Namibia Holiday & Travel - Adventure in Namibia - Paragliding
Paragliding
The dunes south of Swakopmund provide among the safest locations in the world to learn the art of paragliding. Even Europeans used to berg-wind conditions travel to Namibia to train in the harsher conditions of the interior. The dune belt between Swakop and Walvis Bay, especially the dunes overlooking Long Beach (Langstrand) are favourite spots. The fresh south-westerly winds offer ideal ‘lift’ and once air-borne there are spectacular views of the desert and the ocean.
The Namib Paragliding School offers a half-day introductory course that includes at least two ground-skimming flights, a basic pilot’s licence course and tandem flights. Paragliding enthusiasts occasionally undertake powered paragliding excursions along the coast.
In Namibia paragliding is usually done with a guide who knows the conditions and flying sites in Namibia. You are strongly advised not to try this on your own. Activity operators offer experienced guides and instructors to help you make your dream holiday a safe and enjoyable one.
The Namibian coast, where the dunes range from 70–150 metres, is one of the great training and fun-flying sites of the world. The dunes are regulated by the local training school to insure safety and reduce overcrowding. Current tours are offered from the beginning of September to the end of March, which is the main season and the best flying times in Namibia. Tours include all transfers, specialised training in strong wind, reverse launch techniques, accommodation, guiding and permits. www.paraglidingnamibia.com www.namibgliding.com
