Turrialba, Costa Rica Altitude: 1605 meters Height Difference: 80-900 meters Difficulty: Easy Turrialba is a frequently used paragliding site known for its good thermal soaring conditions. While some cross-country flights are possible, most pilots tend to stay within the valley. The takeoff area is very easy, making it suitable for practice and less experienced pilots. The flight can be technical, so it's advisable to ask locals for tips and guidance. Top landing is common, and there are many bailout options available. Season: All year round Access: By car Fee: Yes, payable at the site where you can also get drinks Rules: Follow specific trails and do not jump over the wall; ask locals for detailed rules Region: Costa Rica Site Record: 19.8 km Takeoff: The takeoff area is a big, easy grass area located at 1580 meters altitude. It is spacious and easily accessible with any type of vehicle. Flight: The flights are predominantly thermal with views of villages, pastures, and coffee plantations. Cross-country flights are possible. Landing: Top landing is possible, or you can land 200 meters farther down in several pastures accessible only with a 4Ă—4 vehicle. For more information, you can visit: - [Sky High Costa Rica](https://skyhigh-costarica.com/fluggebiete/?lang=en) - [Parapente Aire Libre](https://parapenteairelibre.com/) - [Just Acro - Turrialba Volcano](http://justacro.com/startplaces/costa-rica/turrialba-volcano) Videos: - [Gerson Morales MarĂn](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixeG42dmtlA&ab_channel=GersonMoralesMar%C3%ADn) - [Marco Madriz](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEQizRybAFA) - [Marco Madriz](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8viIlibDhCU&ab_channel=MarcoMadriz) - [Guido Gutierrez](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6jVj3zdcXA&t=1s&ab_channel=GuidoGutierrez) - [Fio Chac](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPsQHMOqnig&ab_channel=fiochac) - [Facebook Video](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=682998603606706) - [Alessandro Malavasi](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgJwVp9_Jzo&ab_channel=AlessandroMalavasi) - [Parapente Miravalles Volcán Turrialba](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wiIHe__8Knk&ab_channel=ParapenteMiravallesVolc%C3%A1nTurrialba) - [Marco Madriz](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLWTSpdV2VA&ab_channel=MarcoMadriz) - [Imagen Aerea CR](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdYxCcxGhag&ab_channel=ImagenAereaCR)
View spotLocated in the Poás region of Alajuela, Costa Rica, this paragliding site sits at an elevation of 1093 meters with a height difference of 140 meters. It is a lesser-known spot, primarily used by local paragliders for short flights. Due to its limited popularity, there is minimal information available about this site. The longest recorded flight here is 0.8 km, indicating that it is not a destination for long-distance paragliding. For more popular paragliding sites in Costa Rica, you might want to explore other regions.
View spotLocated in the Jaco region of Costa Rica, this paragliding site offers an exhilarating experience with a takeoff height of 361 meters and a height difference of approximately 320 meters. The site, established in 2019, is relatively new and provides excellent conditions for hike & fly, thermalling, and some dynamic soaring. Cross-country flights are also possible. The site is considered easier than JacĂł, but it requires a bit of walking to reach the takeoff point. There are numerous landing options available, including uncultivated fields and the beach, making it accessible for pilots of various skill levels. However, it is crucial to avoid landing in the fields directly below the takeoff point. Top landing is also possible here. The orientation of the site is generally believed to be S-SE, although some sources suggest otherwise. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle due to the difficult track, and it is important not to block the parking exit. Before arriving, it is essential to contact Berny at +506 8838 4759, Espe at +506 8310 1073, or Xavi at +506 8345 5703. There is a fee for using the site, especially for tandem pilots. For more information on the airspace and flight zones, you can visit: https://parapentepuravida.com/zona-de-vuelo-de-jaco/ and check the detailed map at https://parapentepuravida.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/JACO-DGAC_MAPA-scaled.jpg. To get a glimpse of the flights, you can watch these videos: - https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2134878146575742 - https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=782293788813179 - https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=210692926549256 For more details, visit: https://www.costaricaparapente.com
