BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN SOUTH AFRICA

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 ...

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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 ...

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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.

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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.

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Paradise Ridge Kleinkrantz Dunes

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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

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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'.

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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.

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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)

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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

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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.

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Misty Cliffs

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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/).

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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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Signal Hill The Bench

Signal Hill, also known as Lion’s Rump, is a flat-topped hill in Cape Town, adjacent to Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. It offers a unique flying experience with a smooth-sloped ridge against the north-westerly wind. The lift band is generally wide but not too high, with occasional thermals. This site is rated for experienced pilots (IPPI 5) and is not suitable for beginners. It is an ideal spot for a relaxed Sunday afternoon flight for those with the necessary experience. **Requirements:** - Sports Licence (IPPI 5) - SANParks Activity Permit - Foreign pilots need a Foreign Pilot Permit - Tandem Flight Instructors must have a SANParks-issued Operators Permit and be members of the Cape Town Tandem Association **Site Rules:** - Only Sport-rated (IPPI 5) or higher may launch from Signal Hill Carpark Launch, The Bench, or Beacon. - All pilots must have a SANParks Activity Permit and be SAHPA members with a valid SACAA National Pilot Licence. - Maximum wind speed for take-off and landing is 35 km/h. - First-time pilots must report to an instructor for a site briefing. - Tandem Flight Instructors are forbidden from top-landing. - Recreational Solo Pilots can top-land only in designated areas if safe. - No novice training or Paragliding Basic-license pilots allowed. - Slope landings are forbidden and must be reported as incidents. - No smoking in the launch area. - Pilots must be ready and clipped in before stepping onto the mat launch area. **Weather Resources:** - iWeathar Station on Lion’s Head: [Link](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=252) - iWeathar Station at The Glen Club: [Link](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=436) - iWeathar Station on Signal Hill: [Link](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=28) - iWeathar Station at Three Anchor Bay: [Link](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=600) - iWeathar Station at Sea Point Promenade: [Link](https://iweathar.co.za/stations) **Launch Sites:** - **Carpark Launch:** Suitable for NW winds. Drive to the end of the road and park in the public parking. Launch from the green mat south of the carpark. - **The Bench:** Located 500m south along the ridge, more suited to Westerly winds. Accessible via a gravel turnoff from the tar road. **Crossing to Lion’s Head:** When the wind is strong (20 kph+ for paragliders, 30-40 kph for hang-gliders) and NW to WNW with a high cloud base, crossing to Lion’s Head requires 150m above take-off at the Kramat in a NW wind. The rocks above the trees usually provide lift, allowing you to climb above Lion’s Head. **Landing:** - **Sea Point Promenade:** Land on the grassy promenade in front of the Winchester Mansions hotel. In a Southerly wind, land on the fields near the stadium but be aware of strong rotor. - **Caution:** The area lacks safe landing spots within the built-up area. **Cautionary Advice:** - Signal Hill is part of the Table Mountain National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Do not damage the critically-endangered Peninsula Shale Renosterveld vegetation. - Many experienced pilots have been caught out by the site’s deceptive safety. Do not fly here without the required experience. - Slope landing is more difficult the lower you get. The best place is on the North spur. - There is sometimes strong, turbulent South wind below 100m, creating shear turbulence. - Hang-gliders use Signal Hill when the wind is strong, soaring high in the laminar flow. Reconsider flying if you see hang-gliders in the air. **Caretaker:** The Glen Paragliding Club: [Link](https://www.glenclub.co.za/signal-hill/) SANParks (owner) For more detailed information, visit the [Signal Hill Site Guide](https://www.sahpa.co.za/site-guide/sites/signal-hill/) and the [Table Mountain National Park Paragliding Guidelines](http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/library/appendix1_para.pdf).

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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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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

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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/).

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Porterville Pampoenfontein Leeuwenkop

Leeuwenkop is a highly frequented paragliding site in Western Cape, South Africa, known for its consistent long-distance flights and excellent thermal soaring conditions. It is considered one of the best spots in Western South Africa for cross-country (XC) flying, especially between October and March. The site record here is an impressive 174.1 km. Leeuwenkop serves as an alternative to Dasklip Pass, offering a higher launch point that faces more directly into the prevailing southwest wind. This makes it a safer and more reliable option for XC pilots. The thermals are strong, allowing for quick takeoffs, and there is a significant ridge close to the launch area. **Weather Conditions:** - Best wind directions: West (W) to South-Southwest (SSW) - Thermic conditions: South-East (SE) days - Live wind readings available at: [iWeathar](https://iweathar.co.za/display?s_id=109) **Airspace:** - Ceiling at 2900m above sea level (asl) - FAR45 military zone 5km west in the valley (requires phone-in clearance) **Launch:** - Main launch area is from the carpark if the wind is straight. - Alternative launch from a wide ledge with netting below, suitable for experienced pilots but challenging for beginners. - Good run-off area for hang gliders. - Toplanding is possible. **Landing:** - Primary landing field is directly below the launch, to the right of a square forest (Grootelsbos). - Land on either side of the gravel road coming in from Porterville, using the ladder or gate. **Cautionary Notes:** - Experienced guidance is recommended in summer due to strong midday thermals. - Avoid fiddling with your harness near the launch site to maintain good glider control. - Use an assistant for launch timing in strong thermic conditions. **Directions:** - Continue past Dasklip takeoff around the back. After approximately 3 km, turn right (uphill). The road climbs out to the front of the ridge. **Contact/Guides:** - Patrice: WhatsApp/Phone +33766347974, PatriceCHartmann@gmail.com - [XC Paragliding South Africa](https://www.facebook.com/xcparaglidingsouthafrica) - [Birdmen Paragliding](http://www.birdmen.co.za) **Additional Information:** - There is an honesty box at the site: R35-00 per day. - Check with local pilots before using the site. For more detailed information, visit the [SAHPA site guide](https://www.sahpa.co.za/site-guide/sites/leeuwenkop/). Porterville is another premier XC site in Cape Town, known for its hardy scrub-covered mountains and excellent thermal activity. The site offers a good start for big cross-country flights, with the Cedarberg Range providing additional exploration opportunities. The best flying conditions are between November and March, with an average of four good flying days per week. **Landing:** - Turkey patch is directly below takeoff, around the Y junction at the base of the pass. - Fields on the west and southeast of the junction belong to Mr. Du Bois, a friendly farmer. - Close all gates and avoid livestock. **Permission:** - Site fee payable to landowner Rob Manzoni (082 788 4398). **Accommodation:** - Mountain View: Upmarket accommodation for 20 people, with a pool (082 320 8510). - Flyers' Lodge: Pool, bunk beds, and lots of space (082 788 4398). - Pampoenfontein: 3 charming cottages near takeoff, better in cross-wind conditions (Contact Gemma Carlsson, 082 564 5500, gemmac@mweb.co.za). - Rockhaven: (083 630 8217). - Laatson: Cool retreat in the valley, 4 or 6 beds chalets (022 931 2468). - Beaver Lac: Rock pools and pine trees (022 931 2945). For more information, visit [Porterville Paragliding](https://stpxml.sourceforge.net/Sites/Porterville/Porterville.html).

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