From City of Side: Alanya Tandem Paragliding w/ Beach Visit

If you’re craving a unique adventure that combines soaring above stunning coastlines with the thrill of adrenaline, then a tandem paragliding experience from Side might just be your cup of tea. This tour promises roughly 20 minutes of flying over the iconic Cleopatra Beach, landing softly on its golden sands, and includes convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs. It’s a package designed for those wanting a memorable mix of scenic beauty, safe thrill-seeking, and excellent value.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized — from the safety briefing to the final landing. Plus, the opportunity to capture your flight with photos and videos, offered as an optional extra, helps preserve the memories long after the adventure ends. On the flip side, some travelers note that transport delays and the cost of photos might not suit everyone. But overall, this tour is well-suited for visitors who want an authentic taste of the Turkish coast’s breathtaking views with minimal fuss.

If you’re considering whether this tour is right for you, think about your comfort with heights, your interest in panoramic scenery, and your willingness to spend in order to get those perfect photos. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, or adventurous families, especially those eager for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with professional guidance.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Glide over Cleopatra Beach and Alanya’s turquoise waters, making for incredible photo opportunities.
• Hassle-Free Transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off service removes the stress of transportation.
• Safety First: Conducted by professional pilots with detailed safety briefings and insurance coverage.
• Authentic Experience: Landing directly on a popular beach offers a genuine, memorable finish.
• Photo & Video Options: Capture spectacular moments, though expect an extra cost.
• Weather Dependent: Flight duration and experience will vary based on weather conditions and wind.

What to Expect from the Paragliding Experience

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, usually arranged from hotels across Side, making it a very convenient option. You’ll be driven to the launch site, situated on Cleopatras Hill at 700 meters altitude, where safety and preparation are paramount. Here, you’ll meet your professional pilot and instructor team, who will conduct a thorough safety briefing and introduce you to all the necessary equipment.

The briefing is more than just safety talk — it’s reassurance. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable and upbeat the guides are, ensuring that even nervous flyers feel at ease. Once geared up, your pilot will attach you to the wing, and after a few running steps towards the hill’s edge, you’ll be flying. The actual flight lasts around 20 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the golden sands of Cleopatra Beach and the shimmering waters of Alanya. Weather conditions influence the exact duration, but most flights offer ample time to soak in the scenery and feel that exhilarating sense of freedom.

The flight itself is described as tranquil and breathtaking, with many reviewers noting the “spectacular” vistas. One guest, Michelle, highlighted how her pilot, Memeth, made her feel safe and ensured she received great photos and videos during her flight. Another reviewer praised the professionalism of the entire team, mentioning guides who are “knowledgeable and upbeat,” which boosts confidence for first-timers.

Landing takes place on Cleopatra Beach, offering a soft and smooth experience. This beach landing adds to the thrill — you get to finish right where you started, with the sands beneath your feet and the sea just steps away. After landing, you’ll have the chance to preview and purchase photos and videos captured by the pilot, which many find worthwhile to keep those memories alive.

Following the flight, a vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Side. The entire process, from pickup to return, lasts roughly 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the experience without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that weather can affect flight length, but your pilot will keep you informed and ensure your safety throughout.

Included and Not Included – What’s Worth Your Attention

The tour price, at $48 per person, offers excellent value considering the effort and safety measures involved. The package includes hotel transfers (both ways), all entrance fees, training, all necessary equipment, and full insurance—a reassuring point for safety-conscious travelers.

What’s not included are photos and videos — usually available at an extra cost — and food and drinks for after the flight. Reviewers note that photos start at 50 euros, which some consider pricey, but many find them to be “worth it,” especially given the quality and the memories they capture.

There’s also a take-off fee of 20 EUR, a detail to keep in mind if you’re budgeting. The tour is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later, which is helpful if your plans are still evolving.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Transfer: Most guests are picked up from their hotels around 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time, with drivers generally punctual but occasionally delayed. For example, some reviewers mention waiting around 30 minutes after the scheduled pickup, which can be a little frustrating but doesn’t affect the overall experience.

