BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN COLOMBIA

Roldanillo

Why go to Roldanillo, Colombia

Roldanillo offers an exceptional paragliding experience due to its consistent flying conditions, making it a top destination for pilots seeking both thermal f ...

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La Union

Voladero La Unión Valle is a frequently used paragliding site known for its good thermalling conditions and potential for cross-country (XC) flights. Pilots often fly north to Nuevo Anselmo, then head deep south to Rio Frio, and continue east-northeast into the valley to reach the other ridge at Pavas, before returning to La Unión to complete an FAI triangle. The site is accessible by 4x4 vehicles. However, there is no official landing zone. The site is located in the Valle del Cauca region of Colombia. The site record for distance is 56.6 km. For more information, you can check out these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1ElBzDIfxE&ab_channel=FabianDaniloMunozQuintero) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyGW1LshOaI&ab_channel=AHighlandPilot%2CWarwickLister-Kaye) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdUiOazZDZ4&ab_channel=clubpatrax) For paragliding schools, visit [Escuela de Parapente Tocando el Cielo](https://www.facebook.com/escueladeparapentetocandoelcielo/?locale2=de_DE&paipv=0&eav=AfbWcWtX86JBEtOnsyvQHcxdhnyexJj42OD4EZ1fJmU7Oilk-9KbZyvsxFaTANGR1M0&_rdr). For local clubs, check out [this club](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550069305420).

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Santa Fe de Antioquia Calentón Pantanillo

At an altitude of 1442 meters with a height difference of 920 meters, this paragliding site in Colombia offers a medium difficulty level. It is regularly used for thermalling and has good potential for cross-country (XC) flights. The takeoff area is small and grassy, with a good inclination, making it suitable for morning flights. However, be aware that tailwinds often develop after 11:30 AM, so it's best to take off earlier in the day. Access to the site is convenient by car. The takeoff area is narrow, allowing only one paraglider to prepare at a time. Ensure you wait for a good headwind before taking off, as the wind can shift to a tailwind in the afternoon. The site is located in the Valley of Tonusco, offering beautiful views and various landing options. The main landing zone is directly at the bottom of the mountain in a large field, making landing relatively easy. However, strong valley winds can complicate the landing, so always observe environmental signs like trees and smoke to gauge wind conditions. Thermal conditions in the Valley of Tonusco are generally smooth, and the hot temperatures help thermals reach high altitudes, facilitating long-distance flights for experienced pilots. Note that strong valley winds are possible, so always be cautious. For more information, you can visit: - [Paraworld](https://en.paraworld.co/3-calenton) - [Paragliding Medellin](http://www.paraglidingmedellin.com/#/antioquia-pantanillo/4540865678) Check out these videos to get a better sense of the site: - [World Insane Adventures](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZpD890Ss3Y&ab_channel=WorldInsaneAdventures) - [Koen Vancampenhoudt](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24KnmswiiPQ&ab_channel=KoenVancampenhoudt) - [Pape Stunt](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIE0LuYvnPI&ab_channel=PapeStunt) - [Daniel Velez](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HyWBj_APcc&ab_channel=DanielVelez)

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Roldanillo Aguapanela La Tulla Diego Bernal

