In short
- Hang gliding is faster and requires a committed sprint off the ramp.
- Paragliding is slower, seated, and lasts up to 30 minutes.
- Weight limits are roughly 85kg for hang gliding and 110kg for paragliding.
In this article
Both flights launch from the same mountain at roughly 520 meters. You will glide over the Tijuca National Forest before landing on the sand at São Conrado beach. The main differences are the takeoff style, the flying speed, and the strict passenger weight limits.
Which flight is faster?
Hang gliding is much faster and offers higher speeds.
You fly face down in a hang glider, moving quickly through the air. Paragliding involves sitting upright in a comfortable harness. Paragliders catch thermals and drift slowly over the landscape, making it a smoother ride.
How long does each flight last?
Paragliding flights usually last longer than hang gliding flights.
A hang gliding flight from Pedra Bonita takes between 8 and 20 minutes. A paragliding flight can last up to 30 minutes. Both flight times depend heavily on the wind conditions that day.
How do the takeoffs compare?
Hang gliding requires a fast sprint, while paragliding takeoffs feel less abrupt.
Hang gliders launch from a short wooden ramp at 517 meters. You must sprint fast and commit to the edge. Paragliders take off from a lower, sloped deck. The parachute lifts you gently off the ground, making it a good choice for nervous flyers.
What is the weight limit for hang gliding and paragliding?
Paragliding allows heavier passengers than hang gliding.
The maximum weight for hang gliding is roughly 85kg. Paragliding has a higher weight limit of roughly 110kg. Both limits are strict and can change daily based on wind speed and safety rules.
| Feature | Hang Gliding | Paragliding |
|---|---|---|
| Takeoff style | Fast sprint off a wooden ramp | Gentle lift from a sloped deck |
| Flight duration | 8 to 20 minutes | Up to 30 minutes |
| Weight limit | Roughly 85kg | Roughly 110kg |
| Passenger position | Face down (horizontal) | Seated upright |
Are the prices different?
Tandem flights range from R$ 750 to R$ 1,200 depending on the wing type.
Check with individual instructors, as costs vary between hang gliding and paragliding. Everyone must also pay the mandatory R$ 120 club registration fee at the beach before heading up the mountain.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need experience for either flight?
No experience is necessary. You will fly tandem with a certified pilot who controls the flight the entire time.
What should I wear?
You must wear closed-toe running shoes or sneakers. You cannot take off barefoot or in sandals.
Where do both flights land?
Both hang gliders and paragliders land safely on the soft sand at Praia do Pepino, located on São Conrado Beach.
