Maitencillo paragliding: tandem flight with instructor

Summary

Tandem paragliding in Maitencillo with local pilots

Float above Maitencillo’s coastline on a tandem paragliding flight with an experienced local guide. You’ll gear up together, get simple instructions, then soar for around 15 minutes with ocean views and fresh air all around you — an experience that sticks in your memory long after you’re back on solid ground.

What’s the experience like?

"Just lean forward — trust me," said Diego, grinning as he tightened the straps on my harness. I could smell the salty air and sunscreen, and honestly, my hands were a bit shaky. Maitencillo’s beach stretched out below us, dotted with umbrellas and kids chasing kites. The wind felt cool on my face, not too strong but enough to make the canopy flutter while we waited for the right moment. I kept glancing at Diego; he seemed so relaxed, chatting about how he grew up flying here since he was a teenager. I tried to act chill but probably looked like I’d just seen a ghost.

When we finally ran those few steps off the cliff — it’s more of a shuffle than a leap — there was this weird silence, like the world paused for a second. Then suddenly we were floating, really floating, above Maitencillo. You can see everything: surfers paddling out, little fishing boats bobbing near the rocks, even some pelicans gliding way below us (which is wild). Diego pointed out landmarks in Spanish and English; I nodded along, catching maybe half of it because my brain was busy trying to process that I was actually flying. The harness pressed into my legs but not uncomfortably — just enough to remind me this was real.

I didn’t expect how peaceful it would feel up there. There’s wind in your ears but also this quiet that makes you want to laugh or maybe cry (I did neither — just grinned like an idiot). The whole flight lasted about 15 minutes, though it felt both longer and shorter somehow. When we landed back on the sand, my knees wobbled and Diego high-fived me like we’d just finished a marathon. He told me they reschedule if weather’s bad — safety first — which made sense after feeling how much the wind matters up there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paragliding Flight Experience

• Tandem paragliding flight with instructor

Top questions

How long does the Maitencillo paragliding flight last?

The tandem paragliding flight lasts approximately 15 minutes.

Is the paragliding activity in Maitencillo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible for this activity.

Are children or infants allowed on the Maitencillo paragliding tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller at the site but should check suitability for flying directly with organizers.

What happens if weather conditions are bad for paragliding?

If weather conditions aren’t safe for flying, your flight will be rescheduled for another date.

Is public transportation available to reach the Maitencillo paragliding site?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Can service animals join during the activity?

Service animals are allowed at the site.

Is prior experience needed for tandem paragliding in Maitencillo?

No prior experience is required; you’ll fly with an instructor who handles everything technical.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your experience includes a tandem paragliding flight over Maitencillo with an instructor who handles all equipment and safety instructions before takeoff; flights are scheduled based on weather conditions to ensure safety throughout your adventure.