World-class riding spot – IKO-certified school

Kitesurfing School in Madagascar · Sakalava Bay

Learn to kitesurf at one of the world’s most beautiful spots with our IKO-certified school. Progress safely from complete beginner to experienced rider in the legendary Sakalava Bay.

Unique wind statistics

The lagoon at Sakalava Bay, a paradise for learning

Bathed by the legendary ‘Varatraza’ wind, which blows constantly and steadily from mid-March to the end of November, the Sakalava lagoon (near Diego Suarez) is one of the best spots in the world for learning or improving your board sports skills.

The water here is warm, shallow at low tide, and protected by a natural coral reef that creates a flat water surface, perfect for learning kitesurfing, windsurfing and wingfoiling in a relaxed atmosphere.

Over 98% of days are suitable for riding throughout the season. Put simply, if you come for ten days, you won’t leave without having had a go.

Teaching & safety

Our teaching programmes

Led by experienced instructors, our lessons are tailored precisely to your pace and your learning objectives.

Beginner level

Introductory Course

Learn how to fly a kite, familiarise yourself with the safety systems and take your first runs on the lagoon. Your instructor will provide one-to-one guidance, at your own pace.

Intermediate level

Further training

Ride upwind, practise your transitions and gain confidence. From reliable waterstarts on both sides to speed control, our instructors will guide your progress on Sakalava Bay, so you can ride on your own with complete confidence.

New sensations

Children's kites

Introduce your children to kitesurfing from the age of 12 (minimum weight 30 kg), with lessons tailored to their age and ability.

Course fees

Kitesurfing prices

Private lessons from €60 per hour · 7-night package with full board and 10 hours of IKO lessons from €800 per person.

Safety

IKO coaching and Ocean Lodge support

At Ocean Lodge, you’ll receive professional and caring support. Our school is run by Alex, an IKO Level 3 instructor with 18 seasons’ experience at the Sakalava spot. Each student is assigned a dedicated instructor for the duration of their stay: you won’t be changing instructors from one day to the next.

Our IKO-certified instructors are on the water at all times and provide constant supervision of the lagoon. Assistance is always available, whether you’re in a lesson or out on your own.

The side-onshore wind always blows you back towards the beach: that’s what makes this spot so safe for beginners.

Equipment & services plus

Luxury rentals & complete safety

For independent riders, our centre offers a full range of the latest kit for hire: Airush Lithium (all-round), Session (wave), Ultra (light wind) and Cabrinha Moto (all-round) kites – a kite for every condition. Twin-tip and surf boards.

Bringing your own kit? Storage is free and secure at the lodge.

Our beach team is on hand to guide you, ensure your launches and landings are safe, and keep a constant watch over the Sakalava lagoon.

For sailing enthusiasts

Downwind towards the Emerald Sea

Reserved for independent riders, the downwind trip to the Emerald Sea is one of the most memorable experiences the spot has to offer.

We organise the logistics and the return journey.

Between sessions

Enjoy our restaurant overlooking the lagoon

After your session, enjoy a range of homemade dishes, created by our pastry chef. There are two menus to choose from at every meal (lunch and dinner), with no fixed times: you can eat whenever you get out of the water.

Fun & Fly Partner

A spot recognised by experts

Ocean Lodge is listed and marketed by Fun & Fly, the French tour operator specialising in kitesurfing and windsurfing holidays. If you’re unsure about booking accommodation 9,000 km away from home, this should put your mind at ease.

Experience the adventure

Ready to go riding at Sakalava Bay?

Plan a comprehensive, stress-free holiday at the Ocean Lodge. Please let us know your ability level, your requirements for lessons or equipment hire, and your dates. We’ll send you a bespoke package combining accommodation right by the surf spot, half-board or full-board, and water sports activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions to ask before booking your kitesurfing lesson.