At an elevation of 1863 meters and a height difference of approximately 920 meters, this site is extremely popular and can get very crowded, but it is well-organized. A fee is required to fly here. The site offers easy cross-country (XC) flying, with the potential for very good XC flights. Early takeoff is recommended, but be cautious of the El Pacifico wind. Access to the Aguapanela takeoff is located at La Tulia in Bolivar, Valle del Cauca, just 25 minutes from Roldanillo. You can reach it by taking a bus from the Terminal de Occidente or a paragliding shuttle, meeting at the park in Roldanillo center, followed by a walk. The Valle del Cauca region extends from Roldanillo 70 km to the north and 170 km to the south, with a valley width ranging from 8 to 40 km. The area is predominantly flat, with 90% of it planted with sugarcane. The tropical humid weather often ensures smooth thermals over a large area, although long dry periods can make flying conditions more challenging. Having some thermal flying experience is important for enjoying flights in Roldanillo. The Pacific wind starts up nearly daily in the afternoon, so starting is possible only up to midday. Even XC pilots who start early move to the east side in the afternoon to fully experience the XC potential of the valley. Roldanillo, known as Colombia’s flying capital, has hosted numerous international competitions due to its reliable conditions. The tropical climate, influenced by trade winds, is consistent, and the agricultural Valle de Cauca with its unfenced farmland and extensive road network creates a retrieve system that encourages exploration. The thermals are generally light, except for a rowdy area over the quarry to the south and the Pacific breeze. Early starts are common, and there is not a significant late-night scene. Jeeps (called Willy’s) for the Los Tanques takeoff leave from the Parque Central around 8:45 am, usually from the southeastern corner outside the Juice Palace. These are arranged by locals or long-stay pilots and leave when full. Other launches include La Tulia and Pico, accessible via local public transport and a walk. The main takeoff at Los Tanques is 900 meters above the town of Roldanillo in the valley floor and faces east across the wide-open Valle de Cauca. The valley is a political region as well as a geographical feature, located in the west of Colombia, in the middle of a chain of tropical mountains and hills that run the length of the country. One border stretches to the Pacific coast, while jungle-covered mountains rise above 2,000 meters. Flying starts early, with the thermic breeze hitting launch around 9 am and flights traditionally starting around 11 am. Only a strong Pacific breeze from the west can prevent it. The thermals are often gentle, making the flying almost perfect, although changing weather patterns in recent years have brought stronger conditions. The valley's topography is ideal for flying cats-cradle tasks with interesting route-finding possibilities. After takeoff, pilots can fly along the western mountains, out into the flats, over to the east hills, and then choose their direction, north or south. Easy logistics make getting back to town with cheap public transport a breeze. The meteo wind is usually light from either the north or the south. The Pacific sea breeze may produce a strong westerly wind with gusts of 25‐30 km/h later in the day, but this only penetrates 2‐3 km into the valley, allowing pilots full use of the eastern side with little to no effect. The best season for flying is from December through March and from July to September. Summer (Dec-Mar) is the best, but even in the rainy winter season, 60% of days are flyable. The cloud base ranges from 1,800m to 2,300m, and the moist agricultural climate of the valley reduces the tendency for overdevelopment within the flying area. There is a dedicated takeoff for hang gliding just 15 minutes from the center of town on the way to La Tulia, at 1,880 meters. The local advice is to "fly anywhere you want to go," with cats-cradle type flying being the norm. Out-and-returns and triangles to land back in Roldanillo are often thwarted by the afternoon Pacifico. There is an airspace limit of 9,000 feet to the southeast and 10,000 feet to the north. Although often ignored by pilots, it is an issue waiting to happen, so it is best to avoid it. Be careful of climbing out over the back and then not being able to make it back to the landing field. Power lines below launch are clearly visible and easy to avoid. Check foreign office advice before you go, as some border areas of Colombia are no-go zones for travelers. For weather updates, you can check XCskies.com in conjunction with Meteoblue and Windfinder. Getting there involves a 60-minute flight from Bogotá to the regional airports of Pereira and Armenia. Roldanillo is a 90-minute taxi ride from both (about €40). Cali International Airport is 90 minutes by taxi or two hours by bus. If you don’t speak at least a bit of Spanish, it can help to use one of the local guiding services to smooth the way. Two recommended ones are Cloudbase Colombia and Air Nomads. Warning: The launches in Roldanillo are all lee-side mountain launches and depend on convection to generate upslope thermal breezes for safe launching. A west wind or north wind can create turbulent conditions in front of the launch at Las Tanques. There have been lethal accidents involving very good pilots. If the wind from the back is too strong, it is better not to fly, even if the thermals generate conditions to start at takeoff. Roldanillo is the best place for competition flying and big triangles, but it comes with challenges. Two sets of high-voltage power lines run along the entire mountain range. There is no official landing field, and the east-facing slopes produce early thermals but also powerful turbulences and lee-sides, making the flying significantly more risky and demanding. The incoming sea breeze from the Pacific Ocean makes launching impossible by early afternoon and turns the ridge into a massive lee-side later on. If you land out early, there is no chance for a second try, and your flying day is over. For more information on airspace, visit Cloudbase Colombia's airspace page.

