If you’re craving a taste of adventure that combines stunning scenery with a dash of adrenaline, the Tandem Paragliding Experience in Ioannina is a fantastic choice. Set in Greece’s northwest region of Epirus, this activity offers a 2-hour journey (including safety briefings and flight time) that takes you soaring from the hills of Ligiades, with views that will stay with you long after you land. Guided by certified pilots, you get to glide over one of Greece’s most picturesque landscapes — the shimmering Lake Pamvotida, the historic city of Ioannina, and the lush, rolling hills that define this part of Greece.
What we particularly love about this experience is how accessible it is — no prior flying experience needed — and how the views deliver a genuine sense of perspective. Watching the countryside unfold beneath you feels like being part of a postcard, with the castle-fortified city and sparkling lake in full view. The professionalism of the pilot team makes safety feel like a given, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy the ride.
The only thing to consider is the weather — as with any outdoor activity in the mountains, wind conditions can affect availability and the flight itself. It’s best to check the forecast and be flexible with your schedule. This experience suits travelers who love a combination of scenic beauty and adventure, especially those eager to capture incredible photos or simply see Ioannina from a totally unique angle.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: Experience panoramic vistas of Lake Pamvotida and Ioannina’s historic castle.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: No previous experience needed; a certified pilot guides every flight.
- Safe and Guided: Safety equipment and professional instruction ensure a secure adventure.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 4 participants) mean personalized attention.
- Ideal for Scenic Seekers: Perfect for those wanting a memorable, scenic adventure in Greece.
The Launch Point: Ligiades Village
Your adventure begins in Ligiades, the charming village that serves as the launch pad. The village is just a short drive from Ioannina, offering a peaceful, rural setting that contrasts beautifully with the panoramic views awaiting you. The takeoff area provides a safe, open space with gentle slopes, ideal for a smooth run-off into the sky.
Travelers often mention that the departure point itself is picturesque, with stone-built houses and lush hills. The view from the launch site is breathtaking — you’re surrounded by mountains that seem to beckon you upward. This setting makes the entire experience feel more authentic and less commercialized.
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What Happens Before the Flight?
Your pilot, often a fluent English or German speaker, will give a thorough safety briefing. Expect clear instructions on what to do during the run, what to expect during the glide, and how to position yourself for the best experience. The briefing covers safety equipment, holding techniques, and what to do in case of unexpected situations.
Most reviews highlight how professional and reassuring the pilot’s manner is. Travelers appreciate that they’re in capable hands, which allows them to relax and focus on soaking in the scenery. You’ll also be fitted with safety gear, including a harness and helmet, ensuring protection without sacrificing comfort.
The Run and Takeoff
The moment you’re ready, the pilot signals to start your run toward the mountainside. This run, which lasts only a few seconds, is thrilling — it’s the moment you leave the ground and begin to float. The running itself is gentle, but the adrenaline kicks in as you lift off into the sky.
Once airborne, the real magic begins. The sensation of gliding effortlessly through the air is unlike anything most travelers have experienced. The wind in your face, the panoramic views expanding in all directions — it’s pure joy.
The Flight: Views That Take Your Breath Away
During your 2-hour experience, you’ll fly over some of the most scenic parts of Epirus. The highlight is undoubtedly the view of Lake Pamvotida, which shimmers beneath you like a giant jewel. According to many reviews, the lake’s reflective surface and the surrounding mountains provide a postcard-perfect backdrop.
You’ll also see Ioannina’s historic castle, perched atop the city, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective on its ancient walls and modern streets. The flight paths are designed to maximize visibility of key sights, and your pilot will point out landmarks along the way, adding context to your aerial tour.
The landscape of lush green hills and clusters of traditional villages creates a landscape that feels both untouched and alive. If weather permits, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Pindus mountains, adding a sense of scale and grandeur.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return and Landing
Landing is smooth and guided, often back at the same spot from which you took off. The pilot will advise you on how to prepare for touchdown, and many travelers mention how gentle the landing is — a testament to their experience and skill. Afterward, you’ll have plenty of time to chat with your pilot, take photos, and reflect on the incredible views.
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What’s Included and What’s Not
Your package includes the tandem flight, safety equipment, a certified pilot, and a video recording of your flight, so you can relive the experience later. There’s no need to worry about bringing your own camera, as most pilots are happy to help you capture the moment, though it’s wise to bring a charged smartphone.
Transportation to the meeting point — the village of Ligiades — isn’t included, so travelers should organize their own transport from Ioannina. The meeting point is straightforward: park on the right side of the road coming from Ioannina and meet there.
Pricing and Value
Priced in a way that reflects the uniqueness of the experience, this tandem flight offers incredible value for those eager to see Ioannina from a fresh perspective. The small group setting, professional guides, and scenic route all contribute to a memorable adventure that’s worth the cost. Many reviewers emphasize that the price includes safety gear and a video, which adds to the overall value.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventure lovers, scenic enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a memorable story to tell. It’s suitable for most people over 5 years old, provided they’re not pregnant, have no mobility issues, and aren’t afraid of heights. The limited group size ensures personal attention, making it suitable even for nervous first-timers.
Final Considerations
While the thrill of flying is undeniable, weather can influence flight availability. Checking the forecast ahead of time is recommended, and flexibility in your schedule can help. Also, consider that the activity involves running at takeoff, so comfortable shoes and clothes are essential.
The tandem paragliding experience in Ioannina offers a rare chance to see Greece’s stunning landscapes from an angle few get to enjoy. It combines safety, professionalism, and awe-inspiring views in a package that’s accessible to most travelers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply someone eager for a different perspective on Greece’s scenic north, this flight will likely leave you with lasting memories and impressive photos.
It’s best suited for those who love natural beauty and are open to a bit of adventure. If you’re after a safe, well-organized, and visually spectacular activity, you won’t regret making this part of your trip to Epirus.
Is prior experience needed for this paragliding tour? No, this is a tandem flight with a certified pilot guiding you every step, so no experience is necessary.
What should I wear for the flight? Comfortable clothes suitable for running, with closed-toe shoes and sunscreen. Bring a charged smartphone for photos.
Can children participate? The activity is not suitable for children under 5 years, and those with certain health conditions (pregnancy, heart problems, mobility issues, etc.) are advised against it.
How long is the actual flight? The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, including safety briefings, but the flight itself is approximately that duration.
Is transportation included? No, travelers need to arrange their own transport to the meeting point in Ligiades.
What happens if the weather is bad? Flights are weather-dependent; if conditions aren’t suitable, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reschedule.
Is the video of the flight free? Yes, your package includes a video recording of your flight as a memento.
How many people are in each group? The activity is limited to small groups of up to 4 participants for personalized attention.
What safety measures are in place? Certified pilots, safety equipment, and thorough briefings ensure a safe experience.
Is there a weight limit? Yes, participants over 95 kg (209 lbs) are not suitable for this activity.
Whether you’re after a thrilling adventure or a new way to appreciate Greece’s natural beauty, this tandem paragliding tour offers a balanced mix of excitement and spectacular scenery that’s hard to beat.
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