They’ve seen the photos, but rio de janeiro hang gliding only clicks when they step onto the wooden ramp at Pedra Bonita. The forest breathes behind them, the ocean shines over São Conrado, and the city looks both close and calm.
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It’s a tandem flight with a licensed pilot, launching in Tijuca Forest and landing softly on the sand at Pepino Beach. Great for cautious first-timers, couples, and solo travelers who want a steady thrill with postcard views.
Most feel a flutter at the edge. Then the wing lifts, and it’s quiet. They float by Pedra da Gávea, Dois Irmãos, and that easygoing São Conrado curve. It’s a Rio experience that mixes city and nature in one glide.
If they’re wondering how to plan, how much it costs, and what happens if winds change, the next blocks make it clear and calm.
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What the experience is and who it suits
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Takeoff is at Pedra Bonita, inside Tijuca Forest. Landing is on Pepino Beach in São Conrado, a corner that wins people over.
It’s tandem, so they fly attached to a pro who handles launch, glide, and landing. Their job is to breathe and look around.
It suits first-timers, light-adventure couples, and solo travelers after a grounded Rio adventure. Motion-sensitive travelers usually manage fine.
Rio de janeiro hang gliding: quick planning
Here’s the fast info block travelers ask for first.
- Where: Pedra Bonita ramp to São Conrado (Pepino Beach)
- When: Year-round; better chances in drier months (May–Oct)
- Duration: 1.5–3 hours door-to-door; flight 7–20 minutes
- Cost: BRL 700–1,100 + club/launch fee; photos/video often extra
- Meeting: Beach landing area or hotel pickup, per operator
- Bring: Sneakers, snug sunglasses, sunscreen, light layer, water
Morning slots are a good call if they want steadier wind and softer light.
How a typical day unfolds
Meet-up or pickup. They meet at the São Conrado landing tents or get a hotel pickup. Vibe is friendly, a bit fizzy.
Drive up through Tijuca Forest. The road winds. Leaves flicker on the windshield. The ramp area is breezy.
Check-in and fees. Quick weigh-in, paperwork, and the local club day fee. They can store small items at the landing tent.
Briefing and gear-up. Helmet, harness, run practice. That first step feels big, then it turns into calm.
Launch and flight. They run, lift, and float above green ridges and blue water. A smooth, scenic rio gliding moment.
Beach landing. Feet on sand, wind in their hair. Photos/video are sent by link or card after.
Return. Ride back to the landing area or to their hotel, depending on the package.
Safety, credentials and weather
Tandem pilots should be accredited by Brazil’s free-flight federation. Look for a current CBVL card and number.
Gear gets checked at the ramp: glider or wing condition, harness points, helmets, reserve. Simple, clear safety talk.
On weather, rio de janeiro hang gliding depends on wind direction and strength. If it shifts, they may wait or rebook.
Common limits: age 16+ with guardian consent; typical weight window ~35–95 kg, varies by operator and conditions.
Fear-of-heights tip: focus on breathing and the horizon. Most travelers feel surprisingly calm once airborne.
For credentials, see CBVL’s guidelines and ramp context at Pedra Bonita.
Costs, inclusions and booking tips
Expect BRL 700–1,100 per person for the tandem. Add the club/launch fee, paid on the day in cash or card.
Photos/video are often extra. Budget BRL 80–200 for a GoPro package with clips from takeoff to landing.
Some operators include transfers. Others meet at São Conrado. Clarify pickup, fees, and media before booking.
- Best value: Book early-morning on a day with stable forecasts.
- Flex: Keep a backup morning in the plan for wind changes.
- Receipts: Ask for a digital receipt and pilot license number.
Prices and policies change; confirm details at the time of booking.
Getting there, what to wear and bring
Transport: Uber/taxi is easiest from Ipanema/Copacabana (20–35 minutes, traffic willing).
Metro: Take Line 4 to São Conrado and a quick app ride to the beach tents.
What to wear: Sneakers, snug sunglasses, and a light layer; the ramp can be fresh up top.
What to bring: Sunscreen, water, and a small day bag. Leave loose jewelry at the hotel.
Phones: Pilots carry mounts. If they bring a phone, use a lanyard and follow the pilot’s call.
New to the city? Cross-check basics with is Rio de Janeiro safe and arrivals info at Rio de Janeiro airport.
Alternatives, nearby views and when to skip
Paragliding vs hang gliding: Paragliding sits back in a harness; hang gliding is face-down on a rigid wing.
Both launch at Pedra Bonita and land on the sand. Pick by feel; scenic factor is similar.
If winds turn, this area is great for slowing down. Pepino Beach has an easygoing feel and good kiosks.
For views, consider Christ the Redeemer or night plans from Rio de Janeiro nightlife.
Planning broader days? See things to do in Rio de Janeiro and Rio de Janeiro day trips.
Accessibility note: the ramp involves steps and uneven ground. The landing is on soft sand.
Good to know: there’s a local free-flight club managing the site; find official park info at Tijuca National Park.
They’ll want to double-check weight and age limits, motion sensitivity, and how belongings are stored during the flight.
Some travelers choose to skip if they must land at a specific time the same day. Wind can change; buffer time helps.
Final thoughts
For many, this is the city’s sweet spot of calm and thrill. rio de janeiro hang gliding feels bold for a second, then peaceful for minutes.
If they like a pinch of adrenaline with wide-open views, it’s worth it. Book the earliest slot if wind looks stable.
Keep a buffer morning, wear sneakers, and ask about fees and media upfront. Save this guide, compare options, and plan that glide with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for first-timers?
Yes, when flying tandem with CBVL-licensed pilots and suitable wind. Briefings are clear and launches are controlled.
How much does it cost on average?
Usually BRL 700–1,100 per person, plus club/launch fees. Photos and video are often an extra BRL 80–200.
How long does the whole experience take?
Plan 1.5–3 hours door-to-door. Time varies with wind, traffic to the ramp, and queue at launch.
What’s the actual flight time?
Typically 7–20 minutes, depending on conditions and style of flight that day.
Best time of day to book?
Morning slots tend to bring steadier wind and softer light. Good for those who prefer calmer air.
What should they wear?
Sneakers, snug sunglasses, and a light layer. The ramp is breezy and the sun is strong.
Are photos and video included?
Often sold as a GoPro package. Confirm price, angle options, and delivery method before takeoff.
What if the wind changes?
They may wait or reschedule. Keep a buffer window in the itinerary to avoid stress.
Any weight or age limits?
Commonly age 16+ with consent and weight roughly 35–95 kg, but limits vary by operator and wind.
Where does rio de janeiro hang gliding launch and land?
Launch is at Pedra Bonita in Tijuca Forest. Landing is on the sand at São Conrado’s Pepino Beach.
Fontes consultadas
– Hang Gliding Rio de Janeiro: Stunning Views – Rio Adventuresrioadventures.com- – Rio de Janeiro Hang Gliding Adventure | GetYourGuidegetyourguide.com
- – Hang Gliding Rio de Janeiro – Asa Deltajustfly.com.br
Sobre o autor
Sou Isaac, criador do BR24. Aqui compartilho dicas reais pra você viajar melhor pelo Brasil.