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Roldanillo Los Tanques

At an elevation of 1726 meters, with a height difference of 781-900 meters, this paragliding site is a premier location for enthusiasts. It is frequently used and offers excellent thermals, making it ideal for cross-country (XC) flights. The site is accessible by a 4x4 vehicle and is about a one-hour drive from Roldanillo. Early starts are recommended, typically between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM, as the Pacific West tailwind can become too strong in the early afternoon, creating rotors. A fee is required to use the site. Be aware of two high-voltage power lines on pylons running across the hillside about 150 meters below the takeoff point. The region of Valle del Cauca, where this site is located, stretches from Roldanillo 70 km to the north and 170 km to the south, with a valley width varying from 8 to 40 km. The area is predominantly flat and 90% is planted with sugarcane. The tropical climate often guarantees smooth thermals over a large area, although long dry periods can make flying conditions more challenging. Pilots with some thermal experience will find flying in Roldanillo particularly enjoyable. The Pacific wind starts up nearly daily in the afternoon, so flying is generally only possible until midday. Even XC pilots who start early often move to the east side in the afternoon to fully explore the XC potential of the valley. Roldanillo is known as Colombia’s flying capital and has hosted numerous international competitions due to its reliable conditions. The tropical climate, influenced by trade winds, ensures consistent flying conditions. The agricultural landscape, with its unfenced farmland and extensive road network, makes retrievals easy and encourages pilots to take full advantage of the conditions. Thermals are generally light, except for a rowdy area over the quarry to the south. The early starts mean there isn't much of a late-night scene. Jeeps (locally known as Willy’s) for the Los Tanques takeoff leave from Parque Central around 8:45 AM, usually from the southeastern corner outside the Juice Palace. These are arranged by locals or long-stay pilots and depart when full. Other launches include La Tulia and Pico, which can be reached by local public transport followed by a walk. The main takeoff at Los Tanques is 900 meters above the town of Roldanillo and faces east across the wide-open Valle de Cauca. The valley is a political region as well as a geographical feature, lying in the west of Colombia amidst a chain of tropical mountains and hills. The thermic breeze hits launch around 9 AM, with flying traditionally starting around 11 AM. Only a strong Pacific breeze from the west can prevent it. The topography of the valley is perfect for flying cats-cradle tasks with interesting route-finding possibilities. After takeoff, pilots can fly along the western mountains, out into the flats, over to the eastern hills, and then choose their direction, north or south. Easy logistics make getting back to town with cheap public transport a breeze. The best season for flying is from December through March and from July to September. Even in the rainy winter season, 60% of days are flyable. The cloud base typically ranges from 1,800m to 2,300m, and the moist agricultural climate reduces the tendency for overdevelopment within the flying area. There is a dedicated takeoff for hang gliders just 15 minutes from the center of town on the way to La Tulia, at 1,880m. The local advice is to "fly anywhere you want to go," with cats-cradle type flying being the norm. Out-and-returns and triangles to land back in Roldanillo are often thwarted by the afternoon Pacific breeze. There is an airspace limit of 9,000 feet to the southeast and 10,000 feet to the north. Although often ignored by pilots, it is an issue waiting to happen, so it is best to avoid these limits. For weather updates, you can check: - [XCskies](https://www.xcskies.com) - [Meteoblue](https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/week/roldanillo_colombia_3670644) - [Windfinder](https://www.windfinder.com/forecast/roldanillo) Getting to Roldanillo is straightforward. It’s a 60-minute flight from Bogotá to the regional airports of Pereira and Armenia, followed by a 90-minute taxi ride (about €40). Cali International Airport is 90 minutes by taxi or two hours by bus. For local guiding services, you can contact: - [Cloudbase Colombia](https://www.cloudbasecolombia.com/) - [Air Nomads](https://www.airnomads.co/) Please note that the launches in Roldanillo are all lee-side mountain launches and depend on convection to generate upslope thermal breezes for safe launching. A west or north wind can create turbulent conditions in front of the launch at Las Tanques. There have been fatal accidents involving very skilled pilots. If the wind from the back is too strong, it is better not to fly, even if the thermals generate conditions to start at takeoff. For more information on airspace, visit [Cloudbase Colombia Airspace Information](https://www.cloudbasecolombia.com/english/information/airspace/). Takeoff capacity is for more than 10 wings simultaneously, with a grass surface and a wide incline. From the road, it's a steep stair up to launch, and people often offer to carry your gear for a tip. Landing options include top landing, landing in the valley floor, or at the base of the mountain. There are no more official landing zones, so it is best to ask locals for advice. For more detailed information, you can visit [XC Mag's Guide to Roldanillo](https://xcmag.com/travel-guide/guide-to-roldanillo-colombia/).

