Paragliding in Saragani at SAFI Ranch, Seguil, Maasim : An Unforgettable Experience

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Maasim, Sarangani, SAFI Ranch has become a haven for adventure enthusiasts seeking the thrill of paragliding. With panoramic views of mountains, sea, and lush greenery, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the best spots for paragliding in the Philippines.

The freedom of flying above the stunning scenery is an unforgettable experience, offering both adrenaline and tranquillity at once.

Getting to SAFI Ranch, Seguil

Before diving into the exhilarating details of the flight, it’s essential to know how to get to SAFI Ranch. The ranch is located in Seguil, Maasim, which is about a 45-minute drive from General Santos City.

Ablog Terminal  near the General Santos bus terminal is a van terminal that offers a ride from General Santos City to Maasim, Kiamba and Maitum Sarangani Province.
The fare is about P60. 

When you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by natural beauty. The ranch is perched on a hillside, offering sweeping views of the Sarangani Bay, the tuna canning factory, and the surrounding mountains, providing the perfect backdrop for your paragliding adventure.

First-Time Flyers: What to Expect

As someone who had never been paragliding before, I had my fair share of nerves leading up to the flight. However, the moment I arrived at the ranch, I was greeted by Titoy Romano and friendly, professional staff who instantly put me at ease. If it’s your first time, you might be apprehensive, but trust me when I say you’re in good hands.

The experience begins with a detailed pre-flight briefing. The instructors at SAFI Ranch are highly trained and certified, with years of experience, so even if you’re a complete novice, you’ll feel safe and supported. 

Before the flight, you’ll have a full induction where the instructors explain the gear, the process, and most importantly, the safety measures.

The Pre-Flight Induction

During the induction, the instructors go over the equipment, explaining the harness, the canopy, and how the wind conditions play a crucial role in your flight. They will also discuss what you can expect in the air and the necessary body movements for takeoff, steering, and landing.

For tandem flights, which is typically what first-timers will experience, your pilot takes care of the steering, but you’ll still need to understand how to sit comfortably in the harness and adjust your body weight. The briefing is comprehensive, yet straightforward, and it gives you a clear idea of what to expect.

One of the key things to remember is to relax and follow your instructor’s guidance. If you’re feeling a bit anxious (as I was), it helps to ask as many questions as you need to put your mind at ease. Once the briefing is over, and you’re strapped into your harness, the excitement really starts to kick in.

Taking Off: A Rush of Adrenaline

After last minute safety checks on my harness and a reminder of how to run and how to insert arms behind the harness straps, my pilot Titoy Romano gave the all clear.

The takeoff process at SAFI Ranch is smooth and well-coordinated. You start on a grassy hillside, where the winds are monitored carefully to ensure optimal conditions. As you stand there with the canopy behind you, the breeze against your face, and the rolling hills before you, a rush of excitement surges through your body. The instructor counts down, and in a few brisk steps, you feel the ground disappear beneath you.

The initial lift-off is exhilarating. For a brief moment, there’s a surge of adrenaline, and then you find yourself gliding effortlessly in the air. The transition from running to flying is surprisingly smooth, and before you know it, you’re soaring above the landscapes of Sarangani.

Up in the Air: Serenity and Spectacle

Once you’re airborne, the experience transforms from a heart-pounding thrill to a serene spectacle. Suspended high in the sky, the world below looks like a peaceful painting—green fields, the sparkling blue of the bay, and the distant outline of mountains. The feeling of floating in the air is almost surreal, as if time has slowed down.

For me, the most magical part was the quiet. Despite the wind gently rushing past, there’s an overwhelming sense of peace. You feel as if you’re alone with the sky, the clouds, and the earth far below. The view from above is unlike anything you could imagine, offering a perspective that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring.

One thing I hadn’t anticipated was the sense of control. Although the pilot is responsible for the flight, they often give you a brief moment to hold the handles and guide the paraglider, allowing you to feel the subtle way the glider responds to the wind. It’s a liberating sensation, almost as if you’ve become one with the air.

Safety Tips for Paragliding at SAFI Ranch

While Paragliding in Saragani is generally a safe activity, it’s essential to follow all the safety guidelines. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Listen to your instructor: The instructors are highly skilled and know the area, weather, and equipment inside out. Trust their expertise and follow their instructions closely.
2. Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid loose items that could get tangled, and wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the takeoff and landing.
3. Check the weather: Paragliding is weather-dependent, so it’s best to schedule your flight when the conditions are favourable. Wind speed and direction play a significant role, and the team at SAFI Ranch ensures they only fly when it’s safe.
4. Stay hydrated: It can get warm, especially during the ascent and takeoff, so make sure you’re hydrated before your flight.
5. Relax and enjoy the ride: The key to a successful flight is to relax and enjoy the experience. Paragliding is all about enjoying the freedom of flight, so let go of any tension and take it all in.

Landing: A Gentle Return to Earth

After around 15 to 20 minutes in the air, the pilot begins to descend gradually. Unlike the intense rush of takeoff, the landing is calm and gentle. As we neared the ground, the pilot gave instructions on how to position my body to ensure a smooth touchdown.

Touching down was as soft as stepping off a stair. With both feet firmly on the ground, I was still buzzing from the experience, my heart full of excitement, my mind replaying every minute in the air. The landing area is close to the ranch, making it convenient for you to debrief and unwind.

Post-Flight Thoughts

As I stood on the ground, looking up at the sky where I had just been, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Paragliding at SAFI Ranch was more than just a thrill ride—it was a moment of reflection, freedom, and wonder. The combination of the thrill of flight and the beauty of Sarangani made it a truly unforgettable experience.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply someone looking to step outside your comfort zone, Paragliding in Saragani at SAFI Ranch in Maasim is a must. The team, the views, and the experience are all top-notch, and whether you’re a first-time flyer or a seasoned adventurer, you’ll leave with a story to tell and memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Paragliding in Saragani at SAFI Ranch offers one of the best paragliding experiences in the Philippines. Its location, overlooking the stunning Sarangani Bay, creates the perfect environment for both beginners and seasoned flyers.

From the professional staff and my pilot Titoy Romano, to the exhilarating sensation of flying above the landscape, the experience is as close as you can get to feeling like a bird.

So, if you’re looking for an adventure that combines awe-inspiring views with a heart-pounding rush, head to SAFI Ranch, strap in, and prepare to soar.

How to Book a Flight

So after reading this you are really excited and ready to book your Paragliding in Saragani adventure.

Booking your Sarangani Paragliding Adventure is straightforward. A trip to Safi Ranch in Sitio Seguil offers a complete package at a cost of P3500 pax.

Included with the flight fee is a flight video taken by yourself and/or the pilot, a Flight Certificate that you can show your Mum, and all the necessary gear needed to keep you safe.

The flights themselves last up to 20 minutes at elevations ranging from 300 to 450 masl with breathtaking views of the landscape below.

To book a flight, a minimum of three people is required and a deposit of P1,500 is required. 

The best time for flying is in the morning from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, subject to weather and wind conditions. 

For further inquiries and reservations Visit Sarangani Paraglide’s Facebook Page or contact Titoy Romano on mobile numbers
0917 327 0113 or 0922 807 1961. 

Watch the full video of my paragliding flight in Sarangani

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