You lift off a volcano, for real. This tandem paragliding flight launches from Haleakalā, then glides over Maui with bicoastal views and distant island views.

You’ll get real perks that make the day feel “worth it”: expert instruction with a calm, clear approach from Paul, plus photos snapped inflight and shared after landing at no extra cost.

One thing to plan for: if wind conditions aren’t right, you may need to reschedule to get a good flight.

Key Points I’d Bookmark Before You Go

6,500-foot Ferns launch for big-time visibility

Run down the hill and fly like a bird, no cliff-jump

Pick your style: relaxed glides or high G roller-coaster maneuvers

Instructor takes inflight photos, then you get them after landing

Bi-coastal Maui central valley views, plus other Hawaiian islands in the distance

Alii Kula Lavender Farm entrance is included in the experience

The Drive to Haleakalā’s Ferns Launch Site

The day starts at the Alii Kula Lavender Farm. Plug that into your GPS, then look for Paraglide Maui flags and a green picnic table with a red umbrella right before the farm entrance. It’s a simple, easy-to-find start, which matters because the next part is the scenery show.

From there, you drive up the slopes of Mount Haleakalā. Along the way you pass through Kaonoulu Ranch pasture land, then continue through the Haleakalā Watershed Preserve forest. Even if you’re just there for the flight, I love that the ride builds anticipation. You’re climbing toward that launch elevation, and the air feels different as you go higher.

The launch site is at about 6,500 feet at the Ferns location. That altitude sets the tone for the whole experience: it’s high enough to get sweeping views quickly, and it gives your instructor room to tailor the flight once you’re up.

Why this matters: paragliding isn’t only about the moment you take off. The launch height helps you get more time with your head up, phone out, and eyes wide.

Running Takeoff, Quiet Flight, No Cliff-Jumping Drama

Here’s what I really appreciate: there’s no cliff-jumping. The process is straightforward. You run down the hill and then you’re flying.

That “run, then fly” setup is important for first-timers. It keeps the stress low and the focus on the sensation of going up and out. You’re not standing on a ledge thinking, okay, this is the part where things get scary.

Also, the flight is motor-free. No engines. No noise. It’s just air, wind, and your instructor handling the technical side while you take in the view.

What you’ll notice once you’re airborne is how calm it feels despite the height. The silence makes the whole experience feel more personal, like you’re borrowing the sky for a while instead of riding a machine.

Bicoastal Views Over Maui’s Central Valley (and Beyond)

Once you lift off, the panorama unfolds fast. You’ll take in bicoastal views over Maui’s central valley—one of the main reasons this flight stands out.

And it’s not only Maui. With the right visibility, you can see three other Hawaiian islands in the distance. That turns a great view into a “wow, look at the map up here” view. It’s the kind of scene that helps you understand where everything is, not just admire it.

Bring your phone or a compact camera. The flight includes plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, and the visuals are the star. Your instructor also takes photos inflight and gives them to you after landing with no additional charge, so you’re not stuck trying to capture everything one-handed.

Practical tip: start by taking photos early in the flight when you’re still fully oriented. Then later, when you’ve got the rhythm, you can focus more on looking than shooting.

Two Ways to Fly: Glide Like a Bird or Try the High-G Moves

Your flight can be tailored to what you want that day. With ample altitude available, your instructor can adapt the experience to your comfort level and energy.

If you want a smoother, scenic flight, you’ll glide around and enjoy the views from above. This is the best choice when you’re focused on photographs, slow moments, and the feeling of floating.

If you want adrenaline, ask about the exciting options. The team can demonstrate high G roller-coaster type maneuvers. That means you’re not locked into one style—you can treat the flight as either a visual journey or a controlled thrill ride.

One more detail I like: the instructors aren’t pushing one extreme over another. The idea is to make it your dream flight, so you tell them what you want and they make it happen.

Instructor Energy: Calm, Clear, and Hands-On

This experience wins a lot of fans because the people running it do the job with a steady vibe. In particular, Paul shows up again and again as the instructor who keeps things calm and easy to understand before, during, and after the flight.

That clarity matters more than you think. Paragliding has a lot of moving parts, and you’ll feel better if someone explains what’s happening in simple language. The instructors’ tone makes the experience feel safe and well run, not chaotic.

You may also get a chance to steer. That’s a fun way to add a feeling of participation without turning the trip into a technical lesson. It’s just enough control to make you feel connected to the flight.

English instruction is available, which is a big plus if you want to understand every step without hunting for translation.

Photos, Lavender Farm Entry, and What $413 Actually Buys

Let’s talk value, because this isn’t a cheap activity. At $413 per person for a 2-hour experience, you should feel like you’re getting more than a quick thrill.

Here’s what’s included that nudges the value in your favor:

• Tandem paragliding flight with an instructor
• Photos taken by your instructor provided after landing
• Entrance to the neighboring Alii Kula Lavender Farm

Those photos are a big deal. If you’ve ever tried to photograph an experience while also staying present, you know it’s hard. Having an instructor capture the key moments takes pressure off you and boosts the chance you actually walk away with great images.

The lavender farm entrance also changes the math a bit. It means your time at the start point isn’t wasted waiting around. You can turn the morning or afternoon into a double win: flight plus a local stop that fits the setting.

What’s not included is food and drinks. So plan on keeping yourself fueled before or after. A little snack strategy also helps if you’re sensitive to long breaks in sun.

Timing and What to Wear (So the Day Feels Easy)

The activity runs about 2 hours. That’s a useful length: long enough to feel like an outing, not so long that you spend the day stressed and hungry.

Dress for comfort. Wear clothes that work for running a bit at the start and that handle Maui sun. Sunscreen is recommended because you’ll be in bright light before you ever get to the best part.

Bring your camera, since you’ll want it for the views. And don’t forget this is an outdoor experience at elevation, so give yourself a few layers if you tend to get chilly higher up.

Who This Tandem Flight Suits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This is for adults and teens who fit the limits. It’s not suitable for children under 14, and it’s not suitable for people over 300 lbs (136 kg).

If you’re within those bounds and you want one of Maui’s most scenic, motor-free “up in the air” moments, you’ll likely love it. It also fits people who like choice. You can do it gently with gliding views, or turn it into a thrillier flight with high G maneuvers.

If you want a very calm, controlled experience, it’s also a good match because the team runs it with a safety-first approach and clear communication.

The Main Decision: Do You Want Quiet Views or a Controlled Adrenaline Hit?

Should you book? I’d say yes if:

• You want a silent, motor-free flight where the scenery is the point
• You like the idea of having inflight photos included
• You’re comfortable being outdoors and ready to run a short distance at takeoff
• You’re within the age and weight guidelines

You might think twice if wind conditions worry you. On at least one booking, the day’s conditions were not good, and the flight was moved to the next day. That’s not a reason to avoid it. It’s a reason to keep your schedule flexible and have a Plan B day nearby.

If you’re the type who wants a once-in-a-lifetime Maui moment with real professionalism behind it, this is a strong pick.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Maui paragliding flight?

Enter Alii Kula Lavender Farm in your GPS. You’ll see Paraglide Maui flags and a green picnic table with a red umbrella just before the Lavender Farm entrance.

How long is the tandem paragliding experience?

The duration is 2 hours.

What is included in the price?

Included: tandem paragliding flight, photos taken by your instructor, and entrance to the neighboring Alii Kula Lavender Farm.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

What language are the instructors?

English.

Are there age or weight limits?

Yes. It’s not suitable for children under 14, and it’s not suitable for people over 300 lbs (136 kg).

Can I bring my own camera?

Yes. Bring your camera or phone to capture the views. Your instructor will also take photos inflight.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is pay later available?

Yes. You can reserve now and pay later, with no payment required today.