Interlaken: Tandem Paragliding Flight with Alpine Views

Summary

Paragliding over Interlaken’s lakes & snowy peaks with local pilots

You’ll start in Interlaken before heading up to Beatenberg for a tandem paragliding flight with a local guide. Feel the mountain air as you soar over Lake Thun and spot snowy peaks like Eiger and Jungfrau from above. Land right in central Interlaken after about 15 minutes in the sky—a rush that lingers long after your feet touch down.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how my hands felt a bit clammy gripping the van seat as we wound up from Interlaken to Beatenberg. Down in town it was busy—tourists everywhere, the usual chatter and bike bells—but up on that hillside, everything got quiet except for cowbells and this sharp, clean smell in the air. Our guide, Jonas, had this easy way about him; he joked that if I could run 40 meters without tripping over my own feet, I’d be fine. Not sure if he was serious or just trying to make me laugh (it worked).

The safety briefing was quick but thorough—lots of harness checks and “lean back when I say” kind of stuff. Standing there with the chute spread out behind us and Lake Thun glinting down below, I realized my heart was thumping so loud I could hear it. The moment we lifted off, though… honestly, it didn’t feel like falling at all. More like floating on a breeze you can actually hear rushing past your ears. Jonas pointed out the Eiger and Jungfrau peaks—he even tried to teach me their names in Swiss German but I probably butchered them.

The flight itself was around 15 minutes (felt shorter), just drifting and circling above those two blue lakes—Lake Thun and Lake Brienz—while tiny boats made white lines on the water. There’s this weird mix of total silence and then sudden bursts of wind or laughter from your pilot. Landing right in the center of Interlaken was surreal; one minute you’re gliding above rooftops, next you’re back on grass with people watching like you just did something wild (which I guess you did). Still not sure how Jonas managed to steer us so gently—felt more like landing a big bird than anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paragliding flight from Beatenberg to Interlaken

• Drive to Beatenberg mountain
• Receive full safety briefing
• Strap into tandem glider
• Fly down with pilot
• Enjoy views of Jungfrau and lakes
• Land in center of Interlaken

Top questions

How long does the tandem paragliding flight last?

The flight time is usually between 10-20 minutes depending on conditions.

Where does the paragliding tour start and end?

You’ll be picked up in Interlaken, driven up to Beatenberg for takeoff, and land back in central Interlaken.

Is transport from Interlaken included?

Yes, transport from Interlaken to Beatenberg is included in the experience.

Are there weight or age restrictions for paragliding?

Yes, minimum age is 6 years old with a minimum weight of 30kg/65lbs; maximum weight is 220lbs/100kg except early morning or late afternoon slots when it’s 176lbs/80kg.

Is this suitable for beginners or kids?

Yes, it’s suitable for beginners and kids aged 6+ who meet weight requirements.

What should I wear for paragliding in Interlaken?

Good walking shoes are recommended; dress for mountain weather conditions.

Are photos or videos available from the flight?

Professional photos and videos can be purchased at the end of your trip for an extra fee.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Interlaken, transport up to Beatenberg in a small group van, a full safety briefing with your professional guide, use of all paragliding equipment needed for your tandem flight, and ends with landing right back in central Interlaken where you started.