Valle de Bravo is a vibrant Mexican town with an excellent flying season for the winter. There are so many other pilots visiting this town (especially in December-January), that it is unlikely you will feel lonely. Flying cross country in this region is a blast, mostly because it has some of the most consistent cross country flying conditions, combined with some stunning rugged landscapes. Many pilots go cross country in the morning and do another flight in the evening from the Torre launch right above town. This is where you get a perfect evening soaring flight with a long colorful sunset over the lake. Valle doesnt only assure a great flying adventure but also offers an opportunity to connect with other paragliding pilots, and has some excellent local and international food.

El Peñon Launch:
This is the famous cross country launch site in Valle de Bravo (Launch: 2,340m, Landing: 1,790m). It is a 45-minute drive from town. As you gain altitude here in a home thermal, you will have the opportunity for a proper cross-country flight, allowing you to cover significant distances and a promising paragliding adventure when you bomb out. Patient pilots are rewarded with glorious evening glass-offs.

Cross country magazine recommends the more advanced pilots to try the famous ‘Valle convergence’: “From El Penon hop to the G-spot and gain enough height to cross the valley to the Three Kings. Take this line to the Divasedero turnpoint, then follow the convergence line back across the mesa to the Monarch butterfly winter nesting area above the town of Saucos. The convergence needs a chance to set up so launch early, but wait until after 12:30 pm before you head off. After you’ve taken in the views of Nevada Toluca, return to the lake through the mountains and use Cerro Gordo to gain the necessary altitude for your victory glide to the cold beer waiting for you in the town landing zone.”

La Torre Launch:
Alternatively there is another launch, La Torre, located right above town where you can do a quick hike and fly to catch that evening soaring flight with a long colourful sunset over the lake. You'll be treated to breathtaking views of Valle de Bravo, the lake, and the surrounding mountains. Find the Strava link of the hike up below. Thanks for that Taylor!

First of all the flying conditions are super consistent and the scenery is stunning. Its a challenging site which makes flying interesting every day, and flying back to Valle de Bravo at the end of the day is very satisfying (and a good goal to have!).

During the months of December to March the conditions allow for long distance flights of over 100km, enjoying cloud bases of over 3,500m. Also, there are lots of other pilots which makes it fun to hang out, and learn from others. Also, the Mexican street food after landing!

This flying site is only suitable for beginners in the early mornings and late afternoons. There are strong thermals, gusts and strong winds. Don’t be complacent, fly with a local pro or school if you don’t have a lot of flying experience. Also more independent pilots are advised to fly with other pilots as the XC terrain could do with a bit of introduction.