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San Felix Parapente Medellin

San Félix, located in the Antioquia region of Colombia, is a highly frequented paragliding site known for its reliable thermalling and dynamic soaring conditions. The main takeoff is at an altitude of 2399 meters with a height difference of 836 meters, making it a medium-difficulty site. The secondary takeoff is also very frequently used. Thermalling here is excellent, with many flight logs from tandem pilots. Dynamic soaring is common, and cross-country (XC) flights are occasionally possible. Toplanding is standard and manageable for most pilots. The region is particularly popular for tandem flying, with over 10,000 flights annually. Major operators include Paragliding Medellin, Parapente San Felix, Arroclub San Felix, Dejavu Parapente, Zona de Vuelo, Gtopic, and Parapente Adrenalina. Most of these operators are based on the road below the takeoff. For foreign pilots, organizing transportation and flying logistics can be challenging, but Ruben from Paragliding Medellin can assist with arrangements. San Félix is a 40-minute journey from downtown Medellín, offering a smooth and easy takeoff area, sculpted by bulldozers and carpeted with lush grass. The site features a restaurant and bar, making it a social hub on weekends. The valley winds, thermals, and evening restitution make it an easy place to fly, with some XC possibilities. The takeoff area is large and gently sloping, covered with grass, making it easy for even less experienced pilots to take off, especially with a good headwind. However, in the afternoons, the wind can become strong, posing challenges for beginners. Thermal flying is often possible in the mornings, while the afternoons bring dynamic conditions suitable for soaring until sunset. The large takeoff area also allows for toplanding, even for less experienced pilots. Landing at the bottom of the mountain can be tricky in the afternoon due to narrow spaces, strong valley winds, and resulting turbulence. For more information, you can visit: - [Paragliding Medellin](https://paraglidingmedellin.com/) - [Parapente San Felix](http://www.parapenteencolombia.com) - [Gtopic](https://gtopik.com/) San Félix is a must-visit if you're in Medellín, offering an organized launch area, friendly pilots for briefings, and a vibrant city life with nightlife, art, culture, and food. For additional details, check out: - [XC Mag Travel Guide](https://xcmag.com/travel-guide/city-slickers-medellin/) - [Paraworld](https://de.paraworld.co/1-san-felix) - [Paragliding Forum](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=p671867) Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be cautious of strong winds forming without warning. Due to air traffic, pilots must stay within certain limits to the east. Access to the site is via a bus towards San Pedro de los Milagros from the North terminal; ask for "ZONA DE VUELO estadero el Voladero" just before the road toll. Conditions are usually excellent for local and cross-country flights, with a cloud base typically around 3300 meters above sea level and a takeoff ramp at 2300 meters above sea level.

