La Palma paragliding
La Palma is a Mecca of the international paragliding scene. Paragliders can fly on more than 300 days a year, and for the reason of the special thermals on the slopes of the volcanoes it is possible to fly a long distance. But be careful: To discover La Palma from the air is nothing for beginners or for pilots with little experience. There are three reasons for this: The strong winds demand partly a reverse start, flying is mostly on lee side, and you have to be able to descend rapidly and to land well. The paragliders club on La Palma named Palma Club advises even experienced pilots to fly with a guide - or at least to consult the local professionals regarding insider information and weather assessment.
The Palma Club is located in Calle Juana Tabares No. 3 in Puerto Naos, next to the Panaderia Alemana, because there is the start and land space of the paragliders. During the winter months from November to March beginners and experience paraglider will get there daily from 10 am until sunset information about paragliding on La Palma. Simply ask Javier or Roger. They also offer tandem flights with "normal" tourists. Requests in German or Spanish are also possible by phone under 0034-672 284 431.
Tips for people who want to fly the first time on La-Palma: The flight conditions in the west of the island are usually better than in the east of the island. On the east side the sun only appears in the morning and the wind is usually strong. So it is better to book an accommodation on the sunny west side - then you're closer to the start and landing field.
Paragliders should know that they need on La Palma a valid pilot's license, insurance and a homologated rescue parachute. And: helmet is mandatory!
It would be great if the pilots pay per week 10 Euros in the club treasury of PALMA CLUB, because the landing area in Puerto Naos is not provided free of charge. The costs for lease, wind vanes and much more has to be paid. One more information: An information sheet can be downloaded from the club's website. It has plenty of details like starting places, information about observed wildlife sanctuaries and flight rules.
Internet: www.palmaclub.com