Last verified: September 25, 2024

Paragliding at the Chiquimula Base

The Flying Experience

The Ramp is a family owned adventure park located at approximately 1000m hight in the mountains backing the vibrant city of Chiquimula. This is likely the most extravagant paragliding site you will come across.

The take-off has an infinity pool, jacuzzi, high-end restaurant, lounges and eco lodges, all with incredible views of the Chiquimula valley. Even on rare non-flyable days you wont get bored as they have a rather exciting zip-line, hiking and mountain bike trails, they offer flights in trike (Ultralight Aircraft) or helicopter (with prior reservation) and even camel rides!

As a paragliding pilot you will feel incredibly spoiled, especially when sitting in the lounge, holding a cocktail watching the sun set behind the mountains.

What is exciting about this place?

If you like to be spoiled, La Rampa is a luxury adventure park and wont disappoint you. Its a beautiful place. For flying there is a beautiful volcano with a lake in it about 25km from La Rampa launch which is exciting to fly to.

Is it beginner friendly?

This location is used by beginners, and they even school some people there unofficially. However this does not mean it is a good place for beginners. The launch is unforgiving at error, and the landing site is thermic and technical.

What are the local regulations?

There are no regulations, no license is required to fly in Guatemala

Know before you go

Chiquimula can be pretty windy, and it is build in a location with Lee sides and rotors. Be careful to not get caught in the rotors. The two official landing zones are quite far and not always guaranteed arrival, especially if you do not check the wind directions well before you leave.

  • Terrain

    • Mountain

  • Pilot level

    • Independent
    • Expert

  • Flying Style

    • Cross Country
    • Paramotor
    • Tandem

  • Best Season

    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
1 4

Chiquimula Base

What is the Climate like?

What is the temperature?

The sun in Chiquimula is strong. You will need to wear a light longsleeve to cover your skin from the sun, and a hat to protect your face while packing. A light jacket is only recommended if you are planning to fly over 2000m, which is about 1000m over take-off.

When is best to go fly here?

Theoretically you can fly all year around in Guatemala. Dry season is usually around january to May, and rainy season usually starts around May. That doesnt mean its bad for flying. In Panajachel it might rain during the day, but in Chiquimula it usually only rains in the afternoon, and the thermals become a lot more beginner friendly. Plus, you get those beautiful low cloud blankets.

How is the Weather?

What are the flying conditions?

Hot. Especially in dry season. Chiquimula is definitely more hot than Panajachel. And whereas the temperatures at the Ramp are more bearable then down in the valley and in Chiquimula, you can count on strong thermal activity generated by this heat. The heat starts at about 10am, and it will last until sunset. Same with the wind, this place is windy and so you will have to look at the forecast before you fly. Whereas most days are flyable, many days will be too windy to fly after 1pm. The wind doesnt calm down towards the end of the day, it only gets stronger, until the sun sets. The prevailing wind comes from the North, but there are days where its South wind, for which they use a south facing take-off.

Check today’s weather:

The local pilots use the Windy app for weather, mostly for wind strength. It is pretty accurate, but there are no nearby weather stations.

Chiquimula Base

The Travel Experience

How to get there?

Fly to Aurora International airport and take a taxi to Guatemala city as there are no direct shuttles to Chiquimula. For Spanish speakers, direct busses to Chiquimula depart from the bus terminal, the trip takes about 4 hours and costs approx. 20usd. You might be changed into smaller or bigger busses along the way as they have a different transportation tax system inside and outside the capital. A direct Taxi or Uber cost roughly $130 and Takes nearly 3 hours. Or, rent a car, especially if you are not planning to stay at the Ramp.

Nearest airport: La Aurora International Airport

What to bring?

Check out our Packing List to find out what to bring on a paragliding trip. Apart from this list, the locals recommend you should bring the following:

Apart from this, the locals recommend you to bring some good vibes.

What to do on your day off?

Cannot fly today? Don’t worry, you can explore the heart of the city with visits to the Cathedral of Chiquimula and Parque Central, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.

The surrounding landscapes offer outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for eco-adventures, such as exploring the nearby caves and enjoying the scenic beauty of Laguna de Ipala. Or, for relaxation you could visit the local hotsprings.

Chiquimula's markets showcase the vibrant colors and flavors of Guatemalan culture, while the Archaeological Museum provides insights into the region's history.

Chances are you are feeling hot in this weather. In that case you could go to one of our recommended swim spots, check out the map.

Map coming soon!

Where do pilots stay?

Where do pilots eat, drink and hang?

Useful Contacts at Chiquimula Base

Fly with a School, Instructor or Guide

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Guatemala

There are some incredible places to fly in Guatemala. Find out more about paragliding in Guatemala, and how to make the most of your trip.

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