Plan your visit
Plan your Flight
Preparation is minimal, but closed-toe shoes and physical ID are strictly required.
Pedra Bonita Hang Gliding Ramp
Estrada da Pedra Bonita, São Conrado, Rio de Janeiro - RJ
GPS -22.9866, -43.2778
Open directionsGetting there
Meet at the beach, ride up the mountain.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Book a tandem flight with an instructor or agency. You will meet at the CSCVL headquarters on São Conrado Beach, and they will drive you up the mountain to the ramp. | 15 minutes driving from the beach club to the ramp | Included in tandem flight price (R$ 750+) | Some operators offer hotel pick-up from the South Zone (Copacabana/Ipanema) for an additional fee. |
| Car: Rideshare apps and taxis can drop you off at the start of the access road ('Acesso à Rampa de Voo Livre da Pedra Bonita'), but getting to the very top requires a steep 10-15 minute walk unless you pay the driver to wait in the vehicle queue. | 30-40 minutes from Copacabana | R$ 30 - R$ 60 (Uber/Taxi from South Zone) | The road to the summit is narrow and operates on a queuing system during busy times. |
When to go
- J
- F
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- J
- J
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- S
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- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
April to September provides the best flying conditions. Wind is stable, and rain cancellations are rare. Summer months experience higher rainfall, causing a 1-in-5 cancellation rate.
What to bring
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The entire process from check-in to landing takes roughly 2 to 3 hours.
Actual flight time is 8 to 30 minutes.
How the day runs
How to structure your flying experience.
The typical flow for a tandem hang gliding or paragliding flight.
- Check-in at the Beach
Arrive at the CSCVL headquarters on São Conrado Beach. Sign waivers and pay the R$ 120 fee.
- Drive to the Ramp
Ride with your pilot up the narrow access road to the Pedra Bonita launch area.
- Briefing and Takeoff
Listen to safety instructions, strap into your harness, and launch off the ramp.
- Landing at Praia do Pepino
Touch down on the soft sand of São Conrado beach.
If you prefer to stay on the ground, hike to the summit.
- Arrive at the Trailhead
Take a taxi to the access road and walk to the Pedra Bonita Trailhead near the ramp.
- Hike the Trail
Walk up the steep path to the 696-meter summit for panoramic views.
- Return to the Ramp
Descend back to the parking area and watch the hang gliders launch.
Strict Rules for Flyers
You must wear closed-toe shoes like sneakers. You cannot fly in sandals or barefoot because you need to sprint off the wooden ramp. Minors under 18 require parental consent, and the minimum age is usually 14 or 16 depending on the operator.
Weight limits are strictly enforced for safety. The maximum is roughly 85kg for hang gliders and 110kg for paragliders. These limits change daily based on wind speeds.
Easiest way to do it
Rio Hang Gliding & Paragliding w/ Brazilian Champion 4k Video inc
2 h 5.0 (20)
- 4K GoPro frontal video
- Transfer between meeting point and takeoff ramp
- Private tandem flight (Hang gliding or Paragliding) with Certified instructor level 5 (CBVL/FAI)
- All safety and modern high-quality equipment
From$286per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where do you land after flying from Pedra Bonita?
All flights land at Praia do Pepino on São Conrado Beach. This is directly below the mountain.
Can I bring my own phone or GoPro on the flight?
Yes, but cameras and GoPros must be securely strapped. The flight supervisor must approve your mount prior to takeoff.
What should I wear for hang gliding?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing and mandatory closed-toe sneakers. A light jacket is recommended as temperatures drop at 520 meters.