any other surfers in the water here.

Zanzibar North Reefs 

Here you will find several reef breaks on the northern tip of Zanzibar - right handers and left handers. However, you have to rent a boat to reach most of them. Along the coast in the east there are also some beachbreaks.

Best time: E.G.: Nungwi Reefs in Zanzibar is an exposed reef break with fairly reliable surf. The best wind direction is from the southwest and the ideal wave direction is from the east. The best time of year to surf Nungwi Reefs with consistent, clean waves is the Australian winter (May-September) and most often the month of May. In May, clean, surfable waves can be found 71% of the time, while 23% of the time are more blowy. 

FYI: There are rocks.

Bongoyo Island

A lawbreaker is located right on the reef of Bongoyo Island off Dar es Salaam. Again, you will need to rent a boat to get there. Make sure you go at high tide as this is the only time you can surf there.

Best time: Jam's Right in Tanzania (mainland) is an exposed reef break with inconsistent surf. It tends to be shallow, especially in the summer. The best wind direction is from the west-southwest. Most of the surf here comes from groundswells and the best swell direction is from the northeast. The best season to Surfing* in Jam's Right with consistent clean waves is the summer (December-February) and most often the month of December. 

FYI: Watch out for the many hidden urchins.

Oyster Bay Beach Break

There are great beach breaks along the peninsula where all the expats in Dar es Salaam live. You should also find a reef break right in front of the Sea Cliff Hotel in Dar.

Best time: Oyster Bay Beach - or Coco Beach in Tanzania (mainland) is an exposed beach and reef break with fairly reliable surf, although summer is mostly flat. Offshore winds blow from the west and the optimum swell angle is from the east. The left side of the reef is better than the right. It is best to go surfing at high tide. The best season for surfing at Oyster Bay Beach - Coco Beach with consistent clean waves is autumn and most often the month of November. 

FYI: Watch out for the many hidden urchins.

Reefs in the south of Zanzibar

All spots along the southeast coast are reef breaks with some sandy sections for beginners. Most waves are right-handed and can vary in difficulty. Depending on the conditions, you can find waves ranging from gentle Malibu waves to breaking beasts. Most spots are only accessible by boat and depend heavily on the tides.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing in Tanzania

Most of the activities related to kiteboarding and Windsurfing* take place on the east coast of Zanzibar. Tanzania has two wind seasons: Kaskazi (Kaskasi) from the northeast and Kuzi (Kusini) from the southeast. In both cases, the winds are relatively light, averaging 14 to 20 knots, so don't forget to take your big kite* to take with you. Kuzi is somewhat stronger and more reliable and reaches its peak in July/August.

Bwejuu

The open beaches in the southeast of the island enchant their visitors not only with the wind, but also with the feeling of seclusion that gives a special magic to the experience.

Jambiani

Jambiani offers not only great winds and perfect water for kite and windsurfers, but also a picturesque setting with the dhows and the boats in the sand. It is located halfway between Bwejuu in the south and our next destination: Paje beach.

Paje

North of Jambiani, but still located in the southeast of Zanzibar, Paje Beach is THE hot spot. It has the best winds and also the best water: a shallow expanse of sea where you can easily glide your table and tame the wind. This authentic little village in the southeast corner of Zanzibar has a magical vibe for kitesurfers! If you are a beginner, there is no doubt: Paje beach is the best place on the whole island!

Best time: December-March and also July-September

You want to experience Tanzania live?

Then check out our 8 days Tanzania round trip an. Together we will climb the highest mountain in Africa, passing breathtaking waterfalls and enchanting landscapes. Once you reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, you will be rewarded with an incredible view. This and much more awaits you in Tanzania! 

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