Skydive Algarve: Tandem Skydiving from 10,000 to 15,000 Feet
If you’ve ever thought about the ultimate adrenaline rush with a view to match, you might have just found your perfect adventure. Skydive Algarve offers tandem skydiving from 10,000 to 15,000 feet, giving you a chance to see the stunning Algarve coastline from a perspective few get to enjoy. While I haven’t personally jumped (yet), the vibe from reviews, the scenery, and the professionalism of this outfit paint a compelling picture of an experience worth considering.
What really shines here are the high-altitude jumps (up to 15,000 ft, the highest in Europe), and the quick delivery of professional-quality video and photos—ready to share within an hour. On the flip side, some travelers might want to plan for the 2-hour duration, which includes all the necessary steps, from briefing to landing. This experience is perfect for those craving a once-in-a-lifetime thrill with incredible scenery, a solid safety record, and a friendly, multilingual team.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- High-altitude jumps up to 15,000 ft, the highest in Europe, for an unforgettable freefall.
- Professional guides with thousands of jumps ensure safety and a calm experience.
- Breathtaking views of the Algarve coast, Atlantic Ocean, and surrounding landscapes.
- Video & photo packages delivered within an hour, capturing every jump moment.
- No prior experience needed—suitable for first-timers and thrill-seekers alike.
- Affordable price for such an exhilarating adventure, offering great value compared to similar experiences elsewhere.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Alvor.
What Makes Skydive Algarve Stand Out?
This skydiving operation focuses on combining safety, scenery, and professionalism. The fact that jumps can reach 15,000 ft makes it the highest tandem experience available in Europe, offering a longer freefall—around 60 seconds from 15,000 ft, compared to about 30 seconds from 10,000 ft. That extra half-minute of adrenaline is a real bonus for those who want maximum thrill and more time to marvel at the vistas.
The location itself is a big plus. Flying over the Algarve’s coastline, you’ll see rugged cliffs, golden beaches, turquoise waters, and the lush landscape—spectacular from any angle, but especially during the descent. The staff is praised for their professionalism and friendliness, with reviews highlighting their ability to put nervous first-timers at ease.
A major selling point is the instant delivery of video and photographs. Many reviewers mention how thrilled they are to receive footage within just an hour of landing—a perfect keepsake or shareable moment. This modern touch ensures you’ll have a high-quality record of your leap, which is often a key part of the experience for thrill-seekers.
The Itinerary: Step-by-Step
The experience, which lasts around 2 hours, is carefully structured to maximize safety and fun. You start at the Alvor airfield, a modest yet well-equipped location close to popular tourist hubs like Lagos and Faro. The check-in process is straightforward: arrive at your booked time (no early arrival needed), check in at reception, and sign a waiver if you haven’t already.
Briefing is short but informative—a 10-minute video explains body positions, equipment, and safety procedures. This prepares you mentally and physically for the jump. The staff is known for their clear instructions and friendly manner, which helps ease nerves.
Once suited up with a jumpsuit and harness, you meet your camera flyer if you’ve added a video package. Then it’s just a quick 5-minute wait before boarding the plane. The scenic 15-minute flight over the coast is a highlight in itself—an opportunity to soak in the views of Atlantic beaches, Alvor Bay, and the countryside.
The jump itself varies depending on your chosen altitude—from 10,000 ft (roughly 30 seconds of freefall) or from 15,000 ft (up to 60 seconds).** Many reviewers find the longer freefall from higher up to be worth the extra cost, as it extends the thrill and offers more time to take in the scenery during your descent.
After the jump, the parachute opens, and you enjoy about 5-7 minutes of peaceful canopy flight. This part is often described as surprisingly serene, with panoramic vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. Landings are at the airfield, where you’ll be greeted and helped out of your harness.
Once on the ground, instructors assist you in changing out of your jumpsuit, and you can collect your personal belongings. The team then presents your certificate of completion—a nice souvenir of your daring feat. As reviews confirm, the video footage is sent via email and WhatsApp within an hour, ensuring your memories are preserved almost instantly.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This skydiving adventure is a great fit for first-time jumpers and experienced thrill-seekers alike. The safety record and friendly guides give peace of mind, even for nervous flyers. It’s also a superb choice for those wanting a stunning scenic experience rather than just adrenaline.
Those on a budget will appreciate the value for money—the price of $203 per person is competitive, especially considering the high altitude and professional service. Plus, the option to upgrade on-site for longer jumps or video packages adds flexibility.