View spotLocated in Costa Rica, this paragliding site has an elevation of 1057 meters with a height difference of approximately 780 meters. It is a relatively new takeoff point, established in 2019, and is occasionally used by pilots. The site offers good potential for cross-country (XC) flights, although detailed information about the site is limited. The site record for the longest flight is 131.2 km, showcasing its potential for impressive XC flights. For an example of XC flights in Costa Rica, you can visit: https://parapentepuravida.com/los-10-mejores-vuelos-xc-de-costa-rica-1/
View spotHatillo, located approximately 10 km north of Dominical in Costa Rica, offers a unique paragliding experience. With a height of 273 meters and a height difference of 256 meters, it is considered an easy site. Although it doesn't provide much ridge lift, it is regularly used for thermalling or thermal soaring, making it possible to embark on cross-country (XC) flights. Access to the site is convenient with car access followed by a short walk. However, landing options are limited, so finding thermals is essential. The site record stands at 31.9 km, showcasing its potential for longer flights. For a visual experience, you can check out this video: [Hatillo Paragliding](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AeG2T7Hjhu8).
View spotLocated in Costa Rica, this paragliding site offers a takeoff altitude of 1980 meters and a height difference of 1092 meters. It is not frequently used, but it provides opportunities for soaring and thermalling. Cross-country flights are possible here, with the site record being 116.4 km. For more detailed information, you can visit [Zion Paragliding](https://www.zionparagliding.com/).
View spotAt an elevation of 2216 meters with a height difference of 618 meters, this paragliding site is situated on private land in Poasito, Costa Rica. It's essential to ask locals for permission before taking off. The site is regularly used for thermalling and occasionally for soaring, with some potential for cross-country flights. The takeoff area is grassy but be cautious of fences and other obstacles. The fields below often have cattle or other animals, so try to minimize disturbance. The glide from takeoff to the next good landing options is relatively flat, so avoid losing too much height near the takeoff point. Sometimes, the takeoff area is above the clouds, and you might find thermals in the flatlands. Access to the site is possible by car, followed by a short walk. For more visual insights, you can check out these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=kBX2njxc47E&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gg2z7uQ2ggo&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g2iBiO59G4&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPhksjFigMc&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlYV7NPF5R8&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Video 6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsQtZBeMzsg&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Video 7](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcDafnAcymk&ab_channel=MarioHerrera)
View spotThis paragliding site in Costa Rica offers a fantastic experience for pilots of all levels, from beginners to experts. The launch is situated at an elevation of approximately 566 meters and is known for its ease of use. The site is frequently used for soaring and thermalling, with the potential for cross-country (XC) flights up to 100 km. The location is a stunning southwest coastal and inland ridge soaring site, where you can often find yourself flying alongside eagles, black vultures, and hawks. Toplanding is possible, but access to the launch site requires a 4x4 vehicle. Landing options include Dominicalito or Dominical beaches. However, be cautious as landing can be compromised during high tide. There is a fee to fly at this site. Note that the Dominical launch is currently in the middle of a large real estate development, which might lead to its closure in the future. A typical small XC flight might involve turning left after takeoff to catch the first thermal, then following the clouds southbound. You can fly to 'La Ballena,' a private takeoff spot, where you can gain altitude up to 1000 meters. With a light southeast wind, you can return to the takeoff point without any turns, staying above or in front of the ridge for a normal flight. If you have a retrieval driver, you can continue flying on the northeast side of the ridge towards the mountains. If you get low, there are many landing options along the beach. Clouds are usually good indicators of