Zurich: Day trip to Interlaken incl. tandem paragliding

A full day exploring the Swiss Alps, with a highlight that truly stands out—paragliding over Interlaken. For about $388 per person, you get around 10 hours of breathtaking scenery, charming village strolls, and an adrenaline rush that stays with you long after you land. The tour kicks off from Zurich, taking you through some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes, with a chance to soar at 3454 meters at the Jungfrau—an experience that’s both exhilarating and scenic.

What we love about this trip is how it combines adventure and leisure—from the thrill of tandem paragliding to wandering the picturesque streets of Interlaken. Plus, the experienced guides, smooth transportation, and flexible schedule make it a popular pick for travelers craving authentic Swiss beauty in a single day.

One thing to consider: last-minute bookings might limit your chances to paraglide, as availability can be tight, especially during peak seasons. This tour suits nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to enjoy stunning vistas with manageable logistics.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience panoramic vistas of Interlaken and the Jungfrau mountain range.
• Adventure Included: Tandem paragliding provides an unforgettable thrill over the Alps.
• Comfortable Transport: Bus transfers and a driver guide make logistics easy.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunity to explore Interlaken’s charming streets and lakeside views.
• Authentic Experience: Guided safety talks and briefing ensure a secure, enjoyable flight.
• Limited Last-Minute Availability: Booking early is recommended to secure the paragliding slot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect from Start to Finish

The adventure begins with a meeting point in Zurich, where you’ll hop aboard a bus for the approximately 2-hour journey to Interlaken. This part of the day is not just transportation—it’s a chance to relax, take in the Swiss countryside, and chat with fellow travelers. Your driver guides you through the scenic route, sharing tidbits about the region, making the ride an inviting preview of what’s to come.

Once in Interlaken, you’ll disembark at the partner office—a central spot where the guides handle your paperwork and prepare you for the aerial adventure ahead. The highlight is the paragliding flight, which begins with a short drive up the mountain in a dedicated van. During this 20-minute ride, a safety talk and briefing on takeoff and landing are provided, setting your mind at ease.

Arriving at the take-off site, just a quick 3-minute walk from the van, you’ll be greeted with spectacular views of the region, including the Jungfrau and the twin lakes of Interlaken. This is the perfect opportunity to snap photos, soak in the scenery, and prepare for your flight. Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned flyer, the tandem experience, guided by professional pilots, promises safety and fun.

Post-flight, you’re free to explore Interlaken at your leisure. The town is tiny but packed with charming shops, lakeside cafes, and scenic viewpoints. Many reviews mention how this free time allows for a relaxed exploration or a quick bite before heading back to Zurich.

Throughout the day, the driver and guides are attentive, ensuring smooth transitions and providing helpful tips. The tour ends back at your original meeting point, leaving you with wonderful memories and maybe a few photos of your flight.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Picturesque Landscape & Scenic Drive
The journey itself is enjoyable—Swiss countryside whizzes by, with views of mountains, lakes, and quaint villages. When you arrive at Interlaken, the view over the surrounding mountains and lakes is truly postcard-perfect. Many travelers mention how they appreciated the comfortable bus ride and the chance to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

The Paragliding Experience
The real star is the tandem flight. As one reviewer put it, “I felt like a bird soaring above the Alps.” The pilots are praised for their professionalism, humor, and ability to make nervous flyers comfortable, with some guests noting “Stef” and “Patrick” as excellent guides who took great photos and did some “awesome stunts.” This activity is not just a thrill but also a chance to see the Swiss landscape from an entirely different perspective.

Authentic Swiss Charm
Post-flight, the free time in Interlaken offers a chance to wander the charming streets, visit local shops, or just enjoy the lakeside views. Many reviews highlight how the town’s peaceful ambiance and natural beauty make a lasting impression. The small size means you can cover the main sights quickly, making the most of your day.

Considerations and Tips

Booking in Advance
The reviews reveal that last-minute bookings might restrict your paragliding options. If soaring over the Alps is on your wish list, it’s wise to book early.

Weight & Health Restrictions
Passengers over 100kg might be excluded from flying, and the activity isn’t suitable for children under 7, those afraid of heights, or people with altitude sickness. Make sure to communicate your height and weight beforehand, as the tour operators request this info for safety reasons.

Weather Dependence
Weather can influence the flight schedule—if the weather is poor, pilots might reschedule or cancel. Many travelers mention that even in less-than-ideal conditions, the guides do their best to ensure a positive experience, but flexibility is key.

Time Management
The tour provides ample free time, but it’s good to keep track of your schedule, especially if you have other plans later in the day. The return journey to Zurich is straightforward, but you’ll want to be mindful of the departure time.

Why We Think This Tour Is a Good Deal

When you consider the price of $388, it covers transportation, a tandem paragliding flight, and free time in a charming Swiss town—almost like combining a scenic tour with a bucket-list activity. The scenic drive, professional guides, and well-organized logistics make this a smooth, worry-free experience, especially for first-timers or those wanting to combine adventure with sightseeing.

Many travelers agree that the quality of guides and pilots elevates the experience. The reviews mention friendly, knowledgeable staff who prioritize safety and comfort. Plus, the opportunity to capture your flight with photos for an additional CHF 40 is a nice bonus for creating lasting memories.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip appeals most to travelers who crave adventure but also appreciate scenic beauty and authentic Swiss towns. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of altitude and weather flexibility, and who enjoy small-group experiences with friendly guides.

It’s perfect if you’ve always dreamed of flying over the Alps, or if you want a unique story to tell back home. However, it might not suit families with very young children or travelers with certain health restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This day trip to Interlaken offers a rare blend of stunning natural scenery and the thrill of tandem paragliding. The experience is thoughtfully organized, with comfortable transport, professional pilots, and enough free time to enjoy the town. The views of the Jungfrau and lakes are unforgettable, and the chance to soar like a bird above the Alps makes it a highlight of any Swiss visit.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines beautiful landscapes with a rush of adrenaline, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic way to see Switzerland from a unique vantage point, with plenty of opportunities for photos, exploration, and new memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 7 years old. The activity involves heights and altitude, so it’s best suited for older children and adults who are comfortable with these aspects.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the paragliding might be canceled or rescheduled. Flexibility is recommended, and guides will do their best to ensure you still have a memorable day.

How long is the paragliding flight?
The actual tandem flight isn’t specified in duration, but it’s a “paragliding experience” likely lasting several minutes, with the entire process—briefing, takeoff, flight, and landing—being carefully guided.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and perhaps a camera or phone to capture the spectacular views. Remember, the activity isn’t suitable for those with height fears or altitude sickness.

How do I confirm my booking?
You reserve your spot in advance, and the tour provider requests your height and weight via email. Payment is flexible—reserve now, pay later.

Will I get photos or videos of my flight?
Yes, pilots can take photos and videos during your flight for CHF 40, which you can purchase if you like to keep a visual memory of your adventure.

In essence, this tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural charm, perfect for travelers seeking a memorable Swiss experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: