Paragliding Spots – If you’re like me, you’ve probably daydreamed about soaring through the air like a bird, with nothing but the sky and the wind for company. Paragliding is one of those bucket-list experiences that just seems to grab your soul. But let’s be real—when you Google “best paragliding spots,” you’re usually bombarded with the same old names: the Alps, Interlaken, or Bali. And while those spots are stunning, there’s a whole world of hidden gems out there waiting for you to discover. I’ve had the privilege of flying in some off-the-beaten-path spots, and trust me, they’re every bit as magical—if not more.
So, if you’re looking to break away from the tourist traps and find a spot that will give you the thrill of a lifetime (without the overcrowded launch sites), here are four hidden paragliding gems you’ve probably never heard of.
4 Hidden Gem Paragliding Spots You’ve Never Heard Of
1. Laos – The Nam Ou Valley
I’ve always wanted to visit Laos, but it wasn’t until a friend mentioned paragliding in the Nam Ou Valley that I started looking into it. Let me tell you—this place is like something out of a fantasy novel. Surrounded by jagged limestone peaks, lush green rice fields, and misty rivers, the Nam Ou Valley offers an unforgettable flying experience. It’s tucked away in northern Laos, not a typical tourist hotspot, and honestly, that’s what makes it so special.
The launch sites here aren’t crowded at all, so you’ll get to glide over the valley with just the sound of the wind and the occasional chirp of birds. The whole experience is like flying through a painting. The thermals are surprisingly consistent, and the views are absolutely jaw-dropping. If you’re looking for an off-the-grid paragliding adventure, this is one I highly recommend.
Pro Tip: Be sure to time your visit during the dry season (November to April) when the weather’s perfect for flying. And while Laos is still a relatively inexpensive country, make sure to book with a local company that knows the area well. Safety’s key, especially in these remote areas.
2. Nepal – The Mardi Himal Trek
Nepal is known for its world-famous Himalayas, but most people focus solely on places like Pokhara or the Everest region for paragliding. However, I found an incredible spot while hiking the Mardi Himal Trek—yep, you can actually combine a trek with paragliding. The Mardi Himal trek is a lesser-known route, but the views are spectacular. And what’s even better is that when you finish the trek, you’re at the perfect altitude for paragliding.
You’ll take off from a launch site near the village of Kande, and from there, you can glide over pristine valleys, remote villages, and snow-capped peaks. The cool thing about paragliding in Nepal is that you get to see the Himalayas from a completely different perspective. Flying over terraced fields, tiny villages, and rushing rivers—it’s surreal.
Pro Tip: The Mardi Himal Trek is less crowded than some of the more famous treks in Nepal, so if you want a more authentic, peaceful experience, go for this route. Just be ready for some serious altitude—it’s a workout, but totally worth it!
3. South Africa – The Drakensberg Mountains
Okay, I know South Africa has some famous paragliding spots like Cape Town and Wilderness, but trust me, the Drakensberg Mountains need way more love. I stumbled upon this spot on a road trip and decided to give it a shot. The Drakensberg region is just mesmerizing, with its towering cliffs, deep valleys, and a mix of grassy hills and rocky outcrops. It feels like a different world.
The paragliding here is world-class, with reliable thermals and perfect takeoff conditions. You can fly over the “Dragon Mountains,” looking down on fields of wildflowers, ancient forests, and some of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen. It’s also a great place for beginners since the launches are relatively gentle, but seasoned pilots can really push their limits here.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for some local advice, look for a company in the town of Underberg. They know the area like the back of their hand and can take you to some truly magical launch sites. And if you have time, stick around for a hike to appreciate the area’s beauty even more.
4. Chile – The Lake District
Chile is not the first place that comes to mind when people think about paragliding, but it should be. The country’s Lake District is a paragliding paradise, offering pristine lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and deep forests. I spent a few days in the town of Pucón, which is situated near one of the most active volcanoes in South America, and the paragliding here was unreal.
What makes this spot so special is the diversity of the landscapes you’ll glide over. One minute you’re soaring above crystal-clear lakes, and the next, you’re circling a snow-covered peak. The wind conditions are generally pretty stable, but you get these incredible updrafts off the mountains that make for long, scenic flights. It’s truly the kind of place where you can spend the entire day flying and never get bored of the views.
Pro Tip: There are some fantastic gliding schools in Pucón, and they’ll take you to some of the best spots for both beginners and experienced flyers. If you’re planning to paraglide in the summer months (December to March), you’ll get the most reliable weather.
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path paragliding experience, these four hidden gems should definitely be on your radar. Whether you’re flying over the mystical mountains of Laos or enjoying the quiet serenity of the Drakensberg, there’s something truly special about paragliding in these lesser-known spots. The best part? You won’t be dealing with the overcrowded launch sites or tourist-heavy spots. You get the thrill, the views, and the peace of mind that comes with exploring somewhere new. So, pack your gear, book your flight, and get ready to experience the sky in a whole new way. Trust me, these spots are worth it.
