Paragliding is a one-of-a-kind experience, and you need to try it at least once in your lifetime. The flight itself is a wild experience, thrill and adrenaline are running through your body as you look out into the miles and miles of sky.
What makes paragliding amazing is the views you get from such an unusual line of sight. It’s not often you get to look down to earth as you fly across the sky!
It is exhilarating to fly in one of the best paragliding locations, and it will be a story you can tell for years; that’s why I created this list to break down the most popular paragliding spots in the world so you can pick and choose your next adventure!
Let’s look at the 25 best and most famous places to go paragliding in the world:
1. Interlaken, Switzerland
The first destination at the top of the list is Interlaken, Switzerland; think of it as your all-in-one stop destination for extreme activities! A plus is that it has great weather conditions, perfect for paragliding.
The paragliding community in Interlaken is spot on and welcomes everyone with open arms. They also hold various events, such as competitions and gatherings, for those who love or are interested in the sport.
The views of rocky mountains covered in snow make for an unforgettable paragliding experience. You will also see the beautiful city of Interlaken, along with bright turquoise water from Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
There’s really nothing quite like sky-high views like paragliding in Interlaken.
2. Queenstown, New Zealand
Theres no surprise Queensland is on this list, it is the adventure capital of the world!
When paragliding in Queenstown, you will get the best views of Whakatipu Basin, which is why so many people travel there for paragliding. Not to mention, the operators and instructors in the area have outstanding paragliding safety records, so you can relax and enjoy the trip if you are a tandem passenger!
It was the early 1990s when paragliding began to get popular in Queenstown, in 1991 the first paragliding company started. People would love hiking the mountains and getting to sail out into the sky looking around to see the unbelievable surroundings.
If you like to paraglide, but the weather doesn’t cooperate, no worries, you can zipline, bungy jump, and do so much more!
3. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh, India
Bir Billing has an excellent reputation when it comes to air currents. Because the thermals and air currents are so excellent, it’s one of the best places to take flight on your paraglide. In fact, the very first Paragliding World Cup was hosted in Bir Billing back in 2015.
The air currents are so good that paragliders can travel hundreds of miles if they fly from the correct launching spot. There is no better feeling for a paraglider than to experience a long term flight!
The cross-country flights allow fliers to see Asia in a new light, with the Himalayans serving as a fantastic backdrop. Watch the video above and decide for yourself!
4. Iquique, Chile
Paragliding in Iquique, Chile, is considered one of the best locations in the world for this thrilling aerial sport. Iquique is situated along the northern coast of Chile and offers a unique combination of ideal weather conditions, stunning landscapes, and diverse flying sites.
Iquique has a desert climate with nearly year-round clear skies and consistent winds, making it a perfect place for paragliding. The wind conditions are particularly favorable due to the coastal geography and the presence of the Pacific Ocean.
There are several renowned paragliding sites in Iquique that cater to pilots of all skill levels:
- Alto Hospicio: Located in the hills above Iquique, this site offers incredible views of the city, coastline, and the Pacific Ocean. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced pilots.
- La Puntilla: Situated near the city center, La Puntilla is a popular launch site where pilots can soar over the beach and enjoy panoramic views of Iquique and its surroundings.
- Cerro Dragon: This site is known for its unique flying conditions, with strong thermals and crosswinds. It is recommended for experienced pilots seeking a more challenging flying experience.
Iquique hosts various paragliding competitions and events throughout the year, attracting both national and international participants. These events showcase the skills of top pilots and contribute to the vibrant paragliding community in the region.
5. Pokhara, Nepal
Nepal is home to the famous Mount Everest and a great place to embark on a mountain adventure. However, it’s also one of the best places to paraglide. So many paragliders come to Nepal first and foremost due to the scenery. Depending on the time of year, you’ll either get to immerse your eyes in the snow-capped mountains or the gorgeous greenery below.
However, I chose Nepal due to the thermal updrafts, which provide favorable flying conditions. This allows for a more extended flight and an excellent opportunity to practice your flying skill and tricks.
6. Oludeniz, Turkey
One destination that almost every paraglider I have talked to wants to visit is Oludeniz, Turkey, solely for the Oludeniz Blue Lagoon. The lagoon is dark blue, with bright, turquoise shallow waters and white sandy beaches. Honestly, it reminds me of the Great Prismatic Spring in Wyoming! (Of course, it’s not nearly as hot.)
