Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Tandem Paragliding Flight

So, you’re considering a tandem paragliding flight in Las Palmas? Well, we’ve looked into this experience, and it’s definitely one that sparks curiosity. Imagine soaring above the city, catching sweeping views of Las Canteras Beach and the Atlantic Ocean — all with an experienced pilot at your side. It’s a popular activity for those looking to add a dash of adrenaline to their trip, but like any adventure, it’s good to know what you’re signing up for.

What’s great about this experience? First, the fact that you’re flying with Christian Fernández del Valle, someone known for being among the most active pilots worldwide, with over 30,000 flights. Plus, the opportunity to do acrobatic maneuvers (weather and participant permitting) makes it stand out from typical tandem flights. But it’s not all perfect — some reviews highlight issues like logistical hiccups that could mean waiting around or difficulty making contact.

This tour is really suited for adventurers who crave a unique perspective of Gran Canaria and are prepared for a short but exhilarating flight. It’s also a good pick for those who don’t mind some uncertainty, given the mixed reviews about communication and organization. If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates a thrill but also values clarity and reliability, keep reading to see if this experience matches what you’re after.

Key Points

• Expert Pilot: Christian Fernández del Valle’s extensive experience makes for a confident guiding hand.
• Spectacular Views: Fly over Las Canteras, the Atlantic, and the city for a highly photo-worthy perspective.
• Potential for Acrobatics: Weather and participant willingness can lead to adventurous maneuvers.
• Short but Memorable: The flight lasts about 15 minutes, so it’s a quick highlight but packed with excitement.
• Logistical Considerations: Meeting point is at Los Giles viewpoint, and communication issues have been reported.
• Weather Dependency: The experience is weather-dependent, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Paragliding Experience

The Flight Itself — A Short but Exhilarating 15 Minutes

Once you arrive at the meeting point at the Los Giles viewpoint, you’ll meet your pilot, Christian. He’s known for being highly active and experienced, which instantly puts a lot of nervous energy at ease. From there, the actual tandem flight begins in the coastal mountains, launching into the sky with a gentle run before becoming a peaceful glide.

You’ll get a magnificent panoramic view of Las Canteras Beach, a lively stretch that’s often crowded with locals and visitors alike. The Atlantic Ocean is right there, shimmering under the sun as you float above. The flight is relatively brief — about 15 minutes — but it’s long enough to really soak in the scenery and get a sense of the vastness of Gran Canaria from above.

The Pilot and Safety

Christian is praised for his experience, having flown throughout the year and accumulating over 30,000 flights. His reputation adds a layer of confidence, especially for first-timers. The safety aspect is handled well, with all gear provided and a secure harness. If you’re bringing your phone for pictures, just be sure to keep it secured, as the flight can get a bit windy.

The Acrobatic Maneuvers — A Bonus?

One of the unique features here is the possibility of acrobatic maneuvers. Not every tandem flight offers this, and it’s conditioned on weather conditions and whether you’re comfortable with it. If you’re someone who’s craving a bit more adrenaline, this could be a highlight. It’s worth discussing your comfort level with your pilot beforehand.

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The Meeting Point and Conditions

The meeting point is at the Los Giles viewpoint, which is easy to find — a paved street with views of the mountain and city. The coordinates are 28.1165, -15.4702, making it straightforward to locate.

What You Need to Bring

Comfortable sportswear is recommended, as you’ll be moving around and wearing a harness. Sports shoes are required — high heels or sandals won’t do. No particular gear is needed beyond that, but bringing your phone along (with a secure hook) for photos is encouraged.

Cancellation & Pricing

The booking process is flexible — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is quite generous. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later, allowing you to keep your plans flexible.

The Not-So-Great Aspects — The Caveats

While this experience sounds exciting, some reviews paint a less rosy picture. There have been reports of no one being present at the meeting point, and difficulty contacting the activity provider. Travelers waiting for 30 minutes without success might find this frustrating, especially if communication isn’t clear beforehand.

One reviewer even mentioned, “No one is here and we can’t contact the activity provider. We waited 30 mins and didn’t have the activities.” Such experiences highlight the importance of confirming arrangements and possibly having a backup plan.

Plus, weather plays a crucial role. Flights could be canceled or postponed if conditions aren’t suitable, so flexibility is advisable. The small window of 15 minutes means it’s more of a quick thrill than a lengthy adventure — it’s best for those who value the experience of flying, not necessarily a prolonged flight.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tandem paragliding flight is ideal for adventure-seekers who want a bird’s-eye view of Las Palmas and aren’t bothered by the brevity of the flight. It’s perfect if you’re looking to add some adrenaline and stunning photos to your trip — and you’re comfortable with the idea of potential logistical hiccups.

It’s also suited to those who appreciate an expert pilot and are curious about acrobatic maneuvers, provided the weather cooperates. However, keep in mind it’s not suitable for pregnant women, and you should wear sports shoes for safety.

The Final Word — Is It Worth It?

For thrill lovers and those seeking a unique perspective of Las Palmas, this experience offers plenty of appeal. The chance to fly with a highly experienced pilot like Christian is a significant plus, especially if you’re a first-timer or want reassurance during your flight.

That said, the mixed reviews about organization and communication are worth noting. If you’re flexible with your plans and prepared for some uncertainty, this could be a memorable highlight. But if seamless logistics are a priority, you might want to weigh the risks.

This tandem flight can be a fantastic once-in-a-lifetime moment — provided your expectations are managed, and you’re okay with the possibility of logistical surprises.

FAQs

What is the duration of the paragliding flight?
The flight itself lasts about 15 minutes, offering a quick but intense window to enjoy the views and sensations of flying.

Where is the meeting point?
It’s at the Los Giles viewpoint, located at the end of a paved street with views of the mountains and city, at coordinates 28.1165, -15.4702.

Can I do acrobatic maneuvers during the flight?
Yes, if the weather and your willingness allow. The pilot, Christian, may perform acrobatic tricks, adding an extra thrill to the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable sportswear and sports shoes are necessary. High-heeled shoes or sandals are not permitted for safety reasons.

Is this experience suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women are advised against participating. The experience is designed for adults who meet the safety requirements.

What if the weather cancels the flight?
Since the experience is weather-dependent, flights may be canceled or postponed if conditions aren’t suitable. It’s wise to have flexible plans and confirm the schedule beforehand.

If you’re craving a quick adrenaline rush with incredible views, this tandem paragliding flight could be just what you need. Just keep in mind the organizational aspects and weather dependency — and you’ll be ready for an unforgettable jaunt in the skies above Las Palmas.

You can check availability for your dates here: