Paragliding in Tenerife - the island's ideal sport

Paragliding in Tenerife. If ever there was an environment perfect for the amazing sport of paragliding - it is Tenerife. With its light winds, useful thermals and superb scenery to fly over, you can't hope for better.

Photo: Fabien1309

Paragliding is a slightly more user-friendly activity than hang-gliding. You sit in a sort of sling, suspended under a parachute and glide peacefully over the varied landscape. The sport also lends itself to "tandem flights", where a complete beginner can be paired with an instructor.

When I lived at Paloma Beach, in Los Cristianos, you could always see a group of paragliders sailing over the Roque del Conde, the flat-topped mountain rising behind the town.

Photo: Frédéric Bonifas

Recognised Areas for Paragliding

There are six main routes recognised as ideal for paragliding, but this is by no means an exhaustive list.

Izaña-Puerto de la Cruz

Izaña is the area of Tenerife where the astronomical observatory is found and this route traces a long descent over the La Orotava valley, eventually landing at Playa Jardin.

Izaña-Puertito de Guimar

Again, a long descent of some eight miles over awe-inspiring scenery.

Tacoronte-El Sauzal

A nice coastal flight of only 3½ miles. It can easily be done in the other direction.

La Corona-Los Realejos

This route takes you over Icod el Alto and Los Realejos before landing on the beach.

Taucho-Adeje

A southern route, where you make the most of the warm air thermals.

Jama

Another thermal route, taking in Valle de San Lorenzo.

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