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Paragliding in Tenerife is a soul-stirring adventure that combines wild Atlantic coastlines, dramatic cliffs, volcanic terrain, and year-round sunshine. As the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, Tenerife offers diverse take-off points and flight zones that cater to both beginners and seasoned paragliders.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover what makes Tenerife a top destination for paragliding, where to fly, how to prepare, and why thousands of adventure seekers flock to this paradise each year.
Why Choose Paragliding in Tenerife?
Ideal Flying Conditions All Year
Thanks to its subtropical climate, Tenerife is flyable nearly every month of the year. Average daytime temperatures hover between 20°C and 30°C, and coastal winds provide the thermals needed for long, smooth flights. The island’s topography creates microclimates and thermodynamic lift zones that offer excellent altitude gains.
Diverse Take-Off Zones
From sea cliffs to volcanic slopes, the island features more than a dozen launch sites, including:
- Taucho: Popular with beginners and tandem flights
- Ifonche: Great for thermal soaring and cross-country
- Los Realejos: Offers panoramic views of the north coast
- Izaña: A high-altitude site near Mount Teide, suitable for experienced pilots
No matter your skill level, Tenerife has the terrain and weather to match.
paragliding tenerife
What It’s Like to Paraglide in Tenerife
Tandem Flights: No Experience Needed
Most visitors go for tandem flights with certified instructors. These flights last between 20–40 minutes, depending on conditions and launch point. After a short safety briefing, you’ll take off from a scenic cliff and soar above beaches, banana plantations, and lava fields.
Views That Leave You Breathless
Paragliders often describe their Tenerife flights as flying through multiple worlds: soaring above the lush Anaga forests one moment, drifting along cliffs in the south the next, and gazing out over the vast Atlantic Ocean the entire time.
Safe, Smooth Landings
Landings typically happen on designated beaches or clearings. Operators communicate with ground teams to ensure optimal landing spots based on wind shifts and other conditions.
Best Time for Paragliding in Tenerife
Tenerife’s climate makes it a year-round paragliding destination, but here’s a seasonal breakdown:
- Spring (March–May): Great thermals, moderate winds
- Summer (June–August): Stronger thermals, long days
- Autumn (September–November): Ideal weather, less crowded
- Winter (December–February): Still flyable, especially in the south
Morning flights often have calmer conditions, while afternoons may offer stronger lift for cross-country attempts.
Recommended Paragliding Schools and Operators
Choosing a licensed, safety-first operator is key. Some of the top-rated providers in Tenerife include:
- Tenerife Top Paragliding – One of the most popular tandem flight services with multilingual guides
- Overfly Tenerife – Excellent reputation for beginner-friendly flights and top safety practices
- Fly Tenerife – Offers high-altitude flights from Izaña with stunning views of Mount Teide
Packages usually include transportation, insurance, safety gear, and optional media packages.
Cost of Paragliding in Tenerife
Typical Prices
Expect to pay between €90 and €150 for a tandem flight, depending on the take-off site and flight duration.
Optional Extras
- Photos & videos: €20–€30
- Longer flights: Some offer 45-minute sessions for an additional fee
- Hotel pickup: Often included or available at a small surcharge
While it’s a premium experience, the thrill and views easily justify the price.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Essentials
- Closed-toe shoes (like hiking boots or trainers)
- Comfortable clothing suitable for mild winds and temperatures
- Sunglasses with straps
- A small camera or GoPro (optional, many operators provide HD footage)
Fitness & Health
You don’t need to be an athlete, but a basic level of fitness helps. Avoid heavy meals right before the flight, and inform your instructor of any health issues.
Other Activities in Tenerife for Adventure Lovers
Tenerife isn’t just about the skies. After your flight, try these activities:
- Hike Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak
- Whale-watching tours from Los Gigantes
- Scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters around El Puertito
- Surfing at Playa de las Américas
With so much to do, Tenerife easily becomes a full adventure holiday.
Paragliding Safety in Tenerife
Strict Regulations
Tenerife adheres to EU aviation safety standards, and all operators must be certified and insured. Tandem pilots carry updated licenses and emergency equipment, and the main launch zones have clear safety protocols.
Emergency Services
Tenerife has quick-response mountain and marine rescue units, and communication between pilots and base teams ensures immediate support if needed.
Links to Other Paragliding Hotspots
Tenerife may be a highlight, but the adventure doesn’t stop here. Check out these top destinations for paragliding across the globe:
- Soar above the Blue Lagoon in Turkey with paragliding Ölüdeniz
- Discover lush cliffs and ocean views with paragliding in Madeira
- For highland thrills, explore paragliding in Scotland
- Planning an island trip? Don’t miss paragliding in Bali or paragliding in Lanzarote
- Heading Down Under? Try paragliding New Zealand or paragliding Queenstown
- Flying in the U.S.? Check out paragliding Los Angeles or paragliding Jackson Hole Wyoming
And don’t forget to find spots near you or explore our complete guide to the best paragliding locations.
Conclusion: Is Paragliding in Tenerife Worth It?
Without a doubt. With its year-round flying conditions, breathtaking landscapes, and a wide variety of launch sites, paragliding Tenerife offers one of the most diverse and rewarding flying experiences in Europe. Whether you’re ticking off your bucket list or coming back for the 10th time, Tenerife continues to inspire awe from the sky.
So gear up, trust your pilot, and experience the unforgettable freedom of paragliding in Tenerife—a destination where every flight feels like a dream.
