If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring like a bird and catching panoramic views of South Africa’s stunning landscape, a tandem paragliding flight in Wilderness might just be the highlight of your trip. This experience, offered by Dolphin Paragliding, has earned a perfect 5-star rating from eight travelers, thanks to its incredible scenery, professional crew, and memorable footage.
What we love about this tour is its combination of breathtaking vistas, expert guidance, and affordable price point. It’s a smooth, well-organized adventure that appeals to all sorts of travelers — from thrill-seekers to those simply eager to see the Garden Route from above.
One potential consideration is that weather plays a crucial role; if conditions aren’t ideal, the flight could be canceled or rescheduled. It’s worth planning this activity on a flexible day to maximize your chances of soaring under perfect skies.
This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to tick a bucket list item — especially those who want a bit of adrenaline mixed with scenic tranquility.
Key Points
- Stunning Scenery: Experience sweeping views of the sea, lakes, and hills of the Garden Route.
- Experienced Guides: Pilots have 25 years of flying experience, ensuring safety and confidence.
- Affordable Value: At just under $92, you get a 30-minute flight with high-quality video footage included.
- All-Inclusive Experience: The tour includes tandem flight instruction, gear, and a chance to bring your own GoPro.
- Flexible Scheduling: Open daily from 8AM to 5:30PM, with the ability to cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.
- Ideal for Most Travelers: Suitable for most, with safety and comfort a priority, and service animals allowed.
What to Expect from Your Paragliding Adventure
The adventure begins at a well-marked meeting point in Sedgefield, just a short drive from the scenic landscapes of the Garden Route. The ground crew greets you and takes care of all the paperwork, including indemnity forms, to streamline the process. They’re friendly, professional, and clear about safety procedures — a recurring theme in reviews where travelers mention feeling reassured by the knowledgeable guides like Pieter, who’s been flying for 25 years.
Once your harness is securely clipped in, you’ll join your tandem pilot for a quick briefing. The takeoff is just a few steps forward from the hilltop, and then it’s time for lift-off. You’ll sit comfortably in a harness with the pilot behind you, ready to take advantage of the wind and thermals that lift you high into the sky.
Many days, the pilots manage to soar above the hill for several minutes, riding the thermals that carry you over the lush landscape below. The views are nothing short of spectacular — shimmering lakes, lush hills, and the vast ocean in the distance. Travelers consistently mention feeling a sense of freedom and exhilaration while looking down at South Africa’s stunning scenery.
The landing is smooth and often takes place either on the hilltop or at a designated zone below, with the crew waiting to pick you up and bring you back to the start point. The entire experience lasts approximately 30 minutes, making it a manageable yet unforgettable activity.
Looking for more options in Sedgefield? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Video and Photos: Relive the Moment
One feature that travelers rave about is the video footage secured to your harness. This camera captures the flight from your perspective, resulting in footage that’s both fun and visually stunning. Many reviewers mention downloading the video onto their phones and reliving the experience over and over, often remarking that the footage perfectly captures the magic of the scenery and the thrill.
The Safety and Professionalism
With 25 years of flying experience under their belts, the pilots at Dolphin Paragliding prioritize safety without sacrificing fun. Reviewers note the crew’s professionalism and clear instructions, making even first-timers feel at ease. The process is straightforward, and the team is described as friendly, helpful, and attentive — all vital for such an adventure.
The Value for Money
At $91.95 per person, the tour offers excellent value. For that price, you receive a 30-minute tandem flight, all necessary gear, instruction, and a high-quality video to take home. Given the stunning views and the professionalism of the crew, many travelers consider this a worthwhile splurge. Plus, the fact that you can bring your GoPro along adds a personalized touch, allowing you to capture your own footage if you prefer.
How the Day Unfolds
1. Meeting Point and Check-In: Expect to meet at the designated spot in Sedgefield, where the friendly ground crew will handle paperwork and safety briefs.
2. Preparation and Briefing: You’ll be introduced to the gear, given instructions, and fitted into your harness — a step that many find surprisingly comfortable and reassuring.
3. Takeoff: The pilot will assist you in a quick run to launch from the hilltop. Reviewers say the takeoff is smooth, and the pilot’s clear guidance makes first-time flyers feel confident.
4. Flight: For around 30 minutes, you’ll glide over the landscape, taking in views that many describe as “breathtaking” and “incredible.” The pilots often ride the thermals for longer, giving you a more expansive flight.
5. Landing: The soft, controlled landing ends your flight, with the crew ready to de-rig and help you gather your belongings.
6. Return: A bus or vehicle will bring you back to the starting point, often amid laughter and excited chatter — the perfect way to wind down after soaring through the skies.
Authentic Feedback from Reviewers
Multiple travelers highlight the professionalism of the guides, with one mentioning Pieter, a pilot with 25 years of experience, who made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable. Comments like “felt safe,” “felt at ease,” and “smooth takeoff and landing,” emphasize the emphasis on safety.
Several reviews mention how the experience exceeded expectations, with phrases like “absolutely breathtaking,” “best experience I’ve ever had,” and “felt like flying with eagles.” The views over the lagoon and the scenic landscape are consistently described as extraordinary, making this experience more than just an adrenaline rush — it’s a visual feast.
Travelers also appreciate the value for money and the ease of the process. The ability to bring your own GoPro and the high-quality footage are features that many cherish, providing lasting memories of the flight.
Cancellation Policy and Practicalities
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if weather conditions change unexpectedly. Remember, the experience depends heavily on good weather, so flexibility is advised.
It runs daily from 8AM to 5:30PM, accommodating most schedules. No private transportation is included, so plan your arrival accordingly. Service animals are allowed, which is considerate for travelers with companions.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This tandem paragliding adventure is perfect for adventure seekers who want a safe but thrilling way to see South Africa’s scenic Garden Route. It’s ideal for those with a love of nature and a desire for unique perspectives, especially since the views encompass sea, lakes, and rolling hills.
It’s also well-suited for first-timers, thanks to the professional pilots and straightforward process. If you’re after high-value experiences that combine scenery, safety, and a bit of adrenaline, this flight fits the bill.
Final Thoughts
For anyone craving a unique snapshot of South Africa’s beauty, this tandem paragliding tour offers an incredible balance of adventure, scenery, and professionalism. With well-reviewed guides, breathtaking views, and a reasonable price, it’s a fantastic way to add a memorable highlight to your visit.
While weather dependence means it’s not a guaranteed activity, the overall safety and positive reviews suggest that most will walk away with a story worth telling — and photos worth sharing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a new way to connect with nature, this experience delivers a genuine thrill and stunning vistas in equal measure.
FAQ
How long does the flight last?
The actual tandem flight takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and relax in the air.
What is included in the price?
You’ll receive tandem flight instruction, all necessary gear, and a video recording of your flight.
Can I bring my own camera or GoPro?
Yes, travelers frequently mention bringing their GoPros along without issue, and the company secures a camera to film your experience.
Is there a minimum age or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age or health requirements aren’t detailed. The guides aim to make everyone feel safe and comfortable.
What happens if the weather cancels the flight?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.
Do I need private transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrange your own way to the start point in Sedgefield.
Is there a maximum group size?
The activity accommodates up to 40 travelers at a time, but groups tend to be smaller for a more personalized experience.
If you’re looking for a safe, scenic, and exhilarating way to see South Africa’s Garden Route, this tandem paragliding flight offers an unforgettable experience with professional guides, stunning vistas, and great value.