Mauritius
A kitesurfing lesson in Mauritius typically starts with 30-45 minutes on land learning how to control the kite, then moves into shallow water for body dragging and your first rides. Expect a physical workout – you'll use muscles you didn't know existed – and a lot of water time. Most beginners get up and riding (even briefly) within a 3-4 hour introductory lesson, though real progress usually needs 2-3 sessions. The flat water lagoons around the island are ideal for learning, but you'll also deal with trade winds that can be gusty.
The best time is May to October during the southeast trade winds, which blow consistently 15-25 knots. December to February can work but winds are lighter and less reliable. Expect to pay around $150-250 for a private 3-hour beginner lesson including equipment. Group lessons drop to $80-130 per person. Full equipment rental afterwards runs about $50-70 per day.
Pick a school with IKO-certified instructors and small groups (max 2 students per teacher). Skip the absolute cheapest operators – the quality of teaching and safety standards vary wildly. If you're a total beginner, book a morning session when winds are usually cleaner. Bring reef shoes, plenty of sunscreen, and a rash guard. The learning curve is steep but the feeling when you first plane across the water makes it worth it.