Paragliding Flight Experience In Rio De Janeiro

Imagine soaring above Rio’s iconic skyline, the ocean breeze in your hair, and the city’s breathtaking landmarks unfolding beneath you. For around $180 per person, you can do just that with a paragliding tandem flight that lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes—a generous window to enjoy Rio’s stunning vistas, from Sugarloaf Mountain to Christ the Redeemer, all while feeling entirely safe and well-cared for.
What really sets this experience apart is the expertise of the guides. TAVINHO has been a mountaineering guide since 1979 and created Brazil’s first paragliding school in 1989, so safety and professionalism are baked into every flight. AUGUSTO, with 28 years of experience, is dedicated to making your flight not just thrilling but also a meaningful transformation—provoking emotion and a sense of personal achievement.
Two things we particularly love about this tour: the clarity of instruction from seasoned guides, which eases nervous flyers, and the incredible panoramic views—a visual feast that you’ll remember long after landing.
A possible consideration is weather dependency. Flights are only possible in suitable wind conditions, meaning your trip might be postponed or refunded if conditions aren’t right. This is a safety measure but worth noting if you’re visiting during a variable climate season.
This tour appeals to a wide range of travelers—those seeking adventure, spectacular scenery, or a memorable highlight of Rio. If you’re someone who enjoys authentic experiences led by knowledgeable guides, and isn’t afraid to embrace a bit of adrenaline, this is likely a perfect fit.
- Expert Guides: TAVINHO and AUGUSTO bring decades of experience, ensuring safety and enriching the story behind your flight.
- Stunning Views: From the sky, you’ll see Rio’s world-famous landmarks and the lush landscape, with options for video recordings of your flight.
- Safety & Insurance: Personal insurance is included, along with detailed safety briefings, making this suitable even for first-timers.
- Weather Dependence: Flights are contingent on wind conditions, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled.
- All-Inclusive Cost: The fee covers equipment, transport to the takeoff point, and videos, offering good value for such an authentic experience.
- Group Size & Personal Touch: The experience is private, just your group with guides, allowing for tailored attention and a comfortable environment.
A Detailed Look at the Rio Paragliding Experience
Planning more time in Rio de Janeiro? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Logistics
The adventure begins at the BOMVOO.rio Escola de Parapente located in São Conrado, a neighborhood known for its paragliding scene and stunning coastal views. The meet-up is straightforward—at the designated club, where you’ll check in and complete a few formalities. The guides then drive you to the take-off ramp, which is a scenic drive through Rio’s lush hills, setting the tone for what’s to come.
The transportation is part of the package, and it’s a short, scenic drive that helps build anticipation. Because this experience is only for your group, the guides can focus on your safety and comfort, making the process more relaxed than a large group tour.
The Safety Briefing and Preparation
Once at the ramp, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing. Guides like AUGUSTO and TAVINHO are known for their clear, friendly explanations, which put even the most nervous at ease. Reviews highlight how helpful and calming guides are—“Augusto was great and helped me get comfortable and explained everything in good English,” says Linda.
You’ll be fitted with double flying equipment, personal insurance is covered, and a video camera captures your takeoff, flight, and landing. The kit is modern and well-maintained, reinforcing the professionalism of this operation.
The Takeoff and Flight
The actual launch is described as “very smooth,” and once airborne, you’ll quickly realize why Rio’s skies are so popular among paragliders. Our guides aim to provoke emotion and a sense of transcendence, and many reviews reflect this feeling of awe—“feeling like you are in another dimension,” as one reviewer put it.
During the flight, you’ll have a chance to control the handles—a moment of pure thrill—while soaking in the panoramic views of Rio’s landmarks. From the sugarloaf mountain to the Christ the Redeemer statue, the city sprawls beneath you. The flight also offers views of the ocean, beaches, and lush forests, creating a visual tapestry unlike any other.
The Landing and Celebration
Landing is often described as “smooth” and “easy”, with guides ensuring you feel secure throughout. After touch-down, there’s a moment of celebration, and guides typically take the opportunity to share more stories about Rio’s geography and flying conditions.
Post-flight and Memories
All flights include a video package—a valuable keepsake that captures the takeoff, the flight itself, and the landing. Many reviews mention how special these videos are, especially since the guides are committed to providing high-quality footage to keep the experience alive long after the flight.
Overall Value and Experience
At $179.99, this paragliding experience offers excellent value, considering it includes equipment, transport, insurance, and professional guidance. The reviews repeatedly praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, emphasizing safety and trustworthiness.
The duration—about 90 minutes—might seem brief, but the actual flying time is generous, and the entire process from check-in to return is well-paced and thorough.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
It’s suitable for most travelers, provided they meet the weight limit of 100 kg and are over 14 years old. Even first-timers or those with slight nervousness have found guides to be very reassuring, making this a highlight of many trips to Rio. If you’re someone craving authentic adventure combined with jaw-dropping scenery, this tour will not disappoint.
Final Thoughts

This Rio paragliding experience stands out thanks to its professional guides, breathtaking vistas, and well-organized setup. It’s a safe, exhilarating way to see the city from a perspective most visitors never get to enjoy. With the combined expertise of TAVINHO and AUGUSTO, you get more than just a thrill—you get a connection to Rio’s landscape and the chance to feel truly alive.
If your travel style leans toward authentic adventure, scenic beauty, and guided professionalism, this tour is a wise choice. It’s especially suited for those who value safety and expert instruction, but also want to embrace a moment of personal triumph and awe.
FAQ

How long does the paragliding flight last?
The actual flight is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide a detailed safety briefing, and many reviews mention feeling comfortable even if it’s their first time. The guides are experienced and reassuring.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers double flying equipment, transportation, personal insurance, and video recordings of your flight.
Can I buy extra videos?
Yes, some reviewers mention options for additional videos or higher-quality footage, like the 360 camera.
What about weather conditions?
Flights depend on appropriate wind conditions. If weather is unsuitable, the tour can be postponed or refunded.
What is the maximum weight allowed?
The weight limit is 100 kg for safety reasons.
Can children participate?
Children under 14 are not allowed to fly, but older teens and adults can enjoy the experience.
Where does the tour start and finish?
It begins at the BOMVOO.rio Escola de Parapente in São Conrado and ends back at the same meeting point after your flight.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 8 days in advance on average, but it’s wise to confirm availability early, especially during peak seasons.
In all, this paragliding adventure offers a fantastic way to add a unique highlight to your Rio itinerary. With expert guides, stunning scenery, and safety as a priority, it’s an experience that’s worth every penny—and likely one you’ll remember for a lifetime.
More Tour Reviews in Rio de Janeiro
- Corcovado Train & Sugarloaf Full-Day City Tour with Lunch
- Rio De Janeiro Helicopter Flight Tour
- Centro Historico and Lapa – Santa Teresa Walking, Historical and Bohemian Tour
- Museum of Tomorrow Guided Tour, Admission & Transfer
- Private Transfer from Rio de Janeiro Airports to Hotels
- Rio’s Secluded Beaches: Prainha & Grumari Hike and Swim (small group or private)
More Rio de Janeiro experiences we've covered
- Corcovado Train & Sugarloaf Full-Day City Tour with Lunch
- Rio De Janeiro Helicopter Flight Tour
- Centro Historico and Lapa – Santa Teresa Walking, Historical and Bohemian Tour
- Museum of Tomorrow Guided Tour, Admission & Transfer
- Private Transfer from Rio de Janeiro Airports to Hotels
- Rio’s Secluded Beaches: Prainha & Grumari Hike and Swim (small group or private)
- Sugarloaf Mountain Adventure
- Petrópolis City Tour with lunch
- Private Guided Sunrise Tour from Rio De Janeiro
- Private Transportation in Armoured Cars in Rio
- Favela Walking Tour in Rio de Janeiro
- Private City Tour of Rio de Janeiro
