I went paragliding (parapente) in San Gil, Colombia and made this video of the experience. I set the video to the music of one of Colombia’s most famous musicians, Juanes (yes, without proper permission, but in the spirit of promoting tourism in this amazing country).
There are basically two parapente options. The first option is the one I did, is only available in the afternoon and lasts about 15 minutes, soaring about 400 meters above the valley below. It costs 60,000 pesos (currently about US$33). The second option, only available in the morning, is farther away in a much deeper valley (which you can see in the distance in my video) and lasts upwards of 45 minutes. You apparently start at 1000 meters and, thanks to thermal air, reach 3000 meters. It costs 170,000 pesos (currently US$93).
Some advice for anyone considering doing this. First, it is much cooler at the site than in town in San Gil, so if you are prone to getting cold, bring a light jacket or sweater and wear pants. In fact, wear pants regardless as there are lots of annoying biting insects flying about and I saw some nasty bites and lots of itching/scratching going on. Also, if you are prone to motion sickness or don’t like adrenaline rushes too much, don’t eat a large meal beforehand! Finally, be aware that the ability to do this activity depends on the weather and, in the rainy season, afternoons can be iffy. In fact, I had to go two days in a row as the first day got cancelled. Usually the event will be cancelled before leaving town, but occasionally the weather fools the guides. The point is: do it as soon in your stay as possible in case it ends up being cancelled. That way you can try again the next day.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that I belong to and use various affiliate programs on this site. If you see a link in one of my posts, there is a good chance it will be an affiliate link that will earn me a bit of money if you end up purchasing something. If you are not interested in helping me earn a few pennies for my efforts, I recommend you use Google instead.
August 20th, 2010 at 9:00 AM
Thanks Moe. You have to get on facebook so you can see all of my regular travel photos and status updates.
October 3rd, 2010 at 4:41 PM
The music totally makes the video. I'm thinking about doing this in Medellin.
October 3rd, 2010 at 5:00 PM
I didn't do it in Medellín because I knew I would do it in San Gil. Now, of course, I loved it so much I wish I had done it in both places!
February 24th, 2011 at 11:18 PM
I was 74 when I did it it Last year..scary…specially those hydro wires below. I'm alive to tell the tale.
February 28th, 2011 at 6:02 AM
That's excellent. Usually they ask you if you want to do any special maneuvers. Did you do them? I did and had a blast but I know others tried one and it wasn't for them at all.