Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 4 years of historical weather data.
12%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
7.7kts
Avg Wind
year-round
17°
Avg Temp
feels 16°
4yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🌀
RiverSpot Type
AdvancedSkill Level
Flowing freshwater with currents to consider
About This Spot
Gariep River Mouth is a river-based kitesurfing location in Namibia where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. This spot presents unique challenges due to its river-ocean interface, creating dynamic water conditions with rough surface texture visible in satellite imagery. The location experiences average waves of 2.07m and moderate winds averaging 7.7 knots, though wind reliability is notably low at 12%. The river mouth environment creates complex current patterns and tidal influences that vary significantly throughout the day. Side-shore conditions are optimal from northerly winds, allowing kiters to work perpendicular to the coastline. This spot suits experienced intermediate to advanced riders who understand river mouth dynamics and can navigate changing water conditions. Water temperatures average 17.2°C, requiring appropriate thermal protection. The low wind reliability and rough water conditions make this a location for patient kiters willing to wait for consistent wind windows. Best sessions typically occur during favorable wind direction periods when side-shore alignment minimizes the challenges of the river mouth environment.
Hazards & Safety
River mouth dynamics and changing currents
Rough water conditions
Limited fetch distance in river environment
Potential debris and underwater obstacles
Low wind reliability (12%)
Strong tidal influences at river mouth
Live Wind Forecast
Real-time wind conditions and 10-day forecast powered by ECMWF
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Wind speeds shown in knots (kt). Tap expand for full-screen view. Forecast updates every 6 hours from European weather model.
Water Conditions
Historical ocean data for wetsuit planning & water type
14°C
Avg Water Temp
2.1m
Avg Waves
🌊 Rough
Typical Conditions
🧥 4/3mm Fullsuit
Typical Wetsuit
Very rough conditions, advanced only
Wind Characteristics
SDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
10%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
42%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
31%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 4 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
16%
9kts
20°
16°
PM
~0d
Feb
12%
8kts
20°
16°
PM
~1d
Mar
5%
7kts
19°feels 20°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water