Ultimate Paragliding Guide in Ecuador: Launches and How to Get There from Quito

Ecuador offers some of the most diverse paragliding experiences in the world. Whether you're interested in high-altitude flights in the Andes or coastal soaring along the Pacific, there’s a spot for every level of pilot. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top paragliding launches in Ecuador, along with details on how to get to each one from Quito.

1. TelefériQo (Cruz Loma), Quito

Details:

• Altitude: Over 12,000 feet

• Flying Conditions: Strong thermals and high altitude make this site ideal for intermediate to advanced pilots. The views over Quito and the Andes are spectacular, but the weather can be unpredictable.

• Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced

• Local Schools: Several schools in Quito offer guidance and tandem flights, ensuring safety for those new to the area.

How to Get There from Quito:

• By Taxi/Uber: Easily accessible by taxi or Uber from anywhere in Quito. The TelefériQo cable car will take you up to the launch site at Cruz Loma.

• By Public Transport: Public buses are available to the base of the TelefériQo, but a taxi or Uber is recommended for convenience.

2. Canoa, Manabí Province - (My Favorite)

Details:

• Altitude: Various, depending on the launch site (El Nido, Canoa Suites Launch, and Monkey Beach Private Property Launch)

• Flying Conditions: A mix of coastal soaring and cross-country flying. The westerly winds and thermals provide dynamic conditions suitable for intermediate pilots. Can fly from site to site on the right days.

• Experience Level: All levels, conditions permitting

• Local Schools: There is a local club with access to launch for members.

How to Get There from Quito:

• By Plane: Fly to Manta, then take a bus or taxi to Canoa (approx. 2 hours).

• By Bus: Buses from Quito to Bahía de Caráquez or Manta, followed by a bus or taxi to Canoa.

3. Crucita, Manabí Province

Details:

• Altitude: Approx. 500 feet (cliff launch)

• Flying Conditions: Steady coastal winds offer excellent soaring conditions. Crucita is known for its consistent weather, making it one of the best spots for both beginners and experienced pilots.

• Experience Level: All levels

• Local Schools: Several local schools offer tandem flights and lessons.

How to Get There from Quito:

• By Plane: Fly from Quito to Manta (approx. 1 hour), then take a taxi or bus to Crucita (approx. 1.5 hours).

• By Bus: Direct buses from Quito to Portoviejo or Manta (approx. 8 hours), followed by a local bus or taxi to Crucita.

  
  

4. Chone, Manabí Province

(Only a short 45 minute drive away from The Coconut Hotel in Canoa.)

Details:

• Altitude: Variable, typically low to mid-altitude

• Flying Conditions: Known for its cross-country potential, Chone offers consistent thermals and expansive landscapes, perfect for long-distance flights.

• Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced

• Local Schools: While still developing, local guides are available for cross-country exploration.

How to Get There from Quito:

• By Plane: Fly to Manta, then take a bus or taxi to Chone (approx. 2 hours).

• By Bus: Direct buses from Quito to Chone (approx. 6-7 hours).

5. Yahuarcocha Lagoon, Imbabura Province

Details:

• Altitude: Approx. 8,400 feet

• Flying Conditions: Smooth thermals over a volcanic lake surrounded by the Andes. Yahuarcocha is particularly popular for acrobatic paragliding.

• Experience Level: All levels, with acrobatic options for advanced pilots

• Local Schools: Paragliding schools in Ibarra offer both beginner and advanced training.

How to Get There from Quito:

• By Bus: Take a direct bus from Quito to Ibarra (approx. 3 hours), then a taxi to Yahuarcocha.

• By Car: Drive from Quito to Ibarra (approx. 2.5 hours).

6. Baños, Tungurahua Province

Details:

• Altitude: Approx. 6,000 feet

• Flying Conditions: Flights here offer stunning views of the Tungurahua Volcano. The microclimate can lead to unpredictable weather, so it’s important to check conditions in advance.

• Experience Level: Suitable for all levels, but weather conditions must be checked.

• Local Schools: Several paragliding operators in Baños offer guided flights and lessons.

How to Get There from Quito:

• By Bus: Direct buses from Quito to Baños (approx. 3.5 hours).

• By Car: Drive from Quito to Baños (approx. 3 hours).

7. La Silla (The Chair), Near Guayaquil

Details:

• Altitude: Approx. 1,500 feet

• Flying Conditions: A unique spot with converging thermals, La Silla offers short but intense thermal cycles, making it a challenging and rewarding site.

• Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced

• Local Schools: Schools in Guayaquil offer guided flights and courses tailored to this region's specific conditions.

How to Get There from Quito:

• By Plane: Fly to Guayaquil (approx. 1 hour), then take a bus or taxi to La Silla (approx. 1.5 hours).

• By Bus: Direct buses from Quito to Guayaquil (approx. 8 hours), followed by a bus or taxi to La Silla.

Travel Tips:

• Weather Considerations: Ecuador’s diverse climate means weather conditions can vary significantly between locations. Always check with local schools or guides before planning your flights.

• Transportation: Renting a car offers the most flexibility, but buses and taxis are widely available and reliable.

• Local Guides: Engaging with local paragliding schools is highly recommended to ensure safety and get the most out of your flying experience.

Ecuador’s varied landscapes make it a paragliding paradise, offering everything from high-altitude mountain flights to relaxing coastal soaring. When you are coming to visit The Coconut Hotel in Canoa, you can also plan an unforgettable paragliding trip across the country, ensuring you experience the best that Ecuador has to offer.

*Did we miss any of your favorites? Please share them in the comments!