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Sabanazo Las Pionos, La Union Voladero Patrax

Located at an elevation of 1694 meters with a height difference of approximately 750 meters, this paragliding site in Colombia is gaining popularity. It is regularly used and is becoming a notable spot for international competitions, offering a more familiar environment compared to Roldanillo. The site is known for good cross-country (XC) flying potential, making it an interesting alternative for pilots. There are various takeoff options available, providing flexibility depending on the wind conditions and pilot preference. The site record stands at 13.2 km, showcasing its potential for decent flights. For more information, you can check out this video: [Watch Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-2r3u71aww&ab_channel=florinelzx6r) You can also connect with the local club through their Facebook pages: [Club Page 1](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550069305420) [Club Page 2](https://www.facebook.com/watch/parapentelaunion/)

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Moechiza Taindala Chapocal

Located on the slopes of the Galeras Volcano, just 50 minutes from the City of Pasto, this site is excellent for dynamic soaring with a prevailing North wind. The takeoff area is wide, and there are extensive landing sites, making it suitable for students, intermediates, and advanced pilots alike. Toplanding is possible and commonly practiced. For more information, you can visit [Vuele Parapente](http://www.vueleparapente.jimdo.com). Contact: - Carlos Yepes: +57 3006177304 - Club Parapente Airetupal: airetupal@gmail.com Parking coordinates for landing: 0 N, 77.4266 W Watch a flight video: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6VGlF84QTg&ab_channel=CarlosYepesParapenteNari%C3%B1o) Takeoff coordinates: N 1 06 972, W 77 26 475

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Roldanillo El Pico

The El Pico takeoff is located at La Tulia in Bolivar, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. It is a popular spot for paragliding, situated 30 minutes from Roldanillo with an additional short walk required to reach the takeoff point. This site is frequently used and is known for good cross-country (XC) flying conditions. The area can be slightly windy at times, and there is limited space for preparation. The optimal starting time is from 8 am to 2 pm, and currently, there are no starting fees. The Valle del Cauca region, where Roldanillo is located, stretches 70 km to the north and 170 km to the south, with a width varying from 8 to 40 km. The area is predominantly flat and largely planted with sugarcane. The tropical humid weather often ensures smooth thermals over a large area, although long dry periods can make flying conditions more challenging. Pilots with some thermal experience will find flying in Roldanillo enjoyable. The Pacific wind typically starts in the afternoon, making early starts essential for optimal flying conditions. Roldanillo is renowned as Colombia’s flying capital and has hosted numerous international competitions due to its reliable conditions. The tropical climate, influenced by trade winds, allows for consistent flying year-round. The region's unfenced farmland and extensive road network facilitate easy retrieval, encouraging pilots to explore the area. The thermals in the region are generally light, except for a more turbulent area over the quarry to the south. The Pacific breeze can also affect conditions. Early starts are common, with flying traditionally beginning around 11 am. The main takeoff at Los Tanques is 900m above Roldanillo and faces east across the Valle del Cauca. The valley's topography is ideal for various flying tasks, with easy logistics for returning to town using public transport. The best flying season is from December through March and from July to September, with the summer months (Dec-Mar) being particularly favorable. The cloud base typically ranges from 1,800m to 2,300m, and the moist agricultural climate reduces the risk of overdevelopment. For more detailed information on flying conditions and logistics, you can visit: - [XC Mag Guide to Roldanillo](https://xcmag.com/travel-guide/guide-to-roldanillo-colombia/) - [Airtribune Americas 2023](https://airtribune.com/americas2023/info/details__flying) For weather updates, check: - [Meteoblue Roldanillo](https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/week/roldanillo_colombia_3670644) Useful contacts for local guiding services include: - [Cloudbase Colombia](https://www.cloudbasecolombia.com) - [Air Nomads](https://www.airnomads.co) Please note that the launches in Roldanillo are lee-side mountain launches and depend on convection to generate upslope thermal breezes. A strong west or north wind can create turbulent conditions, so it's crucial to assess the wind conditions carefully before launching.

