Rio: Hang Gliding & Paragliding at Pedra Bonita with Photos

Summary

Fly above Rio’s coastline from Pedra Bonita with expert pilots capturing every moment

You’ll launch from Pedra Bonita above Rio with an expert pilot guiding you through every step — from paperwork at São Conrado Beach to that wild first leap. Feel ocean wind on your face as you glide over rainforest and city, then touch down right by the sea with instant GoPro footage to prove it really happened.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salty air at São Conrado Beach — a bit sticky on my skin, but honestly, I was too busy watching the colored wings swoop down out of nowhere. Our guide, Rafael, waved us over with this easy grin and handed me a clipboard for the insurance form (121 reais extra — heads up). I fumbled my signature because my hands were already sweating. He told me not to worry; “everyone gets nervous,” he said, and then pointed out the little snack stand where some locals were arguing about Flamengo’s last match. That made me laugh — you can’t escape football here.

The drive up to Pedra Bonita’s ramp wound through thick Atlantic forest. The windows fogged up a bit from the humidity, so someone drew a smiley face in the mist. At the top, it got quieter except for birds and this low hum of anticipation — everyone checking their harnesses or just staring at the city below. Rafael checked my helmet twice and cracked a joke about how his mother still calls him before every flight. I tried repeating “parapente” like he did but probably butchered it; he just laughed and gave me a thumbs-up.

I don’t remember much about running off the ramp — just that sudden drop in my stomach and then wind everywhere, loud in my ears but also sort of peaceful? We floated right above green treetops and blue water, Copacabana curving off in the distance. My legs dangled uselessly while Rafael pointed out Rocinha favela tucked into the hills. The GoPro caught everything (don’t forget your phone needs space for all those videos). Landing back on São Conrado beach felt weirdly gentle — sand underfoot again, sun on my face, people clapping from their towels like we’d done something heroic.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hang gliding and paragliding experience

• Meet at Sao Conrado Beach Free Flight Club
• Fill registration and pay insurance
• Drive to Pietra Bonita take-off ramp
• Fly over forest, mountains, and sea
• Land at Sao Conrado Beach
• Receive flight video images

Top questions

Where does hang gliding or paragliding in Rio start?

The meeting point is at São Conrado Beach at the Free Flight Club.

Is transportation to the take-off ramp included?

Yes, transport from São Conrado Beach to Pedra Bonita ramp is included.

What extra costs should I expect?

You must pay a compulsory insurance fee of 121 reais per person at registration.

Are photos or videos included in the package?

Yes, GoPro video is included and delivered immediately after landing; bring enough phone memory.

Is there an age limit for flying?

The minimum age is 14 years old with a legal guardian present and documents provided.

What if I have mobility restrictions?

The activity is wheelchair accessible; notify the administrator if you have specific needs or recent surgeries.

What are weight limits for hang gliding or paragliding?

For hang gliding: consult if around 80kg; for paragliding: up to 120kg depending on wind conditions—check ahead.

Do I need any special fitness level?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for this activity.

What’s included

Your day covers transport from São Conrado Beach up to Pedra Bonita’s take-off ramp with all flight equipment provided—helmet and reserve parachute included—and full GoPro video delivered straight after landing so you can relive that flight over Rio’s coastline again (just make sure your phone has enough memory).