BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN SOUTH AFRICA

Cape Town

Wilderness, located midway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, is known for some of the best coastal soaring in the world. The area is described as wonderfully beautiful with many stunning flying ...

Porterville

Why go to Porterville, South Africa

Porterville, located in the Western Cape of South Africa, is renowned for its excellent paragliding conditions. It offers a mix of thermal and dynamic fl ...

Schoemansville Hartbeespoort Dam The Dam Harties SOUTH 2

At an elevation of 1591 meters with a height difference of approximately 400 meters, this paragliding site offers various takeoff options within a 100-meter radius. It is regularly used for thermal soaring and provides good opportunities for cross-country (XC) flights. This site is a very good alternative to South 1, being less busy and easier to manage. Although it is less frequented than the North launch, it offers better large XC options. Most long flights do not remain at this 110 km long low ridge but use it as one leg to venture into the flats, either to the north or south. Region: South Africa Site record: 179.9 km For further information, see the North launch.

Nhlosane

The site offers an elevation range between 1760 and 1907 meters, with a height difference of approximately 380 meters. It is regularly used by a few pilots and is suitable for soaring, thermalling, and cross-country (XC) flights. There are many takeoff options available, and toplanding is possible. For more information, visit [Wild Sky](https://www.wildsky.co.za/).

Paradise Ridge Kleinkrantz Dunes

Click to watch video

This site in South Africa is frequently used and is an excellent location for students and basic paragliding. It works well with strong winds and is ideal for dune soaring and kiting. While cross-country (XC) flights are possible, this spot is more suited for playful flying. The site is accessible via a public beach, but the rules regarding kiting height are unclear, so it's best to ask locals and use common sense. The region offers a 20-25m dune, perfect for students, with easy access to Paradise Ridge. The site works best with SSE, S, and SW winds ranging from 15 to 30 km/h. When the wind at Holiday Inn is too strong, this site is a good alternative, especially between 26 to 30 km/h. At 25 km/h, it's a good place to fly to Paradise Ridge. However, be cautious as the wind may not always come up, and you could get stuck down the ridge. If this happens, it's best to land at the end and walk out at the eastern end, Swartvlei, where there is a car park for easy retrieval. Secure sandals are recommended. The site offers a soaring experience with 7 km of virgin vegetation draped over a perfect ridge, with the sparkling sea at your feet. The altitude is 100m, with airspace up to 600m. Launch options include a cliff-launch with a clean and level layout area behind the crest or launching from the dunes. If the wind drops off and you are soaring below the ridge's top level, turn back and try to land on the beach below the launch site, where there is a path up to the top. Alternatively, you can land near the east end of the ridge and walk around to Swartvlei for easy retrieval. To get to the Kleinkrantz dunes, where you begin soaring, take the N2 E from Wilderness. About 5 km past Wilderness, turn right to Kleinkrantz. At the first four-way intersection, turn right and drive to the end of the coast road. Park and take the path into the bushes on your left for 50m to the takeoff site. No permission is needed on the public beach, but for the top site, prior arrangement with Bruce Watney is required. Be cautious if the wind is WSW; regularly turn back towards Wilderness to check your penetration as you progress east along the ridge. The venturi at the eastern end can become strong, pulling you into the treacherous lee-side bay at Swartvlei. When launching, beware of the sudden wind impact—step towards your wing or use an assistant. No smoking is allowed. For more information, visit: - [Paragliding Tours - Eastern Cape](http://www.paragliding-tours.co.za/fly-sites/eastern-cape/) - [Paragliding South Africa](http://paraglidingsa.com/sites.htm) - [Facebook Profile](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063540243705)

