What is the best time of year for a paragliding experience in Chamonix?
Not sure when to book your tandem paragliding experience in Chamonix? Discover the best seasons to enjoy this activity safely.
You can fly in Chamonix year-round depending on when the ski lifts are open
Paragliding in Chamonix follows several seasons and the opening periods of the ski lifts.
Planpraz Brévent is open throughout the winter and summer seasons — from December to April and June to September. It is the valley's main site and an absolute must. It is the primary launch in Chamonix, offering the most accessible flights for all passengers. Easy to reach, easy take-off, flying face-to-face with Mont Blanc — it has everything. It's the Chamonix highlight.
Plan de l'Aiguille is open from December to late October. However, in winter and early spring it is not very practical — too snowy and wild. Most of the time during this period, take-off is not possible.
In July and August, flying here is strictly prohibited by ministerial decree, in order to keep the mountain rescue helicopter corridors clear.
This site is chosen in April, May and June and is particularly enjoyable in autumn: September, October and early November. During this period it really comes into its own. The air conditions are gentler than in spring and the scenery is breathtaking — the glaciers and autumn colours together are unmissable!
Aiguille du Midi is open from December to late October.
In July and August, flying here is strictly prohibited by ministerial decree, to keep mountain rescue helicopter routes clear.
We generally start flying from the Aiguille du Midi from February onwards, as temperatures begin to rise — and through to the end of October.
The opportunity to fly from the Aiguille du Midi is rare, as many favourable conditions must align: snowpack, ice, wind, crevasses, the condition of the ridge… and excellent physical fitness.
Winter: an extraordinary experience
Flying in winter above a snow-covered Chamonix is a unique experience.
Personally, it is my favourite flying season. Soaring over the ski slopes and glaciers glittering under the winter sun is fantastic! The days are dazzling with light and the scenery at its most beautiful, with the brilliant blue sky contrasting against immaculate white. A feeling of calm and serenity. Snow muffles all sounds. You often feel as if you're inside a dream. The town of Chamonix is wrapped in white and looks like a Father Christmas model village.
The mountain in its purest state. Otherworldly and soothing — incomparable sensations!
From February, thermals begin to stir again, gently. You see many chamois basking in the daytime sun to warm up. The raptors come back out!
During this period, you can fly comfortably all day long.
Spring: clear skies and ideal conditions
From April to June, the Mont Blanc massif awakens under a generous sun. Thermals develop, offering gentle flying conditions in the morning and more lively ones during the day. The days are getting longer — it is wonderful to spend time in Chamonix and fly. Nature is waking up; the spring landscapes, with the alpine meadows still snow-covered at altitude and lush green valleys below, make these flights particularly magical.
Summer: paragliding high season in Chamonix
June, July, August and September represent the most popular period for a paragliding experience in Chamonix. The days are long, the weather generally favourable and the flying conditions excellent. This is also the period of maximum sunshine — perfect for capturing stunning in-flight souvenir photos. Thermals are powerful during this period, and it is often preferable to fly in the morning for more comfortable conditions.
Autumn: breathtaking colours from the sky
From September to November, Chamonix dons its autumn colours. The golden larches contrast with the freshly snow-dusted summits, creating a unique visual spectacle from the sky. Like winter, it is one of the most beautiful periods. The contrasts between the colourful forests, the whitened mountains and the vivid sky are magnificent. Flying conditions remain excellent, often gentler, and generally allow flying throughout the day.
How to choose the best period?
The best time depends above all on your personal preferences and availability. To ensure the best conditions, we recommend booking in advance, especially in summer. Whatever the season, our state-certified instructors adapt every flight to the weather conditions to give you a safe and memorable experience.
When booking, listen to your instructor's advice on flight timing. Depending on the time of year, conditions are only suitable at certain times of day rather than others. Based on the thermals, flying at 8am can be very enjoyable while flying at 2pm in Chamonix can be very uncomfortable.
We will always advise you on timing to make your flight enjoyable and unforgettable.
Every day of the year can be favourable for paragliding in Chamonix. We generally fly from 10 December to 10 November. At any time of year we can have a glorious day — or a rainy (or snowy) one. In that case we do not fly.
We can also have a magnificent day that is simply too windy, in which case we cannot fly either.