Unique experience flying paragliding - The Safety and Induction Process

Unique experience flying paragliding

Imagine catching a glimpse of Colombia’s coffee country from above, feeling the wind in your hair, and seeing the lush landscape stretch out beneath you. That’s exactly what you get when you sign up for the paragliding tour in Buenavista, Quindio. For just $55 per person, you’ll enjoy roughly two hours of flying, with the actual glide lasting around 15 minutes. Guided by seasoned pilots, this experience combines stunning scenery, safety, and a dash of thrill — all in a relaxed, friendly environment.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the professionalism of the guides shines through, making even nervous flyers feel confident. And secondly, the photography and video recordings—courtesy of a mounted GoPro—capture your flight, giving you keepsakes to relive the moment. While the activity is suitable for a wide age range (from 4 to over 120 kilos), it’s best for those who want a memorable adventure in a safe setting with flexible timing options.

A small consideration: weather conditions can affect the flight schedule. If the weather isn’t cooperative, the tour offers a full refund or the option to reschedule, which adds a layer of reassurance. This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, families, or anyone curious to see Colombia’s coffee region from a new angle.

Key Points

  • Affordable and value-packed: At $55, you get a professional flight, safety gear, photos, videos, and transportation.
  • Flexible scheduling: Departure times run throughout the day, making it easier to fit into your plans.
  • Safety is prioritized: Thorough safety briefings, equipment, and insurance mean you can fly with confidence.
  • Perfect for a variety of travelers: Suitable for kids (over 4), families, and solo travelers alike.
  • Incredible views: Glide over lush coffee plantations and the vibrant landscape of Quindio—truly a visual feast.
  • Weather dependent: Flights are subject to favorable weather, with options to reschedule or refund if conditions aren’t right.

The Starting Point: Buenavista and Café Éxtasis

Unique experience flying paragliding - The Starting Point: Buenavista and Café Éxtasis

Your adventure begins at Café Éxtasis in Buenavista, a charming spot easy to reach by bus from Armenia or via private transport. The meeting at this local café sets a relaxed tone, and it’s a great place to gather your nerves and enjoy a good cup of coffee before taking to the skies.

The staff here are welcoming and professional. Before heading to the flight site, you’ll fill out some basic forms—nothing complicated—and then it’s a short drive to the takeoff point. The location offers one of the most picturesque backdrops, with coffee plantations sprawling as far as the eye can see. The scenery itself is worth the trip, even if you weren’t planning to fly — but of course, you are now, and that’s what matters.

The Safety and Induction Process

Unique experience flying paragliding - The Safety and Induction Process

Once at the launch site, your pilot will give you a clear safety briefing and lighting instructions. This is an essential part of the experience, especially for first-timers. The team, many of whom speak both English and Spanish, are known for being friendly and encouraging, which helps calm nerves. One review highlights this, saying, “The staff were so kind and encouraging, and my pilot made me feel confident even when I was initially afraid.”

All necessary safety equipment is provided—harnesses, helmets, and safety lines—so you can relax and focus on enjoying the ride. The entire safety demonstration and gearing-up process take about 15-20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to prepare mentally and physically.

The Flight Itself: What to Expect

The flight lasts approximately 15 minutes, although some rides may be longer or shorter depending on conditions. As you launch into the sky, you’ll feel a mix of anticipation and exhilaration. The pilot will teach you some basic techniques, and if you’re feeling confident, you might even get the chance to take the controls briefly—an experience that many reviews describe as unforgettable.

From your vantage point, you’ll see the lush coffee plantations, rolling hills, and the vibrant colors of the landscape. The views are often described as “incredible” and “life-changing,” particularly by those who have never flown before. One traveler mentioned that their kids’ highlight was the flight, calling it “their favorite experience in Colombia,” which speaks volumes about the appeal for families.

Photos and Videos: A Lasting Memory

A major perk of this tour is the GoPro footage. After your flight, you’ll receive a package of photos and videos that beautifully capture your adventure. This is especially valuable because it allows you to relive the experience and share it with friends and family—something many reviewers find worth the price alone.

The Return and End of the Tour

After landing back at the meeting point, your tour concludes. The entire experience, from check-in to flight to photos, takes about two hours. While there’s no included food or drinks, the coffee-rich surroundings make it tempting to linger at Café Éxtasis afterward and enjoy the local flavors.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers, families with children over 4, and anyone curious about Colombia’s scenic landscapes from above. As one reviewer put it, “My kids loved it, and I felt safe the whole time,” making it a perfect family outing. It also suits travelers who want a memorable photo opportunity and aren’t overly concerned about weather variability, since rescheduling or refunds are available if conditions aren’t suitable.

If you’re after a thrilling but safe flight with professional guidance, and you want a unique view of Colombia’s coffee country, this is a fantastic choice. Plus, the flexibility of departure times makes it easier to incorporate into your travel plans.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In sum, this paragliding tour offers real value. For just $55, you get a well-organized, professional, and beautifully scenic adventure that’s suitable for a wide range of travelers. The safety-first approach, coupled with the opportunity to capture your experience on video, makes it a memorable highlight.

While weather can be unpredictable, the tour’s policies keep your options open, ensuring you’re not left disappointed. The views alone make it worth considering, especially if you’re eager to see Colombia’s coffee region from a fresh perspective.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines adventure, safety, and stunning scenery, and you’re happy to be flexible with timing, this paragliding experience in Quindio should be near the top of your list. It’s more than just a flight—it’s a chance to see Colombia from a new vantage point and create lasting memories.

FAQ: Your Paragliding Questions Answered

Do I need previous experience to try this?
No, this tour is suitable for beginners. The pilot provides a safety briefing and instruction, and you’re in good hands.

What’s included in the price?
All safety equipment, transportation from the meeting point to the flight area, accident insurance, and photos/videos are included.

Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 4 years old can fly, provided they are accompanied by an adult and meet the weight requirements.

How long does the flight last?
The actual glide is about 15 minutes, but the entire experience, including briefing and preparation, takes roughly two hours.

What should I wear?
Long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, a cap, sunglasses, and sun protection are recommended. Bring insect repellent if needed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights are weather dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Where do I meet the guides?
The meeting point is at Café Éxtasis in Buenavista, which is easy to reach by bus or private transport.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from the meeting point to the flight site is included in the price.

How big are the groups?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are multilingual, with services often available in both English and Spanish.

Is this activity safe?
Yes, safety is a priority, with certified pilots, safety gear, and insurance provided. The safety briefing prepares you thoroughly.

This paragliding tour in Colombia offers a rare chance to see the coffee region from a perspective few get to enjoy. It’s a well-organized, safe, and scenic adventure that’s likely to be a highlight of your trip—especially if you love the thrill of flight and breathtaking views.