Starting from the mountain Mamzyshha at an altitude of about 1600 meters, you can enjoy a 10-12 minute flight along the gorge, reaching the sea at an altitude of 800-900 meters. From there, you can either glide back and forth along the coast until you lose altitude or practice SIV or other advanced maneuvers, taking advantage of the height and the safety of the water below. Gagra offers more than just paragliding. The area is known for its beautiful sea, beaches, and various interesting excursions, making it an ideal spot for combining flying with a family vacation. The launch site is a small clearing in the forest, with a horizontal platform for wing inflation, followed by a steep drop-off into the forest below. The starting point faces southwest, and the wind direction is primarily influenced by the sea breeze, usually resulting in calm conditions. However, occasionally, the wind can shift to blow from behind. For those new to Gagra, it's advisable to coordinate with local tandem pilots who can provide weather insights. The drive to the launch site takes about 40 minutes, and it's crucial to start early to avoid unfavorable conditions. The launch itself is straightforward for those confident in slope take-offs. However, pilots who have only trained with winches and lack reliable skills in calm conditions should not attempt to fly here. The launch site is a clean, level platform in the forest, ending in a steep cliff. If the pilot is confident, the take-off is simple. However, the height and dense forest below can be intimidating for beginners. Wind conditions at the start are generally calm, but can occasionally shift. Therefore, a direct and decisive take-off is necessary. Once airborne, you typically fly over the middle of the gorge. Thermals are rare, allowing for a relaxed flight where you can even take photos. Training flights for newcomers should be conducted in the morning between 8:00 and 10:30. Early in the morning, the wind can blow from behind, and later, sea breezes can form clouds that obscure the sea. Local tandem pilots fly all day, but navigating through clouds requires a GPS, compass, and radio. Upon reaching the shoreline, identify a landing spot from a high altitude to avoid a long walk in the sun. You can use GPS coordinates or recognize landmarks on the beach. Landing is on the city beach, which is usually not crowded. The beach strip is wide enough for a safe landing, and the wind direction can be gauged by the sea waves. After landing, you can pack up your wing and, if time permits, take a quick dip in the sea before heading back up for another flight. With good organization and an early start, you can manage two flights in a day. In the afternoon, a breeze forms along the mountain slopes, allowing you to soar over Gagra at an altitude of 500-600 meters above the sea. Maintain at least 50 meters below the clouds to avoid collisions with tandem pilots. Landing is again on the city beach. When the breeze forms, the launch site can be covered by clouds. Breaking through them is not difficult, but you need a GPS, compass, and radio for navigation due to the lack of visibility. Coordinates for navigating the gorge should be recorded during a reconnaissance flight in the morning. For group flights, radio communication is essential to avoid multiple paragliders in the cloud simultaneously. The second pilot should only start after receiving confirmation from the first pilot about exiting the clouds. Thermal flights are possible after 11:00-11:30 if there are breaks in the clouds. Thermals form at altitudes of 1200-1300 meters on the mountain slopes. These thermals are soft and allow for soaring over the mountain and planning flights around Gagra. Flying with a paramotor is not recommended here. Although technically feasible, it's better to fly from the beach behind the houses of New Gagra or near Pitsunda, where there is a small airfield. Coordinates: - Customs in the village Veseloy: N 43° 23.722' E 040° 00.438' - Check-in at Mamzishkhu from Nartaa Avenue: N 43° 18.683' E 040° 15.067' - Start location: N 43° 19.174' E 040° 18.091' For more information, visit: - [Gagra Paragliding](http://firstep.ru/flyplaces/gagra/gagra.php) - [Paraplan Lipetsk](http://paraplan.lipetsk.ru/cpg134/thumbnails.php?album=7) - [Paraplan Voronezh](http://paraplan.vrn.ru/component/option,com_datsogallery/Itemid,29/)
View spotJijeti, located in the Tianeti region, is one of the country's main paragliding sites, situated approximately 1625 meters above sea level. It offers soaring and thermal soaring opportunities, making it a popular choice for paragliders. The takeoff at Jijeti is very easy and suitable for beginners, although it requires experienced pilots to ensure there are no rotors or lee thermals. Therefore, it is not recommended for unaccompanied beginners. The landing area consists of fairly broad fields, providing good conditions for a safe landing. To reach Jijeti, you need a 4x4 vehicle as the site is accessible via a mountain track. It is about a two-hour drive from Tbilisi. The flying season extends from April through October-November. The site is known for its reliability, although cross-country flights have been limited due to low cloud bases or inversions. On rare occasions, the cloud base has reached up to 3500 meters, but connecting thermals were not found. Please be considerate of local shepherds and subsistence farmers, as their goodwill is essential for continued access to the site. Thermals can be punchy, and there have been instances of collapses close to the mountains. Beginners should avoid the ridge on the right to stay safe. There are no specific flight regulations relevant to this site. For more information, you can contact Irakli Kapanadze at +995 95 42 42 98 or via email at i_kapanadze@yahoo.com. Tourists can also visit the nearby Sioni reservoir, which offers exceptional views. Again, please be considerate of the local community to maintain good relations. For a visual experience of Jijeti, you can check out these videos: [Video 1](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEzp613UeKI) [Video 2](http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=pcS9NKxIbXM)
View spotThe launch site is situated at an elevation of 790 meters with a height difference of 332 meters. It is a popular spot for hike & fly enthusiasts and is regularly used by paragliders. Cross-country (XC) flights are possible from this location, offering a variety of flying experiences. For more insights and videos of flights from this site, you can visit Flyman's YouTube channel: [Flyman YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc0T_nXkDxjG6GgYVq-_fYA). For further information or to get in touch with Flyman, you can contact him via email at flymandevelopment@gmail.com or connect through social media: - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/RealFlyMan) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/flymanofficial/) - Twitter: flyman_official
View spotLocated in the Kazbegi region of Georgia, this paragliding site offers an elevation range between 2000 and 2120 meters. Despite its regular use, it appears that pilots rarely log their flights here. The site is known for its beautiful scenery and has good potential for paragliding. The take-off area is situated just above the village of Kazbegi, officially known as Stepantsminda, on the eastern slope of the mountains. Access to the take-off point is relatively easy, requiring only a 10-minute drive up a 4x4 track. For more detailed information, you can visit [Fly Kazbegi](http://www.flykazbegi.com).
View spotArhiz, Russia Elevation: 2596 meters This location is rarely used for paragliding. While small cross-country flights are possible, it is not a popular spot among paragliders. The site record is 28.6 km. For those interested, the launch area is accessible by hiking up the ridge from the Sofia Valley. The site is best suited for flights under southern winds. For more details, please refer to local paragliding resources or community forums.
View spot
Located in the Gudauri/Kvecheti region of Georgia, this paragliding site offers an impressive flying experience with altitudes ranging from 2630 to 2730 meters. The site is regularly used and is known for its small cross-country flights, high-altitude flying, and breathtaking scenery, whether in summer or winter. The infrastructure is well-developed, and top-landing is possible. Takeoff: In summer, the paragliding takeoff is conveniently located near ski chairlifts and just 300 meters from the gondola station, at an altitude of 2750 meters above sea level. There is a large landing area near the takeoff point. The gondola operates on weekends during the summer. In winter, the takeoff is from Mt. Kudebi at 3005 meters, accessible via the third chairlift. Possible wind directions include W, SW, S, SE, and E. Landing: There is a car parking area near the bottom station of the chairlifts and gondola, making it easy to access your vehicle after landing. Getting There: You can reach the site by taxi from Tbilisi and the International Airport. Alternatively, buses are available from Didube station at 9 am, 10 am, 5 pm, and 6 pm. Weather Hazards: Be cautious of strong winds at higher altitudes and thunderstorms. Contacts: For more information, you can reach out to Gudauri Extreme, the official paragliding company. Contact Mykhaylo Aleksyeyenko at +995568114453 or Irakli Kapanadze at +995595424298. Website: For additional details, visit [Fly Gudauri](http://www.flygudauri.com). Tourism: Gudauri is also a popular ski resort with several accommodation options such as Sport Hotel Gudauri Marco Polo, Gudauri Hut, Freerider Hotel, and Paragliding Hostel for both summer and winter activities. Other activities in the area include trekking, climbing, rafting, horseback riding, ATV tours, and jeep excursions. For more media and information, check out: - [Fly Gudauri Media](http://www.flygudauri.com/media.htm) - [YouTube Video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2C5NALyLFQ) - [Gudauri Extreme](http://www.gudextreme.com/en/) Gudauri is located on the main Caucasus ridge line, about two hours north of Tbilisi. Though under-explored, it has been the launch site for some extraordinary flights. Guesthouses provide reasonable infrastructure, and launch sites are accessible by 4x4 vehicles. In winter, the lifts operate, with some potential for thermal flights in spring.
View spotTakeoff: There are four takeoff points catering to different wind directions and thermal conditions. Two takeoff points are suitable for valley winds, while the other two are ideal for breeze winds. The takeoff altitude ranges between 1800-2200 meters above sea level. Landing: The designated landing area is situated at 1800 meters above sea level, directly below the takeoff points. Getting There: You can reach the site via a local bus from Tbilisi or by car transfer from Tbilisi International Airport. Comments: The area features a vast valley flanked by peaks reaching up to 4000 meters, with Mount Kazbek towering at 5047 meters. Cross-country flights to Gudauri and Jinvari are possible. Our club requires pilots to fly with insurance and a reserve parachute. We offer accommodation and guide services for new pilots in Kazbegi, with options for online booking, cash, and credit card payments. Morning briefings at our office provide advice on takeoff and weather conditions. Weather Hazards: Be cautious of thunderstorms and strong wind conditions, such as the fion winds in the valleys. Flight Regulation: Flights must adhere to Zone G flight rules, and pilots should notify Tbilisi Tower. People to Contact: Mykhaylo Aleksyeyenko Yaroslav Sokolov Email: speedflying@gmail.com Phone: +995568114453, +995591342345 Website: [Fly Kazbegi](http://www.flykazbegi.com) Tourism: The area offers more than 20 guesthouses and hostels, as well as 3 and 4-star hotels near the takeoff points. Attractions include Gergeti Church, a natural mineral water source, horse riding, ATV and Jeep tours, bicycle rentals, and paragliding tours to other valleys. For more visual insights, check out these videos: [YouTube Video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=sXb-43w39Tk) [Vimeo Video](http://vimeo.com/4136152)
View spotThe Rustavi area, located about 30 minutes from Tbilisi by 4x4, is an excellent and forgiving soaring site, ideal for beginners. This site is particularly popular on good days and weekends. The hill is primarily used for beginner flights but also offers good thermal activity, making it a pleasant spot for a weekend outing. The best time for paragliding here is from May to July. The take-off area is simple and very forgiving, making it suitable for those new to the sport. For more information, you can visit ParaglidingEarth. Here are some videos showcasing the area: [Video 1](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcWPoGRg7A0&feature=player_embedded#!) [Video 2](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39Sa9Dr2o88) [Video 3](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVU9ftd0c1E) In the Rustavi area, the radio mast on the hill marks the launch site if the wind is coming from the southeast. The landscape is stunning, adding to the overall experience. For more details about the flying site, including images and accommodation options, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com). If the wind at the launch site is coming from the east, it is possible to fly down to the village, offering a longer flight compared to the sister site. However, be cautious of the power lines. For additional information, images, and accommodation options, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).
View spotTkibuli Crater, located approximately 5 hours from Tbilisi, is a challenging paragliding site with a takeoff point at an elevation of 1332 meters. The takeoff is notably steep, making it suitable primarily for experienced pilots. The landing area is relatively small and exposed to winds and thermals, adding to the complexity of the site. So far, only one flight has been recorded at Tkibuli Crater. Pilots have reported encountering strong thermals exceeding 9 meters per second, significant turbulence, and even a major collapse during the flight. The winds from the pass contribute to the thermal activity along the crater, creating complex flying conditions. Despite these challenges, the site holds significant potential for exploration by professional pilots. If you manage to rise above the launch site, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the entire Caucasus range. Access to Tkibuli Crater does not necessarily require a 4x4 vehicle, although the journey from Tbilisi takes about 5 hours. Weather conditions can be unpredictable and complex, so proceed with utmost caution. For those interested in the surrounding area, there is a picturesque lake located just behind the launch site, adding to the scenic beauty of the location.
View spotLocated approximately 30 minutes south of Tbilisi, Khodschori-Washlovani offers a remarkable paragliding experience. The site features an extensive rock wall facing south to southwest, providing excellent potential for thermals. It's common to encounter cloud streets here, making it a favored spot for thermal flying. For more detailed information about the site, including images and accommodation options, visit www.paragliding365.com.
View spotTake off: This site is ideal for beginners and enjoyable for an afternoon flight. The take-off area is relatively easy to navigate but be cautious of the numerous stones. Occasionally, the wind may come at an angle, so be prepared for varying conditions. Landing: The landing area is very easy to manage, with a broad field that provides ample space for a safe touchdown. Going there: Access to this site requires a 4x4 vehicle. You will need to find the correct turn-off from the road leading towards the airport. It's advisable to ask local pilots for directions. The site is approximately 30 minutes from the center of Tbilisi. Comments: This is a fun site, especially if the wind is coming from the right direction. While it hasn't seen significant cross-country flights yet, it offers the potential for longer soaring on a good day. Sometimes, flights may be limited to small hops. Weather hazards: This is a benign site with no significant weather hazards. Flight regulation: There are no relevant flight regulations for this site. People to contact: Irakli Kapanadze Phone: +995 95 42 42 98 Email: i_kapanadze@yahoo.com Website: [XCaucasus](http://www.xcaucasus.org) Tourism: On your way to the site, you can visit Tbilisi Sea to cool off. For more information and visuals, you can check out this video: [Paragliding in Tbilisi](http://www.metacafe.com/watch/9368930/paragliding_georgia_tbilisi_by_a_s_r_part_4/) For additional details about the flying area, accommodations, and images, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).
View spotBakuriani, located in Georgia, is renowned as one of the best paragliding sites in the region. This site offers numerous launch possibilities along a stunning ridge, making it an excellent choice for both training and leisure flights. The unique microclimate ensures stable thermals, providing consistent and enjoyable flying conditions. For more details about the flying site, including images and accommodation options, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com). Watch a video of the site here: [YouTube Video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb2LnVTnekk&feature=player_embedded).
View spotBakuriani, Georgia offers a paragliding site at an elevation of 2632 meters. This site is rarely used but offers potential for cross-country (XC) flights. The site record is 8.2 km. The take-off area is located in the Tabatskuri Area, known for its stunning landscape and excellent flying conditions. Local pilots can provide more detailed information and guidance. For more details about the flying site, including images and accommodation options, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).
View spot