Paragliding in Saint-Leu: everything you need to know about the Colimaçons takeoff

Colimaçons: the iconic paragliding spot in Réunion Island

The Colimaçons takeoff sits at 800 metres above sea level in the highlands above Saint-Leu, on the west coast of Réunion Island. This is where the vast majority of paragliding flights in Réunion begin introductory flights, discovery flights, and even the Paragliding World Cup, an international competition held here every year.

The site is world-renowned for the quality of its flying conditions: the island's central highlands naturally shield the west coast from the trade winds, creating consistent thermals and ideal conditions for tandem paragliding.

What does a tandem paragliding flight look like?

A paragliding baptism flight in Réunion unfolds in four stages, from the ride up to the takeoff site all the way to landing on the beach.

The ride up to the takeoff

You reach the Colimaçons site by car or shuttle from Saint-Leu. The road climbs through sugar cane fields and filao forests the panorama over the west coast starts opening up before you even leave the ground. On arrival, your state-certified instructor welcomes you, answers your questions and walks you through the key steps.

The takeoff

Harnessed in front of your instructor in a tandem paraglider, all you need to do is run a few steps down the slope. The wing inflates, stabilises, and in two strides the ground disappears beneath you. No sense of falling just an unexpected lightness that catches almost everyone off guard.

The flight above the lagoon

From Colimaçons, a paragliding flight above Saint-Leu's lagoon gives you a 360° panoramic view of:

• The ravines and cliffs of the west coast
• The sugar cane fields stretching below
• The Mascarin botanical garden and Kélonia, the sea turtle observatory
• The turquoise lagoon of Saint-Leu and the Indian Ocean as far as the eye can see

Your instructor uses thermal updrafts to extend the flight and give you the best possible views. Depending on your package, light acrobatics or guided piloting may be on offer.

Landing at Kélonia

The discovery flight ends with a smooth landing at the Kélonia landing zone, directly on the beach in Saint-Leu, right by the lagoon. Your instructor handles the approach and touchdown all you have to do is enjoy those final seconds in the air.

When is the best time to go paragliding in Saint-Leu?

Paragliding in Réunion Island is possible all year round on the west coast, with an average of 300 flyable days per year. The high season October to December is particularly popular: thermals kick in from around 9:30 AM, and late afternoon flights, sometimes stretching to a sunset over the Indian Ocean, are often possible.

Flying conditions can vary from one day to the next depending on weather and wind. If your flight is cancelled for weather reasons, Ouisy will automatically offer you a reschedule or a full refund.

Why Colimaçons is perfect for a first flight

Colimaçons has been the reference site for tandem paragliding in Saint-Leu for decades. Here's why:

• Consistent conditions: the west coast aerology is among the most reliable on the island for tandem flights.
• Open to everyone: no physical requirements, from age 5 upwards.
• State-certified instructors: your safety is in the hands of experienced professionals.
• Smooth logistics: shuttle, briefing, beach landing everything is designed so your aerial experience is seamless and unforgettable.
• Exceptional views: soaring above Saint-Leu's lagoon is one of the most breathtaking aerial perspectives in Réunion Island.

Other paragliding sites in Réunion Island

Other paragliding spots exist on the island Maïdo, Bellemène, Dos d'Âne, Les Makes, Grand Coude and some offer truly breathtaking scenery. But they are very rarely used for introductory flights:

• Maïdo (2,000 m, overlooking the Mafate cirque) is a mountain-type site with powerful thermals suited only to experienced pilots. The flying window is narrow, the takeoff demands advanced technical skill.
• Other sites (Bellemène, Dos d'Âne, Les Makes) face logistical or weather constraints that make organising regular tandem flights impractical.

Colimaçons remains the best-equipped site for a safe and sensation-packed first paragliding flight in Réunion Island.

What to bring on your paragliding day

• Closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops or sandals)
• Comfortable clothes suitable for light walking
• A light layer if you run cold at 800 m it can be fresh in the morning

All flight equipment (harness, helmet, suit if needed) is provided by your instructor. Photo and video options are available at booking to capture your tandem paragliding flight in Réunion.

Book your tandem paragliding flight in Saint-Leu

With Ouisy, booking your paragliding flight in Saint-Leu is fully online and takes just a few clicks:

• Check real-time availability on our interactive calendar
• Choose your time slot, package and options (long duration, photos/video, acrobatics)
• Pay securely online by credit card or PayPal
• Receive your confirmation and meeting details by SMS and email

If weather conditions prevent your flight, we'll offer you a reschedule or a full refund. Discover our partners to complete your stay with other outdoor activities in Réunion Island.

Frequently asked questions about paragliding in Saint-Leu