Tandem paragliding at Ushkonyr is a passenger flight with an experienced pilot from a hillside take-off in the Trans-Ili Alatau foothills, about 40 km from Almaty, Kazakhstan. The site lies near Ushkonyr and Kargala villages in the Almaty region, with take-off at about 1,960 m. Flights typically last 7-15 minutes, and passengers glide above the foothills with views toward the Kapshagay area and the snow-capped Zailiyskiy Alatau range, depending on the day's visibility.
No flying experience is needed, because the pilot controls the wing throughout. Passengers need to be able to walk a short distance on uneven ground and run a few steps at launch, and basic fitness is enough. Age and weight limits are set by each pilot team, so families with children should ask when booking. The helmet and harness are supplied by the pilot, while passengers bring closed shoes with ankle support, a warm layer, gloves and sunglasses, since it is cooler and windier at take-off than in Almaty.
Flights are offered by local tandem pilot teams, such as Atmosfera, which is listed on sxodim.com. There is no single dominant operator, and the meeting point is arranged by the pilot because the site is reached by driving through Ushkonyr and Kargala. Reported prices run from about KZT 20,000 to 45,000 per tandem flight depending on flight duration, plus roughly KZT 500 for the transfer to the meeting point. Visitors should confirm the pilot's licensing and insurance directly before paying, as this information is not always published.
Safety depends on the pilot's briefing before launch, which covers the run-out, how to sit in the harness, and landing position, together with wind checks on site. Flights are cancelled or postponed when wind is too strong, gusty or from the wrong direction, and the reserve parachute and radio contact with the landing area are standard practice. In an emergency, evacuation is by road vehicle from the landing zone to clinics in the Almaty region.
The best season is May to September, when thermals and stable conditions are most frequent. Flights are weather dependent year-round, so a flexible schedule is wise. Strong wind, rain, low cloud and midday turbulence in the hottest part of summer are the conditions to avoid; early morning and evening usually give the smoothest air.
| Price | Reported about KZT 20,000-45,000 (approx USD 43-96) per tandem flight depending on duration; transfer to the meeting point about KZT 500 (approx USD 1) |
|---|---|
| Duration | Half day including transfer |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | May to September |
| Address | Ushkonyr paragliding site, Almaty region (meeting point arranged by the operator; drive through Ushkonyr and Kargala villages) |
Activity facts
- Where
- Ushkonyr, Trans-Ili Alatau foothills, about 40 km from Almaty
Equipment
- Closed shoes with ankle support
- Warm layer and gloves
- Sunglasses
- Helmet and harness supplied by the pilot
Location
Ushkonyr paragliding site, Almaty region (meeting point arranged by the operator; drive through Ushkonyr and Kargala villages)
43.1267, 76.4679 View on map
Highlights
- Tandem flight of 7-15 minutes from a take-off at about 1,960 m
- Views over the Trans-Ili Alatau foothills and distant snow-capped peaks
- No experience required; the pilot flies and supplies helmet and harness
- Reachable in under an hour from Almaty
Tips for visiting
- Book a flexible day; flights depend on wind and are often postponed.
- Wear closed shoes with ankle support, plus a warm layer and gloves for the take-off.
- Ask the pilot about licensing, insurance and whether a camera or GoPro mount can be used.
- Choose early morning or evening for calmer air than the midday summer thermals.
- Confirm the meeting point and transfer in advance, as the site is reached via Ushkonyr and Kargala.
When to visit
May to September, in the morning or evening when the air is calmer.
Accessibility
Take-off requires walking on uneven slopes and a short run, so the activity is not suitable for most wheelchair users; ask the pilot team about options.
Frequently asked questions
Do passengers need paragliding experience?
No. The pilot controls the wing and supplies the helmet and harness; passengers only need to follow the briefing at launch and landing.
How long does a flight last?
Flights typically last 7-15 minutes, with the whole outing taking about half a day including transfer.
How much does a tandem flight cost?
Reported prices are about KZT 20,000-45,000 depending on duration, plus around KZT 500 for the transfer to the meeting point.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Pilots postpone or cancel flights when the wind is unsuitable, so a spare day in the schedule is advisable.