Paragliding from Puerto de la Cruz or Teide National park

Launching from high on Tenerife and floating down to a beach is the unforgettable part of this experience. The Teide flight starts around 2,200 metres above sea level, crosses the mountain slopes and Orotava Valley, and ends near the coast. I like the second flight too: the Martianez option gets you airborne quickly, with only a 10-minute van ride from Puerto de la Cruz.

I also like the small group limit of four and the calm, clear instruction from pilots such as Lucas, Mathias, Adrian, and Gaston. The main drawback is weather: wind and cloud can force a delay, a different launch point, or cancellation. You need to keep part of your holiday flexible.

Key points

• Two very different flights: Choose the long mountain-to-beach route from Teide or the shorter, more immediate launch above Martianez Beach.
• A proper tandem flight: You run with your pilot during takeoff, then sit in the harness while the pilot manages the paraglider.
• The Teide route takes time: Allow about an hour in the van before launch, plus the flight and return transfer.
• Small groups help: No more than four participants makes the preparation feel personal rather than rushed.
• Sunset can be spectacular: Late flights may bring views through cloud, warm light, and cheering crowds near the hotels.
• Plan for a change: Wind is not a minor detail here. Your flight may move to another day or another part of Tenerife.

Choosing between 2,200 metres and Martianez Beach

The two flights suit different kinds of days.

The exclusive Teide flight is the big outing. You meet at Martianez Adventures in Puerto de la Cruz, collect the equipment, and ride for roughly an hour into the mountains. The launch point is in or near Teide National Park at about 2,200 metres. From there, the flight usually lasts 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the wind and other conditions.

This option gives you the sense of crossing Tenerife from mountain to sea. You may look over the Orotava Valley, the slopes of Teide, Puerto de la Cruz, and the coast below. One flight covered around 18 kilometres, though distance and direction can change with the weather.

The adrenaline flight begins above the cliffs of Martianez Beach. The van ride takes about 10 minutes, and the airborne portion lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. You lose some altitude and mountain drama, but gain convenience. If you are staying in Puerto de la Cruz and want the simplest introduction to tandem paragliding, this is the sensible pick.

Ask about the launch and weather when you book or arrive. The exact starting point is not guaranteed. Wind direction can send the pilots to a different site, and one scheduled Teide flight moved to Adeje when conditions made the original plan impossible. The important point is that the pilots work with the weather rather than forcing a poor flight.

Meeting the team in Puerto de la Cruz

Your starting point is the Martianez Adventures paragliding center in Puerto de la Cruz. This is where you meet the team, receive your gear, and get the practical instructions before heading uphill.

The group limit is four people. That matters because tandem flights involve harnesses, helmets, clothing, and a short safety briefing. A small group gives the pilots room to deal with each person’s nerves and physical ability.

The pilots named in the experience include Lucas, Mathias, Adrian, Gaston, and Jesus. English and Spanish are spoken. The instruction is direct: you need to listen carefully, especially during takeoff and landing, but you do not need previous paragliding experience.

The company supplies a helmet, jacket, long trousers, gloves, and insurance. A camera is also listed among the equipment, but video costs an additional 30 euros. Bring sunglasses and comfortable shoes. Leave your cellphone behind, since phones are not allowed during the activity.

The mountain drive to the launch point

For the Teide option, the van ride is part of the outing, not a quick shuttle. The drive takes about an hour on twisty mountain roads. You gain altitude while the views open up, but anyone prone to car sickness should plan ahead.

This ride also explains why the whole activity can take one to three hours. The time depends on the chosen route, the drive, waiting for suitable conditions, and the return to Puerto de la Cruz after landing.

At the launch site, the pilot checks the conditions and prepares the paraglider. You will be fitted into the tandem harness and given clothing if needed. The actual preparation is practical rather than theatrical. Pay attention to the running instructions, then follow the pilot’s pace.

You must be able to run during takeoff. It is not a long race, but you need enough mobility and fitness to move forward on the slope as the canopy fills. The experience is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, serious back problems, or a weight above 95 kilograms.

What takeoff feels like

Takeoff is usually the most nerve-racking moment. You are on a mountain slope, connected to a pilot, and asked to run toward open air. The pilot handles the canopy and gives clear instructions, but you still need to move when told.

A few things can slow this stage. Light wind may lead to an aborted start, as happened during one flight that took three attempts before the conditions were right. That is not a sign that something has gone wrong. It is a normal reason to wait, reset, and try again.

Once the canopy is properly inflated, the ground falls away quickly. People with height worries have found the flight calmer than expected, but you should still be honest with yourself about heights and running. If you are nervous, tell the pilot before takeoff. The pilots are used to first-time flyers and can adjust the flight to your comfort level.

Floating above Tenerife for 20 to 35 minutes

The sensation in the air is closer to sitting in a suspended chair than jumping from an aircraft. You are not free-falling. The paraglider moves with the air, while your pilot controls direction, height, and the approach to the beach.

The Teide route normally gives you more time and more changing views. You may start among high mountain slopes, pass above cloud, and gradually descend toward the towns and hotels of Puerto de la Cruz. On clear days, the views can reach across the valley and toward other islands, though visibility depends entirely on the conditions.

Sunset departures deserve special attention. A late flight can bring orange light across the clouds and mountain slopes. One flight passed through inverted cloud before descending toward the hotels, where people on balconies cheered as the paragliders came past. That kind of timing is memorable, but it is also weather-dependent. Do not book a sunset slot expecting the same scene every day.

The pilots can also vary the mood of the flight. If you want a quiet glide, say so. If the conditions allow and you feel comfortable, the pilot may offer turns or more lively manoeuvres near the end. The important distinction is that the flight is not a fixed amusement-park ride. It is shaped by wind, safety, and your preferences.

The coastal flight above Martianez Beach gives you a closer look at Puerto de la Cruz and the Atlantic. It may suit you if you want ocean views without spending an hour in the van. The flight time is slightly shorter, but 20 to 30 minutes is still enough for a proper tandem experience.

Coming down to the beach

Both routes finish with a beach landing, followed by transport back to Puerto de la Cruz. Your pilot controls the landing, but you will receive instructions about how to position your legs and move at the right moment.

Landing near the water gives the experience a satisfying finish. You begin high above Tenerife and end at sea level, rather than simply touching down beside the launch area. The return transfer means you do not need to arrange a taxi from the beach.

The exact beach and landing direction can change with the wind. That flexibility is useful for safety, but it means you should not build a tightly timed afternoon around the advertised landing point.

What the $165 price really includes

At $165 per person, this is not a cheap sightseeing activity. It is fair value if you want a genuine tandem flight with a high launch point, professional equipment, insurance, a small group, and transfers from Puerto de la Cruz.

The Teide trip offers the strongest value because the price covers not only the flight but also the mountain transport and return ride. You get more than a short coastal thrill. You get a long transfer, a high launch, and the chance to descend from the interior of Tenerife to the coast.

The Martianez option may feel less costly in time, though the listed price is the same. If you are only interested in trying paragliding and do not need the highest launch, the shorter transfer can make the activity easier to fit into your day.

Videos cost an extra 30 euros. If you want a record of the flight, decide before takeoff and confirm exactly what is included. You cannot use your own cellphone during the activity, so the extra video is the practical way to keep footage.

Timing, weather, and practical planning

Morning, midday, and evening flights are offered, but availability and weather control the schedule. I would book this near the start of your Tenerife stay rather than on your final day. Strong wind or cloud can postpone the flight by a day or move it to another launch site.

Allow more time than the stated flight length. A 30-minute flight does not mean you will be finished 30 minutes after arriving at the center. The Teide route includes the mountain drive, preparation, possible waiting, the flight, beach landing, and return transport.

Wear comfortable shoes that will stay secure while running. Sunglasses are useful in the air. The company supplies warm clothing, but mountain temperatures can differ sharply from conditions in Puerto de la Cruz, so dress in layers if you tend to feel cold.

The experience is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, people over 70, children under 12, people over 95 kilograms, or anyone with mobility impairments. You also need to be in good enough physical condition to run at takeoff.

If conditions become unsuitable, the activity can be changed to another day or cancelled during the process. That may frustrate you, but it is the correct approach for a wind-dependent sport. Keep your plans loose and avoid booking a nonrefundable dinner or excursion immediately afterward.

Who will enjoy this most

This is a strong choice for a first paragliding flight. The pilot does the technical work, and the group is small enough for personal attention. You only need to follow instructions, run at takeoff, stay relaxed in the harness, and listen again before landing.

It also suits anyone who wants views rather than a fast amusement ride. The mountain route is especially good for seeing the relationship between Teide, the Orotava Valley, Puerto de la Cruz, and the ocean. The coastal route works better if time is short or you want to avoid a long mountain drive.

It is less suitable if you need a fixed schedule, dislike winding roads, cannot run, or want to use your own phone in the air. It is also not ideal for someone who sees a weather postponement as a major holiday problem.

Should you book this Tenerife flight?

Book it if you want Tenerife’s scenery from above and can accept a little uncertainty. I would choose the Teide flight for the longer flight, higher launch, and mountain-to-beach route. I would choose Martianez if convenience matters more than altitude.

The strongest parts are the professional pilot support, small group size, included transfers, and the unusual finish on a beach. The main caution is simple: weather decides the day. Put this near the beginning of your itinerary, bring sensible shoes and sunglasses, and be ready to switch dates or launch sites.

If you can do that, the $165 price buys far more than a short burst of adrenaline. It gives you a carefully managed way to see Tenerife from a completely different angle.

FAQ

Where does the paragliding experience begin?

You meet at Martianez Adventures in Puerto de la Cruz. The team provides the equipment and drives you to the launch area.

How long is the flight?

The Teide flight usually lasts 25 to 35 minutes. The Martianez Beach flight usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes. Actual times depend on weather conditions.

How high is the Teide launch point?

The exclusive flight begins at about 2,200 metres above sea level in Teide National Park.

What equipment is included?

The activity includes a tandem flight, professional pilot, helmet, jacket, long trousers, gloves, insurance, and transfers from Puerto de la Cruz.

Can I use my cellphone during the flight?

No. Cellphones are not allowed. Video is available for an additional 30 euros.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The flight may be moved to another day, changed to another launch area, or cancelled at any point if conditions are not suitable.