Paragliding (La Peninsula)
Paragliding La Península
The Ancón cliffs generate strong thermals off the headland — the same thermal wind that drives kitesurfing on the bay drives paragliders off the cliff edges above the Pacific.
Overview
Paragliding on the Santa Elena Peninsula is focused on the Ancón cliffs — the high sandstone and clay headlands above the Pacific on the south side of the peninsula. The thermal wind that builds through the afternoon creates ridge lift conditions on the cliff faces.
Paragliding operators have been based in Salinas seasonally, offering tandem flights from the Ancón cliff area. The scene is small and informal; confirm availability before making a specific trip for this purpose.
Did you know…?
🌳 …Manglaralto's estuary shelters herons, kingfishers and migrating birds?
Conditions
- Best season: June–November (dry season; most reliable thermal)
- Launch: Ancón cliff area (approx. 40–60m elevation)
- Landing: Beach below the cliffs or flat terrain near Ancón
- Solo flying: Requires experience with this specific site; always recce conditions on arrival
Getting There
Ancón is approximately 15–20 km from La Libertad. Taxi from La Libertad or Salinas (approximately $8–12).
See Also
- Hiking — Ancón cliffs on foot
- Outdoor Activities (La Peninsula) — full activities index
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