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El Castillo 2 Calarcá "La Conchi"

Altitude: 2169 meters, Height Difference: 627 meters This site is frequently used for paragliding, with good thermalling conditions and the possibility for cross-country (XC) flights. It is slightly less popular than Castillo 1 but is considered to offer better flying conditions. Evening restitution flights are also possible, providing a pleasant experience. There is parking available nearby, although a short walk is required to reach the take-off point. Flights Region: Quindio, Colombia. The site record is 13.9 km. For more information, visit: [Calarca](http://Calarca) Check out these videos for a closer look at the site: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avZ_U79r22A&ab_channel=JuanGuillermoCruzVanegas) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qd7q632YhTk&ab_channel=JuanGuillermoCruzVanegas) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPBX1qjgr88&ab_channel=ParapenteQuind%C3%ADoExtremo) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=C86EX5oGe40&ab_channel=JuanGuillermoCruzVanegas) - [Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpV35mKaOaM&ab_channel=JuanGuillermoCruzVanegas) - [Video 6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WXaDdNXIEo&ab_channel=JuanGuillermoCruzVanegas)

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Alto del Nudo Pereira

Located at an altitude of 1969 meters with a height difference of 685 meters, this paragliding site in Risaralda, Colombia, is known for its ease of use and frequent thermalling opportunities, making it suitable for cross-country (XC) flights. The site is popular for tandem flights, suggesting it is a favored spot for both beginners and those looking to experience paragliding with an instructor. The takeoff area is covered with good grass, providing a smooth and safe launch. Toplanding is possible but recommended only for experienced pilots due to the skill required. The site has a notable flight record of 65.1 km, indicating its potential for long-distance flights. For more information and tandem flight bookings, you can visit their Facebook page: [Parapente en Risaralda](https://www.facebook.com/ParapenteenRisaralda). For a visual experience of what flying at this site looks like, check out these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibuKLV5hKLE&ab_channel=RichardBetancur) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN6kvmFjdZ4&ab_channel=AydaChaconTorres) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3c9qRN5PR0&ab_channel=camilolondo%C3%B1o) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KjfMe9J39g&ab_channel=germanenrique05)

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Nevado del Tolima

This paragliding site offers an elevation of approximately 5186 meters with a height difference of around 3000 meters. It is ideal for hike & fly or climb & fly enthusiasts, providing a scenic flight experience. However, it is rarely used, making it a unique and tranquil spot for those looking to avoid crowded skies. For a visual experience, you can watch a flight from this location here: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKPf0svwtTk&ab_channel=AlexVilla).

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He Ave María-1

This paragliding site in Colombia is situated at an altitude of 1620 meters with a height difference of approximately 500 meters. It is rarely used and primarily known for thermalling. The site record for the longest flight is 6.2 kilometers.

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Cañon del Chicamocha Dos Ventanas

