Paragliding in Puerto de la Cruz

Tenerife looks different from the air. This tandem flight combines spectacular sea views with close looks at Puerto de la Cruz, black sand beaches, mountains, and forests. I like the choice between a coastal flight and a Corona Forestal flight, plus the calm, careful guidance from pilots such as Gastón. The main catch is that weather decides your view, and flights over the city may be replaced by a mountain launch.

The small group of up to three people keeps the experience personal, while the included transfer and equipment make the $176 price easier to justify. I also like that you may be allowed to take control of the paraglider for part of the flight. Still, this is not a quick city activity. The full outing takes about two hours, and passengers over 85 kilograms pay an extra €30.

Key points to know before you fly

• Two possible flight areas: Fly above Puerto de la Cruz when conditions allow, or head into the Corona Forestal for mountain and forest views.
• About 30 minutes in the air: The aerial portion gives you time to settle into the harness and enjoy the changing scenery.
• Maximum of three participants: This is a small-group experience, useful if you prefer direct contact with the pilot.
• Gastón has earned strong praise: His calm manner, friendly approach, and professional flying helped make several flights feel easy.
• Strict size limits apply: You must weigh between 20 and 100 kilograms, be no taller than 200 centimeters, and be no older than 70.
• Photos and videos cost extra: You can buy them afterward, but they are not part of the $176 price.

Meeting at Plaza Rotonda Aceviño

Your outing begins at Plaza Rotonda Aceviño, a roundabout with easy parking. Look for a guide wearing a jacket with the company logo. That detail matters because the meeting point is practical rather than grand. You are not meeting at a large office or a famous landmark, so arriving with the exact location in hand will make the start less stressful.

The meeting point also keeps the opening simple. You park, find the guide, and get oriented before heading to the launch area. Since transportation to the takeoff point is included, you do not need to arrange a second car or figure out mountain roads yourself.

The experience is offered in English and Spanish. With a group limited to three participants, you should have a better chance to ask questions directly rather than waiting through a large crowd. That small scale is especially useful if you are nervous about the first flight.

The safety talk and transfer to takeoff

Before you fly, the pilot gives a safety briefing and explains the equipment. You do not need previous paragliding experience. The pilot handles the technical parts, and you follow instructions for the launch, flight, and landing.

That briefing is not filler. Tandem paragliding depends on simple movements and clear timing, so listening closely will help you feel more comfortable when the moment comes. The supplied equipment is included, as is transportation to the launch point.

The transfer takes about 10 minutes as part of the stated route. The total activity lasts two hours, but only around 30 minutes is listed as the aerial portion. The rest covers meeting, preparation, transfer, and return. If you expect two full hours in the sky, adjust your expectations now.

Flying above Puerto de la Cruz

When weather allows a coastal flight, the experience begins close to Puerto de la Cruz. From above, the city buildings form a striking contrast with the open Atlantic. You may see the town from an angle that is impossible from street level, with the sea stretching toward the horizon.

The coastal flight can include views of black sand beaches and the city itself. Those details give the ride a strong sense of place. This is not simply a flight over empty countryside. You are looking down at a working coastal town, then out across the ocean, with Tenerife’s steep interior rising behind it.

The sea breeze is part of the setting. Several of the strongest comments describe clear sea views, warm air, and smooth gliding. That suggests the flight can feel less like a rough thrill ride and more like a quiet aerial platform with a very large viewfinder.

The aircraft does not have an engine, so the experience is shaped by wind and weather. That is part of the appeal, but it also means the planned view can change. If your main goal is to see Puerto de la Cruz directly, keep that weather decision in mind before booking.

The Corona Forestal alternative

If conditions do not suit a flight above Puerto de la Cruz, the operator may take you to the Corona Forestal. This mountain area offers a different kind of flight, with green forest below and the sea visible in the distance.

The forest option may appeal more to you if you prefer quiet mountain scenery to buildings and beaches. The flight can show Tenerife’s change from high forest to open ocean, giving you a clear sense of the island’s steep geography.

One recent flight from La Corona included a fun takeoff, smooth gliding along the mountain, views toward Puerto de la Cruz and Los Realejos, and a relaxed landing in a field. That gives you a useful picture of what the alternative can offer. It is not simply a backup with lesser scenery. For some people, the forest route may be the more peaceful and attractive choice.

The tradeoff is straightforward. You have less control over which setting you receive, but both options offer a distinct view of Tenerife. The operator’s priority is to choose a suitable launch point for the weather, not to force a particular route.

Thirty minutes above Tenerife

The aerial section lasts about 30 minutes. That is long enough to take in the scenery, settle down after takeoff, and enjoy the feeling of gliding without an engine. It is also short enough that you are not committed to a lengthy flight if you are unsure how you will react to height.

The most repeated praise centers on smooth flying and a calm sense of safety. One passenger described the flight as very calm and beautiful. Another highlighted a quiet start, gentle flight, and peaceful landing. Those details are important because the word thrilling can mean different things. Here, the experience seems to lean toward controlled excitement rather than hard jolts or nonstop stunts.

You may also get the chance to take control of the paraglider during the flight. The pilot remains responsible for the flight, but this option gives you a more active role. Ask about it during the briefing if that part interests you.

Do not expect the scenery to remain identical throughout the flight. A coastal route may feature buildings, beaches, and ocean. A forest route may show trees, mountain slopes, distant towns, and the sea. The weather and takeoff point shape the whole experience.

The pilots make the difference

Tandem paragliding depends heavily on the person behind you. The pilot needs to explain the process clearly, keep the launch organized, and help you remain calm once your feet leave the ground.

Gastón receives especially warm praise for being friendly, professional, safe, and calm. That combination matters more than flashy talk. If you feel tense before takeoff, a steady pilot can make the flight feel manageable. If you already enjoy heights, a good pilot gives you room to appreciate the scenery instead of distracting you with unnecessary drama.

The experience is led by certified pilots, and the safety talk comes before the flight. Still, communication deserves attention. One lower rating described the organization and communication as difficult. That is the main warning in an otherwise strong set of feedback. You should listen carefully to the meeting instructions, confirm the pickup and launch details, and ask questions early if anything is unclear.

Is $176 a fair price?

At $176 per person, this is not a budget activity. The price includes the tandem flight, pilot, equipment, safety briefing, and transportation to the launch area. It also gives you a small group rather than a crowded outing.

For me, the value depends on what you want from a Tenerife day. If you simply want a short attraction with a fixed route, the cost may feel high. If you want a rare view of Puerto de la Cruz, the sea, black sand beaches, or the forested mountains, the price covers more than the minutes in the air. It pays for certified instruction, specialist equipment, transport, and careful handling of weather conditions.

Passengers over 85 kilograms pay an extra €30, while the overall weight limit is 100 kilograms. That additional charge should be part of your calculation before you book. Photos and videos are also sold separately, so the final cost can rise if you want a recorded keepsake.

The booking terms add some flexibility. You can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those options help when Tenerife weather makes your plans uncertain, though you should still check the available start time before committing your day.

Who will enjoy this flight most?

I would recommend this experience to adults and older children who want a scenic first flight rather than a technical course. No prior experience is needed, and the pilot guides you through each step.

It suits you especially well if:

• You want ocean views but also like the idea of a mountain setting.
• You prefer a small group to a large organized activity.
• You are comfortable allowing weather to shape the final route.
• You want a gentle aerial experience with some excitement.
• You are staying near Puerto de la Cruz and want a different view of the town.

The activity is not suitable for children under 13, even though the general information also gives a minimum height of 100 centimeters. The practical age restriction for this experience is therefore important: children under 13 should not book it. The maximum age is 70, the maximum height is 200 centimeters, and the maximum weight is 100 kilograms.

You should also be comfortable with a launch and landing under the pilot’s direction. The flight has been described as smooth and relaxed, but it remains an outdoor activity controlled by wind conditions.

What happens after landing?

After the flight, transportation returns you to Plaza Rotonda Aceviño. The stated itinerary includes a 10-minute transfer and arrival back at the original meeting point.

The return makes this easy to fit into a wider day in Puerto de la Cruz. You do not need to solve your own transport from a mountain launch area, which is one of the less obvious benefits of booking an organized tandem flight.

If you want photos or videos, arrange that as an optional purchase. They are not included in the price. Ask about the media option before or after the flight so you know the cost and what is available.

My verdict: book it if the view matters more than the route

I would book this experience if you want Tenerife from above and can accept a weather-led plan. The best reasons are the small group, the calm pilot support, and the choice between Puerto de la Cruz and Corona Forestal. The coastal flight gives you city, beach, and ocean views, while the forest option can deliver a quieter mountain flight with the sea still in sight.

I would hesitate only if you need a guaranteed city flight, want two hours in the air, or are trying to keep the total cost low. Confirm the weight rules, remember that media costs extra, and keep your meeting details clear.

For a first paragliding experience, this looks like a sensible mix of scenery, safety, and controlled excitement. Gastón’s calm approach is a particularly good sign for anyone who feels nervous. If the weather cooperates, you will come away with a view of Tenerife that no roadside lookout can match.

FAQ

Where does the paragliding experience begin?

It begins at Plaza Rotonda Aceviño, a roundabout with easy parking. Look for a guide wearing a jacket with the company logo.

How long does the experience last?

The full activity lasts about two hours. The listed aerial portion lasts around 30 minutes, and the transfer is about 10 minutes.

Is transportation included?

Yes. Transportation to the takeoff point is included, and you return to Plaza Rotonda Aceviño afterward.

Do I need previous paragliding experience?

No. The certified pilot provides the safety briefing and guides you throughout the flight.

Where will I fly?

You may fly above Puerto de la Cruz when weather conditions allow. If not, the flight may take place in the Corona Forestal.

What can I see during the flight?

Depending on the takeoff point and weather, you may see the sea, black sand beaches, Puerto de la Cruz, coastal towns, mountains, and forests.

How many people are in the group?

The group is limited to three participants.

What languages are available?

The instructors speak English and Spanish.

Are photos and videos included?

No. Photos and videos are available for an additional purchase.

What are the age, height, and weight limits?

The maximum age is 70 years, the maximum height is 200 centimeters, and the weight must be between 20 and 100 kilograms. The activity is not suitable for children under 13. Passengers over 85 kilograms pay an additional €30.