Paragliding Near Jaco

Paragliding is the most dramatic way to see the Central Pacific coast. On the tour linked here, you fly in tandem with a licensed pilot from the Esterillos area south of Jaco, where steady sea breezes lift the wing and carry you along the shoreline. After a short briefing and equipment check, you run a few steps into the wind, the canopy fills and you rise gently into the air. From above, the beach looks like a ribbon of sand between the green hills and the sea, and the view stretches for kilometres in each direction. The flight is quiet, smooth and surprisingly calm, a stark contrast to the roar of an ATV. You do not need any experience or special fitness. The pilot controls the wing, and your job is to follow the take-off instructions and enjoy the scenery. Flights typically last around fifteen to thirty minutes, depending on the wind and the package, and some operators offer photos and video of the flight. Many visitors say the sense of floating above the coast is the highlight of their trip, and the views over the beach, the forest and the surf are unforgettable.

Weather and wind decide whether you fly. Paragliding depends on steady, smooth air, and conditions can change from day to day, so operators may delay, move or cancel a flight if winds are too light, strong or gusty. This is a sign of a responsible company, not of poor service.

Ask about the rescheduling policy and book early in your stay so that you have spare days. The dry season, from December to April, offers the most reliable weather, while the green season, from May to November, has more rain and cloud, and flights often run in the morning.

Prepare simply. Wear comfortable clothes, closed shoes with good grip and a layer for the breeze, and bring sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen and a hat that will not blow off. Tell the pilot about any health issues, fear of heights, back problems or recent surgery, and follow the weight and age limits that the operator sets. Avoid alcohol before the flight, and eat lightly if you are prone to motion sickness. Loose items should be left behind, and cameras are usually attached to the pilot's equipment.

Safety is the priority, so choose a licensed operator with insured pilots, modern equipment and a clear safety briefing. Tandem flights have a strong record when run professionally, but any aviation activity carries risk, and you should treat it with respect. If you want a quieter alternative, a sunset cruise or a horseback ride gives similar views from a slower perspective, and if you want more adventure, combine the flight with a day of ATV and ziplining. Either way, the memory of floating above the surf is likely to last.

A word on expectations may help. The flight is quiet and smooth, but take-off and landing involve a short run and a sudden transition, so listen carefully to the pilot and follow instructions about when to run and when to sit. Some visitors feel a flutter of nerves at the start that disappears once the wing lifts. If you are travelling with a non-flying companion, the take-off and landing areas are often easy to watch, which makes it a fun spectator activity too.