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

Mornings are best: steadier air, fewer clouds, clean views. Nine to noon 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. Our private transfer is USD $78 (about $320,000 COP) for the vehicle, up to 4 people: hotel pickup, the drive up, waiting while you fly, and the ride back. The flight itself is paid directly to the school on site and runs around fifty dollars depending on duration and operator. Keeping the two separate is the honest way to do it — we take no commission on the flight.

Frequently asked questions