At an elevation of 1701 meters with a height difference of 1180 meters, this site is frequently used and highly recommended for thermal soaring. It's an excellent spot for relaxed cross-country (XC) flights, with daily routes of at least 12-15 km along the ridge. The best time for takeoff is late morning, between 10:00-12:00 am. After midday, conditions often become unfavorable due to strong winds and erratic thermals. For earlier takeoffs, consider using the 'Roso' site. XC triangles or one-way XC flights in the SSW direction over the plateau are possible. The site is accessible by car, and both toplanding and bottom landing are straightforward. Region: Colombia Site record: 39.1 km For more information, visit: http://panachi1740 m.s.n.m gramas sintetica, vuelo termico, recomendado solo en las mañanas, antes de la 1 pm Watch related videos: - [VOLANDO EL MUNDO](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bP48T-Tvfr8&ab_channel=VOLANDOELMUNDO) - [Parapente Chicamocha](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k81Gej71js&ab_channel=ParapenteChicamocha) - [Blog auf Meer - Anna & Chris](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_OsQxad0Mw&ab_channel=BlogaufMeer-Anna%26Chris) - [Drink Tea & Travel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l37QgMqrmqk&ab_channel=DrinkTea%26Travel) Chicamocha Canyon is a flying paradise suitable for every level of pilot. Beginners should seek advice from experienced locals. There are two takeoff points on the east side of the canyon: - Early morning (8:00-10:00 am): Ideal for sled rides with bottom landing, thermalling, and toplanding, or early bird XC from Roso. - Mid-morning (10:00-12:00 am): Perfect for thermals and XC from Dos Vantanas. Access is available by any vehicle or bus. Buses from San Gil or Bucaramanga depart every 30 minutes and are operated by several companies. Both takeoff points are large and relatively easy, offering impressive views over a 1000-meter deep canyon. Follow the vultures (chulos) to find easy thermals. You can enjoy a 25-minute sled ride to the landing zone below, circle above and top land, or go XC (local advice recommended). The climate is ideal for both coffee plantations and paragliding. Cool mornings transition to clear skies and sunshine, with clouds gathering over the mesa to cool things down in the afternoon. This makes it a popular weekend getaway for Colombians. Conditions are not as reliable as in Rutoque. Morning thermals can sometimes be too weak, resulting in zero or tailwind at takeoff. For logistical reasons, it's advisable to have accommodation on the mesa. Alternatively, stay in San Gil, where shuttles are available daily. Contact: - [Parapente Chicamocha](https://parapentechicamocha.com/) - [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/parapentechicamocha)

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Piedechinche Bello Horizonte

Located in the Valle region of Colombia, this paragliding site offers an elevation of 1835 meters with a height difference of 662 meters. It is frequently used and suitable for cross-country flights. The takeoff area is relatively large, accommodating 5-8 gliders at a time, and is often used for accuracy competitions. Although it is one of the less frequented takeoffs in Piedechinche, it remains a good option for paragliders. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle. The site record for the longest flight is 89.0 km. For more information, you can visit the [Paragliding Forum](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=p671867) or contact [Colombia Paragliding](https://colombiaparagliding.com/). Additional details about the site can be found in the [FAI document](https://www.fai.org/sites/default/files/civl/documents/annexe_34g_-_bid_colombia_2024_pg_accuracy_panam.pdf). Accommodation is available at the takeoff, which is relatively new. For guiding services, you can check out [Paltakats](https://paltakats.com/colombia) and [Colombia XC SIV](https://www.colombiaxcsiv.com/). The takeoff area is a very nice grass field, but be cautious of the structures on the right meant for the public. You can easily top land at the takeoff or a little further down the hill and walk back up. Another option is to fly west for about a kilometer and top land in the groundhandling area, which is very spacious. The regular landing zone is at Restaurante 'Dedalos', with large fields to the west of the road and windsocks available. For weather updates, you can check [Windfinder](http://www.windfinder.com/forecast/piedechinche). Please note that the maximum altitude allowed is 2400 meters, and you should not fly west of the highway in the valley. Access to the site is by Jeep from LZ 'Dedalos', with a fee of 5,000 COP as of 2018. Registration and fee payment are required at launch. For visual references, you can watch these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2Nr0eEtshM&list=PLo-CnpcAMAl9UNZVw3O3Kj2RKr6tCzOwb&index=9&ab_channel=GerryMcNicol) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOH6LzAMRPA&ab_channel=Nelson%27sWings) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi8dys7riOs&ab_channel=buchercast) - [Video 4](https://vimeo.com/14397339) - [Video 5](https://vimeo.com/14610950)

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Santa Fe de Antioquia Sopetran

