Paragliding in Medellín

Where you fly from

The launch site is San Félix, a village high on the western hillside above Bello. From there the whole valley opens up: Medellín below, the ridges either side, and on a clear day the mountains to the east. Several schools operate off the same slope, all with certified pilots flying tandem, which is what any visitor without training does.

What the flight is like

Take-off is three running steps and then you are airborne — no free fall, no stomach drop. A standard flight lasts fifteen to twenty-five minutes depending on wind, and you can ask for longer or for some acrobatics if your stomach agrees. The pilot flies the whole time; you sit in a harness with your hands free. Photos and video are arranged separately with the school.

Timing and weather

The best winds are between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.: that is the window that works. After two in the afternoon the wind shifts, cloud builds on the slope and cancellations become likely. In the rainy season, plan it with a spare day in case you need a second attempt.

Who can fly

No experience needed. Schools work with a weight limit, usually around a hundred kilos, and will not fly you with heart conditions, recent back injuries or during pregnancy. Children fly accompanied from a certain age depending on the school. Comfortable clothes, closed shoes and a light jacket: it is breezy up there even when the city is hot.

Getting there and what you pay

The road to San Félix climbs the mountain and public transport does not reach it comfortably. With us it is a full package: hotel pickup, the drive up, your flight, a tasting of pan de chocha with hot chocolate, and the ride back. The private transfer is USD $101 (about $320,000 COP) per car, charged once for up to 4 people, and each person who flies adds USD $89 (about $280,000 COP): USD $190 for one person, $279 for two, $368 for three and $457 for four. Anyone who does not fly rides along at no extra cost.

Frequently asked questions