Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - The Itinerary Breakdown

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps

Experience the thrill of tandem skydiving over Switzerland’s stunning Alps with breathtaking views, expert guides, and safety at the forefront.

If you’ve ever dreamed of jumping out of a plane over some of the most iconic mountains in the world, then the skydiving experience from Interlaken might be just what you’re looking for. This tandem jump takes you from 4,000 meters (around 13,000 feet) above the Swiss Alps, offering a rush of adrenaline combined with jaw-dropping scenery. It’s a bucket-list adventure that combines thrill-seeking with the kind of views that make you want to pinch yourself.

What we love about this experience is how it balances pure adrenaline with a sense of safety and professionalism. The guides are experienced, the scenery is unparalleled, and the entire process is designed for both first-timers and seasoned thrill-seekers. One thing to note is the cost—at $512 per person, it’s an investment, but many reviews highlight the value, especially considering the quality of views and guidance. This tour is ideal for those who crave high-energy experiences and are comfortable with heights, making it perfect for adventure lovers wanting a truly unforgettable moment in the Swiss mountains.

However, a potential consideration is the need to meet strict weight and height requirements, which could exclude some travelers. Also, while the views and thrill are top-notch, the price does not include photos or videos unless paid for separately. Still, for many, the memories—and the views—are worth it. If you’re a travel enthusiast who loves combining scenic landscapes with adrenaline, this skydiving tour will probably be among your highlights.

Key Points

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - Key Points

  • Unmatched Views: See the Swiss Alps, lakes, and the peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau from a whole new perspective.
  • Expert Guidance: The tandem instructors are skilled, friendly, and ensure safety at every step.
  • Adrenaline Rush: Experience a 45-second freefall at 200 km/h (120 mph), accompanied by the thrill of soaring in a plane.
  • Year-Round Operation: Available daily, regardless of season, making it flexible for all travelers.
  • Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 8) create a more personalized, less rushed experience.
  • Cost-Value Balance: The activity is priced at $512, with options to pay later and book in advance, but extra for photos/videos.

What to Expect from Your Skydiving Adventure

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - What to Expect from Your Skydiving Adventure

The adventure begins with a scenic 15-minute flight that’s as much a highlight as the jump itself. The plane climbs steadily, giving you a preview of the extraordinary views awaiting you. As you ascend over Interlaken’s two lakes, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Swiss Alps, including the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the early-morning or late-afternoon light, which makes the scenery look like a painting.

Once at 4,000 meters, your tandem instructor will prepare you for the freefall. As the door opens, the anticipation builds. Then, suddenly, you’re hurtling down at 200 km/h (120 mph) for about 45 seconds. Many reviewers describe this as an “unreal” feeling—an intense mix of excitement and adrenaline that’s hard to match.

After the freefall, the parachute deploys, and you glide gently for 5 to 7 minutes back to the ground. This phase offers a calmer, more scenic perspective of the mountains and lakes below, giving you ample time to soak in the landscape and even snap some photos if you’ve paid for a recording service.

The entire experience lasts around 3.5 hours, including check-in, safety briefing, the flight, the jump, and the ride back to the meeting point. It’s a compact but intense adventure that leaves a lasting impression.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - The Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting Point and Transportation

You’ll meet at the Outdoor Interlaken Base, which is conveniently located but requires a 30-minute drive to Reichenbach, the actual airfield. Some reviews mention that the transportation is well-organized, with a friendly driver who picks up jumpers throughout Interlaken. If you prefer to drive, that’s also an option—just factor in the travel time.

Safety Briefing and Equipment

Before the jump, a comprehensive safety briefing ensures you understand what’s happening and feel confident. The activity supplies all necessary skydiving gear, and your tandem instructor will be with you every step of the way. The guides speak English and German, making communication straightforward for most travelers.

The Flight and Jump

The highlight—an approximately 15-minute scenic flight—gives you stunning aerial views. Then, it’s out the plane door for the freefall, which lasts about 45 seconds. Many reviewers mention that Tim and Abel (their instructors) are highly professional and friendly, with some noting that their guides explained everything clearly, contributing to their comfort despite initial nerves.

Parachute Ride and Return

Once the parachute opens, the glide back lasts around 5-7 minutes. During this time, your instructor will help you enjoy the spectacular landscape and even maneuver the parachute if you’ve paid for a video. The experience, as many reviews note, is filled with “spectacular views” and a peaceful canopy ride that offers a different perspective of the mountains.