Located in the Antioquia region of Colombia, this paragliding site offers an elevation of 1423 meters with a height difference of 772 meters. It's an easy site, frequently used by pilots, and known for its good thermalling conditions. While cross-country (XC) flights are possible, they are not very common, but the site does offer an interesting mountain XC experience with a typically high cloudbase. There are many landing options in the valley, with the primary landing zone (LZ 1) directly below the takeoff. The site is about 1.5 hours from Medellin, making it a convenient option for pilots, especially since it's just one hour from Medellin airport. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle followed by a walk. Toplanding is also possible here. The takeoff area is grass-covered and free of obstacles, allowing for takeoff throughout the day. There is a house thermal in front of the takeoff, and the valley offers smooth thermals. On some days, you can get high enough to go XC. The official landing site is a large field, but be cautious of the big trees in front of it, which can make landing a bit tricky. Alternative landing sites should be chosen carefully to avoid disturbing private property owners. For more information, you can visit [Paraworld](https://en.paraworld.co/2-sopetran). Videos showcasing the site: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcEJ_4u7z0Q&ab_channel=KerghanUA) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOI3wW6xK_s&ab_channel=PassionParagliding) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdcQ9gorqPs&ab_channel=ChristianB.Schoop) - [Video 4](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=302237750644061) - [Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duG4Gsqaehg&ab_channel=50125250600) - [Video 6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=re4u45igkw8&ab_channel=norparabert) For contact and further details: Paraworld Adventure Hostel Medellín Florian Neuenschwander Medellín, Colombia Cel: (+57) 301 444 48 12 [Paraworld](http://www.paraworld.co)

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Cerro Amarillo La Pintada Damasco

Located at an altitude of 1357 meters with a height difference of approximately 750 meters, this paragliding site in Antioquia, Colombia, offers an easy and enjoyable flying experience. It is regularly used and known for good thermalling and thermal soaring conditions, making cross-country flights possible. A resident thermal can be found on the left side above the palm trees. The takeoff area is large, grass-covered, and easy to manage. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle followed by a short walk. Top landing is possible and easy due to the ample space available for making your approach. There is an official landing zone below, with many landing options in the valley, including areas near roads. The site record for this location is 22.9 km, and it is situated on a grassy knoll on private land, specifically a ranch called Cerro Amarillo. For more information, visit: [Cerro Amarillo Paragliding Site](https://en.paraworld.co/10-cerro-amarillo) Watch some flights from this site: - [Flight Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_BMgkxHMG0&ab_channel=JulioCesarBenitezArbelaez) - [Flight Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBl-_U1oMkQ&ab_channel=DanielaGuerraCorrea) - [Flight Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YY7w8Th24j8&ab_channel=flyalas) - [Flight Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb92OgrQrXc&ab_channel=EduardoRestrepo) - [Flight Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRt3s69uZyI&ab_channel=MayerZapata)

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El Sabanazo Elotes Trail

This paragliding site in Colombia has a takeoff altitude of 1333 meters and a height difference of 380 meters. It is not frequently used due to the availability of many good alternatives nearby. However, it offers opportunities for thermalling and cross-country (XC) flights. The site is accessible by road. The site record for the longest flight is 10.4 kilometers.

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San Andrés 3

This paragliding site has an elevation of 2414 meters with a height difference of 755 meters. It has minimal activity, with only one recorded flight log and some thermalling opportunities. There is no additional information available about this location. For more popular and well-documented paragliding sites, you may want to explore other options.

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La Florida 3

This paragliding site in Colombia offers an elevation range from 1260 to 1907 meters, with a height difference of approximately 300 to 900 meters. It is rarely used and is particularly suited for hike-and-fly activities. This site can be a good option if you need an alternative landing spot after an unsuccessful flight. There are various takeoff options available, and it is possible to achieve good cross-country (XC) flights here. The site record is 28.7 km.

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Roldanillo private launch

The launch site is situated at an altitude of 1590 meters with a height difference of approximately 850 meters. This is a private launch site with limited information available. It is occasionally used, and cross-country flights are possible, though not common. The takeoff area appears to be challenging, and it might be better to consider using the El Tanque site instead. This site is located in Colombia, and the site record for the longest flight is 171.6 km.

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