Silvermine Fence West

This paragliding site in the Western Cape, South Africa, is best suited for experienced pilots due to its challenging conditions. The takeoff is from a cliff with many stones, so be cautious with your lines. The wind conditions are crucial; while some suggest a maximum of 15 km/h, you will need some wind to safely inflate your wing. The site is occasionally used for hike & fly, soaring, and some cross-country (XC) flights. However, it is rarely flown due to its 700m launch being easily blown out and frequent cloud cover. The launch area is located at the foot of the path where it transitions from level to steep. Good ground handling is essential as the launch is above a cliff and a steep gully. Landing is only possible on Hout Bay beach, in front of Dunes Restaurant. No top landing is allowed. The wind systems here are complex, so caution is advised. Access to the site is strictly regulated. You can only reach it using a 4x4 vehicle equipped with a fire extinguisher and a retrieve driver, or by hike & fly. The area is sensitive and requires special management due to its pristine high-altitude vegetation and the presence of the last remaining Black Eagle nest in the Peninsula. Always check the launch status at the gate before hiking and flying. Upon arrival at the Silvermine Dam gate off Ou Kaapse Weg, state your intention to fly, fill in the Pilots Entry Register and Indemnity Form, and produce a valid Activity Card and Pilot License. Obtain the key from the pay booth and follow the designated route to the launch area. The retrieve driver must stay with the vehicle and be in radio contact with the pilots until launch. Please note that the site will be open until SANParks rehabilitates the proposed launch site at Silvermine - West, after which this site will be closed, and Silvermine – West will be re-opened. For more detailed information, you can refer to the following links: - [Flight Record](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2237442) - [SANParks Paragliding Guidelines](http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf) - [Silvermine Fence West](https://www.glenclub.co.za/silvermine-fence-west/) Please respect all regulations and help maintain the privilege of flying in this beautiful and sensitive area.

Fish Hoek

This site features a low ridge with an approximate height of 73 meters and a horizontal distance of 50 meters. It is rarely used and not officially recognized for paragliding activities. The ridge may offer limited soaring opportunities, but due to its unofficial status, it is not a popular choice among paragliders.

Du Toits Farm Langkloof

Located in the Western Cape, South Africa, this paragliding site offers an elevation of 1008 meters with a height difference of 400 meters. It is an easy site to fly, regularly used for thermal soaring, and cross-country flights are possible eastbound. The site is considered good, but you will need permission and a key to access the 4x4 track. For arrangements, you can contact Jan Minnaar at 082 777 8474 or visit www.cloudbase-paragliding.co.za. The site takes a northwest to northeast wind, preferably light. The area has been cleared of rocks and bushes, but it can be considered a bit of a cliff launch with a two-meter drop and another drop further on. The site record is 14.9 km. For more information, you can watch a video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7FzjUwSWcE Du Toits is another site in the Langkloof Valley, known for its strong thermic conditions. It is by invitation only, so it's essential to get to know the locals. Retrieval and access are difficult, and the site is privately owned and sensitive. More details can be found here: https://www.dolphinparagliding.co.za/index.php/du-toits For guides, you can check out: https://www.letsflyparagliding.co.za/ The launch area can only be reached with a 4x4. It is a very slightly sloping, stony area covered with fynbos and might be classified as a cliff launch due to the two-meter drop-off. As the site faces north and is flyable in a northwest wind, be cautious of Berg or Foehn type winds. George ATC needs to be notified before you launch at 044 8018808 or on airband 124.800 MHz. Access to the bottom of the launch is very easy via the N9 from George, 18 km from Herold. However, you need permission and a key to get up the 4x4 track. Contact Jan Minnaar at 082 777 8474 for arrangements. More information can be found at www.cloudbase-paragliding.co.za.

Rusty Gate

The site is located in the Western Cape, South Africa, with an elevation ranging from 870 to 887 meters and a height difference of approximately 230 meters. This site is regularly used for walk & fly activities and offers good thermalling conditions, making it suitable for cross-country (XC) flights. The main takeoff area has various options, primarily facing easterly. The site record is an impressive 214.1 km, and it is a southeast-facing site. Before flying, it is important to reach out to the Glen social groups and the property owners for permission. Coordinates for the site are: - DMS: S34º1.93200' E19º22.17600' - DEC: -34.0322, 19.3696 For directions and caretaker information, contact Rusty Gate at http://www.rustygate.co.za/ or call 0282158212. The owner of Rusty Gate Mountain Resort is Bokkie Fourie. For more information or to arrange guides, visit: - http://www.birdmen.co.za - https://birdmen.co.za/blog-detail?id=136 Watch a video of the site here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUmZUCOZsvY

Devil's Peak

The launch site is situated at an elevation of 430-450 meters with a height difference of 415 meters. This site is rarely used and is suitable for thermal soaring in light wind conditions (less than 15 km/h). Access is via a walk from the road east of the launch area, though it's unclear if parking is permitted there. Flights can be planned to land at Glen Club field, UCT, or the open area above the top gate at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. For more details, refer to the official document: [Table Mountain Paragliding Guidelines](http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf). All pilots need a Basic License and a Table Mountain Activity Card. Foreign pilots must have a Foreign Pilot Permit. Devil’s Peak, located on the northeastern buttress of Table Mountain, offers a stunning view over the city. However, flyable northerly wind conditions are rare and often turbulent, making them unsuitable for flying. Coordinates for the site are: - DMS: S33º56.783' E18º26.35' - DEC: -33.9463833333333, 18.4391666666667 - [Google Maps Location](https://www.google.com/maps/place/-33.9463833333333,18.4391666666667) To reach the launch area, drive up to the Table Mountain Cableway and continue to the end of Tafelberg Road. From there, follow the path leading back above the cars. The launch area is a moderately steep slope covered with knee-length fynbos and scree sandstone, extending over approximately 25 x 10 meters. For more information about the area, visit [Glen Club - Devil's Peak](https://www.glenclub.co.za/devils-peak/). No special permission is needed to fly here, but regular pilots are encouraged to buy a Wild Card.

Stellenbosch Mountain

Located in South Africa, this paragliding site features a take-off altitude of 546 meters with a height difference of 410 meters. It is primarily used for thermal soaring and works best in a northwest wind direction. The site is rarely used, making it a quieter option for those looking to avoid crowded spots. To reach the launch area, you will need to undertake a 40-minute hike starting from the sports grounds. There is also an alternative launch option facing east, providing some flexibility depending on wind conditions. The site record for the longest flight is 56.4 kilometers.

Landies Lundy's Lundies Hill

Located in the KZN region of South Africa, this paragliding site offers a launch height of 1367 meters with an approximate height difference of 445 meters. The site is rarely used, primarily offering soaring opportunities with some thermalling. The ridge extends for about 7 kilometers, providing a scenic flight over the Umkomaas River and vast grassy fields ideal for landing. For more information, you can visit [Wild Sky Paragliding](http://www.wildsky.co.za/paragliding/paragliding-south-africa/).

above Hout Bay

Located 326 meters above the old Manganese Mines, this paragliding site is considered difficult and is rarely used. It is suitable for hike & fly enthusiasts and offers opportunities for thermalling. Some cross-country (XC) flying is possible from this location. For more details, you can check out this flight log: [Flight Log](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2984027) Additionally, you can watch a video of the site here: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6joEtivjJI)