Post-Jump and Return

After landing, you’ll be back at the meeting point, often feeling like you’ve just experienced a lifetime of adventure compressed into a few hours. Some reviewers mention that their guides took time to explain the sights and make jokes, adding a personal touch that makes the whole experience even more memorable.

Price and Value

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - Price and Value

At $512, the activity isn’t cheap, but many travelers feel it’s justified by the quality of the guides, the stunning scenery, and the overall thrill. The price includes the jump, safety briefing, and equipment, with photos and videos available at extra cost. Several reviews highlight that the guides’ professionalism and the exceptional views make the price worthwhile.

The optional photo/video service is a common point of contention—many find it expensive at an additional 170 CHF (roughly $180), but reviews still suggest that the memories captured are worth the extra expense. Some travelers mention they wished they could receive their photos via digital download or USB without extra delay.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - The Reviews Speak Volumes

From the 233 reviews, a clear pattern emerges: most participants rate the experience at 4.9/5. Many describe the jump as “the coolest experience of my life” or “absolutely unreal,” emphasizing how safe and well-guided they felt. Several highlight instructor Tim (or Abel) for their professionalism, patience, and friendliness, which significantly contributed to calming nerves.

Reviewers also praise the spectacular views—many mention that the scenery alone makes the activity worth the price. Others appreciate how well-organized the logistics are, with some noting the early morning slots are ideal for avoiding glare and catching cloud formations.

A few reviews mention the cost of photos and videos as a drawback, but most agree that the experience itself is unforgettable and worth the investment. First-timers especially describe feeling nervous initially but leaving with a sense of achievement and awe.

Who Would Love This?

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - Who Would Love This?

This skydiving adventure is best suited for adventure enthusiasts who crave a unique, adrenaline-pumping experience combined with world-class scenery. It’s perfect for those comfortable with heights and willing to meet the activity’s weight and height restrictions. If you’re someone who has always wanted to see the Alps from above and isn’t fazed by the price tag, this will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Travelers seeking a safe, professional environment with friendly guides and a small group setting will find this experience particularly enjoyable. It’s a good fit for first-time skydivers, although the strict requirements mean not everyone can participate.

The Sum Up

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - The Sum Up

Jumping out of a plane over the Swiss Alps is undoubtedly a bucket-list experience. You’ll love the breathtaking views, the professionalism of the guides, and the adrenaline rush of freefall — a combination that leaves many saying it’s “the best thing I’ve ever done.” The experience is well-organized, with a scenic flight that sets the mood perfectly and a parachute glide that lets you appreciate the stunning landscape below.

While the price might give some pause, the quality of the guides, the safety measures, and the unforgettable vistas make this a worthwhile splurge for adventure lovers. It’s a truly unique way to see Switzerland from a perspective few will ever experience, and it comes with plenty of stories to tell for years to come.

If you’re seeking a thrill that combines natural beauty with adrenaline and don’t mind the cost, this skydiving trip is likely to be one of your most cherished travel memories.

FAQ

Interlaken: Airplane Skydiving over the Swiss Alps - FAQ

Is the activity suitable for my age?
Participants must be at least 12 years old, with minors aged 12-15 needing parental accompaniment. Those 16-17 require written parental consent.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The weight limit is 105 kg (231 lbs). The activity may be denied to those over this weight for safety reasons.

How long does the entire experience take?
The activity lasts around 3.5 hours, including check-in, safety briefing, the scenic flight, the jump, and the return.

Where do I meet for the jump?
You meet at the Outdoor Interlaken Base, with transportation to the Reichenbach airfield, about a 30-minute drive.

Are photos and videos included?
No, they are available at an extra charge, roughly 170 CHF. Many reviewers recommend booking the media in advance if possible.

Can I drive myself to the airfield?
Yes, you can drive, but space on the bus is reserved for jumpers. Spectators need to arrange their own transportation.

Is the experience available year-round?
Yes, the activity operates daily, regardless of season, rain or shine.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Dress warmly if jumping in winter.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak English and German, ensuring clear communication throughout.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your travel plans.

In the end, if you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with an adrenaline rush, this skydiving experience from Interlaken is hard to beat. It’s a perfect choice for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, eager to see Switzerland from a perspective that few get to enjoy.