Paragliding · Malia
The essentials
Explore Paragliding runs one tandem flight from Malia, rated 5/5 across 4 reviews, priced at a flat 175 €. The 1.5h experience is open to everyone, no prior flying experience required. You launch near Heraklion and glide above the northern coast of Crete, with the Mediterranean spread out below. Book directly with Explore Paragliding and confirm your slot at least a few days ahead, especially between May and September when demand peaks.
The offer
Frequently asked questions
What's the most intense moment of the flight?
The launch is the sharpest moment: you go from standing on a hillside to airborne in a few running steps. After that, the tandem glide above Crete's coastline is smooth and sustained.
Do you need to be afraid of heights to enjoy this?
A mild awareness of height is normal. Once you're in the harness and gliding, most passengers report the sensation shifts from vertigo to weightlessness. Your pilot from Explore Paragliding manages all controls throughout.
How long are you actually in the air?
The total experience runs 1.5h including briefing and gearing up. Actual airtime varies with thermals and wind conditions on the day.
Is this flight suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. The physicalLevel is listed as 'Everybody welcome', and it's a tandem format, meaning a certified pilot handles all flying. No training or fitness requirement applies.
Best time to go
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11.8°C | 32.3 mm | Good |
| February | 12.2°C | 47 mm | Good |
| March | 14°C | 52.5 mm | Good |
| April | 17.1°C | 17.8 mm | Peak |
| May | 22.2°C | 6.9 mm | Peak |
| June | 25.7°C | 2.7 mm | Peak |
| July | 27.9°C | 1.9 mm | Peak |
| August | 27.8°C | 1.5 mm | Peak |
| September | 24.6°C | 1.4 mm | Peak |
| October | 20.7°C | 18 mm | Peak |
| November | 16.7°C | 31.1 mm | Peak |
| December | 12°C | 70.7 mm | Good |
Practical info
Equipment
Wear closed-toe shoes with ankle support and comfortable, layered clothing since temperatures drop at altitude even in summer. Leave large bags behind: only small personal items fit in the harness.
Getting there
Meet the Explore Paragliding team at the Heraklion airclub on Epar.Od. Neapolis - Chersonisou in Avdou, roughly a 30-minute drive east of Heraklion city center.
See also
Paragliding elsewhere
Other activities in Malia
Updated March 2026