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Lesson 4
Adventure Experiences:Surfing, Kitesurfing, Windsurfing, & Paragliding

Introduction

The most consistent surfing conditions are to be found between May and October, with the largest waves generally occurring in July and August.

Nyali, Bamburi, and Diani Beach have a number of hotels and surf schools that offer experienced instruction. Galu Beach, which runs along Diani, is considered an ideal spot for kitesurfing while Malindi Bay and Watamu Bay are excellent for experienced board surfers, though take care not to get too close to the river at Malindi as there are crocodiles and hippos there. Extremely experienced surfers might wish to take the ferry to the southern side of the Mombasa Channel and surf the waves breaking at the harbor entrance from the left and right wrapping around the pier, with southern winds.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Windsurfing has been a feature of the Kenya coast since the 1970s, while Diani Beach and Che Shale north of Malindi are increasingly popular among kitesurfing enthusiasts. Several schools along the coast offer lessons in both disciplines and rent gear to experienced surfers. The coast has excellent conditions from December to February, with the northeast monsoon tending to get up in the afternoon, blowing strong winds which are ideal for both beginners and experienced riders. While the southeast monsoon, blowing from June through to September, isn’t as reliable as the northeasterly, it also makes for exceptional conditions.

Paragliding

While paragliding isn’t as popular as some other adventure sports in Kenya, it is increasing in popularity. Some of the best locations to go paragliding include Iten, Kijabe, Mt. Ololokwe, and Ndoto Mountains.