Chamonix: Tandem Paragliding Flight Over Mont Blanc Alps

Summary

Soar over Chamonix’s peaks on a tandem paragliding flight with local pilots

You’ll run off the hillside above Chamonix with your certified pilot, feel the rush as you soar past Mont Blanc’s snowy peaks on a tandem paragliding flight, and maybe even try steering yourself for a minute or two. Includes helmet, insurance, and all those little moments you can’t really plan for—just bring your nerves and let go.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry about your legs — just keep running until I say stop!” That’s what Pierre said right before we took off from Plan Praz, and honestly, my heart was pounding so loud I almost missed his signal. The cable car ride up was quiet, everyone kind of sizing each other up, but the air at the top felt sharp and cold even though it was July. There’s this grassy patch where all the pilots wait — some chatting in French, others just checking their lines. My hands were sweating so much I nearly dropped my phone when Pierre handed me the helmet.

The first few seconds after takeoff were a blur — feet scrambling, wind grabbing at my jacket, then suddenly nothing under me except air and that wild drop toward Chamonix. I could smell pine and something almost metallic in the wind. Pierre kept talking calmly behind me (“Look left, that’s the Argentière glacier”), but my mind was stuck on how small everything looked: little red roofs, tiny dots moving along hiking trails. He offered to let me steer for a minute — I probably overdid it because he laughed and took over fast. The whole thing lasted maybe 20 minutes? Hard to tell; time got weird up there.

Landing was way softer than I expected — just a couple quick steps and we were down in a field near town. My legs felt wobbly but I couldn’t stop grinning like an idiot. Some people were waiting for their turn, watching us come in with this mix of nerves and excitement (I recognized that look). Pierre high-fived me and said something about “good thermals today.” The whole experience felt both huge and oddly personal; you’re up there with someone who does this every day but still seems to love it. Even now when I catch a cold draft back home, it takes me right back to that moment floating in front of Mont Blanc.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paragliding tandem flight over Alps

• Meet certified instructor
• Take off from Plan Praz or Plan de l'Aiguille
• Enjoy 15 to 25 minutes flight
• Admire views of Mont-Blanc and Alps
• Try piloting with instructor's help
• Land safely with instructor

Top questions

How long does the tandem paragliding flight last?

The flight lasts between 15 to 25 minutes depending on wind conditions.

Where is the meeting point for paragliding in Chamonix?

The meeting point is in front of the cable car ticket office; there is no desk or office there.

Is pickup included for this activity?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet directly at the cable car station in Chamonix.

What should I bring or wear for paragliding?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for mountain weather; only very small bags are allowed during flight.

Is this tandem paragliding flight safe?

All instructors are certified French paragliding teachers and full insurance is included.

Can children join this paragliding activity?

The minimum age is 4 years old; weight restrictions apply.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?

If wind or rain prevents safe flying, you’ll be refunded.

Do guides speak English?

Yes, all pilots speak English and French; some also speak Spanish.

What’s included

Your experience includes a tandem paragliding flight over Chamonix with a certified instructor, use of helmet during your flight, full insurance coverage for both you and your pilot, plus clear instructions at the easy-to-find cable car meeting point before takeoff.