Paragliding in Interlaken: complete tandem guide

Tandem paragliding in Interlaken: everything you need to know

Few experiences in Switzerland match the sensation of stepping off a grassy Alpine launch site, catching the rising air above the Bernese Oberland, and drifting silently over one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain landscapes. Interlaken sits between two lakes — Thun and Brienz — with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau forming a wall of ice and rock to the south. From above, the view is extraordinary. Paragliding is how thousands of visitors see it every year.

This guide covers everything you need to plan a tandem paragliding flight: the companies operating in the area, realistic prices for 2026, what the experience actually involves, the best time of year, and what to bring on the day. If you have never paraglided before, this is a perfectly reasonable first experience — tandem flights require no prior skill from passengers.

Why Interlaken is one of the world’s top paragliding destinations

Interlaken’s reputation in the paragliding world is well earned. The combination of reliable thermal conditions, dramatic visual variety, and accessible launch sites near Beatenberg (on the ridge above Lake Thun) and around Grindelwald creates excellent flying conditions for much of the year. The town itself sits at roughly 570 metres above sea level, while launch sites above Beatenberg sit at around 1,100-1,200 metres, giving enough altitude for extended flights without requiring long hikes to reach the launch point.

The view from altitude is genuinely different from any ground-level perspective. The two lakes stretch east and west below you, their surfaces often reflecting the sky in shades of blue and green. The Eiger’s north face dominates the southern skyline. The valley floor shows the neat Swiss patchwork of towns, farms, and forest. On a clear day, the panorama extends to peaks well beyond the immediate Bernese Oberland.

Interlaken’s adventure sports industry is well-regulated, which matters when you are hanging beneath a canopy over a glacial valley. All commercial operators must hold licences from the Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), and pilots carry commercial licences rather than recreational ones. This baseline of regulation is one reason Interlaken’s adventure tourism sector has a strong safety record.

The main paragliding companies

Several companies operate tandem paragliding from the Interlaken area. The market is competitive, which keeps prices consistent and quality high.

Paragliding Jungfrau is one of the longest-established operators in the valley, flying from Beatenberg with panoramic views of the lakes and the Jungfrau massif. Their pilots are experienced with first-time passengers and the launch site is accessible by bus from Interlaken.

Skywings Paragliding offers flights from multiple launch points depending on wind and thermal conditions, with guides who can explain the conditions and technique throughout the flight. They cater well to nervous first-timers.

Hike and Fly operators based in Grindelwald combine a short mountain walk with the paragliding launch, which gives the experience an additional dimension — you earn the view before you fly above it.

Most operators pick up passengers from central Interlaken or from partner hotels, then drive to the launch site. The transfer, flight, and return typically take two to three hours in total, though the airtime is shorter.

What the experience involves

Before the flight

After meeting your pilot at the agreed location, you will sign a liability waiver, receive a safety briefing, and be fitted with a harness. The harness attaches you directly to the pilot — you will be seated in front of them in a tandem configuration. The pilot handles launch, navigation, and landing entirely. Your only job is to run a few steps on launch (or sometimes just walk forward) and to enjoy the flight.

The drive or walk to the launch site takes 15-30 minutes depending on the operator. On arrival, the pilot assesses wind conditions and prepares the canopy. This part can take anywhere from a few minutes to 20 minutes, depending on the conditions.

The launch

Launching on a paraglider looks more dramatic than it feels. The canopy rises above you first, then the pilot calls the run — you take several quick steps forward down the slope, the wing lifts, and you are airborne within a few seconds. Most passengers describe the launch as smooth and surprisingly gentle. The moment your feet leave the ground is immediately followed by the valley opening out below you.

The flight

Standard tandem flights over Interlaken last between 10 and 25 minutes, depending on thermal conditions and the package you book. Longer flights (30-45 minutes) are available at higher prices and depend on conditions allowing sustained altitude. During the flight, you will be seated in a comfortable harness, typically leaning back in a semi-reclined position. It is quieter than most people expect — without engine noise, you can have a normal conversation with your pilot.

Many pilots offer acrobatic options (wing-overs, spirals) for passengers who want a more dynamic experience. If you would rather have a calm, scenic flight, simply say so — pilots are accustomed to both preferences.

The landing

Landings take place on open fields in the valley, usually within a few kilometres of central Interlaken. The approach is gradual and controlled. At the moment of landing, the pilot will ask you to stand up and take a few running steps. Most landings are smooth enough that this is easy.

Prices in 2026

Tandem paragliding in Interlaken is consistently priced across most operators:

Package	Price
Standard flight (10-15 min)	CHF 160-180
Extended scenic flight (20-25 min)	CHF 190-220
Long thermal flight (30-45 min)	CHF 240-280
With video and photos included	Add CHF 30-50

The standard flight is the most popular option and gives a complete experience. The difference between a 12-minute and a 25-minute flight depends largely on thermal conditions on the day — on strong thermal days, pilots can climb well above their launch altitude and extend the flight significantly.

Video and photo packages are worth considering: it is very difficult to capture your own footage while flying, and the pilot’s onboard camera system captures angles you cannot replicate with a phone.

Book a tandem paragliding flight in Interlaken Soaring in the mountains: Swiss paragliding tandem flight

Best time of year for paragliding in Interlaken

Spring (April-May)

April and May see increasing thermal activity as the valley warms. Weather is more variable, with a higher chance of afternoon thunderstorms that cause cancellations. Morning flights tend to be more reliable. The landscape is fresh and green, which makes for beautiful aerial photography.

Summer (June-August)

Peak season. Thermals are strong and reliable, particularly on sunny days between 10:00 and 14:00. Bookings fill up quickly in July and August — reserve at least a week in advance. Afternoon thunderstorms are common from late afternoon onwards, which is why most flights take place in the morning. The Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are frequently snow-free at lower elevations but remain glacier-capped at altitude.

Autumn (September-October)

Many pilots consider September the finest month for paragliding in the Bernese Oberland. The summer crowds diminish, the air is clear, thermals remain active, and the autumn colours add warmth to the valley floor below. October becomes increasingly chancey weather-wise but can deliver spectacular clear days.

Winter (November-March)

Most tandem commercial operations reduce significantly in winter. Cold temperatures, shorter days, and less reliable thermal conditions make flying less practical. Some operators maintain limited schedules on good days. If you are visiting Interlaken primarily for paragliding, spring through autumn is the window to target.

What to wear and bring

Dress for conditions roughly 5-10 degrees Celsius colder than on the valley floor. Even in summer, the wind chill at altitude makes a light jacket important. Closed-toe shoes with firm ankle support are necessary — sandals and flip-flops are not permitted. Operators typically provide helmets and flight suits if needed.

Bring sunglasses (the pilot can usually accommodate glasses under a helmet). Leave large backpacks and loose items at the base — most operators provide lockers or a vehicle to store belongings during the flight. If you wear contact lenses, goggles may be provided.

Weight and health restrictions

Most operators accept passengers weighing between 40 kg and 100-110 kg. A few specialists can accommodate passengers up to 120 kg — check with the operator at booking. Height is not usually a factor.

Paragliding is not recommended for people with severe heart conditions, recent surgery, pregnancy, or significant back or neck problems. Motion sickness is rarely an issue (the movement is much smoother than a boat or car), but if you are severely prone to it, mention this to your pilot — they can avoid spiral manoeuvres.

There is no lower age limit set nationally, but most operators require children to be at least 8-10 years old and above minimum weight thresholds.

Is paragliding in Interlaken safe?

All commercial tandem paragliding in Switzerland operates under FOCA licensing requirements. Operators must maintain equipment to specified standards and pilots must hold current ratings. Interlaken’s adventure sports market is competitive enough that operators with poor safety records do not survive long — the review ecosystem on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google is active and unforgiving.

That said, paragliding involves real weather-dependent risk. Operators routinely cancel or postpone flights when conditions are not suitable. If your operator is willing to fly in marginal conditions without discussion, that is a red flag. Established operators prioritise their pilots’ professional judgement over filling booking slots.

Cancellations due to weather are common and are not the operator’s fault. Most offer rebooking or refunds in genuine weather cancellation situations — check the policy before booking.

Combining paragliding with other Interlaken adventures

Interlaken is Switzerland’s adventure sports capital, and most visitors combine paragliding with one or two other activities. The town works well as a base for:

• Canyoning in Interlaken and the Bernese Oberland — descending river gorges with waterfalls and natural slides
• Canyon swing in Grindelwald — a 90-metre free fall into a canyon, 15 minutes by train from Interlaken
• Bungee jumping at Stockhorn — a gondola-based jump with lake views
• Skydiving over the Swiss Alps — a higher-altitude, more intense alternative to paragliding

For a full day of adventure, paragliding works well as a morning activity (best thermal conditions, flight done before afternoon weather builds), leaving the afternoon for water-based or ground-level activities.

Getting to Interlaken

Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s most accessible mountain destinations. Two train stations — Interlaken Ost and Interlaken West — connect directly to Bern (50 minutes), Zurich (2 hours), Geneva (2.5 hours), and Basel (2 hours). The Swiss Travel Pass covers all these connections.

For the Jungfrau region’s mountain railways (to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Mürren), Interlaken Ost is the departure point. The Berner Oberland Bahn (BOB) connects here to the higher valleys.

Driving to Interlaken is straightforward on the A8 motorway from Bern. Parking is available at both train stations. If you are driving into the Jungfrau region proper (Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen), note that some villages have restricted car access — trains are often the more practical option.

Interlaken as a base

Interlaken offers accommodation ranging from backpacker hostels to luxury hotels on the Höheweg promenade. The Bernese Oberland is compact enough that day trips reach Grindelwald (40 minutes), Lauterbrunnen (20 minutes by rail), and the Jungfraujoch summit (2 hours from Interlaken Ost). The adventure activities category covers the full range of what is possible in this region.

For budget planning, consult the Switzerland budget guide — adventure activities in Interlaken can add up quickly if you are doing several in one visit.

Frequently asked questions about paragliding in Interlaken

Do I need to book in advance? In peak season (July-August), yes — a week’s advance booking is sensible. Shoulder season gives more flexibility, but weather cancellations mean having a backup day is always useful.

What if the weather is bad on my booked day? Most operators will contact you the morning of the flight. If conditions prevent flying, you will typically be offered a rebooking or refund. Swiss mountain weather moves fast — a morning forecast can change by afternoon and vice versa.

Can I bring a GoPro or camera? Some operators allow it, others prohibit personal camera mounts due to risk of equipment catching in lines. Check the policy when booking. The operator’s own video package is the safer option.

Will I feel nauseous? Most passengers do not. The movement is smooth and gradual, very different from theme park rides. Avoid a heavy meal in the hour before the flight.

Is the pilot qualified? All commercial tandem pilots in Switzerland must hold a FOCA commercial pilot licence. It is legitimate to ask your operator about their pilots’ qualifications and experience before booking.

Do you need experience to go paragliding in Interlaken?

No experience is needed for a tandem flight. A certified pilot handles the launch, navigation, and landing entirely. Your only job is to take a few running steps during launch and enjoy the flight. The pilot will give you a brief safety briefing before takeoff. Tandem paragliding is designed specifically for first-time passengers.

What is the best time of day to paraglide in Interlaken?

Morning flights between 10:00 and 14:00 offer the strongest thermals and the best chance of an extended flight. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer (especially July and August) from about 15:00 onward, which ends flying for the day. Book a morning slot for both safety and the best flying conditions.

How high do you fly when paragliding in Interlaken?

Launch sites above Beatenberg sit at around 1,100-1,200 metres, and on a good thermal day pilots can climb well above launch altitude. The landing zone in central Interlaken is at about 570 metres. The flight typically covers an altitude difference of 500-700 metres, with some flights gaining additional height by working thermal currents.

Is there a weight limit for tandem paragliding?

Most operators accept passengers weighing between 40 kg and 100-110 kg. A few specialists can accommodate passengers up to 120 kg — check directly with the operator when booking. Height is generally not a factor. Children typically need to be at least 8-10 years old and meet minimum weight thresholds.

What happens if the weather is bad on my paragliding day?

Operators will contact you the morning of the flight if conditions prevent flying. Most offer a free rebooking to another day or a full refund for genuine weather cancellations. Having a backup day in your itinerary is always wise, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Weather cancellations are common and are not the operator’s fault.

What paragliding looks like from the ground

One detail that surprises many visitors: you can watch paragliders launching from the ridge above Beatenberg from the valley floor or from the Harder Kulm viewpoint above Interlaken. On clear summer days, the sky above the valley typically has 5-20 paragliders visible simultaneously, each a slow-moving coloured wing against the blue sky with the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau beyond. Watching a flight unfold from below, then doing the same flight yourself, provides a useful reference point for the aerial perspective you will have.

The Harder Kulm, accessible by funicular from Interlaken Ost, is the viewpoint that most clearly shows the geography of the two lakes and the valley. Looking south from there, you can see the ridgeline from which most tandem flights launch, the valley floor below, and the landing fields. It also shows why Interlaken is such an excellent paragliding location: the enclosed valley acts as a natural thermal collector, with warm air rising reliably off the valley floor on sunny mornings.

The thermal dynamics of the Interlaken valley

Experienced pilots explain that the valley’s particular thermal quality is what makes Interlaken special. The two lakes on either side of the town moderate temperature — water heats and cools more slowly than land, which creates differential heating across the valley floor. The south-facing slopes warm quickly in the morning sun while the north-facing slopes remain cooler, generating a gentle thermal rising off the sunny side. The surrounding mountains funnel these thermals predictably.

On a good thermal day, a pilot with skill and a willing passenger can turn what is booked as a 15-minute flight into 30 or more minutes by working the thermals — climbing above the launch altitude and extending the glide. This is more common in summer (June-September) when thermal activity is strongest, and rarer in spring or on overcast days when thermals are weak.

The practical implication for visitors: if you want a longer flight, book in summer and arrive in the morning. The thermals that enable extended flight are strongest from 10:00-14:00 on sunny days. Afternoon thunderstorms (which appear reliably in July and August from about 15:00-16:00) end flying for the day, so morning flights are both safer and more likely to extend.

Tandem versus solo paragliding

This guide has covered tandem paragliding — the format available to all visitors. For those who want to learn to fly solo, Interlaken and the Bernese Oberland have flight schools that offer full paragliding courses. A standard BHPA/SHV beginner certification (the Swiss licence required to fly solo) takes approximately 5-10 days and costs CHF 1,500-2,500 depending on the school and intensity of the program.

The tandem experience is frequently the gateway to taking a course. Several regular visitors return to Interlaken specifically for a solo training course after a tandem flight has convinced them the activity is worth deeper involvement.

Tandem paragliding as a gift or group experience

Paragliding bookings can be made for friends, couples, or groups. Most operators accommodate groups up to 6-8 people by arranging multiple tandem flights in sequence, with the group watching each flight from the launch site. This is a popular option for milestone birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette events, and family visits.

Voucher bookings are available from most operators and are a popular gift option. Vouchers are typically valid for one year and can be used on any available day within that period.

Paragliding above Interlaken is one of those experiences that photographs well but is actually better in person — the silence, the scale, and the slow unfolding of the Bernese panorama are things a screen cannot fully convey. If your itinerary has room for one adventure activity in the Bernese Oberland, this is consistently among the most memorable choices.