Table Mountain Front Face Runway launch

Table Mountain, Western Cape - South Africa Main Takeoff: This site is known for its scenic flights and spectacular launch. However, it is only suitable for expert pilots with over 200 flights due to the challenging conditions, including a steep cliff and potential rotor at launch. Some cross-country (XC) flights are possible. Ideal wind conditions are less than 15-20 km/h. Region: Western Cape, South Africa Site Record: 13.0 km License Type: Sport + minimum 200 flights Table Mountain Activity Card Required All foreign paragliding pilots must possess a Foreign Pilot Permit. Site Information: High-altitude launches are generally cliff-like, requiring excellent ground handling and perfect conditions. Access is via the Cable Car, followed by a walk left or south upon exiting the Upper Station. Summer queues can be long, so plan accordingly. Be briefed by an experienced pilot. Do not trample vegetation; stay on paths and respect hikers. Launch: A north wind is required. The launch site is 200m east of the Platteklip path crossing, with two sites 20m apart, one slightly elevated on bare rock. Landing: Glen Club field, promenade, UCT Cautions: Be aware of the lip rotor. General: Table Mountain is one of the most complex sites on the Peninsula, with tricky cliff launches and unpredictable wind. It introduces additional risks that challenge even the most experienced pilots. Guidance by an experienced local pilot is mandatory. Not recommended for casual flights. Requirements: - Sport Licence (IPPI 5) with a minimum of 200 flights - Comprehensive briefing by a local instructor - SANParks Activity Permit All foreign pilots must contact the Glen Paragliding Club for expert guidance. Excellent ground-handling skills and good judgment are critical. Table Mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to many critically endangered species. Do not trample or destroy plants. Park rangers patrol the area and may ask to see your pilot license and SANParks Activity Permit. Comply with their requests to avoid potential arrest and confiscation of gear. The Glen Paragliding Club has a formal working relationship with SANParks to monitor site usage, ecological deterioration, safety, and compliance. Direct any concerns to the Site Liaison Officer at the Glen Paragliding Club. Directions: Up Kloof Nek Road, turn right at the signs that read ‘cablecar’, and consider flying at Lion’s Head instead. Weather: Table Mountain offers several launch opportunities depending on wind direction. The high wind-gradient can make conditions at the top much stronger and more unpredictable than at sea level. Lion’s Head and Signal Hill offer safer launch options in certain wind conditions. Weather Stations: - Lions Head: https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=252 - Glen Club LZ: https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=436 - Signal Hill: https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=28 Runway Launch: Located on the North face, overlooking Cape Town, 200m southeast of Platteklip Gorge. The layout area is near the cliff edge on flat rock and low vegetation. Be prepared for violent lip-rotor and turbulence. Commitment and readiness to run are essential. Older Information: The launch area is a small, elevated rock mini-mesa, 200m east of Platteklip Gorge. The ground comprises massive bedrock sandstone with patchy fynbos vegetation. The launch area is approximately 30x30 meters. Grading: Sports only, with a minimum of 200 flights and instructor guidance at both launch sites. The airspace ceiling is at 1200m. Launch: A treacherous cliff-launch. For a north wind, the ‘Runway’ is on the front face, looking out over Cape Town, 200m east of Platteklip Gorge. For a southwest wind, the ‘Gully’ faces SSW, behind the cable-car station. For light ESE, ‘Maclear’s Beacon’ site is 100m east of Maclear’s Beacon. Landing: LaMed (west side) or rugby field in Upper Orange Street (north side). Permission: Guidance by a local pilot is mandatory. Sports (advanced) pilots only with a minimum of 200 flights. Two guided flights are required from each launch site before flying solo. Regular pilots should consider buying a Wild Card for access to all sites in Cape Peninsula Park. For more information, visit: - Glen Paragliding Club: https://www.glenclub.co.za/paragliding/ - SANParks: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf

Noordhoek Silvermine South

Silvermine Trig Beacon, also known as Noordhoek Peak, is a paragliding site located in the Western Cape, South Africa. The launch is at an altitude of 728 meters with a height difference of 710 meters. This site is regularly used but not recommended for guest pilots. It is suitable for hike & fly, soaring, and small cross-country flights in the direction of Cape Town, provided the wind is less than 15 km/h. The region is known for its complex wind systems, and the launch area is in a pristine high-altitude zone with protected vegetation. Access to the site is strictly regulated, requiring a 4x4 vehicle with a fire extinguisher and a retrieve driver, or by hiking. The area is sensitive and requires special management due to the presence of the last remaining Black Eagle nest in the Peninsula. Raptor Research may close the area during nesting periods, so always check the launch status before planning your flight. To access the site, enter Silvermine Reserve via the gate off Ou Kaapse Weg. State your intention to fly, fill in the Pilots Entry Register and Indemnity Form, and produce a valid Activity Card and Pilot's License. Obtain the key from the pay booth and drive up to the designated drop-off points. The retrieve driver must stay with the vehicle and maintain radio contact with the pilots until launch. If conditions are not favorable, the driver should return the vehicle to the parking area. The launch area is a large, clean slope with winds typically coming from the W/SW/SSW. Good ground handling and a committed launch are required due to the cliff at the end of the launch. Landing options include the sports fields below or Noordhoek Beach on the northern side. Top landings are not allowed, and pilots should avoid landing in the estate below the launch. For more detailed information, visit: - [Silvermine Trig Beacon - Glen Club](https://www.glenclub.co.za/silvermine-trig-beacon-noordhoek-peak/) - [SANParks EMP for TMNP](https://www.sahpa.co.za/general-notices/2021-10-08/sanparks-emp-for-tmnp/) Please note that the wind systems can be complex, and basic pilots must fly under the supervision of an instructor or senior club member. When the wind turns southerly, flights towards Hout Bay can encounter significant sink and rotor, making it advisable to fly down to Noordhoek in such conditions. Always check with local authorities or caretakers for the latest site status and regulations.

Noordhoek lower

The take-off altitude is 385 meters, with a height difference of approximately 330 meters. This site is primarily used for hike and fly activities and is rarely frequented. It offers opportunities for thermalling and small cross-country flights. For more details on flights from this location, you can visit: https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/1291422

Signal Hill Carpark The Buttress

Signal Hill, also known as Lion’s Rump, is a prominent flat-topped hill in Cape Town, adjacent to Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. It offers scenic soaring over the city with opportunities for thermalling and cross-country flights. The site is particularly favorable for NW winds, with medium WNW and light W also being suitable. The wind speed typically ranges from 15-25 km/h, but it's advisable to consult locals for current conditions. Some locals suggest that N winds can also be manageable. The main takeoff area is frequently used and provides smooth conditions, making it possible to fly to Kommetjie in the south, known as the 'Kommetjie run'. The landing zone is at Sea Point Promenade, directly in front of the Winchester Mansions Hotel. Signal Hill is a Sport-rated (IPPI 5) site, ideal for experienced pilots but not suitable for low-airtime pilots. All pilots must possess a SANParks Activity Permit and be members of SAHPA with a valid SACAA National Pilot Licence. Foreign pilots need a Foreign Pilot Permit. The site has specific rules: - Only Sport-rated (IPPI 5) or higher pilots may launch. - Tandem Flight Instructors must operate under a SANParks-issued Operators Permit and be members of the Cape Town Tandem Association. - The maximum wind speed for take-off and landing is 35 km/h. - First-time pilots must report to an instructor for a site briefing. - No novice training or Paragliding Basic-license pilots are permitted. - Slope landings are forbidden and must be reported as incidents. - No smoking on the launch area. The Carpark launch site is suited for NW winds, with the launch area located on a green mat south of the carpark. The Bench launch site, 500m south along the ridge, is better for Westerly winds. Crossing to Lion’s Head requires 150m above take-off at the Kramat in NW conditions to reach the bald rock patches above the trees. The Apostles can be tricky in unstable, moist Westerlies, and caution is advised due to potential strong venturi effects in the gullies. Landing at Sea Point Promenade involves flying over Sea Point and landing on the grassy area in front of the Winchester Mansions hotel. In case of a Southerly wind, landing near the stadium fields is an alternative, but be cautious of strong rotor. Signal Hill is part of the Table Mountain National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to critically-endangered Peninsula Shale Renosterveld vegetation. Pilots must avoid damaging the vegetation. For weather updates, refer to the iWeathar Stations: - Lion’s Head: https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=252 - The Glen Club: https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=436 - Signal Hill: https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=28 - Three Anchor Bay: https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=600 - Sea Point Promenade: https://iweathar.co.za/stations For more information, visit: - Glen Paragliding Club: https://www.glenclub.co.za/signal-hill/ - SAHPA Site Guide: https://www.sahpa.co.za/site-guide/sites/signal-hill/ - Birdmen Paragliding: http://www.birdmen.co.za/ - Fly Cape Town: https://flycapetown.co.za/blog/category/paragliding-signal-hill

Lion's Head Top

Lion's Head, Cape Town - South Africa Lion’s Head, standing at 669 meters (2,195 ft) above sea level, offers a stunning backdrop to Cape Town and is part of Table Mountain National Park. This site provides a consistent and beautiful flying experience with panoramic views of Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles. While it has a Basic-rating, it can be challenging in stronger winds and must be approached with caution. Requirements: - Valid SAHPA Membership and Basic Licence with at least 55 flights. - First 4 flights under supervision from an instructor or Sport-rated local pilot. - Logbook must be co-signed after each flight. - SANParks Activity Permit. - Foreign pilots must have a Foreign Pilot Permit. Weather: - Best flying conditions are typically from 3pm during South-East wind-shadow conditions. - Suitable wind directions: West (W) to South South West (SSW). - Thermic lee-side in light South-East. - Afternoon thermic, upslope breeze. - Strong venturi effect at both launch sites in South-West wind. Launch Sites: - Lower Launch: Located on the main path up Lion’s Head, just before it narrows. Suitable for South West winds (5-20 km/h). Caution: Crosswind. - Upper Launch: Continue past the lower launch to the North side, near the wind meter tower. Suitable for South to West-South-West winds (5-20 km/h). Caution: Venturi effect. Landing: - Primary landing site: Glen Club field. - Alternative: Camps Bay High School field (if empty). - Emergency slope-landing on lower slopes of Lion’s Head. - Avoid landing on beaches during busy summer months. - Hang-gliding alternative landing: Greenpoint lighthouse in Mouille Point. Cautionary Notes: - Lion’s Head is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with critically-endangered flora. Do not damage vegetation. - Only use designated launch sites. - Complex weather systems; seek local advice. - Strong venturi effect can be hazardous. - Ensure takeoff is directly into the wind and within your capabilities. - Avoid being blown over the back of Lion’s Head; if it happens, try to fly around the side. - In berg-wind conditions, avoid launching in thermic cycles due to unstable air conditions. Micro Meteorology: - SE wind creates a ‘wind shadow’ between Llandudno and Cape Town Harbour. - Wind shadow shrinks as SE wind strength increases. - Observe ocean patterns to gauge wind shadow size. - Avoid flying if wind shadow is breaking down or if cloud is pouring off Table Mountain. How to Get There: - Drive through Cape Town and take Kloof Nek road to the pass between Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. - Turn right at the circle to Signal Hill and continue to the gravel carpark. - Path to the launch is on the left as you reach the carpark. - HG: Obtain permission to drive a 4×4 up to the launch site from SAN Parks office. Additional Resources: - SANParks: [Table Mountain Activity Card](http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf) - Glen Club: [Lion's Head Information](https://www.glenclub.co.za/lions-head/) - SAHPA: [Lion's Head Site Guide](https://www.sahpa.co.za/site-guide/sites/lions-head/) - Weather Information: [Weather Underground](https://www.wunderground.com/dashboard/pws/ICAPET73), [PWS Weather](https://www.pwsweather.com/station/pws/glenclub), [iWeathar Station on Lion’s Head](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=252), [iWeathar Station on Signal Hill](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=28) - Paragliding Lions Head by Stephan Kruger: [Fly Cape Town](https://flycapetown.co.za/blog/paragliding-lions-head-how-when-part1) Lion’s Head is also a popular destination during full moon, offering a scenic hike with views of the moon rising in the east and the sun setting in the west. The hike takes about 1 hour from the parking area on the town side.

Misty Cliffs

Click to watch video

Located in South Africa, this paragliding site offers a challenging walk-and-fly experience and is occasionally used for soaring. The site is known for its pristine coastal fynbos and the wind tends to increase as you gain height, so be cautious of wind shear. Cars parked next to the road are not secure. The launch area is overgrown, making layout tricky, but it offers a rewarding flight if you can manage the launch. The launch area itself is a natural space of low fynbos, approximately 10 x 10 meters in size, accessed via the Hoerikwaggo trail. For foreign pilots, a Foreign Pilot Permit is required. Additionally, a Table Mountain Activity Card is necessary for all pilots. Permits can be obtained from the Assistant Section Ranger at the Klaasjagerberg office during office hours. Older information suggests that the site, known as 'Albatross Ridge,' offers wide lift and uncrowded skies, ideal for soaring. However, be cautious of wind shear between the upper wind and the still air near the beach level. If the sea is white-capped, the wind is too strong for safe flying. Directions to the site: Take the M5 towards Muizenberg, turn right and go up Ou Kaapse Weg. At the big four-way intersection in Fish Hoek, turn right towards 'Kommetjie.' Before reaching Kommetjie, take the left turn to 'Scarborough' and park when the road begins to run along the coast. For more information, you can visit: - [XC Paragliding South Africa Video](https://www.facebook.com/xcparaglidingsouthafrica/videos/2531109147114835) - [SANParks Table Mountain Appendix](http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf) - [Misty Cliffs Information](https://www.glenclub.co.za/misty-cliffs/) - [Fly Kommetjie Contact](https://www.facebook.com/flykommetjie) Caretaker: Nic Good (082 574 7393)

Table Mountain Gully

Table Mountain Paragliding Site This site is known for its challenging and complex conditions, making it suitable only for highly experienced pilots. The launch areas are generally cliff-like and require excellent ground handling skills and perfect weather conditions. Access is via the Cable Car, followed by a walk to the launch site. Be prepared for long queues during summer. Launch: Near the Tearoom at the Upper Cable Station, lay out on bare rock. Suitable for SW winds. Landing: Glen Club field. Requirements: - Sport Licence (IPPI 5) with a minimum of 200 flights. - Comprehensive briefing by a local instructor. - SANParks Activity Permit. - Foreign pilots must have a Foreign Pilot Permit and contact the Glen Paragliding Club for guidance. Table Mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to many critically endangered species. It is crucial to stay on paths and avoid trampling vegetation. Park rangers patrol the area and may request to see your pilot license and SANParks Activity Permit. Weather: Table Mountain's weather can be unpredictable with strong venturi effects and wild rotor. Safer launch options are available at Lion’s Head for SW winds and Signal Hill for W or NW winds. For weather updates, check: - Lions Head: [Weather Station](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=252) - Glen Club LZ: [Weather Station](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=436) - Signal Hill: [Weather Station](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=28) The Gully launch faces SSW and is located behind the cable-car station. The path to the launch site involves walking south from the station, across Platteklip Gorge. The takeoff is challenging due to uneven rocks and potential turbulence. For more detailed information, visit: - [Fly Cape Town](https://flycapetown.co.za/blog/paragliding-table-mountain) - [SANParks](http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf) - [Glen Club](https://www.glenclub.co.za/table-mountain-gully/) - [SAHPA](https://www.sahpa.co.za/site-guide/sites/table-mountain/) Note: Guidance by an experienced local pilot is mandatory. This site is not recommended for casual flights.

Du Toits Kloof Pass DTK

Located in Du Toits Kloof, Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa, this paragliding site offers a unique flying experience. The launch altitude is 785 meters with a height difference of 210 meters. This site is frequently used and is known for its good thermalling conditions, making it suitable for cross-country (XC) flights, especially towards the north (Porterville and beyond). Southbound XC is also possible but more limited. The site is not ideal for ridge soaring due to its shallow gradient, but it excels as a thermic site. A site briefing is highly recommended before flying here. The cliffs of the Hawequas mountains provide a stunning backdrop. The launch area is on the west-facing slope below the car park, and there are plenty of landing options due to the discontinuation of forestry on the plateau below. The site is graded for pilots with a Basic license. The best wind conditions are light westerly winds. Only use the upper launch in very light winds. For launching, the third car park from the top of the pass is the easiest option, though landing options are limited to thermal landings or landing in trees. In southwest winds, use the car park overlooking the tunnel entrance. If you can arrange a key, you can launch from a constricted gully high in the peaks near the southern-most radio mast. Altitude and airspace considerations include a car park at 800 meters above sea level (ASL) and a tower at 1000 meters high (1294 meters ASL). The military uses the airspace from 300 meters above ground level (AGL) to the ground, with a civilian ceiling at 1300 meters ASL. Head north towards Bain’s Kloof Pass for a higher ceiling of 2300 meters ASL to avoid the D159 danger area. Landing options include top landing at the car park, landing before the trees, or in a clear strip beside power lines. For hang gliders, there is an abandoned soccer field at Bosdorp or sandy fields 5 kilometers to the west beside a small dam. Directions: Take the N1 to Paarl and follow the alternative route to Worcester via the old Du Toit’s Kloof Pass (not the tunnel). Park at the best car park near the crest of the pass, depending on wind direction. If you arrange a key through Conservation, you can drive up the private road leading to the radio masts. For the upper launch site, prior arrangement with the Conservation Department is essential, and the gate must be locked behind you. This area is a military helicopter training zone (D159), so caution is advised. Contact Ysterplaat Airforce Base at 021 508 6911 to check if the area is active. For guided XC camps available between October and April, contact Patrice on WhatsApp at +27 84 6066 700 or via email at PatriceCHartmann@gmail.com. For more information and guides, visit: - [Birdmen Paragliding](https://birdmen.co.za) - [Paragliding and Mountain Adventures around SA](https://www.facebook.com/people/Paragliding-and-Mountain-Adventures-around-SA/100064244641129/) Watch a video of the site here: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7FzjUwSWcE) For a detailed site guide, visit: [SAHPA Site Guide](https://www.sahpa.co.za/site-guide/sites/du-toits-kloof/)

Lion's Head lower

Lion's Head, Cape Town, South Africa Lion's Head offers a stunning backdrop for paragliding, with views of Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles. This site is known for its consistent flying conditions, especially in the afternoon when thermic, upslope breezes develop. The best flying season is from November to February. **Launch Sites:** - **Lower Launch:** Located on the main path up Lion's Head, just before it narrows. This site is suitable for South-West winds (5-20 km/h). Be meticulous with your layout and pre-flight checks due to the challenging launch through a grove of endangered Silver Leaf Trees. - **Upper Launch:** Continue past the lower launch to the North side. This rocky, netted launch site is used for South to West-South-West winds (5-20 km/h). Good ground-handling and committed launch techniques are essential. **Landing:** - **Primary Landing:** Glen Club field. Note that this field is rented by Camps Bay High School, so avoid landing during school sports. - **Alternative Landing:** Camps Bay High School field, if empty. The lower slopes of Lion’s Head can be used for emergency slope-landing. - **Hang-gliding Alternative:** Greenpoint lighthouse in Mouille Point. **Weather Conditions:** - **Optimal Wind:** West (W) to South South West (SSW). Thermic lee-side in light South-East. - **Afternoon Conditions:** Typically best from 3pm during South-East wind-shadow conditions. Be cautious of the strong venturi effect at both launch sites when it is soarable. **Requirements:** - **Licenses:** Valid SAHPA Membership and Basic Licence with at least 55 flights. First 4 flights must be supervised by an instructor or Sport-rated local pilot. Logbook must be co-signed after each flight. - **Permits:** SANParks Activity Permit and Foreign Pilot Permit for international pilots. **Cautions:** - **Weather Systems:** Lion’s Head has complex weather systems. Consult local pilots for advice. - **Venturi Effect:** Strong venturi effect at both launch sites can be hazardous. Ensure takeoff is directly into the wind. - **Environmental Protection:** Lion’s Head is part of Table Mountain National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Do not damage vegetation and only launch from designated sites. **Additional Resources:** - [Glen Club Paragliding](https://www.glenclub.co.za/lions-head/) - [SAHPA Site Guide](https://www.sahpa.co.za/site-guide/sites/lions-head/) - [Weather Underground](https://www.wunderground.com/dashboard/pws/ICAPET73) - [PWS Weather](https://www.pwsweather.com/station/pws/glenclub) - [iWeathar Station on Lion’s Head](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=252) - [iWeathar Station on Signal Hill](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=28) - [Paragliding Lions Head by Stephan Kruger](https://flycapetown.co.za/blog/paragliding-lions-head-how-when-part1) For more detailed information, refer to the [SANParks EMP for TMNP](http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf).