When Skydiving is too Scary, go Paragliding!

It just felt so symbolic. Like soaring into a new chapter, where you leave the ground—and your old life—behind, embracing the freedom of what lies ahead. Right?

In this detailed post, I’ll jump (pun intended) into the exhilarating and freeing experience of tandem paragliding for the first time, sharing every aspect of the journey from the first step to the triumphant descent.

Why Tandem Paragliding?

Why? Three reasons.

1. “Tandem” means you’re strapped to an experienced paragliding pilot. In other words, you don’t have to know what you’re doing.

2. You don’t need to take any lessons and you definitely don’t need to have any experience. Just do what the pilot says.

3. I’m too chicken to go tandem skydiving! I don’t think I’ll ever get the courage to jump out of a plane and freefall to the Earth – even if I’m attached to a pilot. There’s just something about plummeting to the ground that terrifies me. But gently taking off from the ground and rising up to the sky like a kite, now that’s something that I could do.

The pilot getting the paraglider ready

Selecting the Right Operator

Lucerne boasts several reputable paragliding operators, each offering a unique tandem experience. When choosing an operator, factors such as safety records, pilot expertise, and customer reviews play a crucial role.

I went tandem paragliding with Sky Glide for its commitment to safety, experienced team, and stunning launch site.

The paraglider is laid out and ready for inspection

Preparing for a Tandem Paragliding Flight

Registration and Briefing

The paragliding journey begins with the registration process at the Sky Glide facility or the pre-arranged meeting point. Essential paperwork is completed, there’s a thorough briefing, you’re given an overview of the tandem paragliding experience, safety protocols are reviewed, and an introduction to the equipment is given.

Gearing Up

The next step involves gearing up for the adventure. The tandem paragliding equipment includes a specially designed paraglider wing, a secure harness, and a helmet. The experienced pilot ensures that you are comfortably fitted with the necessary gear, emphasizing the importance of safety throughout the process.

I’ve got my harness and helmet on – ready to go!

The Thrill of Flight

The Launch Site

Sky Glide offers a variety of launch sites, carefully chosen for their optimal wind conditions and breathtaking views. The journey to the launch site itself becomes part of the adventure, often involving scenic drives or cable car rides to elevated points that serve as the starting platform for the tandem paragliding experience.

For my adventure, I chose “The View” with the launch site in Niederbauen-Emmetten and the flight area overlooking Lake Lucerne. Emmetten is about 30 minutes by car from Lucerne, or one hour by public transportation. Once at the meeting point, it’s a quick cable car ride up to the launch site and then a short walk through a small field with a few cows.

Pre-Flight Instructions

Before taking to the skies, you receive pre-flight instructions from your experienced tandem pilot. These instructions cover the basics of takeoff, in-flight posture, and communication signals. The goal is to ensure that you feel confident and informed about what to expect during your paragliding adventure.

The Set-up

Next, the pilot unpacks the paraglider and spreads it out across the open field. He performs a safety check and visual inspection and makes note of the wind speed and direction. Once the paraglider is in place, you will review the takeoff and landing instructions again and then you’ll be placed in your harness. You will be seated in front of your pilot with your harnesses attached together. The entire flight you will be in a comfortably seated position.

The Run and Lift-Off

With the paraglider spread out behind you, and secured in tandem with your pilot, you begin the exhilarating run that leads to lift-off. As the wind catches the paraglider – suddenly, you are airborne, leaving the ground below and entering the vast expanse of the Lucerne skies.

There is no freefall drop like skydiving, and you are actually airborne before you go over the edge. It’s such a smooth and gentle process that you don’t even realize it’s happening. 

Woohoo!!!!

In-Flight Experience

The Tandem Connection

Once airborne, the tandem connection comes into play. The pilot takes control of navigating the paraglider. Meanwhile you get to fully immerse yourself in the experience without the need for prior paragliding knowledge.

Awe-Inspiring Views

As you glide through the air, you are treated to awe-inspiring views of Lucerne and its surroundings. The Swiss Alps, Lake Lucerne, and the cityscape unfold beneath you, creating a visual spectacle that is both breathtaking and surreal. It feels as if you become part of the panoramic canvas that stretches out in every direction.

The Joy of Soaring

The joy of soaring through the skies is a defining moment for first-time tandem paragliders. The sensation of weightlessness, coupled with the rush of wind, creates an adrenaline-fueled experience that transcends ordinary adventures.

Moments in the Air

The Silence

One of the most unexpected delights of tandem paragliding in Lucerne is the silence that envelops you high above the city. This really caught me by surprise. The only sounds are the gentle rustle of the wind and the occasional calls of birds sharing the airspace. It’s a moment of profound peace, allowing you to fully absorb all that is around you.

Peaceful Moments

The paragliding experience is punctuated by peaceful moments that contrast with the adrenaline-fueled excitement of takeoff. It’s a chance to savor the stillness, to appreciate the vastness of the sky, and to reflect on the unique privilege of being suspended between earth and sky. Or, in my case, between my old life and new life.

So peaceful and silent up here!

Weather Considerations

The Dynamic Nature of Weather

While tandem paragliding is designed to be a safe and enjoyable experience, the dynamic nature of weather in the Swiss Alps adds an element of unpredictability. Experienced pilots and instructors, such as Sky Glide, closely monitor weather conditions leading up to the tandem flights. Safety protocols are in place to ensure that adverse weather does not compromise your flight.

Weather’s Impact on the Experience

You are briefed on the potential impact of weather on your paragliding experience. The day that I went paragliding, we had to wait about an hour for the wind conditions to be optimal for take-off.

Photography Options

Pre-Flight Photography

You can use your phone or camera to take pictures before your flight but not during your flight. Once you are ready to takeoff, your pilot will collect your phone or camera and place it in a secure bag that he will carry with him.

In-Flight Photography 

Tandem paragliding in Lucerne is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and capturing the moment is going to be a top priority. Many tandem paragliding packages offer the option of in-flight photography or video service. Definitely worth the small added cost!

For safety reasons, you cannot use your phone or camera during flight.

Not a good picture of me but a good picture of the tandem set-up.

The Descent

Landing with Precision

As your paragliding adventure nears its conclusion, you experience a gentle descent back to solid ground. The pilot, still in control of the paraglider, guides you back down as you begin moving your legs like you are jogging on air. Before you know it, you land softly on your feet.

Accomplishment and Exhilaration

Touching down after a paragliding adventure is accompanied by a mix of accomplishment and exhilaration. The realization that you have conquered the skies, embraced the freedom of flight, and witnessed Lucerne from a unique perspective becomes a personal triumph.

Planning Your Tandem Paragliding Adventure

Booking in Advance: Securing Your Tandem Slot

Tandem paragliding in Lucerne is a popular year round activity, especially during peak tourist seasons. To secure the desired date and time, it’s advisable to book the tandem experience in advance. This ensures that you have the opportunity to choose the most convenient slot for your adventure and avoid disappointment due to fully booked schedules.

Clothing and Comfort

What you wear paragliding should be comfortable and suitable for changing weather conditions at higher altitudes. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt to temperature variations during the flight. Additionally, sturdy, closed toe footwear is usually required for safety.

Physical Requirements and Health Considerations

While tandem paragliding is generally accessible to individuals of various fitness levels, it’s important to communicate any health concerns or physical limitations to the operator. This way they can tailor the tandem experience to your comfort level and ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Duration of Flight

Tandem paragliding experiences vary in duration, offering options for different preferences. Whether you opt for a shorter introductory flight or a more extended adventure, the chosen duration should align with your comfort level and desire for a fulfilling experience.

I did it!!!!

Final Thoughts

Tandem paragliding in Lucerne for the first time is way more than an ordinary adventure; it’s a personal triumph. From the adrenaline-fueled takeoff to the serene moments in flight and the gentle descent, every aspect of the tandem paragliding experience contributes to a narrative of courage, freedom, and awe.

In the end, tandem paragliding is not just an activity. It’s about conquering fears, embracing the unknown, and discovering the boundless possibilities that lie beyond the horizon!