Parapente ( para gliding) is like flying, having wings like a bird!

Parapente business

One of the larger more populated Parapente sites

Getting the sails ready

In Palmira Valle de Cauca there are many parapente businesses, just travel a mountain road and you will see a sign directing you to go to a business to enjoy this sport. Having lived here and observed the sails above me on many occasions, I wanted to learn more about this adventure. All guides who operate the business need to be licensed, so it is important that when you decide to check this off your bucket list, you make sure the guide is licensed! If you are an expert already, I saw people going by themselves, so that is possible also. Papers are to be signed releasing the business and guides from any responsibility. Payment ranges from 80,000 pesos and up (40 dollars USD) and includes transportation back to your spot of takeoff.

A few more steps and they are off!

Once you decide where you are going to enjoy your adventure, watching others leave can increase your anxiety (if you have any) as it looks like the people run right off a cliff. However, once you watch for awhile, you become immersed in the beauty of the colors and the sounds of awe made by the participants as they float into the air!

Once floating the ride is not long. It can take anywhere between 10 to 20 minutes to float to the landing, depending on the guides expertise. As you float prepare to feel suspended in air, enjoying the views you will have seen from roads, in a new way. Imagine flying like a bird, seeing the mountains as they do, avoiding the landing for as long as you can! Be prepared to see storm clouds , even lightening, as thunderstorms are common in the mountains, but what seems near is really far away! You will see breathtaking views of the large city of Cali, looking very near as you fly. The largest buildings looking close as the sun reflects off them. You might fly through a cloud and feel the droplets on your skin. Birds will fly by you, a hawk, eagle, or parrot, and the sounds they make will ring in your ears!

As you get near to landing the instructor will tell you to lift your legs, as landing is fast and you will pitch forward if you try to run as you land. The cows are grazing on the field, as you descend, and take no notice of

the large object approaching. The heart beats fast again as you realize the time went by so quickly, and you are done and safe on the ground. I am sure the experience will be one you tell your friends and family about for the rest of your life! You might even decide to do it again!