Pemba

About This Spot

Pemba's real kiting happens at Murrebue, a vast lagoon ~20 min (15km) south of Pemba town toward Mecufi — the in-town Wimbe beach is launchable but Murrebue is the genuine spot. Picture a roughly 30km x 4km coral-sand lagoon of crystal turquoise water between white beaches. Wind: two seasons. The reliable one is the SE trades (Kusi/Cuzi), roughly May–Aug (shoulders Apr & Sep), blowing ~90% of days at 15–30kt, cross to cross-onshore — this is when to come. The NE trades (Kaskazi/Kasi-Kasi), ~Nov–Mar, run lighter and steadier (14–22kt, avg ~18) but coincide with the rainy season, so rain undercuts consistency. Typical kites 8–14m. Warm year-round (water/air ~26–28C); board shorts + lycra, a shorty on windy Jun–Sep days. Water state is tide-driven: at low tide a huge shallow flat (and a 2.5km channel, 'The Pool', at low springs) gives glassy, butter-flat freestyle/learning water; rising and high tide bring lively chop and sandbank navigation, with a reef break ~3km offshore holding rideable swell for waves. Sandy bottom, no obstacles in the main zone. Skill: excellent for beginners and freeriders thanks to shallow flats, steady cross-on wind and a long downwind-safe beach; also rewards freestyle and a wave option. Launch/access: 4x4 recommended; Il Pirata (Pirate Kites) lodge/restaurant on the beach offers parking, accommodation, rescue and a kite school with launch/land/pump assistance. Hazards: sea urchins and rocks in limited areas exposed at low tide, the offshore reef, and big tidal range — mind your downwind position. Critical: Cabo Delgado has an active ISIS-linked insurgency since 2017 (kidnappings, attacks). As of 2026 the US rates Pemba 'Do Not Travel' (L4) and Canada/UK advise against travel. Verify current security and insurance before committing.