A lagoon to explore with local guidance
The bay has several riding areas, including sheltered and shallow sections. The seabed, depth and available space change with the tide and weather, so a local briefing helps identify a suitable area.
Varatraza season: April to November
Exclusive Private Coaching
Kitesurf Lessons in Madagascar
1 Student · 1 Coach · IKO Certification. Private kitesurf lessons and training camps in Diego Suarez, on the turquoise waters of Sakalava Bay.
+
4.9/5
Rider reviews on IKO
The Kitesurf Madagascar Advantage
Why Choose Private Coaching?
Forget group lessons. Every minute is optimized for your progression with your own dedicated coach.
100% Tailor-Made
The pace adapts to your strengths and fears. Nothing but results.
IKO Certified
The highest global safety standards applied to every session.
Ideal Spot
Turquoise lagoon water, sandy banks and varied riding areas make Sakalava Bay a distinctive kitesurf spot in northern Madagascar. Before each session, your instructor checks the wind, tide and your level to choose a suitable area.
Premium Gear
Latest generation kites and boards included in every session.
200+
Students trained
15 years
Experience on the spot
1:1
Private lessons, one coach per rider
Apr–Nov
Usual Varatraza season
The Spot — Sakalava Bay
Why Sakalava Bay is the best kitesurf spot in Madagascar
Close to Diego Suarez, Sakalava Bay is one of northern Madagascar’s well-known kitesurf spots. The usual Varatraza season runs from April to November, but wind and rideable areas vary with the day, the tide and the location. Always check the forecast and local conditions.
Private coaching for your level
IKO-certified private kitesurf lessons give you one coach per student and the equipment needed during the lesson. Beginners progress step by step; experienced riders can work on transitions, jumps or freestyle when conditions allow.
Make a trip of your kitesurf stay
Round out your sessions with a trip to the Emerald Sea or Pirate Bay. Lodges are available near the spot, and an airport transfer from Diego Suarez can be arranged. Compare dates, budget and conditions as you plan.
Quick notes before your session
- Season: The Varatraza usually blows from April to November. We can help you choose dates after checking local forecasts.
- Water: Lagoon, sandy banks and deeper areas offer different riding experiences as the tide changes.
- Safety: Before launch, your instructor checks wind, tide and your level to choose a suitable area.
- Equipment: Kite, board and harness are included with lessons. For rental without coaching, ask us to confirm sizes and availability.
Read more: see our Varatraza wind guide or explore Sakalava Bay in detail.
Testimonials
What Our Kiters Say
Real stories of progression and unforgettable moments at Sakalava.
The Magic of Sakalava
Unforgettable Moments
Every session is a unique adventure in the most beautiful waters of Madagascar.
@sambpastor
Follow Us on Instagram
Latest sessions, tricks, and moments at Sakalava. Follow us for daily content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kiters Ask Us
Have a question? You'll probably find the answer here. If not, contact us directly — we always reply personally.
Ask a Question →You should be comfortable in the water and follow the school’s safety guidance. A supplied life jacket is safety equipment; it does not replace basic water confidence. Ask the instructor if you are unsure about your ability.
The usual Varatraza season runs from April to November, with often stronger conditions from May to October. Wind and rideable days vary with your dates.
Yes, everything is included: kite, bar, board, harness and vest. We provide recent, well-maintained gear suited to your level and the day's conditions.
Flights from Antananarivo or Reunion Island. We organize your transfer from the airport to your accommodation near the spot — it's included in the coaching package.
Some students reach the waterstart after several days of coaching, but timing depends on prior experience, conditions and lesson frequency. No fixed number of days can be guaranteed.
A private lesson with gear included costs €45/hour, freestyle coaching €47/hour. Discount packages start at 10 hours (€445) — see our Lessons & Coaching page.
Around 10 years old, with a minimum weight of 35 kg and enough height to handle a small kite. It is an activity that families can enjoy together, supervised at all times.
Kite size depends on measured wind, rider weight and ability. The instructor checks conditions and selects equipment for the session.
15+
Years Experience
Your Mentor
The local expert & passionate coach
Born and raised in Diego Suarez with over 15 years on Sakalava Beach. I started this school with one conviction: kitesurfing can't be taught on a conveyor belt. Every profile is unique.
200+
Students trained
100%
Private Coaching
IKO
Certified
— Samb Pastor, Founder
Learn More →
Our Programs
Freestyle Coaching & Lessons
Individual tailormade coaching for ambitious riders. All-inclusive lessons for beginners.
Freestyle Coaching
100% personalized · Individual
€47/h
- One dedicated coach just for you
- Tailor-made freestyle program
- Radio + video + wetsuit
Kitesurf Lessons
All-inclusive: gear + instructor
€45/h
- Complete gear provided
- Dedicated IKO instructor
- From zero to independence
Excursion
Emerald Sea · Pirate Bay
€70/person
- Car + boat round trip
- Lunch included
- Full day trip
Guides & Advice
Prepare your kitesurf trip to Madagascar
Budget, best season, weather and first steps: our complete guides to make your kitesurf training camp in Diego Suarez a success. Compare lesson prices, pick the right season and learn to read the Varatraza wind before you even leave.
Kitesurf Lesson Prices
How much does a private lesson cost in Madagascar? 2026 rates, packages and tips to keep your budget in check.
Read the guide →Best Time to Kite
The perfect season, month by month, for the Varatraza wind in Diego Suarez. When to travel for ideal conditions.
Read the guide →Weather & Varatraza Wind
Seasonal guidance for the Varatraza at Sakalava, forecast tips and trip-planning advice without assuming wind is guaranteed.
Read the guide →Getting Started in Kitesurf
Where to begin? Required level, gear, progression and first steps to learn kitesurfing with peace of mind.
Read the guide →