Paragliding Flight

Discover Paragliding: An Unforgettable Aerial Experience

Paragliding is an aerial activity for flying using a wing and gliding through the air. Unlike other air sports, paragliding does not require a motor, which makes it environmentally friendly. This wing, called a canopy, is made of technical fabrics and lines that allow the pilot to control the flight. Paragliding offers a unique sensation, making every flight an unforgettable experience.

The First-Time Paragliding Flight

The first-time tandem paragliding flight is the perfect opportunity to discover the pleasure of free flight with no prior experience. This first flight, done in tandem with an instructor, allows beginners to taste the incredible sensations of paragliding in complete safety. Strapped to your instructor with a harness, you can focus on the landscape passing beneath your feet.

The pilot handles all technical maneuvers, leaving the passenger free to fully enjoy the experience. The goal is to give an overview of the unique sensations of paragliding while ensuring optimal safety. If conditions allow, you can ask to take the controls for a moment.

Whether it’s a gift for a loved one or an activity to try on your next vacation, paragliding is an ideal choice.

How a Tandem First Flight Unfolds

During your first paragliding flight, the adventure begins with a ground briefing with your instructor. They will explain how the flight will proceed, the safety instructions, and answer your questions. Equipped with a harness and a helmet, you will then head to the launch area. Once in position, a short run will be enough to find yourself in the open sky, carried by the canopy and rising air currents.

Your instructor, while ensuring your safety, can comment on the panorama and answer your questions. The descent will be smooth, with a landing on solid ground that will mark the end of this unique experience.

The first-time paragliding flight is a doorway to a world of sensations and aerial discoveries. It is an adventure accessible to everyone that promises lasting memories.

Paragliding Courses

For those who want to go further, a paragliding course is an excellent opportunity for an introduction to piloting. Whether you are a beginner or already have a few flights under your belt, the courses are designed to help you progress at your own pace. Learn the basics, master takeoffs and landings, and discover the secrets to optimizing your flights. Supervised by professionals, you will gain confidence and autonomy. These courses are offered in full-day or half-day formats.

Discover all the different paragliding flight and course options now and choose the one that suits you best. The courses are adapted to all levels, beginners or experienced pilots.

Introductory courses are perfect for beginners. They cover the basics of paragliding, including canopy handling, takeoff and landing techniques, as well as the first maneuvers in flight.

Progression courses allow you to consolidate your knowledge and learn more advanced techniques, such as tight turns, managing lift, and cross-country flights.

Advanced courses are intended for confirmed pilots who want to refine their skills, learn acrobatic maneuvers, or prepare for competition.

How a Paragliding Course Works: From Intro to Advanced

A paragliding course generally takes place over several days, offering intensive and progressive learning. The first day is often dedicated to theoretical classes on the basic principles of paragliding, meteorology, and safety rules.

In the following days, participants move on to practice, starting with ground handling to master the canopy and takeoff techniques. Then they perform supervised flights, accompanied by instructors who provide real-time advice. Each flight is debriefed to identify points for improvement and prepare for the next flights. The courses also include simulation sessions to practice maneuvers safely.

Progress during a paragliding course is fast thanks to personalized guidance and targeted exercises. Instructors adapt their teaching to the level and progress of each participant. At the end of the course, participants obtain a certification attesting to their skill level. In the United States, certification levels are issued by USHPA (United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association), from beginner level to advanced pilot level. These certifications are recognized by paragliding associations and allow pilots to fly independently at recognized flying sites.

Give a Paragliding Gift Certificate

It is possible to give a gift certificate for various occasions—wedding, birthday, and more. Our gift certificates are valid for 1 year and can be extended, and will allow the recipient to book a paragliding flight on the date of their choice. Visit our website to make someone happy.

Preparation and Tips for a Successful Paragliding Flight

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your aerial adventure and get the most out of your flight.

Required Equipment

To fly a paraglider, you will need specific essential equipment. The centerpiece is obviously the canopy, adapted to your level and your weight. Next, the harness ensures your comfort and safety in flight. A helmet is mandatory to protect your head in case of impact. Of course, all of this is provided during a first-time tandem flight.

Good high-top shoes offering good ankle support are also recommended. For cool days or at high altitude, a flight suit, warm clothing, and a windbreaker are necessary.

Finally, a radio is often used to communicate with instructors or other pilots, particularly during training courses.

Practical Tips for Beginners

For proper preparation of a paragliding flight, professional supervision is necessary to guarantee safety and progress. Before the flight, make sure you have clearly understood the instructions and safety guidelines provided by your instructor. During the flight, stay relaxed and follow the pilot’s or instructor’s directions. For a first experience, nervousness is completely normal. Do not hesitate to ask questions and request clarifications about flight and safety techniques.

Weather Conditions and Best Seasons

For safe flights, it is important to choose days with favorable weather conditions. The best conditions include light to moderate winds and stable weather with no thunderstorm risk. Thermals—those rising columns of warm air—are also favorable, as they allow you to gain altitude and extend the flight. In general, the best seasons for paragliding are spring and summer, when thermal conditions are most favorable. However, depending on the region, fall and winter can also offer good flying opportunities, particularly in mountainous areas.

Preparing a paragliding flight with care and attention is the key to a successful experience. By equipping yourself properly, following practical advice, and choosing the right weather conditions, you are sure to fully enjoy this aerial adventure.

Do You Have Questions? We Answer Them.

Can everyone go paragliding?

Yes, paragliding is accessible to most people. It is advisable to seek your doctor’s advice if you have particular medical issues. Each provider sets a limit for weight, height, and age. Read their terms carefully.

How should I dress for a paragliding flight?

Wear comfortable clothing suited to the outside temperature, and high-top shoes for ankle support. Make sure you have eaten lightly before the flight and are well hydrated.

Where can you go paragliding in the United States?

There are many launch sites in the United States, most of the time near terrain relief. To name just a few of the most famous, first-time tandem flights at Torrey Pines (San Diego, California) let you fly over the Pacific Ocean, as well as Maui (Hawaii), for example.

In the American West, you can take a paragliding flight in Colorado next to Telluride.

What are the ideal weather conditions for paragliding?

The best weather conditions for paragliding are light to moderate winds and stable weather without thunderstorm risks. Spring and summer are generally the most suitable seasons for paragliding.

What is the price of a tandem first-time paragliding flight?

This varies greatly depending on the location, but especially on the flight duration. For a first-time tandem, expect about 150 to 250 USD for 10–15 minutes of flight.

Is paragliding safe?

Yes, paragliding is safe when practiced with equipment in good condition and under the supervision of qualified professionals. Paragliding schools and instructors ensure flight safety thanks to proper equipment and strict safety guidelines.

What to do in case of fear or vertigo?

Inform your instructor of your concerns before the flight. They are trained to help overcome these fears and put you at ease. Start with a tandem flight to get familiar safely. Note that vertigo is almost never felt in paragliding.

What is the best place to go paragliding?

This question is very hard to answer, because depending on the landscapes we prefer, one flight will be more interesting than another. But if we had to choose only one, paragliding at Torrey Pines on the edge of the Pacific Ocean is very famous because the coastal scenery and its cliffs will amaze you and leave unforgettable memories.

Jump or flight in paragliding?

Many people talk about a “paragliding jump,” but that is more appropriate for skydiving; we fly in paragliding, so “paragliding flight” is the real term used by everyone.

Different Places in the United States to Go Paragliding

Whether you want to book a paragliding flight in California and fly over the beaches of the West Coast, or you want to give a paragliding flight in the Rockies (Colorado/Utah) to showcase the mountains, you will surely find the ideal place to take off, assisted by an experienced instructor.