thermals, and you can often find more clouds in front of the launch to help you gain altitude. Follow the clouds northbound towards River Baru and Dominical town, using trigger points along the way to continue your flight. For more information, you can visit: - [Wilder Adventures](https://www.wilderadventures.com/launch/1165/dominical-savegre-de-aguirre) - [Sustainable Adventure Blog](https://sustainableadventure.blogspot.com/2016/03/costa-rica-paragliding.html) - [Paraglide Costa Rica](https://www.paraglidecostarica.com/launch-sites-costa-rica) - [Zion Paragliding](https://www.zionparagliding.com/contact) - [Skyhigh Costa Rica](https://skyhigh-costarica.com/fluggebiete/?lang=en) For a visual experience, check out these videos: - [XC from Dominical](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDug6bRFaro&ab) - [Tom Ceunen's Playlist](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uM397cdCS0&list=PLjRquM9TSWxGGYI2uq1FV3sOvLpwaITsE&ab_channel=TomCeunen) - [Zion Paragliding](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lga3gk09Wsc&ab_channel=ZionParagliding)
View spotAt an altitude of 1297 meters with a height difference of approximately 1200 meters, this paragliding site is considered easy. It is occasionally used and is accessible either by hike & fly or by a 4x4 vehicle to San Rafael followed by a hike. The site offers scenic flights, thermalling opportunities, and the possibility of small cross-country flights. When flying, head towards the right-hand side to catch the thermals. Landing is straightforward in Lagunillas de Turrubares. Located in the Turrubares canton of Costa Rica, this site serves as an alternative takeoff point to Potenciana, especially when the access road is blocked due to landslides. The best flying season is from January to April. The site record is 11.1 km, and more information can be found at [Parapente Costa Rica](https://www.parapente-costa-rica.org/new). Hernan Chavarria maintains the 'El Holandés' line to reach the FILA street takeoff point.
View spotThis paragliding site in Costa Rica offers a takeoff altitude of 1385 meters and a height difference of 530 meters. It is occasionally used and provides a scenic flight experience. Pilots can expect some thermalling opportunities, with rare chances for cross-country (XC) flights. Vehicle access is available, but no further details are provided. The site record for the longest flight is 11.8 kilometers.
View spotLocated at an altitude of 1690 meters with a height difference of 807 meters, this paragliding site is a favorite among intermediate to expert pilots. It is not suitable for beginners. The launch site, privately owned by Alex, offers amenities such as bed and breakfast. A fee is required to use the launch. This site is frequently used for thermalling and offers excellent cross-country (XC) flying opportunities. Toplanding is possible, and while there are other takeoff options nearby, this is the primary one. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle. In the Sajaral region of Costa Rica, this site holds a record flight distance of 114.2 km. It is known for its strong thermals and potential for long XC flights. Pilots often make altitude at launch, dive into the valley, and then start their XC journey eastbound along the valley line, seeking convergence lines. For more information, you can visit: - [Paraglide Costa Rica](https://www.paraglidecostarica.com/launch-sites-costa-rica) - [Skyhigh Costa Rica](https://skyhigh-costarica.com/fluggebiete/?lang=en) Watch some flights from this site: - [Flight Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEn2VHVuyfo&list=PLjRquM9TSWxGGYI2uq1FV3sOvLpwaITsE&index=2&ab_channel=TomCeunen) - [Flight Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsqwz8DoRJE&list=PLjRquM9TSWxGGYI2uq1FV3sOvLpwaITsE&index=4&ab_channel=TomCeunen) - [Flight Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wq29WgppcH4&list=PLjRquM9TSWxGGYI2uq1FV3sOvLpwaITsE&index=5&ab_channel=TomCeunen) - [Flight Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiQZK5iyHFs&list=PLjRquM9TSWxGGYI2uq1FV3sOvLpwaITsE&index=6&ab_channel=TomCeunen) - [Flight Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rds9K0suXZI&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Flight Video 6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xG3SyDOyjf8&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Flight Video 7](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0WBbYef34E&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Flight Video 8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x17rjpde9a4&ab_channel=ParaCostaCostaRica) For additional details on the launch site, visit [Wilder Adventures](https://www.wilderadventures.com/launch/1180/tirra-rivas-rivas).
View spotThis site in the Zona Norte region of Costa Rica is situated at an elevation of 1560 meters, with a height difference of approximately 1180 meters. It is rarely used and is considered a technical site suitable for experienced pilots. The launch area is accessible via a 4.5 km hike, making it ideal for those interested in hike & fly adventures. The location offers scenic flights, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The site record for distance is 4.4 km.
View spotCaldera Port in Costa Rica is a well-loved paragliding site, known for its stable weather and flying conditions throughout the year due to its location on the Pacific Ocean. The takeoff area is grassy and well-maintained, making it easy for pilots to launch. Top landing is possible and quite normal, but you can also land on the beach if needed. The site is privately owned, but it appears that everyone is welcome. It's best to ask for permission before flying. The primary flying style here is dynamic soaring along the ridge, with limited thermal activity due to the proximity to the ocean. The wind is often flyable, with the sea breeze below and upper layers sometimes having wind in a different or opposite direction. Access to the site is straightforward with a normal car. The site is about 100 meters above sea level, with a ridge length of 800 meters and a flyable length of up to 3.3 kilometers. On a good day, you can achieve about 300 meters above the launch. For more information, you can visit: - [Parapente Pura Vida](https://parapentepuravida.com/) - [Sky High Costa Rica](https://skyhigh-costarica.com/fluggebiete/?lang=en) Check out some videos of flights at Caldera: - [Tico Drone](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_7bXBgyjg4&ab_channel=TicoDrone) - [Subsidi4rity Utube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZBYgX1glUg&ab_channel=Subsidi4rityUtube) - [Brian Dixon](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_Xg7iLiJrU&ab_channel=BrianDixon) - [Que Buen Lugar](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L--nr7EwDNU&ab_channel=QueBuenLugar) - [Parapente Pura Vida](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XVxh4M1YFY&ab_channel=ParapentePuraVida) - [Noticias Repretel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uzs2E7Pa098&ab_channel=NoticiasRepretel) - [Cabina de vuelo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DG6zB3V9ih0&ab_channel=Cabinadevuelo) - [Luis Guillermo y Alberto Muñoz Gómez](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzOOc-naVgs&ab_channel=LuisGuillermoyAlbertoMu%C3%B1ozG%C3%B3mez) For tandem paragliding pilots, you can contact [Parapente Pura Vida](http://www.parapentepuravida.com/contactos.html). Enjoy soaring along the cliffs with stunning views over the Pacific Ocean, but be cautious when the wind picks up!
View spotLocated in the San Jose region of Costa Rica, this paragliding site offers a takeoff altitude of 1717 meters with a height difference of 995 meters. It is known for its scenic flights and thermalling opportunities, although it is rarely used by pilots. Access to the launch site requires a 4x4 vehicle followed by a walk. The site has a recorded flight distance of 3.4 kilometers. However, there are no flight logs available for this location, indicating limited usage by the paragliding community. For more information on paragliding in Costa Rica, you might want to visit local paragliding clubs or forums.
View spotLocated in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, this paragliding site offers a launch height of 821 meters with a height difference of approximately 705 meters. It is primarily used for hike-and-fly activities and is rarely frequented, with most flight logs being quite old. The site is known for good thermalling conditions, especially after flying out into the valley, and offers opportunities for soaring and scenic flights. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle. Pilots are advised to use the official landing zone, which is located at a finca north of the main junction in Vegas. For more information or to arrange a visit, you can contact Luis at +506 8970 2463.
View spotCerro Uran, located in the Cordillera de Talamanca, Costa Rica, offers a challenging yet rewarding paragliding experience. With an elevation ranging from 3359 to 3495 meters and a height difference of approximately 2134 meters, it boasts the biggest height difference in Costa Rica. This site is suitable only for experienced pilots due to its demanding nature. You can either embark on a strenuous 10-hour hike to reach the launch point or opt for a fly-up and top landing before re-launching. The hike is particularly tough, with the first 8 hours involving a 1500-meter altitude gain through dense jungle with minimal markings and almost no trail. The flight itself is long and scenic, providing multiple takeoff options along the ridge. The site record stands at 16.8 km, making it a notable destination for those seeking a significant paragliding challenge. For more information and to get a visual sense of the experience, you can watch this video: [Zion Paragliding - Cerro Uran](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cx-a08M_NBc&ab_channel=ZionParagliding). Additionally, you can explore the tandem flight trail on Wikiloc: [Vuelo Tandem Cerro Uran Zion](https://www.wikiloc.com/paragliding-trails/vuelo-tandem-cerro-uran-zion-59168056).
View spotLocated in the Turrubares region of Costa Rica, this paragliding site offers an elevation of 1471 meters with a height difference of approximately 1100 meters. It is considered an easy site, though it is only occasionally used, with flight logs dating back to 2014 and 2015. The primary type of flight here is thermal, especially near the takeoff area and within the Turrubares valley. It's best to start early in the day to take advantage of the thermal conditions. Some soaring is also possible. Landing is in San Pedro, which is easy but requires a long distance to reach. Access to the takeoff site requires a 4x4 vehicle, provided the road is open. The flying season runs from January to April. There is no additional information available about this site. For more details on paragliding in Costa Rica, you might want to check other resources or local paragliding clubs.
View spotThis takeoff site is situated at an elevation of 571 meters and is privately owned, so you will need to request permission to use it. It is occasionally used for paragliding, offering opportunities for thermalling and soaring. Some cross-country (XC) flights are possible from this location. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle followed by a walk. Although it is less easy to reach, the effort is rewarded with the potential for spectacular flights to the Dominical landing zone, which is approximately 14 kilometers away.
View spotLocated in the Alajuela region of Costa Rica, this paragliding site offers an altitude range of 1250-1340 meters with a height difference of 940-1043 meters. It is a thermal site known for its scenic flights, although it is rarely used. The site features various takeoff options and a very good takeoff area oriented towards the south-southwest. Access to the site is by car followed by a 15-30 minute walk. The landing zone is in the pastures on the road to Libertad, very close to the road that goes up to Aguacate. Be cautious of cables in the area and sudden incoming north winds. The landing area is in the pastures of La Eco Villa on the banks of the Machuca River. To reach the takeoff point at Cerro Raicero, you go up through Estanquillos, leave your vehicle there, and walk 15 minutes with your equipment. This site has a recorded flight distance of 7.1 km.
View spotLocated in the Valle Central region of Costa Rica, this paragliding site offers an elevation range of 1768-1780 meters with a height difference of 245-670 meters. It is regularly used and known for good soaring conditions, especially on calm days. Thermalling is possible, allowing for small cross-country flights. The grassy takeoff area has a nice inclination, making it suitable for pilots of various skill levels. Toplanding is possible and considered normal here. The site is accessible by car, but be aware that it is often very windy. The best time to fly is from March to July, typically between 10 am and 12 pm. The site is about 30 minutes from downtown San José, making it convenient for a quick getaway. However, conditions can vary significantly. During the dry season (December through April), the northeastern trade winds can be quite strong. In the rainy season, the winds are less intense, but afternoon thundershowers are common. Ridge soaring is excellent on a good day, and thermalling can be rewarding in the afternoons. Access to the site involves a 4WD road during the dry season, which turns into a 30-minute muddy hike in the rainy season. The landing zone is approximately 200 meters below the takeoff, situated in a pasture next to the town church. For a visual experience, you can check out these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0byz_G1bcU&ab_channel=LuisGuillermoyAlbertoMu%C3%B1ozG%C3%B3mez) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pp6dsa9dP68&ab_channel=LoSegC) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRxmla0KuOk&ab_channel=MarioHerrera) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmjipMBBWmk&ab_channel=ParaglidingRidesCostaRica) - [Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQGHK-ei1PU&ab_channel=ParaCostaCostaRica)
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