INSPIRATION PARAPENTE
FAQ : Answers to all your questions
I’m afraid of heights. Is that a problem for paragliding ?
Vertigo only occurs when you are in contact with the ground. In paragliding, you are comfortably seated in your harness and no longer connected to the ground, so vertigo is not possible. However, you may experience motion sickness (similar to seasickness on a boat or nausea in a car on winding roads). If this happens and becomes uncomfortable, simply tell your instructor, who will land quickly. Our goal is your comfort, enjoyment, and satisfaction !
Does paragliding feel scary ?
For the vast majority of people, it does not. You may feel a little apprehension just before take-off, which is normal. But paragliding is a contemplative and gentle activity. Take-off is smooth and progressive. Unlike skydiving or bungee jumping, paragliding is not about thrills or adrenaline. However, if you are looking for sensations and if conditions allow it, you can ask your instructor to perform some impressive maneuvers, and he will be happy to oblige.
Is paragliding dangerous ?
Paragliding is considered a “risk sport,” but when risks are calculated and managed, they are perfectly acceptable. Simon is a state-certified instructor, and his solid experience and humility will reassure you about the risks involved (comparable to those of driving a car).
What clothing and shoes should I wear ?
We recommend sports clothing and sturdy sports shoes with good grip (no smooth-soled sneakers or flip-flops). A sweater or even a down jacket may be needed depending on the season. You can keep your glasses (sunglasses or prescription). In summer, bring sun protection for the hike (hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses).
Is there an age limit ?
There is no age limit for tandem hike-and-fly. Simon has flown with people over 80 years old and children as young as 4–5. You must simply be able to complete the hike and run a few meters during take-off. Children must want to fly, not be pushed by parents. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. They will fly alone with the instructor.
Is there a weight limit ?
Yes. Tandem paragliding flights are subject to strict regulations regarding total flying weight. INSPIRATION PARAPENTE cannot accept passengers weighing more than 105 kg.
Do I need to be athletic to enjoy this experience ?
The hike intensity varies depending on the site (discussed at booking). You must be able to complete the hike and run a few meters during take-off. For the Mont Ventoux package, you need solid physical condition to climb 1400m elevation gain by foot (or 900m elevation gain by foot if shuttle available).
Will I have to carry a backpack during the hike ?
Yes, but don’t worry—the instructor usually carries the heaviest bag with the paragliding equipment. Avoid bringing a large hiking backpack; try to come as light as possible. During the flight, everything must fit into the harness pockets. Usually, a water bottle, sunglasses, and a few personal items are enough.
How does take-off work ?
Paragliding take-off is not a "jump" : you take off gradually after a short run of a few meters. Take-off is a magical, gentle moment. There is no “leap into the void.” If passengers feel nervous, it’s usually due to fear of the unknown. They are quickly reassured once in the air.
How does landing work ?
At landing, you return to a standing position and prepare to touch down by running or walking, depending on landing speed. It is not complicated at all.
Where do we meet, and can my family watch me land ?
You will receive all necessary details once you have chosen the site with your instructor/guide.
What if conditions don’t allow flying after the hike ?
This rarely happens. In that case, you simply walk back down, and you won’t be charged. You can reschedule your hike-and-fly with the instructor.
How much does a paraglider cost ?
A paraglider wing costs between €2,500 and €6,000 depending on the model and purpose (training, competition, etc.), similar to cars. A tandem wing costs around €5,000. To fly, you also need a harness, helmet, and possibly a reserve parachute and flight instruments (radio, variometer, GPS). For solo flying, expect €4,000–€5,000 for new beginner equipment (€2,000–€2,500 second-hand). For tandem flying, add about €2,000 more.
Which hike-and-fly sites are possible ?
Unless you specifically want to hike and fly at a particular site (such as Mont Ventoux for the “Ventoux” package or Romanière in the Alpilles for the “Saut de Puce”), INSPIRATION PARAPENTE recommends adapting the site to the weather forecast on the day of your flight to maximize chances of success. Possible sites are around Salon-de-Provence, Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Bédoin (Sainte-Victoire, Alpilles, Garlaban, and Mont Ventoux).