The Legendary Wind: Varatraza
Why Sakalava Bay offers the best wind statistics in the world.
What is the Varatraza?
The Varatraza is no ordinary wind. It is a powerful southeast trade wind that sweeps across the northern tip of Madagascar. This wind is accelerated by a thermal effect and the Venturi effect created by the local terrain around Diego Suarez.
The result? A constant, sustained wind blowing 20 to 35 knots without interruption for months on end. Unlike many destinations where the wind is unpredictable, here you are guaranteed to ride every single day.
Monthly Statistics
- April - May Start of season (15-25 kts)
- June - August Full power (25-35+ kts)
- September - October Perfect wind (20-30 kts)
- November End of season (15-20 kts)
Do you need a wetsuit?
Water Temperature (26°C to 28°C)
Thanks to the tropical climate, the water at Sakalava Bay stays pleasantly warm. You will never be cold in the water, which is ideal for long learning sessions or staying out during our coaching sessions.
Recommended Gear
We recommend a thin shorty (2mm) or a long-sleeve lycra, not because of the water temperature, but to protect you from the intense sun and the slight wind chill created by the powerful Varatraza wind in July-August.
When does the wind blow in Diego Suarez?
The Varatraza is a seasonal trade wind: it kicks in when the southern winter settles and the convergence zone shifts towards the northern hemisphere. In practice, here is the wind regime at Sakalava Bay month by month.
| Month | Average wind | Kitesurf interest |
|---|---|---|
| April – May | 15 to 25 knots | Season start, ideal for beginners |
| June – August | 25 to 35+ knots | Full power, for advanced riders |
| September – October | 20 to 30 knots | Perfect wind, all levels |
| November | 15 to 20 knots | End of season, still rideable |
Overall, the season runs from mid-April to the end of November, with wind 9 days out of 10. The water stays warm (26 to 28 °C) all season: a 2 mm shorty or a simple lycra is enough, even in July. For a precise choice based on your level, read our guide to the best time to kite in Diego Suarez.
Understanding kitesurf forecasts
Wind strength
Expressed in knots (kt) or km/h: 1 kt ≈ 1.85 km/h. You can ride from about 12-15 kt, while the Varatraza often runs between 20 and 35 kt. Gusts usually add 5 to 8 kt to the average wind.
Wind direction
The wind at Sakalava comes from the north-east, side-onshore: it naturally pushes you back towards the beach, which is reassuring for beginners. A steady NE is the best sign of a good session.
Living on UTC+3 time
Weather models display in universal time (UTC). Diego Suarez is on UTC+3: so add 3 hours to UTC times to know the local wind time.
Want to see today's weather? Check our live forecast page (Windguru, Windy and Windfinder combined), and pick your kite size for Madagascar.
Questions riders about the wind
Can you kitesurf at Sakalava all year round?
The Varatraza season runs from mid-April to the end of November. The most consistent months are June to October. In the austral summer (December to March), the wind is less active, as our guide to the off-season explains.
Why is the Varatraza so strong?
The south-east trade wind is accelerated by the Venturi effect of the reliefs around Diego Suarez and by thermal contrast. The result: a steady 20 to 35-knot wind, ideal for every session.
What is the water temperature?
The water of Sakalava Bay stays between 26 and 28 °C all season. A 2 mm shorty or a simple lycra is enough to protect against the sun and wind chill.
Also read which best kitesurf spot to choose in Madagascar and prepare your trip with our advice.
Planning your week around the wind
Morning
The wind usually picks up in the late morning. Ideal time for a theory lesson, stretching or visiting the town of Diego Suarez.
Afternoon
From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., the Varatraza is at its peak: coaching sessions, progression and first jumps. This is the heart of the day at the spot.
Evening
The wind slowly fades at sunset. Riders exchange tips, analyse the day and prepare the next one.
Find the precise timings and kite sizes in our Sakalava wind forecast, and learn to choose your gear with the size guide.
What to expect month by month
Beyond the annual table, each period has its own signature at Sakalava Bay.
Mid-April to May
Wind returns, 15 to 25 knots. Waters are warm, crowds are low: ideal for beginners and long stays.
June to August
The Varatraza peak: steady 25 to 35 knots. Afternoon-long sessions, great for freestyle and foil — but smaller kites.
September to November
Still solid wind, 27 °C water, migrating whales. In November the air warms up and gusts become less regular.
To pick your exact window, read the best time to kite and the off-season guide.
To plan your stay, compare accommodation near Sakalava Bay, book your kitesurf coaching and reach out via the contact form.
Read next
Best Time to Kite in Diego Suarez
Varatraza from April to October, 20-35 kn winds: the best time to ride.
The Best Kitesurf Spot in Madagascar
Why Sakalava Bay is the ideal spot: flat lagoon, sandy bottom, constant wind.
How to Get to Diego Suarez
All options to reach Antsiranana: flights, transfers and practical tips.