Travelers who enjoy spectacular scenery, friendly guides, and quick digital keepsakes will find this experience hard to beat. It’s suitable for anyone aged 16 and above, with the weight limit comfortably accommodating most adults.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Detailed Breakdown of the Experience
Arrival at the Airfield
The process begins at the Aeródromo Municipal de Portimão, a conveniently located site just minutes from popular spots like Alvor and Lagos. No need to arrive early—the scheduled time is your check-in time, which makes planning easier.
Once inside, you’ll fill out a waiver if needed, and a quick briefing sets expectations. The staff is praised for their clear communication, which helps reduce nerves—especially important if it’s your first time.
The Briefing and Gear Up
The short video explains body positions during exit, freefall, and landing—crucial details that ensure safety and confidence. You’ll be fitted with a jumpsuit, harness, and goggles, with staff making sure everything fits comfortably. If you’ve added a video package, you’ll also meet your camera flyer.
The Scenic Flight
The plane ride is a highlight—scenic views of the Atlantic, coastlines, and countryside unfold beneath you. The flight lasts about 15 minutes, giving ample time to appreciate the landscape.
The Jump
Depending on your chosen height, the jump will be from 10,000 or 15,000 feet. Many reviews mention the longer freefall from 15,000 ft as “the best part,” offering around 60 seconds of adrenaline-pumping descent. First-timers often describe the freefall as “surreal” and “thrilling,” with some saying they would do it again without hesitation.
Under Canopy
Once the parachute opens, the ride slows and turns peaceful. The canopy ride offers 5-7 minutes of panoramic views with opportunities for photos and videos. Many reviewers comment on how surprisingly calm and beautiful this part is, contrasting with the adrenaline rush of the freefall.
Landing and Aftermath
Landing at the airfield is smooth, with instructors assisting you out of your harness. The post-jump process includes collecting your belongings and receiving your certificate—a tangible memento of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Video & Photos
The instant footage is a standout feature. Reviewers have expressed delight at receiving their videos within an hour, capturing the leap’s excitement. These high-quality videos and photos add value and help share the moment with friends and family.
The Price and Value
At $203 per person, this experience sits comfortably in the middle of adventure pricing—probably less than similar high-altitude jumps in other parts of Europe. When you consider the professional guides, scenic location, and instant video delivery, it’s a good deal.
Travelers often mention how the Algarve’s prices for skydiving are more affordable than in England or other European hotspots, making it an attractive option for a bucket-list adventure.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Bring your passport or ID to check in seamlessly.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes—the jumpsuit and harness are provided, but you’ll want comfortable footwear.
- Book your jump well in advance because availability can fluctuate, especially during the year’s sunnier months.
- For those with height or weight considerations, the maximum weight is 100kg, but flexibility up to 110kg may incur extra fees.
- Make sure to reserve your spot ahead of time with the “reserve now, pay later” option, offering some flexibility if your plans change.
The Sum Up: Is Skydive Algarve Worth It?
This experience offers a dream-like view of the Algarve coast, combined with the thrill of jumping from the highest altitude in Europe. The professionalism of the guides, the safety record, and the stunning scenery make it a compelling choice for anyone craving adventure. The instant delivery of videos and photos makes it easy to share your feat with friends and family—a great bonus.
Ideal for first-timers and seasoned thrill-seekers alike, it’s an activity that delivers both adrenaline and awe. The value for money, given the high altitude and quality service, makes it a smart pick for those looking to tick a major bucket list item in Portugal.
If you’re comfortable with a bit of physical activity, have a sense of adventure, and want a moment that will stay with you forever, Skydive Algarve is hard to beat.
FAQ
Is prior experience necessary?
No, you don’t need any previous skydiving experience. The team is experienced with first-timers and will guide you step-by-step.
How long does the entire experience take?
The activity lasts about 2 hours, which includes check-in, briefing, gear-up, flight, jump, canopy ride, and landing.
Can I upgrade my jump?
Yes, on-site you can upgrade your jump from 10,000 to 15,000 feet for an extra fee, increasing your freefall time.
Will I receive video and photos?
Yes, if you add the package, you’ll get professionally edited footage sent to your email and WhatsApp within an hour of your jump.
Is it suitable for children?
Participants must be at least 16 years old. For those under 18, a guardian’s presence or consent might be needed.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. The jumpsuit and harness are provided at the site.
What is the maximum weight allowed?
The maximum weight is 100kg, though flexibility up to 110kg may be available with extra fees.
This skydiving adventure in the Algarve blends stunning landscapes, trusted professionalism, and a dash of daring, making it a top pick for travelers seeking an authentic, memorable adrenaline rush.
You can check availability for your dates here: