BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN SOUTH AFRICA
There is 381 sites to discover in South Africa and 2 guides available
Available guides:
Cape Town
Probability of Paragliding in the next days |
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7 days |
16 days |
15% |
6% |
13% |
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 ...
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Porterville
Probability of Paragliding in the next days |
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7 days |
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42% |
66% |
67% |
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 ...
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The Top 20 Paragliding sites in South Africa:
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.
View spot
Kommetjie North
Kommetjie, South Africa
Elevation: 85-121 meters
This site is occasionally used for walk & fly and soaring. It performs best in light to medium wind conditions.
Flights: The site has a recorded flight distance of 29.9 km.
Region: Kommetjie, South Africa
General Information: For more details, you can visit [Fly Kommetjie on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/flykommetjie), though note that the last post was in 2014.
Safety Note: Kommetjie is known for incidents of mugging. Please be cautious and consider the security of your vehicle.
Take Off: Information available on ParaglidingEarth.
View spot
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
View spot
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.
View spot
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)
View spot
Silvermine Firebreak Ou Kaapse Weg Level 5
This paragliding site in South Africa, with a height of 413 meters and a height difference of 270 meters, is occasionally used for walk&fly. It offers several takeoff options and is suitable for soaring, thermal soaring, and cross-country (XC) flights. The site is known for its northeasterly/easterly orientation and is said to be flyable when other spots are not.
The launch area is located on a fire break with rock outcrops and scrubby fynbos on either side. The coordinates for the launch area are S34°04.794; E18°24.670.
Access to the site is through the Silvermine Reserve. Enter via the boom and office on the north side of Ou Kaapse Weg. Show your Wild Card and club membership card to the park officials. Drive along the tar road towards the reservoir car park for about 1 km and park where a broad track goes off to the right. The firebreak is a continuation of this track as it goes over the crest of the hill. Parking is allowed only on the tar road. Access may be reconsidered once the SAFCOL land-handover is finalized.
The path to the launch area is part of the firebreak itself.
Older information from 2006 describes the site as a small thermic site used when nothing else is flyable. The wind is typically from the northeast (berg wind), which can be very unpredictable. If the wind is strong and gusty, or if there is a dramatic mixing of warm and cold air, it is advised not to fly. Head out early for landing if descending.
Directions to the site: Head south on the M5 to the end, turn right, then go up Ou Kaapse Weg. Turn right at the top and park in the gravel area before the pay point to Silvermine Nature Reserve.
The caretaker for the site is Glen from CPNP.
For more information on XC flights from this region, you can visit: https://flycapetown.co.za/blog/author/stephan
It is unclear if this spot is also called 'Level 5' aka 'Raven's Ridge'.
View spot
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.
View spot
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)
View spot
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)
View spot
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.
View spot
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/).
View spot
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
View spot
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.
View spot
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).
View spot
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/).
View spot
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
View spot
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
View spot
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.
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Paradise Ridge Kleinkranz Jacques Paragliding Place
Jacques Paragliding offers a frequently used, easy coastal cross-country (XC) site with a height of 38 meters. The private takeoff area is accessible to paying visitors. The site is located in Gauteng, South Africa, and boasts a site record of 17.5 km. Another site in the Western Cape has a record of 14.6 km, while a different location in Gauteng holds a record of 29.7 km.
For more information, you can contact Jacques Paragliding Place at 082 957 7806 or visit their website at www.paradise4x4.za.net or http://www.paradise4x4andparagliding.co.za/paragliding-paradise-ridge/.
The site works well in any southerly wind direction with a western or easterly component due to its excellent anabatic conditions. During summer, the site is consistent from around 10:00 AM onwards. Top landings are straightforward, and the beach below offers a safe alternative landing spot with a pathway leading back to the launch site.
Visiting pilots should exercise caution when the south-western wind increases in speed to avoid being caught halfway down the ridge, which could lead to being blown into the rotor area. Look for signs on the ocean, such as wind lines forming in your direction and a rapid buildup of white caps, which indicate the need to fly out to a lower wind gradient area. Dark clouds above also serve as a warning.
The site offers easy soaring with plenty of altitude. Jacques, the owner, continuously invests in upgrading and maintaining the site for all paragliders. A daily fee of R50 is charged, which includes recovery from Kleinkrantz if needed.
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Constatiaberg East 2
This paragliding site has a takeoff height of 540 meters and a height difference of 350 meters. It is primarily used for hike and fly activities and is rarely frequented by pilots. The site offers opportunities for thermal soaring and small cross-country flights.
For more details on flights from this location, you can check out these links:
[Flight 1](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/3090533)
[Flight 2](https://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/2790314)
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Other guides available in South Africa :