Rio de Janeiro: Hang Gliding Flight Over Pedra Bonita & Beach

Summary

Soaring above Rio’s green hills and city beaches with a local pilot

You’ll join your instructor in Rio de Janeiro for a hang gliding flight from Pedra Bonita ramp, soaring above Tijuca Forest and gliding past famous peaks before landing right on São Conrado beach. All equipment is provided, and your local guide handles everything — so you can focus on that first rush of flight (and maybe catching your breath afterwards).

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we pulled up to São Conrado beach that morning. I just remember feeling both excited and a little shaky, watching the hang gliders swoop down from the sky like birds that somehow knew exactly where to land. Our guide — Paulo, who had this easy laugh — met us by the landing zone and got us signed in at the club. There was a bit of nervous chatter among everyone, but Paulo just kept telling stories about flying here for years, so it sort of calmed me down. Well, mostly.

The drive up to Pedra Bonita ramp was bumpy and full of jokes (Paulo’s playlist was all samba classics). The air smelled like wet leaves after last night’s rain. At the top, the view over Rio de Janeiro hit me harder than I thought — you see the whole city: forest, skyscrapers, ocean. I tried not to look down too much while they strapped me in. My hands were sweating but Paulo just grinned and said “It’s easier than riding a bike.” Not sure I believe him still.

Then suddenly we were running together off the ramp — no time to think — and we were flying over Tijuca Forest, floating right past Pedra da Gávea. The wind felt cold against my cheeks but it was quiet up there, except for Paulo pointing out tiny surfers below or shouting “Look left!” whenever something cool appeared (I missed half of them because I couldn’t stop staring at the coastline). We spiraled slowly toward São Conrado beach; landing felt almost gentle compared to how wild my heart was beating. I still think about that view sometimes when I close my eyes at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hang gliding flight from Pedra Bonita

• Meet at landing area
• Enroll in hang gliding club
• Climb ramp in instructor's car
• Fly next to Pedra Bonita and Pedra da Gavea
• Land at Sao Conrado Beach

Top questions

Where does the hang gliding tour in Rio de Janeiro start?

The tour starts at the landing area on São Conrado Beach.

Is equipment included for hang gliding in Rio?

Yes, all necessary equipment including helmet and emergency parachute is included.

Do I need previous experience for this hang gliding flight?

No experience is needed; an instructor flies with you.

What is the weight limit for hang gliding in Rio?

The standard weight limit is 80kg; above that depends on weather conditions.

Where do we take off during this day trip?

You take off from Pedra Bonita ramp inside Tijuca Forest.

Where does the flight land?

The flight lands on São Conrado Beach in Rio de Janeiro.

Are small children or infants allowed on this tour?

Infants can be present in a pram or stroller at the meeting area but cannot fly.

Is public transportation available near the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your instructor at São Conrado beach, club registration, transport up to Pedra Bonita ramp, all safety gear (hang glider or paraglider setup, helmet, emergency parachute), plus a video or images of your flight so you can relive that moment later on.