Adventurists and Sportists, if you search for‘the best place in the world to kite-surf’ the chances are you will discover Le Morne. Found on Mauritius’ South West coast it is marked by Le Morne Brabant mountain that rises out of the ocean like a beacon for those in search of some sea, sand and kite-surf. The lagoon here is considered to be one of the safest and most picturesque areas to kite-surf in the world. Who wouldn’t want to ride the wind and waves surrounded by the lush tropical hills of a UNESCO World Heritage Site on one side and the azure Indian Ocean on the other?
The wide lagoon and shallow flat water at Le Morne are ideal for beginners and advanced riders alike and is protected by a reef further out to sea. You want waves? They can be found here too, the famous Manawa and One Eye are not for the faint-hearted and are just 600m from the lagoon. Sportists can enjoy free riding and wake style to their hearts content, plus lots of downwind glides in the steady South easterly winds. Le Morne is busy during winter with kite surfers from all over the world.There is a great atmosphere and also time to rest as there is no kite surfing for one to two hours at low tide.
It will take between 6 and 10 hours of lessons to feel confident and begin to learn the techniques of this extreme sport. As your skills improve, it will open up possibilities for performing freestyle, wave-riding, jumping and air-style. During the lessons you’ll learn how to control your kite, body drag, water start and if you learn quickly, how to get air! You’ll soon be wave riding like a pro. Free ride is the most popular style and this is how you’ll start if you are a beginner. Most boards and set-ups are designed for free ride and you’ll be given an International Kite-boarding Organization (IKO) progression card by your instructor.
Top Tips
When to go
Best time
Winter – yes even Mauritius has a winter! The best months are from June to September, this is the main wind season with wind speeds from 18 to 35 knots and water temperatures 22°C on average. Full wet suit recommended.
Mid-season
April/May and October/November. You won’t have wind everyday and it will average between 10 and 25 knots but there are plenty of other sea activities to enjoy with the warmer weather. Shorty wet suit will be fine.
Summer season
December to March. Not as many windy days as the rest of the year and blowing mostly in the afternoons between 10 and 25 knots. Trade winds make room for thermal winds and the weather is hot. Board shorts and Lycra are ideal.
Where to stay
LUX* Le Morne – A 5* resort sheltered at the foot of rugged, majestic Le Morne, this is where to tune in with nature.
The St. Regis Mauritius Resort – Retreat to a 5* stunning beachfront setting surrounded by a tranquil turquoise lagoon overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Paradis Beachcomber – One of the finest luxury hotels in Mauritius, Paradis Beachcomber enjoys a superb location on the island’s south-western tip.
