Hang gliding and paragliding are popular from the mountains above Quito -- namely, Pichincha -- and the cliffs above Canoa and the tiny town of Crucita, both on the Manabí coast. While experienced pilots should be happy with the conditions, novices can also try the paragliding on a tandem flight, which can provide an unforgettable, bird's-eye view of the coast or highlands.
The Belgian-owned operator Terranova Trek (tel. 02/2253-327; www.terranovatrek.com) offers tandem flights in the Quito area, advice, transportation and support for pilots with their own gear, various paragliding courses, and a package tour for experienced pilots that includes flights in both the mountains and coast, as well as visits to national parks and other attractions. Tandem flights cost just $40 (£22), whereas the 16-day tour costs $1,300 (£715).
Parapente Crucita (tel. 05/2340-334; www.parapentecrucita.com), in the paragliding mecca of Crucita, has a hostel and flight school, rents equipment, provides transportation to the bluffs, and offers 10-minute tandem flights for $16 (£8.80). A 5-day paragliding course costs $250 (£138).
