Best Paragliding Spots in Lanzarote

Lanzarote, the easternmost island in the Canary Islands archipelago, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping adventure. For paragliding enthusiasts, this island is a true paradise, offering numerous sites that cater to various skill levels and provide breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and charming villages. Whether you’re a seasoned paraglider or a beginner looking to soar for the first time, Lanzarote has something for everyone.

Understanding Lanzarote: A Volcanic Jewel in the Atlantic

Lanzarote is located just 100 kilometers off the African coast, boasting a mild climate year-round, thanks to the trade winds. This island is part of the Canary Islands, which include El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura. Notably, Lanzarote has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, emphasizing its commitment to preserving its unique ecosystems.

The Lanzarote’s weather is generally sunny, with an average annual temperature of 21 degrees Celsius. Rain is scarce, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities, including paragliding. The trade winds are stronger in the summer, providing optimal conditions for flight from September to April.

Best Paragliding Spots in Lanzarote

1. Playa de Orzola

Playa de Orzola, located in the northern part of Lanzarote, is a small fishing village known for its scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance.

• Orientation: North-East, 25°-60°
• Takeoff Altitude: 50 meters
• Landing Altitude: Beachfront
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced

Getting There: Head north to Orzola village. Just before entering the village, turn left onto a dirt road leading to the beach. Follow the road to the parking area. The takeoff zone is about 50 meters up from the parking area.

Flying Conditions: This site requires a wind speed of 15-20 km/h from the North-East. If the wind is too weak, flights may be short. Ideal conditions allow soaring along the cliffs, providing stunning views of La Graciosa Island.

Be aware that this flying site may be closed during the Guirre nesting period. A protected bird that comes to the north of the island at the beginning of the year.

For those interested in exploring more, Abubila Paragliding Lanzarote offers detailed guides and equipment rentals.

2. Mirador del Rio

The Mirador del Rio is an architectural marvel by César Manrique, located at the highest point in northern Lanzarote. It’s a perfect spot for paragliders due to its altitude and stunning views.

• Orientation: North-East, 20°-90°
• Takeoff Altitude: 430 meters
• Landing Altitude: Beach or top landing
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: From Arrieta or Haria, head towards the village of Yé and follow signs to Mirador del Rio. Park and walk north towards the antenna, then descend a 10-minute path to the takeoff area.

Flying Conditions: The site offers various takeoff options and the potential for both soaring and thermal flights. Beware of the wind’s strength and avoid flying too close to the cliff’s edge to prevent turbulence.

Be aware that this flying site may be closed during the Guirre nesting period. A protected bird that comes to the north of the island at the beginning of the year.

3. Mala

Mala is located between Arrieta and Mala on Lanzarote’s eastern coast. It’s a versatile site suitable for different levels of paragliders.

• Orientation: North-East, 30°-90°
• Takeoff Altitude: 170 meters
• Landing Altitude: 50 meters
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: From the main road (LZ1), exit north of Mala and follow a dirt road south along the LZ1. Cross the dam on foot to reach the takeoff area.

Flying Conditions: Mala offers a spacious takeoff area and various landing options. Ideal flying times are mornings and late afternoons to avoid strong midday thermals.

4. Las Pequenas

Located near Teguise, Las Pequenas offers easy access and great conditions for paragliding.

• Orientation: West/North, 270°-360°
• Takeoff Altitude: 200 meters
• Landing Altitude: 170 meters
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: From Teguise or San Bartolome, take the LZ-402 towards Caleta de Famara. Turn right onto a sandy road leading to the hills.

Flying Conditions: Los Pechos is perfect for practicing ground handling and launching from various heights depending on wind conditions. The site is suitable for light wind conditions and can be flown in the morning or evening for the best conditions.

5. Chimidas

Chimidas, near Caleta de Famara, is a favorite among hang gliders and paragliders alike.

• Orientation: South-West/North, 240°-360°
• Takeoff Altitude: 420 meters
• Landing Altitude: Top landing or 80 meters
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: Head north from Teguise towards La Montaña. The takeoff area is on a large flat area, perfect for preparing gliders.

Flying Conditions: This site offers strong thermal conditions during the day and can be busy with pilots. Evening flights are particularly stunning, with views over Famara Beach.

6. Las Nieves

Las Nieves offers spectacular views and is ideal when there’s little wind at Famara Beach.

• Orientation: South-West/North, 240°-360°
• Takeoff Altitude: 600 meters
• Landing Altitude: Oceanfront
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: From Teguise, take the LZ-10 towards Haria, passing through Los Valles and the wind farm. Turn left at the sign for Las Nieves.

Flying Conditions: With minimal wind at the beach, this site allows flights over the Risco de Famara cliffs, with the potential for thermal flights. The beach landing is simply stunning.

7. El Cuchillo

Nestled between Tinajo and La Santa, El Cuchillo is known for its volcanic landscape.

• Orientation: North, 340°-20°
• Takeoff Altitude: 100 meters
• Landing Altitude: Top landing or 40 meters
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: From Tinajo, head towards El Cuchillo village. Turn right after the last houses to reach the crater’s ridge.

Flying Conditions: Ideal for morning thermal flights, El Cuchillo offers easy takeoff and landing options. The volcanic crater provides excellent soaring conditions.

8. Tenezar

Tenezar is a tranquil village on the edge of the Timanfaya National Park.

• Orientation: South-East, 90°-180°
• Takeoff Altitude: 430 meters
• Landing Altitude: Top landing or 120 meters
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: From Tinajo, take the road west past Montaña Teneza to reach Tenezar. Park at the plateau and hike to the takeoff areas.

Flying Conditions: Tenezar offers stunning, wild landscapes and excellent flying conditions, especially when Famara’s kitesurfers are on the water.

9. La Asomada – Macher

Located south of La Geria, La Asomada – Macher is perfect for beginners.

• Orientation: South-East, 90°-160°
• Takeoff Altitude: 50 meters
• Landing Altitude: Top landing or beach
• Difficulty: Easy

Access: From the LZ-2, head towards Yaiza and turn right after Macher towards La Asomada. Park and hike to the volcanic takeoff area.

Flying Conditions: This site offers vast takeoff areas and easy landings. Thermal conditions can be strong, providing opportunities for high flights with panoramic views of Timanfaya National Park.

10. Playa Quemada

Playa Quemada is a small fishing village with a black sand beach.

• Orientation: South-West, 180°-320°
• Takeoff Altitude: 300 meters
• Landing Altitude: 250 meters
• Difficulty: Advanced

Access: From the LZ-2 between Yaiza and Tías, head south on the LZ-706 to Playa Quemada. Park and hike to the first hill for takeoff.

Flying Conditions: The takeoff area is vast, and you can fly along the coast, sometimes reaching the nearby volcano. Beware of high tides, as they can make landing tricky.

11. Femes

Femes offers a unique takeoff from a volcanic cinder slope.

• Orientation: South-West, 180°-320°
• Takeoff Altitude: 300 meters
• Landing Altitude: 250 meters
• Difficulty: Advanced

Access: From Yaiza towards Playa Blanca, turn towards Las Salinas de Janubio, then head east to Las Breñas and Maciot. Park at the roundabout at the base of the slope.

Flying Conditions: Femes is rarely used but offers unique flying experiences. Landing is technical, and you must navigate power lines carefully.

Fly Safe and Explore More

Lanzarote offers a diverse range of paragliding sites that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From coastal cliffs to volcanic craters, each site presents a unique flying experience. Remember to respect local regulations and natural reserves to ensure the continued enjoyment of these beautiful locations.

For more information on paragliding in Lanzarote, visit Abubila Paragliding Lanzarote, where you can find detailed guides, equipment rentals, and expert advice. Dive deeper into the wonders of Lanzarote through our comprehensive articles that cover everything from local culture to thrilling adventures.

Embark on your next paragliding adventure in Lanzarote, and discover the island from a bird’s-eye view!