This location is well known for international competitions and events, such as the Oludeniz Air Games. This is where people can showcase their professional skills.
7. Gudauri, Georgia
There is so much that I can say about Gudauri when it comes to paragliding, but the point I want to make is that this is the perfect location for anyone who wants to experience the sport. However, the best time to go would be in the wintertime because that’s when it’s most popular.
It’s great for those who want a more relaxing flight, so you can pay attention to the beautiful surrounding terrain. On the other hand, it’s also fit for those who prefer more of an adrenaline rush as there are launching sites at higher altitudes, making it possible for the tricks!
Lastly, because of the air currents here, it’s also great for those who prefer more of a cross-country style trip. So, regardless of your paragliding background, this is one of the best places to go!
8. Bassano, Italy
Bassano has no shortage of starting places when it comes to paragliding! However, one magical spot is located on the southern side of the Dolomites as it’s not vulnerable to strong wind gusts.
So, even in awful weather, you can still fly from this spot. A few of the other spots include Stella, Monte Grappa, Costa Lunga, Da Beppi, and Col Serai. The elevation of these sites ranges from 520 meters to 1550 meters.
However, if you had to choose one site, I would recommend Monte Grappa as it’s considered the paraglider paradise in Italy. The mountains in the Monte Grappa make for a very calm, relaxing flight in comparison to the Dolomites, where you can expect a more adrenaline-inducing experience. The weather overall has favorable flying conditions, making it a popular place for paragliders to visit.
9. Valle de Bravo, Mexico
If you want a unique experience, go paragliding in Valle de Bravo. One of the launch sites here, El Peñón, allows flyers to launch from a gigantic rock that looks like a mountain, although not nearly as high. Plus, it allows for gentle flying for anyone who wants a more relaxing flight.
Yet again, this area hosts various paragliding competitions friendly to pilots of all levels. The local community loves to participate in organizing the events, as they’re some of the best supporters!
10. Umbria, Italy
For a change of pace, I would choose to paraglide in Umbria only for the greenery! How amazing would it be to see all the vineyards, olive groves, and green rolling hills from up high? However, if the scenery were the only factor that made a location ideal for paragliding, virtually everywhere would be the perfect place.
My favorite part about Umbria is the ease of accessibility to paragliding! There are many sites to launch from and a plethora of paragliding schools. Therefore, even the most inexperienced paragliders can enjoy the sky!
11. Canoa Quebrada, Brazil 
While I’ve never paraglided in Brazil, I have gone over dunes, and I will say that the desert has to be one of my favorite places in the world. Therefore, I can only assume that Canoa Quebrada in Brazil is quite an experience.
Aside from the beauty, Canoa Quebrada has consistent weather, making predicting the best flying times easy. The winds from the sea help keep you in the air much longer and allow opportunities to practice your skills and tricks.
12. Julian Alps, Slovenia
If inclusiveness is essential to you when looking for an ideal place to go paragliding, check out the Julian Alps in Slovenia. Mangart, Stol, Krvavec, and Vogel are the most popular launch sites. Each site has a different level of difficulty.
You can launch from the mountains or on a gentle hill slope here. Therefore, no matter your skill level, you can go paragliding here. Of course, the favorable flying conditions allow for some great flying opportunities.
The weather here is so great that several cross-country paragliding adventures are held there! If you’re a skilled paraglider, you can do this alone! However, I always recommend someone bring at least one to two other people because the more, the merrier; plus, you can’t forget about the safety aspect too.
13. Sun Valley, Idaho
Bald Mountain is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Idaho, and it’s home to some of the best paragliding in the northwest. Not only that, but it’s a haven for other outdoor sports such as heli-skiing, snowboarding, horseback riding, and hiking.
When you come here for your trip, you’ll need to contact a local guide, as certain areas will require permits to fly. Some of these areas include Bald Mountain, Greenhorn, Mindbender, Sky Ridge, and Sun Peak.
The scenery here is nothing short of amazing! While I haven’t been paragliding in this area, I’ve visited several times. It’s beautiful on the ground, so I could just imagine how high it would be!
14. San Gil, Colombia
One of the main reasons that people visit San Gil is to paraglide, as the paragliding community there is pretty incredible. There are several excellent options as far as flights go. However, the best one would be the flight over Chicamocha Canyon.
While the wind gusts can be somewhat strong, the flight is wonderful. For those who don’t paraglide solo, there are tandem glides offered in which a professional pilot will fly with you and do tricks as you wish. The best part about this particular site is it’s one of the few where you can land right where you took off from.
15. Annecy, France
France is more than just museums, historical landmarks, and rich culture; there are plenty of countrysides to be seen, and what better way to see it than paragliding? The mountains are gorgeous, especially as a backdrop against Lake Annecy. The turquoise lake mixed with the mountaintops covered in white leaves most paragliders in a state of awe.
France is another country that’s favorable towards cross-country paragliding. The area boasts reliable winds, and a large variety of landing areas, making it safe to cover significant distances.
16. Kerio Valley, Kenya
Kerio Valley is one of the most beautiful places to go paragliding; however, I highly suggest that all paragliders seek guidance from local pilots. The location is rather peculiar regarding weather patterns, so if you don’t know the area, it may be best to consult someone the first several times.
But don’t let this be a problem! The dramatic landscapes are what makes this area such a great place to go paragliding, as there’s nothing quite like it. You’ll get a glimpse of the remote, untouched side of Kenya, something that a lot of people don’t get to see.
17. Hawaii
Oahu would have to be, hands down, one of the best islands that you can go paragliding on in Hawaii. It’s home to some beautiful places, such as the Makapu’u Cliffs, Koko Crater, and Diamond Head. Not to mention, while you’re flying, you’ll get to view all of these with the Pacific Ocean right alongside.
However, there is more to Oahu than just beautiful scenery! This island hosts some of the best extreme sports in Hawaii, like shark diving, ziplining, parasailing, and more. So, when you’re done with your paragliding adventure, you can hop into a related activity to get more of that heart-stopping action.
18. Lima, Peru
Lima, Peru, is famous for paragliding, namely in Miraflores, as the view of the ocean is unlike any other view you’ve ever seen. The launch point is on a cliff, directly over the water, adding a whole new element to your trip. But of course, there are other destinations with flights that are just as good such as Pasamayo and Pachacamac.
Whatever flight you decide, paragliding is a great way to see the different landscapes of Lima. It’s a great place to fly for those who want a more relaxing venture as opposed to one designed to keep your heart pumping.
19. Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza, Argentina, offers more than horseback riding. The landscape is a definite sight to behold, especially while you’re flying through the air. It is best known for the scenery, so if that’s the only thing you’re focused on, this would be the perfect paragliding spot.
There are plenty of launch spots here, the most popular being Cacheuta, Valle de Uco, and Potrerillos. Certain ones are great for short flights, while others are ideal for the cross-country paraglider looking to extend their flight for as long as possible.
Not to mention, it’s home to a wide array of outdoor adrenaline-inducing sports such as rock climbing, mountain climbing, mountain biking, and more. So, you can see the country in other ways instead of just paragliding.
20. Kamshet, Maharashtra, India
Kamshet, Maharashtra, India, has it all when it comes to paragliding! (Or at least, in my opinion, it does.) Not only is the weather pretty temperate and consistent, but it’s gorgeous to fly over the Western Ghats.
My friend once went here to paraglide with his pen pal, and he said the view is different than in any other place he’s ever visited. You’re flying over rolling hills and a lot of untouched land.
Furthermore, this area is inclusive to pilots of all skill levels; and even those who have not paraglided before. There are options to take a tandem flight with a professional pilot, so don’t weed this trip out due to your lack of experience.
21. Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife is a great place to paraglide due to the mountain ranges and the variety of launch points. It keeps paragliding enthusiasts coming back as you can keep challenging yourself to complete a flight that constantly challenges you.
You’ll get to see some beautiful scenery and choose between relaxing flights, cross-country flights, and some fun, adrenaline-packed adventure flights. It just depends on what you’re feeling that day!
22. Kefalonia, Greece
Now, this is an area I can personally speak to when it comes to paragliding, as I went back in 2012, and let me tell you; it was a great experience. It started with a trip to the Greek Islands but turned very quickly turned into one heck of an adventure.
I was pleasantly surprised at how well I could see everything! It was beautiful beyond words. My favorite view was the turquoise waters against the cliffs and vegetation. It’s unlike anything I’ve seen, especially when you put the colorful buildings in the mix.
This was a tandem glide that I went on, as Kefalonia is well known for its variety of paragliding instructors and schools. So, whether you want to certify for solo flights or hop on a flight with someone, they have options.
23. Dune Du Pyla, Gironde, France
Dune Du Pyla in Gironde, France, is an area well-known for outdoor sports, such as sandboarding and hiking. However, it’s also a great place to go paragliding as it gives you some fantastic views of the area. The best part about paragliding here is that there are plenty of spaces to take off and land.
This paragliding location is one of the best in the world for beginners because the weather is favorable, and there aren’t many obstructions. You can take off virtually anywhere that you want, within reason.
People of all paragliding levels share the air space, making it a busy yet fun adventure. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the France paragliding community.
24. Torrey Pines, La Jolla California
Torrey Pines is very well known for their hang gliding and paragliding communities. The weather is favorable most of the year (all seasons except for winter), attracting air sports enthusiasts worldwide.
However, It’s not just the paragliding community that makes this an excellent location is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in America and sunsets. There’s something about watching the evening sunset against the cliffs while soaring through the sky.
25. Madeira Island, Portugal
Paragliding is incredible on Madeira Island because of the topography! Paragliders love it because the tall cliffs and deep valleys provide fantastic room for favorable winds to move up and carry the glider to where you want to go.
However, this isn’t the main reason to paraglide here. After all, Madeira Island isn’t called the “Pearl of the Atlantic” for no reason. The scenery here is absolutely breathtaking! If anyone is making a sort of paragliding bucket list, you have to put this location on it. I know I am!
What Makes a Great Paragliding Location?
Several factors come into play when deciding whether a location is good for paragliding. Let’s take a look at these below.
Weather (Flyable Days)
Weather is the number one factor to make or break your paragliding experience. I’ve found that good locations have predictable weather so that you can choose the best days to safely fly in the sky.
The reason some of these locations are on our list below is that they have so many flyable days per year compared to other places. This means you can paraglide more often, sometimes daily! This is a huge plus for beginners as you can pick these locations to grow your skills, but what’s even better is you choose these locations, and your chances of being able to fly during your travels are much more likely.
The worst feeling in the world is booking a trip to paraglide, and the weather doesn’t cooperate. You end up wasting lots of money on your travels, and it makes you feel upset.
Consider places with more flyable days if you want to go paragliding more often during your stay.
The Views and Scenery
What I love most about paragliding is the scenery and the bird’s eye view of every location I fly. And what’s so great about the sport is you can view all sorts of terrain, such as mountains, forests, fields, coastlines, lakes, and more!
Of course, paragliding anywhere is thrilling, but choosing a unique location with spectacular views makes the experience so much more rewarding.
The Related Activities Nearby
One overlooked factor that makes for an excellent paragliding location is the nearby related paragliding activities. As I said before, you may not get to paraglide if the weather is not cooperating. You may still be able to do some related activities that are thrilling and great for adrenaline junkies.
Research prior or look around once you show, many popular paragliding areas are adventure cities and offer some cool thrilling activities. For example, paragliding in Queensland, New Zealand is amazing because it is the adventure capital of the world. Whether you want to bungee jump or zipline, Queensland has it all.
Choosing a location like Queenstown you are guaranteed a fun adventure vacation!
Final Thoughts
Paragliding is not your typical sport, you get to witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes our world has to offer from a perspective 99% of the world never has the chance to do. From the natural beauty of Switzerland’s Alps all the way to the thrilling vistas of Nepal’s towering peaks, each destination I placed on this list offers you with beautiful views or a great learning environment.
It does not matter if you are an experienced pilot or a first-time flyer; these top 25 locations will provide the best possible paragliding experience our big world has to offer you.
I hope you enjoy your next launch into the sky!
When Heather is not participating in extreme sports you can find her working the events across the country, or writing about these amazing adrenaline rushes. She loves to go skydiving, snowboarding, parasailing, hang gliding, dirt boarding, off-roading and hiking.