Arrival at the Launch Site: The paragliding station is based on Cleopatras Hill, a popular vantage point offering stunning views of the coastline. Here, safety gear is fitted, and the briefing takes about 15-20 minutes. The guides are praised for being patient and attentive, ensuring everyone understands the safety protocols.

The Flight: Once airborne, you’ll feel the rush of wind and the serenity of soaring above the coast. The views are often described as “spectacular,” with the ability to see Alanya’s coastlines, turquoise waters, and sandy beaches. Some reviewers mention that weather conditions influence the flight duration, but most experiences are around 20 minutes.

Landing on Cleopatra Beach: Landing is smooth, and landing on the famous sandy beach adds a genuine touch of adventure. After touching down, you’ll have the opportunity to review photos and videos taken during the flight.

Return Transfer: After the flight, a vehicle will bring you back to your hotel, usually within an hour, leaving you with a head full of memories and adrenaline. Some reviewers mention waiting at the transport office post-flight, but most agree that the overall safety and quality of the experience outweigh these minor delays.

Authentic Experiences and Customer Feedback

One aspect that stands out is the dedication of the guides and pilots. Multiple reviews cite guides like Memeth, who ensure safety and a personal touch during the flight. Dawn described her experience as “great fun” with “terrific reassuring guides,” emphasizing their professionalism and knowledge.

Another guest, Stuart, appreciated how the guides balanced professionalism with a friendly approach, making the experience both safe and fun. He also highlighted that photos were slightly pricey but worth the investment as souvenirs of a memorable day.

Transport logistics received mixed feedback. While the tours include hotel pickup, some guests felt that transport delays and driver distractions slightly impacted their overall experience. Nevertheless, the flight and landing were consistently praised for their safety and scenic beauty.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This paragliding experience is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a memorable thrill with stunning coastal views. It suits solo explorers, couples, or families with kids over 6 years, who are comfortable with heights and enjoy scenic experiences. Pregnant women and individuals with mobility issues are advised against participating, due to the physical aspects of running at take-off and the nature of the activity.

It’s also perfect for those who value professional guidance, safety, and photo souvenirs, offering a good balance of adventure and security. However, if you’re very budget-sensitive, you might want to consider whether the extra charges for photos and potential transport delays align with your expectations.

Final Thoughts

This tandem paragliding tour from Side offers a spectacular view of the Turkish coastline, combined with the thrill of flight and the comfort of hotel transfers. You’ll love the way guides like Memeth and others prioritize safety and make you feel at ease, even if it’s your first time flying. The landing on Cleopatra Beach is a genuine highlight, providing both a scenic finale and a chance to unwind on the sands.

The experience delivers excellent value for the price, especially considering the included safety measures, professional pilots, and breathtaking panoramas. The optional photos and videos are a nice bonus, allowing you to relive this adventure long after it’s over.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, scenic lovers, and photo enthusiasts who want a unique, safe, and memorable way to see Side’s beautiful coast. It’s a fantastic way to add a dash of adrenaline to your holiday, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and unforgettable memories.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience very convenient. Just be sure to wait at the main security gate of your hotel 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, from pickup to return. The actual paragliding flight is around 20 minutes, but the setup, briefing, and transfers add to the overall time.

Can I buy photos and videos of my flight?
Yes, you can preview and purchase photos and videos taken during the flight. Prices start at 50 euros and are generally considered good souvenirs.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes. Cameras are not allowed during the flight for safety reasons, but you can purchase photos afterward.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 6 years old. Younger children or those with mobility concerns should consider their comfort level with heights and running.

Are there any safety concerns?
Safety standards are high, with full insurance, professional pilots, and safety equipment. Some reviewers did mention transport delays, but the flight itself is consistently described as safe and well-managed.

What if the weather conditions are bad?
Flights are weather-dependent. If conditions are unsuitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, and full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

This tandem paragliding tour from Side combines thrill, scenic beauty, and convenience into one memorable adventure. Whether you’re after stunning photos, a rush of adrenaline, or simply a different way to see the coastline, it’s an experience worth considering.