Paragliding, which was inspired by parachuting, is well-loved as it makes the most common dream of all come true: To fly.
Because of the excitement and delight that paragliding brings, it remains to be one of the most distinguished and enjoyed aerial sports in the whole world.
Experiencing this sport may be quite demanding in terms of financial expenses and pre-flight practices one has to be ready with, but the inexplicable joy it sends is unmatched. Not to mention, paragliding can teach you so much about holding control, managing discipline and valuing life. With proper learning, training and accompaniment of an expert glider, you can surely have a memorable experience up in the sky!
What’s even more thrilling is the presence of the beautifully stupendous creation! And you can see them all from hundreds and even thousands of feet above the ground. That’s nerve-racking and bracing! When it comes to looking for places where to experience paragliding, there are countless options across the world!
To give you a glimpse, below are 10 jaw-dropping paragliding spots from different countries. Additionally, you will get to know a few important facts about these places too. Interesting! Read on, darling!
1 – Baixo Guandu, Brazil
Credits: Facebook – OZONE Paragliders – @mikadiazruiz
Baixo Guandu is a small municipality in Brazil which can be traversed just in a day, but that does not hinder it from being a winsome spot for paragliding.
This place is famous for its trades of sumptuous coffee, notably from the high mountains of Alto Mutum Preto. Located in the valley of the Rio Doce, Baixo Guandu has hot weather all year round. Its rainy season is usually cloudy while the dry season is steamy. The most ideal time of year to visit for safe paragliding is the warmer and not-so-windy periods which typically range from late May to early September.
Only two contending countries were faced with the golden opportunity of hosting the 4th FAI Pan-American Paragliding Championship in 2020, and it is Baixo Guandu that won against Guayaquil, Ecuador. The 11th Paragliding World Cup Superfinal which was to be held in Castelo was moved to Baixo Guandu in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
2 – Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia
Credits: Central Coast Paragliding
If it’s the charismatic scenery you’re talking about, the Central Coast in New South Wales can’t be last! From the ravishing beaches such as the Manly Beach, Terrigal Beach, Wamberal Beach and more to the gleaming waters of Toowoon Bay, Bateau Bay, Bittangabee Bay and more, no one can resist the Central Coast. The lovely land-based wonders are not yet mentioned there! This piece won’t be enough for them all!
There are long lists of licensed full-time paragliding academies providing various adept flying courses from skillful instructors. If you are eyeing on enrolling in one of those, you will definitely be taken care of well and taught professionally. Another great thing is that there are offers to soar over diverse parts of Australia in one flight! You can even explore other countries, too, which makes the Central Coast, NSW, paragliding experience even more unforgettable!
3 – Interlaken, Switzerland
Credits: Pinterest
The stunning adventure fields of Europe are without rival. Interlaken, the entrance to Switzerland’s matchless Jungfrau region, is one of the proofs.
Enjoy the snow-capped mountain ranges that will take your heart away! Truly one of its most celebrated attractions is its august crests perfect for paragliding. The allure of Switzerland can make any solo flight or tandem flight calming and astounding.
4 – Yangpyeong, South Korea
Credits: Trazy
South Korea’s grace has always been an honor to its locals and a charmer to tourists! Natural spectacles and manmade historic sites are all captivating!
One of the most remarkable paragliding sites in South Korea is in Yangpyeong in the province of Gyeonggi. In fact, there are only two of them, but they are both uniquely alluring and worth-visiting.
Many expert trainers and instructors in this micro-sport make sure that the guests are safe and enjoying themselves like in nowhere else. It’s a gleeful way to witness South Korea’s outstanding landscapes. This paragliding spot has been featured in some Korean dramas and variety shows, too, which makes this a bucket list-worthy destination for K-drama and K-variety show fans!
5 – Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
Credits: Pinterest
Composed of 6 islands, Bazaruto Archipelago showcases its pristine grandeur that has been barely affected by modernization. Meaning, its immaculateness has always been best.
Widely known for its white-sand beaches and glass-like waters, Bazaruto Archipelago is considered as one of the most romantic and sequestered havens for special celebrations and getaways.
Its mesmerizing tropical islands are filled with long and abundant histories which interests travelers even more. Living in glamorous reefs are beyond 2000 species of fish and other marine animals.
All these views and more are arresting enough just thinking about them. How much more when you experience roving over the skies of the Bazaruto Archipelago?! Unbelievably lovely!
6 – Palawan, Philippines
Credits: Belarmino Ventures
Talking about world-class beauty? Palawan in the Philippines cannot be skipped.
From the uncultivated elegance of nature to the zestful resorts by the shores, there are innumerable places to see in Palawan. It would definitely be a huge regret if you’re a foreigner who travels to the Philippines but misses to visit Palawan.
Paragliding in Palawan, you will be welcomed by scintillating cyan waters, unparalleled sandstone formations and exemplary beaches! A paradise on Earth, Palawan can never give you a dull soaring experience!
On top of that, as Filipinos are very hospitable, you will be assisted and accommated well. You can comfortably learn how to paraglide! Palawan is the one!
7 – Phulchowki, Nepal
Credits: Heain Treks
It’s many people’s goal to reach the summits of the Himalayas in Nepal. Well, that’s not surprising anymore because this country is home to 8 out of the 10 highest peaks in the globe! It’s undeniably monumental and never to be forgotten. 8 of 10? That’s a record!
If it’s about fun and gripping adventure, Nepal got it all. Kayaking crystal-clear waters, hiking great mountains, rafting over rushing rivers and more are there to encounter! Paragliding is one of the most loved adventurous activities in Nepal that takes tourists closer to the heart of this superb nation.
The highest grass-covered hill called Phulchowki is a favorite take-off spot for paragliding in Nepal. It is also tagged as the valley of flowers in the country. In truth, Phulchowki is among the major-league mountain tops circling the Kathmandu Valley.
As you travel through the air and look down, fineness that will leave you astounded is found. The richness of the picture-perfect beauty, with grassy lowlands, snowtopped mountains, swift rills, and many more you probably have never imagined will surely make you fall in love with Nepal!
Also read Adventure activities in Southeast Asia
8 – Castelluccio, Umbria, Italy
Credits: Pinterest
Known as the highest village in the Apennine Mountains, Castelluccio is full of riveting nature perfect for paragliding! The littleness of the place does not hamper it from being the striking beaut that it is in Italy.
With kaleidoscopic valleys filled with spring and summer blooms, you will cry and squeal in great joy. Paragliding here is without a doubt one for the books! Facilities are properly functional and trainers are kind. You can come to paraglide anytime. There’s nothing like the multicolored scenic paragliding terrains in Castelluccio.
9 – Valle de Bravo, México
Credits: Monarca Paragliding Valle de Bravo
Carrying a burst of cheer and competitiveness, Valle de Bravo is a gathering spot for many paragliders who come to showcase their skills in various paragliding competitions.
Being actually one of the best sites in the world, it is so famous among masterful paragliders. Because of the exceptional combination of its pleasant atmospheric state and its possession of splendid geography, Valle de Bravo is a highly valued paragliding spot.
10 – Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh, India
Credits: Quora
Unquestionably, India’s landscapes make for a gorgeous paragliding destination and other amusing adventures. Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh is just one of the evidences.
Full of pride and honor, it is considered as the Paragliding Capital of India. Billing, which is the take-off station, is known to be the highest paragliding point in the whole Asia! Imagine setting foot there after hovering over some of India’s bountiful and beautiful sweeps. That’s walking on cloud nine!
You may get all the butterflies in your stomach before flight but you will truly regret nothing at all! Paragliding in Bir Billing is managed by savvy gliders who aim to teach and take care of their guests, so everyone can have a cherished experience!
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SOAR OVER SPLENDOR
Experience paragliding at least once in your whole lifetime! Soar over splendor. Revel in heights’ peace. Appreciate the world’s comeliness and the Creator’s majesty. Paragliding will give you the best and most notable days of your life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nicole Ann Pore is a writer, an events host and a voice over artist. She finds quality and well-researched writing as a worthwhile avenue to enlighten and delight others about things that matter. For her, it’s restoring and fulfilling to the heart and a great way to clear the mind while loading it up with fresh learning. Film critiquing and filmmaking are among her interests too. Giving all the glory to God, Nicole graduated Cum Laude from De La Salle University Manila, Philippines with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts.