Imagine gliding through the air, taking in panoramic views of Hong Kong from a bird’s-eye perspective. This is the exhilarating experience offered by Hong Kong Hike ‘N’ Fly, a tandem paragliding operator led by chief pilot Emil Kaminski. Located at Ma On Shan’s Ngong Ping plateau in the New Territories, paragliding offers a unique way to view Hong Kong’s blend of natural landscapes and urban sprawl.
Paragliding, introduced to Hong Kong in the 1990s, has since developed a strong local community. In this sport, a pilot wears a harness attached to a wide, wing-like parachute. By skillfully pulling control lines and adjusting their body weight, they can steer through the sky. Though it may sound simple, Kaminski notes it’s a skill requiring practice and refined motor memory.
I arrived at the Ngong Ping take-off point after a 30-minute hike and waited for optimal wind conditions, which can sometimes mean hours of patience. Kaminski advises bringing snacks, water, and even a picnic blanket, as the timing of a flight depends heavily on the weather. Autumn and winter are considered ideal seasons for paragliding in Hong Kong due to their stable winds.
For beginners, tandem paragliding—flying under one wing with a licensed pilot—is an excellent way to experience this sport safely. Hong Kong Hike ‘N’ Fly was the first commercial operator authorized by the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) in 2015, and it’s also certified by the international Association of Paragliding Pilots and Instructors. Ngong Ping is one of eight approved paragliding sites in Hong Kong, each chosen for its clear take-off areas and convenient landing spots. Other popular locations include Dragon’s Back on Hong Kong Island and Sai Wan in the New Territories.
Finally airborne, I was amazed by the sweeping views of Sai Kung beaches, Tseung Kwan O skyscrapers, and beyond. Instead of the adrenaline rush I expected, the flight felt peaceful, even meditative, as Kaminski guided us smoothly through air currents. For Hong Kong residents or those on extended stays, paragliding is a unique way to explore the city’s natural beauty, far from the bustling urban streets below.
The sport is accessible to a wide range of ages and abilities, with inspiring participants like Ajmal Samuel, Hong Kong’s first licensed disabled pilot. Samuel’s journey to take-off requires assistance, but his experiences underscore the freedom paragliding provides. Whether for a one-time adventure or as a regular pastime, paragliding over Hong Kong offers a rare and breathtaking way to connect with the city’s outdoors.
READ MORE: