Tenerife: Tandem Paragliding Flight & Free Hotel Pickup

Summary

Soaring above costa adeje with local pilots and open skies

You’ll get picked up at your hotel in South Tenerife before heading up into the hills for a tandem paragliding flight with an experienced local pilot. There’s no engine noise—just wind, sun, and wide views over Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas. Your guide handles all safety gear and instructions so you can focus on that first rush of flying free.

What’s the experience like?

The van door slid open and I was still chewing my last bite of toast — didn’t think they’d be so punctual with the hotel pickup in Costa Adeje. Our pilot, José, grinned and asked if I’d ever flown before. I said only in dreams, which made him laugh (nervously? Or maybe that was just me). The drive up to Taucho felt longer than it probably was — winding roads, snippets of Spanish radio, a weirdly comforting smell of sunscreen and gear bags. The air got cooler as we climbed.

I’ll admit, standing at the edge of that hill with the harness clipped in, my knees went a bit wobbly. José checked everything twice — helmet straps, gloves, all those buckles — and then he said “Listo?” like it was nothing. The wind smelled faintly salty but also dry, almost dusty. We ran a few steps and suddenly the ground just dropped away. It’s not like a rollercoaster; it’s quieter up there than you’d think. You can hear your own breath and the distant sound of waves somewhere far below. I kept looking down at Playa de las Américas getting smaller and smaller — honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so calm.

We glided for maybe 15 minutes (could’ve been more or less — time gets weird when you’re floating). José pointed out La Gomera on the horizon and told me about different wind patterns here in Tenerife; apparently every day is a bit of a gamble with thermals and cloud height. He had this little GoPro strapped to his wrist — caught me grinning like an idiot most of the way down. Landing was softer than I thought; just a few quick steps on the sand near Los Cristianos, then it was over before my heart rate even caught up. Still think about that sudden quiet when we lifted off.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tandem paragliding flight experience

• Pickup from accommodation
• Travel to take off site
• Receive flight instructions
• Perform tandem paragliding flight
• Flight duration about 15-20 minutes
• Return from flight location
• Optionally purchase flight photos and videos

Top questions

How long does the tandem paragliding flight last?

The actual flight lasts about 15-20 minutes depending on weather conditions.

Where is pickup available for this paragliding tour?

Pickup is included from hotels in Costa Adeje, Playa Las Americas, and Los Cristianos.

Do I need any experience to do tandem paragliding in Tenerife?

No previous experience is needed; your instructor will give full instructions before takeoff.

What should I wear for paragliding in South Tenerife?

Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes suitable for running during takeoff.

Is there an age or weight limit for this activity?

The maximum age is 75 years; weight must be between 20 kg and 100 kg.

Will photos or videos be taken during my flight?

Your pilot uses a GoPro to record your flight; you can buy the SD card after if you want.

What happens if weather conditions aren’t good for flying?

If conditions aren’t safe or ideal, you may be invited to reschedule your flight for another day or time.

What’s included

Your day includes free hotel pickup from Costa Adeje, Playa Las Americas or Los Cristianos, all certified safety equipment like harnesses and helmets, expert guidance from an experienced local pilot who takes care of every step from takeoff to landing—and if you want memories to keep, you can purchase GoPro photos or video footage afterward.