Sampaio Correia, located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a highly popular paragliding site known for its excellent cross-country (XC) potential. The main launch direction is northwest (NW), and the site offers a variety of launch points ranging from 350 to 700 meters in altitude, providing stunning views of the sea, lakes, and jungle.
The site is approximately 70 km from Rio de Janeiro. To get there, take the Amaral Peixoto road towards Sampaio Correia. After descending the mountain, turn left onto a dirt road marked with a "Vôo Livre" sign. The dirt road is about 4.5 km long and is accessible by most vehicles. The north ramp is an additional 7 km, with the last 500 meters requiring a short walk.
The north ramp has ample space for setting up and launching multiple paragliders, with a gentle slope for takeoff. There are also ramps oriented to the northeast (NE) and east (L), suitable for both hang gliders and paragliders. The predominant wind direction in the region is from the north.
The official landing zone is at "Feno," located on a farm below the south (S) and southeast (SE) ramps, near a gas station. To reach this landing zone, pilots must ensure they have enough altitude to cross the ridge. In less favorable conditions, an alternative landing zone is available at Tingui, which is not visible from the ramp and requires sufficient altitude to spot.
The best time to fly is in September, although the site offers flying opportunities year-round. The local paragliding club, AVLSC, provides more information and support for pilots.
Pros of flying at Sampaio Correia include beautiful scenery, the potential for long-distance flights, and easy retrieval along the highway. However, landing below the north and northeast ramps can require hours of walking, and if pilots launch and stay low, they may quickly lose altitude due to venturi effects.
For accommodations and dining, there are excellent options near the ramp, such as the QG do Voo Livre do Werneck. Visit [QG do Voo Livre](http://www.qgdovoolivre.com.br) for more details.
For more information, you can also visit:
- [Ondas do Vento](http://www.ondasdovento.com.br/voolivre/rampa-norte-sampaio-correia/)
- [Guia 4 Ventos](http://www.guia4ventos.com.br/rampas-do-brasil/34-rampas-de-voo-livre-rj/185-sampaio-correia-rampa-de-sampaio-correia-rj-)
Contact numbers for local support and 4x4 truck retrieval services are available:
- Nextel: (22) 7835-7503 ID - 87*11961
Record flights include a 165 km paragliding flight to Bananal and a 91 km hang gliding flight to Adrianópolis.
For more details, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).
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