Paragliding in Turkey: Best Spots, Seasons, Prices & Schools
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Every year, tens of thousands of people take off from Turkish mountains without ever having flown before — and land smiling. Turkey has quietly become one of the world’s easiest places to try paragliding for the first time.
From turquoise coastlines to surreal rock formations, paragliding here isn’t just about adrenaline. It’s about views you simply can’t get any other way.
What is Paragliding?
Paragliding is a foot-launched flying sport where you glide using a fabric wing and natural air currents. There’s no engine — just gravity, wind, and technique.
- The pilot sits in a harness suspended under a fabric wing
- The wing stays inflated through air pressure and aerodynamic shape
- No rigid frame, which makes transport and launch simple
Best Paragliding Spots in Turkey
Ölüdeniz, Fethiye
Ölüdeniz is Turkey’s paragliding capital and one of the most photographed take-off points in Europe.
- Launch points on Babadağ range from 1,200 m to 1,965 m
- Lagoon and Mediterranean views throughout the flight
- Stable conditions suitable for first-time flyers
2026 Prices: Tandem flights cost €85–€190, depending on launch height and operator. Photos and video packages are optional at €20–€40.
Insider tip: Early morning flights are smoother and quieter. Midday flights are longer but bumpier.
Pamukkale, Denizli
Flying over Pamukkale means drifting above white travertine terraces and ancient ruins at the same time.
- Launch height around 1,200 m
- Thermal conditions allow longer soaring flights
- Easy to combine with sightseeing and thermal pools
Alanya, Antalya
Alanya offers relaxed coastal paragliding with city and sea views.
- Lower launch height around 650 m
- Gentle wind patterns, popular with beginners
- Views of Alanya Castle and the Taurus Mountains
Cappadocia
Paragliding in Cappadocia feels surreal, with fairy chimneys, valleys, and hot air balloons sharing the sky.
- Launch heights around 1,300–1,400 m
- Best flights at sunrise for calm air
- Excellent for aerial photography
Paragliding Season in Turkey
The main paragliding season runs from May to October, when winds are predictable and rainfall is low.
- Summer temperatures: around 28°C on the coast
- Typical wind speeds: 15–20 km/h
- Limited winter flights still operate in Ölüdeniz on suitable days
Paragliding Equipment
All licensed operators provide certified equipment for tandem flights.
- Wing: 4–7 kg, speed range 20–60 km/h
- Harness: Includes back protection and reserve parachute
- Helmet: EN 966 certified, lightweight and ventilated
- Instruments: Altimeter, vario, and GPS used by pilots
Choosing a Paragliding School or Club
In Turkey, paragliding is regulated under civil aviation rules.
- Choose operators licensed by the Turkish Aeronautical Association (THK) and SHGM
- Flights may be canceled without notice due to safety enforcement
- Unauthorized flights can result in fines up to 164,613 TRY
Preparing for Your Paragliding Adventure
- Wear trainers with good grip — flip-flops are a no-go
- Eat light and stay hydrated
- Listen closely during the takeoff briefing
- Relax your legs during landing — your pilot will guide you
Paragliding in Turkey is designed to be accessible, safe, and unforgettable — even if it’s your very first flight.
