Parapente Iquique Alto Hospicio

The main takeoff point at 516 meters in Iquique, Chile, offers easy access with a car park nearby. This site is ideal for beginners looking to experience cross-country (XC) flying, providing stunning views where the desert meets the ocean. It's a popular spot for soaring and thermalling, with excellent XC potential. Public buses and taxis can easily get you there, and paragliding shuttles are available during the high season from the flight park. The wind is predominantly from the west or southwest, with thermals starting late in the morning and sometimes reaching up to 1000 meters. If you use the tarp to protect your wing from dust, please remember to pay for it. For those planning large XC flights from Iquique, be cautious. The conditions can change rapidly, and the area includes large desert patches and cliffs with no landing options except the sea. It's essential to plan your flight carefully and proceed step by step. The takeoff faces west towards the ocean, benefiting from a clean breeze from the Pacific, although the wind can shift north or south. The launch area is spacious, accommodating about ten pilots at a time. Tandem pilots have priority, so give them space. Be aware of potential airspace closures due to a nearby military base. The ridge is flyable all day, with beautiful sunset views over the ocean. Beginners usually start flying around 10 am before the thermals strengthen. For those interested in big XC flights, it's recommended to drive south to Patillos or San Marcos and fly back north to Iquique. Iquique offers year-round flying, with approximately 340 flyable days per year. The best months are November through March. The region rarely experiences rain, and the cold Humboldt Current creates consistent lift, making it easier to stay airborne. For more detailed information, you can visit: - [Zion Paragliding](https://www.zionparagliding.com/flight-blog/site-guide-iquique) - [Antofaya](http://www.antofaya.com/iqq/) Public transport is reliable, with buses 121 or 3B available from the market on Barros Arana street, near the intersection with Latorre street.