Basic Fly: Short Paragliding Flight for Beginners
Want to try paragliding in Zermatt without committing to a long flight? The Basic Fly is a short tandem flight of around 10 minutes from a lower take-off, with views of the Matterhorn. It is the easiest way to discover paragliding, ideal for a first flight, for anyone a little nervous, and for families. The whole experience takes about an hour.
Summer only: the Basic Fly is available from June to November, usually in the afternoon. Travelling to Zermatt at another time of year? Our Standard Fly runs year-round.
Flight at a glance
| Take-off | Riffelberg, Blauherd (low take-off), Sunnegga or Schwarzsee (seasonal) |
| Altitude | 2,200–2,600 m above sea level |
| Airtime | Approx. 10 minutes |
| Total duration | Approx. 1 hour |
| Availability | Summer only, June to November, mostly afternoons |
| Price | CHF 190 per person |
| Photos & video | Optional GoPro package, CHF 40 |
The perfect first paragliding flight
If you have never flown before, a short flight from a lower take-off is a gentle way to start. The Basic Fly gives you the full experience, from the briefing and the take-off run to the feeling of floating above Zermatt, in a shorter and more relaxed format.
You fly in tandem with a certified pilot who controls the paraglider from start to finish. There is nothing to learn beforehand: your pilot explains everything on the spot, and you only need to take a few steps at take-off and landing. And if you enjoy it, you can always come back for a longer flight in front of the Matterhorn.
What to expect on the day
- Meeting point. We meet at Bahnhofplatz 7, right next to Zermatt’s Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn station and one minute’s walk from the Gornergrat railway.
- Ride up to the take-off. Together with your pilot, you ride up to one of the lower take-offs above Zermatt.
- Briefing and take-off. Your pilot explains everything you need to know. Take-off is just a few running steps down the slope.
- The flight. Around 10 minutes gliding above Zermatt, with views of the Matterhorn.
- Landing in Zermatt. A soft landing in Zermatt village, about an hour after meeting your pilot.
Basic Fly or another flight?
If you want more time in the air, the Standard Fly takes off higher, lasts around 20 minutes and is available all year for CHF 240. To fly right in front of the Matterhorn, choose our best seller, the Matterhorn VIP, with around 25 minutes of airtime for CHF 300.
What our guests say
It was our first paragliding experience and my 8 yr old daughter was with Julio. I was quite nervous but my daughter was thrilled. Julio reassured me and helped create everlasting memories!! Thank you.
He has an amazing personality and he made my whole first experience of paragliding so enjoyable from start to finish. The ride went extremely smooth. Truly an unforgettable experience.
Once in a lifetime experience. My children and I are still talking about it, looking at the photos and watching the video. Our three guides were personable and made us feel so comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
I have never flown before. Is the Basic Fly for me?
Yes. The Basic Fly is designed for first-timers. You fly in tandem with a certified pilot who controls the paraglider, and you only need to take a few steps at take-off and landing.
I am a bit nervous. What if I don't like it?
That is completely normal. Your pilot will explain every step before take-off and will keep the flight calm and smooth. The Basic Fly is short, so it is a good way to find out how you feel in the air.
Can children fly?
Yes, children regularly fly with us. ⚠ CONFIRMAR: edad mínima y peso mínimo para niños.
Is there a weight limit?
⚠ CONFIRMAR: peso máximo y mínimo.
Why is the Basic Fly only available in summer?
The Basic Fly uses the lower take-offs above Zermatt and runs from June to November, mostly in the afternoon. Outside those months we do not accept bookings for this flight. If you are visiting at another time of year, the Standard Fly is available year-round.
What should I wear?
Sturdy shoes, long trousers and a warm layer, as it can be cooler at take-off. Sunglasses are recommended.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If we cancel your flight because of weather or safety conditions, you receive a full refund, minus a 5% confirmation fee. We will always try to offer you another time slot first.
Can I get photos and videos of my flight?
Yes. Add the GoPro photo and video package (CHF 40) when you book, and your images will be transferred directly to your smartphone after landing.
Book your Basic Fly
Choose your date and time below. The Basic Fly is available from June to November, mostly in the afternoon.
