Interlaken is a beautiful town in the Swiss Alps that offers many opportunities for adventure seekers. One of the most popular and thrilling activities in Interlaken is paragliding, which allows you to soar above the stunning scenery of mountains, valleys, and lakes. Paragliding in Interlaken is an experience you will never forget, but how do you choose the best company to fly with? Here are some tips to help you make the right decision.
Check the reviews and ratings
One of the easiest ways to find out about the quality and reputation of a paragliding company is to read the reviews and ratings from previous customers. You can use online platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, or Facebook to see what other people have to say about their experiences. Look for positive feedback on aspects such as safety, professionalism, friendliness, communication, and fun. You can also check if the company has any awards or certifications that indicate their excellence.
Compare the prices and services
Paragliding in Interlaken is not a cheap activity, but it is worth every penny. However, you still want to get the best value for your money and avoid any hidden fees or surprises. Therefore, it is important to compare the prices and services of different paragliding companies before you book. Some factors to consider are:
- The duration of the flight: Most flights last between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the weather conditions and your preferences. Longer flights may cost more, but they also give you more time to enjoy the views and sensations.
- The location of the launch site: Most companies take off from Beatenberg, a scenic village on a hill overlooking Interlaken. However, some companies may offer alternative launch sites, such as Niederhorn or Schynige Platte, which may have different perspectives and prices.
- The transportation and pick-up: Most companies include transportation from your hotel or a central meeting point in Interlaken to the launch site and back. However, some companies may charge extra for this service or require you to arrange your own transportation.
- The photos and videos: Most companies offer photos and videos of your flight as an optional extra. This is a great way to capture your memories and share them with your friends and family. However, some companies may charge more than others for this service or have different quality standards.
Consider the time of the day
Timing is critical with paragliding: if you go early in the morning when the sun is not so strong there won’t be many thermals and your flight will generally be shorter. Pick a time around lunch or later and you get more thermals meaning more updraft and hence a longer flight and more altitude. In the summer this difference is less pronounced but in the autumn, winter and early spring it makes sense to find a paragliding company with a slot available during the stronger sun shining hours.
Sunset is another great time for a flight as the light is so spectacular during this golden hour that is is definitely the most beautiful time to go paragliding with the lakes of Thun & Brienz plus the Jungfrau mountain as a backdrop.
Ask questions and communicate your expectations
Before you book your paragliding flight, it is a good idea to ask questions and communicate your expectations to the company. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings or disappointments and ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Some questions you may want to ask are:
- What are the cancellation and rescheduling policies? Paragliding depends on the weather conditions, which can change quickly in the mountains. Therefore, you may need to cancel or reschedule your flight if the weather is not suitable. You should ask about the company’s policies regarding refunds, vouchers, or alternative dates in case of cancellation or rescheduling.
- What are the safety measures and qualifications? Paragliding is a safe activity when done with a qualified and experienced pilot. You should ask about the company’s safety measures, such as equipment checks, insurance coverage, emergency procedures, and backup plans. You should also ask about the qualifications and credentials of the pilots, such as their training, certification, and years of experience.
- What are the options and preferences? Paragliding is a customizable activity that can suit different levels of adventure and comfort. You should ask about the options and preferences that you can choose from, such as the speed, height, direction, maneuvers, and landing spot of your flight. You should also communicate your expectations and desires to your pilot, such as if you want a calm or thrilling flight, if you have any fears or concerns, or if you have any special requests.
Best paragliding company in Interlaken…
Paragliding in Interlaken is an amazing way to experience the beauty and excitement of the Swiss Alps. However, choosing the best paragliding company can be challenging with so many options available. By following these tips, you can find a reliable and reputable company that will make your paragliding adventure unforgettable. Afterall you definitely should go flying in the Paragliding Capital of the world!