Amazing flights from the highest peaks to the most beautiful beaches can be done in the Canary Islands. Various mountainsides, ravines, and peaks on each of the seven islands offer high-quality take-off sites. The presence of constant Trade winds will ensure you of a flight to enjoy. The island of Tenerife is a very popular spot for this activity, as it is home to some of the best areas for paragliding in the Canary Islands. Every day people set off from Adeje’s mountains. Here the most popular spot is Taucho. But this destination is recommended only for the most experienced paragliders. The north of Tenerife is home to another great paragliding spot—La Corona. The flight starts at 785 metres above sea level, taking you over Los Realejos to the beach of El Socorro with its soft black sand. Once this area was chosen for hosting the most important annual paragliding and free flight festival in the world—Parafest. The festival settled here for several years. Izaña, located in the centre of Tenerife, offers one of the best flights with the take offs at the height of 2,300 metres above sea level. From the highest peaks of the Teide National Park, you can take a calm 45-minute flight to the beautiful Orotava Valley and tourist resort of Puerto de la Cruz. More than 40 different locations in Tenerife are ideal for paragliding, so you can definitely find something for yourself.
The island of La Palma has around eight official take-offs and only one beach suitable for landing. They are all mainly concentrated on the west of the island. The main flying area can be found in the municipality of Puntallana. The take off point is located at a height of 430 metres. The landing can be performed near the road or on Nogales beach. There are strong north winds, which may make this area rather turbulent. The most popular flying spot on La Palma is Puerto Naos. Here you'll find a great combination of flying and unforgettable landscapes. The take off is suitable for both experts and beginners, while landings take place near the promenade. Only in emergency cases, you can land on the beach. Lanzarote island is considered the best in some regards. The constant west-northwest winds make it possible to do sport like paragliding. The take-off spots are at an altitude of 450 metres, and the landings are quite easy due to the abundance of flat areas where they can be performed. For any of the islands you choose, the most suitable flying conditions can be found during the winter, starting from October and lasting till March.
Practical info
When is the optimal period to attempt paragliding in the Canary Islands?
Paragliding in the Canary Islands is best attempted during the period of winter stretching from October to March. Warm air pockets form during this season creating the perfect conditions for gliders to soar higher and longer. With stable trade winds, that assist in gaining height, one can take in amazing views across the sixteen islands that make up the volcanic archipelago, with the temperature usually around 20℃. Show more
Which are the most recommended places to go paragliding in Tenerife?
Tenerife boasts of over 40 locations ideal for paragliding. The three most fashionable ones are Taucho, La Corona, and Izaña. La Corona, at a height of 785 meters above sea level, takes gliders over Los Realejos to the charming El Socorro beach. Izaña enables flyers to experience the best flight to the excellent Orotava Valley and Resort of Puerto de la Cruz, from its takeoff spot, 2,300 meters above sea level. While Taucho is challenging and recommended for experienced gliders. Show more
Which Canary Island is regarded as the perfect location for paragliding?
Lanzarote Island is considered the best for paragliding due to the stable westerly-northwesterly winds that blow continually, providing favorable conditions for paragliding. There are fantastic takeoff points at an altitude of 450 meters and landing locations are ample and flat. Both beginners and experts can safely fly here, with the volcanic scenery of Lanzarote Island adding a beautiful perspective to the aerial view. Show more
Are the takeoff points suitable for beginners and experienced paragliders alike?
Yes. The takeoff points in the Canary Islands are suitable for anyone interested, with over 40 locations in Tenerife alone. While Taucho in Tenerife is more appropriate for experienced gliders, the locations of La Corona and Izaña offer ideal suitability for both the former and beginners. Additionally, Lanzarote Island presents exceptional takeoffs at 450 meters altitude, and landing spots with flat areas that are ideal for beginners to safely land. Show more
What experiences can I expect during a typical paragliding session in the Canary Islands?
When paragliding in the Canary Islands, expect to embark on a thrilling aerial journey across the sixteen islands of the volcanic archipelago. The flight period may take approximately 45 minutes, contingent on the height of the takeoff point, and the weather conditions of the day. The Canary Islands' weather, with constant trade winds and warm air pockets, is perfect for soaring higher and longer and enjoying the breathtaking scenery of islands like Tenerife, Lanzarote, and La Palma. Show more
