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Paragliding near Oludeniz
Turkey
With perfect launch areas close to the
2,000-metre high summit of Mount
Babadag, Oludeniz is arguably
Europe's best site for tandem flights (paragliding
with a qualified pilot). Your flight will take you
over the mountain's ridges, out to sea for a bird's
eye view of Oludeniz's famous lagoon, which
you will have plenty of time to admire before a
soft landing on the beach.
A tandem flight is the perfect way to
experience the exhilaration of paragliding safe in
the knowledge that a fully qualified pilot is in
control - no previous experience is required.
Those who acquire a taste for the sensation
and want to go solo can also undergo a five-day
paragliding course leading to a paragliding
beginners pilots licence granted by the US
Hang-Gliding Association, which can be
converted to a British (BHPA recognised)
licence upon your return to the UK.
Both tandem flights and the five-day courses
can be pre-booked through Cachet Travel.
5-day Paragliding Course - £645
This complete course enables absolute beginners to acquire all the skills and
techniques required to fly solo by the end of the week.
The first 2-3 days are spent learning the basics on the beach, so you can get a feel for
cause and effect as you control the canopy to make it lift, turn and stop (each person
is given their own canopy, harness, radio and helmet). As you demonstrate
competence, you will gradually move further up the slopes, increasing your height with
confidence and ability. When you are ready, you will progress to take-off sites around
Oludeniz and Fethiye, always in full radio contact with instructors above or below you.
Alongside the practical training, you will also learn some theory on flying
techniques, weather changes, thermals and the rules and regulations of the airways.
The five-day course leads to a paragliding beginner pilot's licence. The licence
gained is with the USHGA (United States Hang-Gliding Association) system and is
transferable to a British (BHPA recognised) licence at a British paragliding school
upon your return to the UK.
A medical certificate and the purchase of liability insurance are compulsory. Please
remember that paragliding is a weather-dependant sport so you may experience
some periods of waiting.
You should be reasonably fit, and we strongly recommend that you bring trekking boots with good ankle support, an
old, long-sleeved top and a pair of old trousers.
Tandem Flights from Mount Babadag - £90
For those who simply wish to experience the exhilaration of a
paraglide flight without
having to learn the necessary techniques, a tandem flight from Mount Babadag offers
an ideal opportunity to get a bird's eye view of Oludeniz and the surrounding area.
Controlled by a fully qualified pilot, your glider is launched from an altitude of
approximately 2,000 metres, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking views
before gently descending to the beach. No previous experience is required, although
you should be in generally good health.