It seems like Albania was specially designed for paragliding! The slopes of gentle hills are good starting sites for hang gliders and paragliders. It offers windless flight weather, allowing you to build and successfully fly long routes in any direction. Paragliding in the south of the country is a delight with the fantastic views of the Albanian Riviera and its mountain landscapes. You can take a fascinating flight in tandem with a professional instructor or by yourself if you have such skills.
One of the most popular locations for paragliding is the area of Vlorë. In 2017 the city hosted the FAI World Paragliding Accuracy Championship. This is one of the most important events in the world of paragliding, that gathers hundreds of paragliding participants from more than 50 countries around the world.
Paragliding season in Albania runs from April to October. The most popular months are July to September.
Practical info
What is the best time of the year to go paragliding in Albania?
The Albanian paragliding season lasts from April to October, while the peak season runs between July and September. Paragliding is best done during these months, as the weather conditions are perfect for flying over the idyllic rolling hills and mountainous landscapes of the Albanian Mediterranean coastline. However, the weather is unpredictable, so it is crucial to check the weather forecast before heading out on a trip. Show more
Where is Vlorë, and why is it so popular for paragliding in Albania?
Vlorë is a Southern Albanian city renowned for being one of the most popular paragliding locations in Albania. In 2017, it hosted the prestigious FAI World Paragliding Accuracy Championship, which drew participants from more than 50 countries worldwide. The region's paragliding setup provides near-perfect weather conditions and idyllic views of Albanian Riviera's rolling hills and breathtaking mountain landscapes that make it a must-visit location for paragliders and tourists alike. Show more
Can I take a flight in tandem with a professional instructor, or can I fly by myself?
Flying solo requires proper paragliding skills and adherence to safety regulations, including putting on the right gear and weather checking. An alternative is to take a tandem flight with a professional instructor, which is highly recommended for beginners. During a tandem flight, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as the instructor takes charge of your safety. Such a flight ensures a perfect introduction to the sport and enhances your confidence before trying to fly solo. Show more
When was the FAI World Paragliding Accuracy Championship held in Vlorë?
Vlorë, Albania, was the venue for the FAI World Paragliding Accuracy Championship in 2017, which was a great boost for the paragliding sport globally. The competition attracted hundreds of participants from over fifty nations who showcased their paragliding skills, aiming to land on a designated target accurately. Competitors were scored based on their landing accuracy, with the winner declared based on the most points accrued throughout the championship rounds. Show more
What makes Albania an ideal location for paragliding compared to other popular destinations?
Albania's hilly mountainous terrain and weather are perfect for paragliding, more so during the peak season between July and September, when windless flying weather will let you fly extended distances any which way you want. Furthermore, the stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline and the mountainous landscape put it in a class above other destinations, and it is therefore highly sought after by paragliders globally. Show more
