Jounieh Bay: Paragliding flight with guide from Harissa

Summary

Float between mountain & sea over Lebanon’s Jounieh Bay

You’ll launch with a certified guide from Harissa above Jounieh Bay, feeling the wind as you glide between mountain and sea. Spot landmarks with your local pilot, take in sweeping views of Lebanon’s coast, and experience moments of pure calm high above the city — memories that’ll stick with you long after your feet touch down.

What’s the experience like?

“You ready?” That’s what our guide asked, grinning as he tightened the straps. I could smell pine needles and something salty in the air — maybe the sea, or maybe just nerves. We were up at Harissa, looking down at Jounieh Bay, and honestly, my hands were shaking a little. The city below looked like a toy village. I kept thinking: am I really about to run off this mountain?

The takeoff wasn’t graceful (I nearly tripped on my shoelace — classic), but suddenly we were floating. Not falling, not flying exactly, just… suspended. The wind was cool against my face; I could hear the distant hum of traffic from Jounieh and then nothing but the rush of air. Our local pilot — Sami — pointed out landmarks: “That’s Casino du Liban,” he said, and then joked about how his grandma still calls it ‘the palace’. I tried to spot her house but everything looked so small from up here.

I didn’t expect how peaceful it would feel. There was this moment when we drifted over the green hills and the bay opened up beneath us — blue water, white boats like confetti. Sami let me steer for a second (don’t worry, he kept his hand close) and laughed when I squealed. The whole paragliding trip over Jounieh Bay lasted about an hour but it felt both longer and shorter somehow. When we landed near the city edge, my legs were jelly but my head was clear in a way that’s hard to explain.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paragliding Over Jounieh Bay

• Paragliding flight from Harrissa

Top questions

How long does the paragliding flight over Jounieh Bay last?

The flight lasts around 1 hour from takeoff to landing.

Where does the paragliding trip start?

The starting point is Harissa, overlooking Jounieh Bay in Lebanon.

Is there a guide or instructor during the flight?

Yes, you fly tandem with a certified local guide or instructor.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting point.

Is this activity suitable for all fitness levels?

It’s suitable for all physical fitness levels except pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your experience includes all outdoor activity equipment and a certified local guide who handles everything from safety checks to pointing out sights as you glide above Jounieh Bay. Transportation options are nearby for easy access before and after your flight.