Zurich: Day trip to Interlaken incl. tandem paragliding

Travelers seeking a mix of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and charming Swiss towns will find this day trip from Zurich to Interlaken an excellent choice. The opportunity to soar over the Alps while exploring one of Switzerland’s most picturesque regions offers a truly memorable experience.

What makes this tour stand out is the paragliding flight that promises an exhilarating perspective of the mountains, the chance to stroll through Interlaken’s quaint streets, and the chance to witness iconic peaks like the Jungfrau. However, as with any adventure activity, there are a few considerations—such as weather dependency and the need for a reasonable level of comfort with heights.

This experience is ideal for those who love outdoor adventures, scenic vistas, and want a full-day Swiss excursion. It’s perfect for travelers eager for a mix of adrenaline and cultural exploration, provided they’re comfortable with the physical requirements and weather conditions.

Key Points

• Stunning views: Experience panoramic vistas of the Swiss Alps and Interlaken.
• Adventure focus: Tandem paragliding with expert pilots ensures a safe, thrilling flight.
• Flexible schedule: Includes free time in Interlaken to explore at your own pace.
• Guided transportation: Comfortable transport and insightful driver guides enhance the experience.
• Authentic Swiss town: Enjoy the charm of Interlaken between two lakes.
• Weather considerations: Paragliding availability can depend on weather; last-minute bookings might be affected.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This day trip begins with an easy bus ride from Zurich, whisking you out into the scenic Swiss countryside. The transportation is included, and the journey typically lasts around 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day. The experience is run by Keytours SA, renowned for their professional approach and friendly guides.

Drop-off and Mountain Ascent

Once in Interlaken, you’ll be dropped off at a partner office. Here, a driver and pilot team take you up the mountain for the paragliding adventure. The 20-minute drive offers stunning views, and during this time, you’ll receive a safety briefing covering take-off, landing, and what to expect.

Many reviewers have noted the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Patrick, who was praised for his humor, stunt skills, and capturing footage during flights. The take-off site is just a short 3-minute walk from the drop-off point, and the view from here is incredible—overlooking Interlaken, Jungfrau, and the surrounding peaks.

The Paragliding Flight

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the tandem paragliding flight. You’ll soar at approximately 3,454 meters, feeling like you’re a bird with a panoramic view of the Alps. Several reviews praise the guides’ attentiveness, with one reviewer describing the experience as feeling “like a bird soaring above the Alps,” and another noting the pilot’s skill in doing stunts and taking great photos.

Participants often comment on the calming, almost meditative aspect of the glide, even those who initially were a bit apprehensive. The pilots are experienced and genuinely friendly, making the flight accessible to most, provided you’re not afraid of heights or have altitude sickness.

Post-flight Free Time in Interlaken

After landing, the tour allows for some leisure time in Interlaken. This charming town is built between two lakes and offers delightful spots for a bite, some shopping, or just soaking in the views. Several reviews mention the value of this free time—some explorers took a stroll through Lauterbrunnen, a nearby village renowned for its waterfalls and scenic ambiance, highlighted by a reviewer describing it as “a piece of heaven on earth.”

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Additional Info & Practicalities

• The tour includes transportation, the paragliding experience, a driver guide, and views of Interlaken.
• Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to grab a meal in Interlaken makes sense.
• Last-minute bookings might not guarantee paragliding due to weather or operational constraints, so planning ahead is advisable.
• It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and to email your height and weight to Keytours to ensure safety and proper fit.

What We Love About This Tour

This trip offers an exciting combination of adventure and sightseeing that’s hard to beat. The scenic drive up the mountain, the thrill of tandem paragliding, and the chance to wander through Interlaken’s lovely streets provide many memorable moments. The guides, notably Patrick and Pascal, have been praised for their expertise, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel at ease—crucial factors in a tandem flight.

The views during the flight are often described as “spectacular” and “out of this world.” Reviewers repeatedly mention how the experience feels safe and well-organized, with the pilots doing their best to capture photos and videos at no additional hassle.

The Value of the Experience

At $388 per person, this tour offers a significant amount of value given the inclusion of transport, guided safety briefing, and the flight itself. Considering the cost of standalone paragliding experiences in other regions, this package represents a good deal—especially when you factor in the scenic stops and free time.

Considerations

Weather can impact the availability of paragliding, especially at last-minute bookings. Travelers who are nervous about heights or experiencing altitude sickness may want to think twice, as the activity involves flying at considerable altitude. Plus, the tour is not suitable for children under 7, but generally appeals to adventure lovers and those eager to see the Swiss Alps from a whole new perspective.

Why This Tour Works

This day trip from Zurich is a splendid way to combine scenic mountain views, thrilling adventure, and cultural charm into one satisfying package. For anyone craving an adrenaline rush, the tandem paragliding experience is often highlighted as a highlight, thanks to the pilot’s skill and the breathtaking vistas.

The free time in Interlaken offers a nice balance, giving travelers a chance to explore, shop, or simply relax by the lakes. The journey itself is well-paced, and the guides’ local knowledge adds extra value, making the trip both informative and enjoyable.

For those who appreciate authentic experiences with a professional touch, this tour provides a safe, memorable, and picture-perfect day in the Swiss Alps.

Final Thoughts

This day trip is particularly suited to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and fans of picturesque towns. While weather can sometimes be a factor, the stunning scenery and enthusiastic guides make it worth considering well in advance. The combination of scenic drives, exhilarating tandem paragliding, and charming Interlaken makes this experience a highlight for many travelers.

If you’re looking to tick off a bucket-list adventure without sacrificing comfort or scenic beauty, this tour hits the mark. Plus, with flexible booking options, it’s easy to plan a Swiss mountain day that leaves you with lifelong memories.

FAQs

Is paragliding included in the tour price?
Yes, the tandem paragliding experience is included in the $388 price. It’s conducted by experienced pilots, with safety briefings beforehand.

What should I wear for the paragliding?
Comfortable clothes are recommended. Since you’ll be at altitude, wear layers and sturdy shoes. Check with the tour provider if you need anything special.

Can I book last-minute?
Yes, but paragliding might not be possible if weather conditions aren’t suitable or if capacity is full. It’s advisable to book in advance for guaranteed participation.

How long does the entire trip take?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including transportation, the flight, and free time in Interlaken.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old or for those with height fears or altitude sickness.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary; check availability directly. Early bookings are recommended, especially for the best weather conditions.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you’ll have time to purchase meals in Interlaken.

What is the maximum weight for paragliding?
Passengers over 100 kg cannot participate in the paragliding activity.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus and mountain ascent are handled by a driver guide, ensuring a smooth, scenic ride with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views.

Can I buy photos or videos of my flight?
Yes, pilots can take photos and videos during your flight for a fee (CHF 40), which you can choose to purchase afterward.

This Swiss adventure offers a well-rounded mix of thrill and scenic beauty, making it a memorable addition to any Zurich-based itinerary. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply want to see the Alps from above, this trip manages to deliver both in spades.

You can check availability for your dates here: