Zermatt: Matterhorn Tandem Paragliding Flight Experience

Summary

Soaring above Zermatt’s rooftops with the Matterhorn right there

You’ll lift off from high above Zermatt with a Swiss-trained pilot, gliding past the Matterhorn and catching glimpses of glaciers or maybe even wildlife below. All equipment is included, and your guide handles everything so you can just focus on flying — honestly, it’s hard not to feel changed after seeing those peaks from above.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the view — it was how quiet it got once we left the ground. One second, I was shuffling on gravel at Riffelberg with my pilot (his name was Marc, and he had this dry Swiss sense of humor), and then suddenly my shoes weren’t touching anything. The wind pressed against my cheeks, cold but not sharp, and the town of Zermatt just sort of shrank beneath us. I could smell pine and something else — maybe snowmelt? It’s hard to describe unless you’re up there.

Marc kept chatting through the headset, pointing out little specks that were actually hikers or maybe chamois. He’d done this flight hundreds of times but still seemed genuinely excited when a shadow flickered over the glacier below. “Sometimes you see ibex,” he said, “but they’re shy today.” I tried to spot them anyway. The Matterhorn was right in front of us — not just a postcard shape but this massive, jagged thing that made me feel both tiny and weirdly safe at the same time. If you’re looking for a day trip in Zermatt that’s more than just walking around shops, this is it.

I fumbled with my gloves at one point (they give you everything you need — helmet, suit if it’s cold), and Marc laughed when I tried to say ‘thank you’ in Swiss German. Probably butchered it. The whole flight only lasted about twenty minutes but felt longer in that good way, like time stretching out because your brain can’t quite keep up with what your eyes are seeing. We landed back near town — legs shaky but grinning like an idiot. I still think about that silence up there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tandem paragliding flight in Zermatt

• Meet pilot at station
• Buy cable car ticket if needed
• Take cable car to takeoff point
• Enjoy tandem paragliding flight
• View Matterhorn and surrounding peaks
• Spot wildlife if lucky

Top questions

How long does the tandem paragliding flight last?

The flight lasts about 20-25 minutes depending on conditions.

Is equipment provided for the Matterhorn paragliding experience?

Yes, all necessary equipment including helmet, gloves, and flight suit is provided.

Do I need prior experience to paraglide in Zermatt?

No experience is needed; your licensed pilot explains everything before takeoff.

Where does the paragliding flight start in Zermatt?

The takeoff is from Rothorn, Gornergrat or Riffelberg depending on season and weather.

Is transportation to the takeoff point included?

No, cable car or railway ticket to takeoff is not included but pilots help you buy it at the station.

What happens if bad weather cancels my paragliding flight?

If cancelled due to weather or safety reasons, you will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

Are there age or weight limits for tandem flights?

The maximum weight is 90kg/200lbs and maximum age is 65 years old.

Can I use my SwissPass or Skipass for transportation?

If you have a SwissPass or halffare card you get a discount; PeakPass or Skipass includes the ride.

What’s included

Your day includes all paragliding gear — helmet, gloves, flight suit if needed — plus guidance from an experienced Swiss-trained pilot who meets you at the station and helps organize your cable car ticket for takeoff before your tandem flight over Zermatt’s peaks.