Tenerife from the sky is the real upgrade. What makes this paragliding experience stand out is the mix of two different launch styles (Teide National Park or Martianez cliffs) plus professional tandem pilots, including the reassuring Lucas I’ve heard praised by many flyers. You trade the usual viewpoints for a ride that starts high above sea level and ends with a beach landing, with time-of-day options from morning to sunset.

The one catch is physical readiness: you need to be able to run during takeoff and you must not exceed 95 kg (209 lbs). If you’re managing mobility limits, back issues, or you’re not comfortable with that effort, this likely won’t feel like fun.

Quick Highlights You Should Know

• Teide National Park launch (2200 m): the highest-style start, with a flight lasting about 25–35 minutes depending on conditions.
• Martianez cliffs adrenaline option: shorter drive to the launch, with a 20–30 minute flight over the coast.
• Small group format: limited to 4 participants, so you get more direct attention.
• Tandem flight with a pro pilot: you fly attached to your instructor the whole time.
• Beach touchdown and a return ride: you land on a beach and then head back to Puerto de la Cruz.
• Weather can change everything: if wind or conditions are off, it gets moved to another day or cancelled during the process.

Two Launches, One Plan: Teide or Martianez?

This is not just one paraglide option. You’re choosing between two distinct flights that feel different from the first second.

Your first choice is the exclusive Teide National Park flight. You’ll start at about 2200 meters above sea level and then glide down to the beach. The drive to the launch area is longer (about 1 hour in a van), but the payoff is big: higher altitude and a flight that often feels more dramatic right after takeoff.

Your second choice is the adrenaline flight above the cliffs of Martianez beach. The van drive is short (about 10 minutes), and the flight is still substantial (about 20–30 minutes). This one tends to feel more like a coastal thrill ride, with quick access to the action.

Either way, it’s tandem flying. You don’t need to “learn to fly” in the moment. Your job is to follow instructions, stay calm, and be ready for the run-and-takeoff rhythm.

Before You Fly: Meeting at Martianez Adventures and Getting Set Up

You meet at Martianez Adventures in Puerto de la Cruz (Google business listing). From there, you’ll get your gear in an equipment bag, including the essentials like a helmet, jacket, long trousers, and gloves. They also mention a camera setup as part of the standard gear, with video as an extra add-on later.

Then comes the van transfer to your launch point. This matters because you’re not just showing up for the flight. You’re building a short day around it, and the total activity time is listed as 1–3 hours (flight time is shorter, but the transport and prep take time).

Practical note: cellphones aren’t allowed. So plan to rely on the provided camera/video option or just enjoy the moment hands-free. Bring sunglasses and comfortable shoes, because you’ll be standing around and then running briefly at takeoff.

Teide National Park Flight: The 2200-Meter Start to a Beach Landing

If you want that Tenerife “from the highest point” feeling, this is the option to pick. The Teide-style flight starts around 2200 meters above sea level, launched from the Teide National Park area. The flight time is typically 25–35 minutes, and it can vary based on wind and other conditions.

What I like about this profile is the way altitude changes your sense of scale. From high above, the coast, towns, and valleys don’t just look scenic. They look structured, like you’re seeing the island’s layout for the first time. You also get the satisfaction of being airborne while the landscape slowly “reveals” itself as you descend.

How the timing usually feels:

• You spend time getting to the launch area (about 1 hour by van).
• Then you do your takeoff run and get in the air.
• The main glide is where the trip earns its reputation, often lasting close to the upper end of that 25–35 minute range if conditions cooperate.

The landing is on a beach. That’s a meaningful part of the experience because it makes the finale easy to understand: you’re not winding down into something vague. You touch down, then the team brings you back to your Puerto de la Cruz start point.

One thing to consider: that longer van ride can be winding. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take that seriously. A past rider specifically warned that the drive up can be twisty and suggested using a tablet beforehand if you know you react to car rides.

Martianez Cliffs Adrenaline Flight: Quick Access from Puerto de la Cruz

If you want paragliding that feels closer to “show up, fly, repeat,” the Martianez option fits well. You launch from above the cliffs of Martianez beach in Puerto de la Cruz, and the van transfer is only about 10 minutes.

Flight time is 20–30 minutes depending on weather. Even with a shorter flight window than Teide, you still get the key experience: the takeoff moment, the glide, and a coastal view that’s hard to replicate from ground level. This route tends to feel more immediate. There’s less waiting and less travel overhead.

Also, this is the option that matches well with a packed itinerary. If you’re building your Tenerife day around other stops in Puerto de la Cruz, the quick transfer is a real advantage. You can keep your time flexible without giving up the big “up in the air” memory.

Just know the landing is still a beach touchdown and you’ll be brought back to the start point after you land.

The Tandem Experience: Professional Pilots and Reassurance That Matters

Tandem flying is only fun if you feel safe. The standout theme here is how the pilots run the experience with clear instructions and calm control.

In the feedback I’ve seen, pilots like Lucas get repeatedly praised for being professional and reassuring, especially for first-timers. Other named instructors come up too, including Matthias/Mathias, Adrian, Gaston, and Jezus (spelled that way in one note). The pattern is consistent: you get guidance before takeoff, during the glide, and at landing.

What that means for you, practically:

• You’ll be briefed on what to do and what not to do.
• Takeoff isn’t just a jump; it’s a controlled sprint based on your pilot’s cues.
• During the flight, the pilot handles the flying decisions while you enjoy the view.

If you’re nervous, this setup can actually work in your favor. Several riders mentioned that once they got past the initial moment, the flight felt surprisingly smooth and calm. So if your brain is screaming heights, focus on the fact that you’re strapped in with someone who does this regularly.

Timing and Weather: Morning, Midday, Evening, and the Flex Factor

You can choose morning, midday, or evening flights. In practice, evening can be magical because the island’s light softens the coast and the towns look extra crisp from above. I’ve seen multiple people talk about sunset flights from Teide being especially memorable.

But there’s a non-negotiable part of paragliding: weather decides what happens. If conditions aren’t good for a tandem flight, the operation can be changed to another day or cancelled during the process. That’s not a downside unique to this company. It’s just how the sport works.

So plan your schedule like a grown-up: if this is your one big adrenaline day, keep at least some buffer time. The good news is that the flights run across different times of day, so you have options if the first slot doesn’t work.

Price and Value: Is $165 Fair for What You Get?

At $165 per person, this isn’t a cheap thrill. But it also isn’t overpriced for what you’re buying.

Here’s the value breakdown:

• You get a tandem flight with a professional pilot.
• You get all necessary equipment: helmet, jacket, long trousers, gloves.
• You’re included with insurance.
• You get transfer from Puerto de la Cruz to the launch area (either the 10-minute Martianez drive or the longer Teide ride).

The extra you might consider is the video add-on (listed at 30 euros). If you want a full souvenir, that’s a straightforward decision.

In plain terms: you’re paying for the pilot skill, the safety setup, and the fact that you’re launching from a spot that most people can’t reach or enjoy safely on their own. For a first-time flyer, the cost makes more sense when you remember you’re not “just riding.” You’re relying on an experienced person to get you airborne and land you safely.

Weight, Fitness, and What to Bring (and Skip)

You need to be in good physical condition and able to run in the takeoff. Your weight limit is 95 kg (209 lbs), and you should expect that the takeoff requires a short burst of effort.

Not allowed:

• Cellphones

Not suitable for:

• Pregnant women
• People with back problems
• People over 70
• People with mobility impairments
• Children under 12
• People over 95 kg (209 lbs)

What to bring:

• Sunglasses
• Comfortable shoes

Also remember: you’ll be given jacket and gloves, so you don’t need to dress like a mountaineer. Still, Tenerife wind at altitude can feel cooler than you expect, so comfortable layers under the jacket can help you feel steady.

Who Should Book This Paragliding Flight?

This experience is best if you want a serious view without the stress of self-flying.

Book it if:

• You want tandem paragliding with professional guidance.
• You’re comfortable with the idea of a short takeoff run.
• You want a real Tenerife memory from above, not just a photo from a lookout.
• You like the idea of choosing between Teide’s high start or Martianez’s quick coastal launch.

Skip it (or ask more questions first) if:

• You can’t meet the 95 kg limit.
• You have back or mobility concerns that make running risky.
• You’re managing height fear but also need a very controlled, low-stress activity.

If motion sickness hits you in winding vans, take that seriously for the Teide option. I’d treat it as a planning item, not a surprise.

Should You Book This Paragliding Flight from Puerto de la Cruz or Teide?

Yes, if your goal is a genuine “Tenerife from above” day with two strong flight options and a safety-first tandem setup. The highest starting point feel of Teide is the headline, while Martianez is the smart pick if you want less travel time and a quick push into the air.

My main booking advice: decide based on your tolerance for effort and your sense of timing. If you can do the takeoff sprint and you have space in your schedule for weather variability, this is the kind of activity that turns into your favorite story from the trip.

FAQ

How long is the paragliding experience in total?

The total experience is listed as 1–3 hours. The actual flight time is shorter, depending on the route and weather.

How long do the flights last?

The Teide National Park flight lasts about 25–35 minutes. The Martianez cliffs adrenaline flight lasts about 20–30 minutes.

Where do I meet the group?

You meet at Martianez Adventures in Puerto de la Cruz (Google business listing).

How does the pickup and transfer work?

You’re picked up in Puerto de la Cruz. Then you drive in a van to the launch area: about 1 hour for the Teide National Park start, or about 10 minutes for the Martianez cliffs start.

Is it a tandem flight?

Yes. It’s a tandem paraglide flight with a professional pilot.

What’s included in the price?

Included are the tandem flight, professional pilot, all necessary equipment (helmet, jacket, long trousers, gloves, and camera), insurance, and the transfer from Puerto de la Cruz.

What is not included?

Video is not included and costs an extra 30 euros.

What should I bring and wear?

Bring sunglasses and comfortable shoes. You’ll be provided with the rest of the equipment (helmet, jacket, long trousers, gloves).

Are cellphones allowed during the activity?

No, cellphones are not allowed.

What is the weight limit and who should avoid this?

You must not exceed 95 kg (209 lbs), and you should be able to run during takeoff. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, people over 70, people with mobility impairments, and children under 12.