When we were planning our 4-day, 4-night trip to Da Nang, Vietnam, Rodel sent me a link about a unique activity to do in Da Nang – Paragliding!
I didn’t know that there was such an activity in Vietnam. It was something I hadn’t done before, and being someone who is always game for new experiences, I was immediately sold on the idea.
The night before our paragliding schedule, he told me he was surprised that I was so eager to do it and had actually booked it. 😂 I rarely say YES to things and commit, but when I do, I always give myself to it. It appeared he was a bit hesitant to do it, but I am glad he did. 🙌
Sharing with you my paragliding experience and travel tips which I hope you will find helpful on your travel to Da Nang. You can also read more about my Da Nang, Vietnam stories in my Da Nang Travel Diaries.
Where to Book Ticket to Paragliding in Da Nang Vietnam
I booked our tickets via Klook.
It costs around Php 4,200 which includes Go Pro photos. The fine print states that it includes the transportation going up to the Son Tra take-off point, but during our flight, we paid extra VND 200k for it.
You can book the Paragliding Activity in Da Nang, Vietnam through this.
You can use my Klook Code for discount: RUTHILICIOUSKLOOK (you can use it 5x)
Klook.comTRAVEL TIP: book your paragliding activity at least a day before your flight (not on the day of your flight which is what we originally planned). If you are traveling to Da Nang for short trip, make sure you have flexible days for Paragliding in case they re-scheduled it due to wind direction and weather.
After booking, I got confirmation of the activity via WhatsApp.
Before the Paragliding Flight
The night before our activity, I received an update from the contact that our schedule was moved to an earlier time of 8:30 AM (we booked for 10:00 AM).
The meet-up point for Paragliding was only 15-minute ride from our hotel.
At exactly 8:30 AM, we met the pilot and waited for the car service which took us to the top of the mountain.
I asked the pilot what I needed to do during or before the flight, and he said that when he said “run”, all I needed to do was RUN. Paragliding is similar to airplane take-off, and we need speed to fly.
I felt that Paragliding was a little complicated compared to Sky Diving – wherein all I needed to do was to “jump” or should I say “fall”.
TRAVEL TIP: if you are a tita like me, ask the driver and pilot to swing by the restroom first. Waiting time for take off might take a while.
At the take-off site, other passengers were also waiting for their flights. The pilot geared me up and I only waited for a few minutes and I was already called to prepare.
My Paragliding Experience
Straps and harnesses were secured and connected, the GoPro in my hand (which unfortunately was off – thankfully, Rodel recorded a video of my take-off), and the ground crew/launch assistants were holding on to the glider.
It was a 4-man crew to successfully fly.
The guy before me was not successful in launching/taking off after two attempts. We were wondering what went wrong, but he was asked to wait again at the end of the line so we could follow the flight schedule.
So yes, I found myself facing the cliff, in a running position, waiting for the signal to fly—or should I say, run. When I heard the pilot shout “run,” my legs moved, but my body was immediately dragged to the ground.
The pilot reminded me to keep my shoulders back (just like how my father would remind us to straighten our bodies—he had such great posture) and to just run.
Now I knew what I needed to “not do” and reminded myself that if there was anything I needed to be at that very moment, it was to be successful in flying.
They repositioned the glider, and the pilot once again shouted “run.” So I ran, and he kept shouting, “run, run, run.” The cliff felt so far, but I just kept on running until I could no longer feel the ground—and we were in the air.
Da Nang’s beauty from above is truly breathtaking. The lush greenery of the Son Tra Peninsula stands out, and the Linh Ung Pagoda looks so small from this height. The view is a stunning blend of seascape and cityscape, with the glistening ocean dotted with Coconut Basket Boats.
The pilot made sure that we took photos from the best angles. He also kept on communicating and asking me how I was feeling during the duration of the flight.
TRAVEL TIP: There was a drone shot guy in the meet-up area who would offer you drone shots for only VND 500k. Make sure that you haggle.
It is a very relaxed and chill experience. I was actually more scared of my motorcycle experience.
It was a 15-20 minute ride, and we landed in front of the beach side where we met-up.
The car service soon arrived to pick up the pilot so he could fly with Rodel. I asked him to take care of my friend. 😂😂😂
I just sat waiting for Rodel’s flight and kept on asking the drone shot guy if the one flying was my friend. After 2 passengers, we spotted Rodel up in the sky. You can watch the whole story on his vlog.
It was a perfect day, and I am so happy to have experienced Da Nang from different views and heights.
Paragliding in Da Nang, Vietnam Tips
➡️ Allocate one day for this activity. The schedule of your flight might change depending on the wind direction and weather. One reader/follower shared that she had to wait the whole day for her paragliding flight. She was scheduled for 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM slot, but the pilot asked her to wait and return in the afternoon because of the (opposite) wind direction. It would be best to not schedule any tours during the day and keep a flexible schedule. I suggest you go for a coffee – shop hopping or hangout by the beach.
➡️ Wear comfortable clothes. Wear something comfortable clothes like pants.
➡️ Wear running shoes. The pilot reminded us to wear running shoes which is more suitable for take-off and protect your feet too during landing.
➡️ Leave your bags and belongings in the service car. I wouldn’t advise bringing small bags because you might lose it. I also didn’t hold or bring my phone to minimize distractions and so I could focus on the flight experience and safety. I left my bags to my friend who then left our things to the service car – which is the same car who picked up the pilot at the landing area/meet-up place. If you can leave your items in the hotel, that would be better, too especially if you are traveling solo.
➡️ Stay relaxed and calm. Just enjoy the ride!
I hope you find this blog helpful.
Until the next adventure!
