Lisboa: Paragliding Flight – Praia das Bicas

Thinking about soaring above the beautiful coastlines south of Lisbon? We’ve checked out a paragliding experience that promises stunning views and a dash of adventure. If you’re craving a bird’s-eye perspective of Portugal’s beaches, this might just be the activity for you.

What we like about this tour? First, the pilots have 25 years of experience and are considered World Record Flight Instructors, which provides a reassuring sense of safety and skill. Second, the flight promises spectacular vistas—from green landscapes to shimmering waters—that make it worth every minute.

One thing to consider? The overall rating is 2.2, which isn’t very high, hinting that some travelers might have had less than perfect experiences. This could be due to factors like weather variability or the group size, so it’s worth keeping an eye on reviews before booking.

This experience suits travelers who are comfortable with a bit of a thrill and eager to see Lisbon’s surroundings from a unique angle. It’s not necessarily a family-friendly activity, but those craving adventure and breathtaking views should find it compelling.

Key Points

• Experienced Guides: Pilots with 25 years flying experience and official FPVL accreditation.
• Stunning Views: Expect to see beaches, green landscapes, and the sea from above.
• Flexible Locations: The flight spot varies based on weather, with Praia das Bicas being a key site.
• Safety First: The activity includes a tandem flight with a qualified instructor, emphasizing safety.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, which means more personalized attention.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund, perfect if your plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: A Passion for Flying over Lisbon’s Beaches

This paragliding tour promises a thrilling adventure with a focus on safety and scenic beauty. From the start, you’ll be picked up at either Quiosque Tomé or another designated spot, with the exact location arranged the day before. This small group experience makes for a more relaxed, intimate outing, ideal if you prefer avoiding large crowds.

Once at Praia das Bicas, the activity kicks off with a briefing, where your pilot—an instructor with decades of experience—will prepare you for the flight. You’ll be fitted with a wing that’s large enough to carry two people, meaning you’ll fly tandem with your instructor. This setup ensures a safe, controlled flight while allowing you to relax and soak in the views.

The actual flight lasts about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy a true bird’s-eye perspective of the coast. The pilot will navigate based on weather conditions, sometimes flying over other scenic points, but Praia das Bicas will likely be the main highlight. Expect to see the vibrant contrast of green landscapes and blue waters, with moments of genuine excitement as you glide along.

After the flight, you’ll be driven back to your pickup point, with the entire experience typically lasting around a day. The activity is designed to be adaptable, with the pilot prioritizing safety and the day’s weather to give you the best possible flight.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Introduction: The day begins with a pickup from a designated location, either Quiosque Tomé or a similar meeting point. From there, you’ll travel to Praia das Bicas or other suitable sites, depending on weather forecasts.

Pre-Flight Briefing: Once at the site, the instructor will explain safety procedures and what to expect during the flight. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and get comfortable with the equipment.

The Flight: The highlight. You’ll take off with your instructor guiding the wing, soaring over beaches and lush greenery. The flight lasts about 30 minutes, and you might also have opportunities for photos or simply to take in the expansive views.

Return and Drop-off: After landing, you’ll be driven back to your original pickup point, ending the day’s adventure.

The Experience Providers and What They Offer

Flytime-Fragata D’Aventuras, the company behind this experience, has a moderate rating of 2.2. While this might raise some questions, it’s important to note that all flights are carried out by certified pilots affiliated with the FPVL, the Portuguese Free Flight Federation. Their experience level is a strong point, especially for those worried about safety.

The activity is conducted in small groups—no more than 10 participants—which helps ensure everyone gets attention and feels comfortable. The tours are offered in multiple languages, including English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers.

The pricing structure allows for a degree of flexibility, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Plus, you can cancel up to a day before with a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

How This Experience Compares to Similar Tours

There are other paragliding options around Lisbon, some with higher ratings or different features. For example, some tours include transportation from Lisbon, or combine paragliding with other activities like quad biking or coastal exploration (see links above).

Compared to these, this tour stands out for its longer experience duration (about 30 minutes of flight) and the experience of the pilots. However, the lower rating suggests that some travelers might have encountered issues, perhaps related to weather or organizational aspects.

The value here hinges on your preference for experienced guides and scenic flight options. If you’re looking for a more secluded, personalized adventure, this could be a good pick. If you prefer highly-rated operators, you might want to compare options carefully.

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The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation: Pickup is included but arranged the day before, with costs to be determined. This flexibility is helpful but requires some planning.

Timing: The tour is valid for one day, with available start times that depend on weather conditions. Expect to allocate about half a day for the activity.

Group Size: Limited to 10, ensuring a more tailored experience—but this also means booking early is recommended, especially in high season.

Duration: Around 1 day, including pickup, the flight, and return. The flight itself lasts about 30 minutes, but the entire process—from briefing to landing—takes longer.

Price and Value: While exact costs aren’t specified here, the flexible booking options and small group size suggest the activity is priced to reflect a more intimate, experienced-led adventure.

The Realistic Outlook: Pros and Cons

We found that the experience of flying over Lisbon’s beaches offers a truly unique perspective, especially for those who love scenic views and a bit of adventure. The flight’s safety is reinforced by the pilots’ experience and official accreditation, which is comforting.

But, the moderate rating indicates that some participants might have had less ideal experiences—potentially related to weather conditions or organizational hiccups. It’s wise to check recent reviews before booking, especially if weather sensitivity is a concern.

The activity is not overly long, but the 30-minute flight strikes a nice balance between thrill and comfort, making it suitable for many travelers seeking a memorable vista without committing to a full-day adventure.

Who Should Consider This Paragliding Experience?

If you’re a traveler craving stunning coastal views and a smooth tandem flight with a seasoned instructor, this tour could be a highlight of your Lisbon trip. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with a bit of an adrenaline rush and who want a visual reward.

It might be less ideal if you’re seeking a highly rated or perfectly organized tour, or if you’re traveling with very young children or those who prefer land-based activities.

Overall, it’s a solid option for adventure seekers who value experienced guides and scenic beauty over bells and whistles.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with no paragliding experience?
Yes, since it’s a tandem flight with an instructor, no prior experience is necessary. You’ll be guided every step of the way.

How safe is paragliding over Lisbon’s beaches?
With pilots holding FPVL accreditation and 25 years of experience, safety is a priority. The activity is designed to be safe and controlled, with weather considerations taken into account.

What should I wear for the flight?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather—bring layers if needed—and closed-toe shoes. The pilot will provide a briefing on any additional gear or precautions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option for spontaneous or changing plans.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately one day, including pickup, briefing, the flight itself (about 30 minutes), and return. Expect to allocate about half a day for the full experience.

What languages are the guides available in?
The pilots and guides speak English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, catering well to international travelers.

Is this activity family-friendly?
It’s primarily suited for adults or older teens comfortable with heights and adventure. It’s not designed specifically for young children or families with very young kids.

If you’re chasing breathtaking views and a safe, guided flight over Lisbon’s coastlines, this paragliding experience could be just what you’re looking for. Be sure to check recent reviews and weather conditions, and prepare for an unforgettable perspective of Portugal’s stunning beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: