The Travel Blog

Two paragliders prepare their gear atop a mountain overlooking a misty lake and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.

Skydiving in Interlaken: Europe’s Ultimate Freefall Experience

Henry Blackwell April 26, 2025

Taking the Leap of a Lifetime

Ever dreamed of flying? Not in a plane, but really flying — soaring like a bird, with the wind rushing past and panoramic Alpine views sprawling beneath your feet? Welcome to skydiving in Interlaken, the crown jewel of high-altitude adventures in Europe. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by the towering Swiss Alps, Interlaken is more than just a postcard-perfect town. It’s a mecca for extreme sports enthusiasts.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a first-time thrill-seeker, this guide will walk you through what makes Interlaken one of the best places in the world to skydive. From preparing for the jump to what you can expect mid-air, plus practical tips and inspiring anecdotes — we’ve got everything covered to help you say yes to the ultimate European freefall.

Why Interlaken Is Europe’s Skydiving Capital

Jaw-Dropping Scenery

Picture this: you’re 14,000 feet above sea level. Below, the snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau sparkle in the sun. The turquoise glimmer of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz contrasts against lush green meadows and charming Swiss chalets. It’s not just a jump — it’s a visual spectacle.

World-Class Operators

Interlaken is home to some of Europe’s most reputable skydiving companies, offering tandem jumps, advanced skydiving courses, and professional video packages. Safety is paramount, and all instructors are certified under international regulations.

Accessibility for All Levels

You don’t need any prior experience to skydive here. Tandem jumps allow you to experience freefall without extensive training. For seasoned skydivers, Interlaken is also a popular stop for wingsuit flights and solo dives.

What to Expect from Your Interlaken Skydiving Experience

A hang glider with a red and white wing soars above a steep, rocky mountain under a partly cloudy sky.

1: Booking Your Adventure

Most skydiving packages can be booked online or through local adventure sports centres. Prices typically range from CHF 400 to CHF 500 for tandem jumps, including equipment, instructor, and transport.

Look for early-bird or group discounts if you’re travelling with friends.

2: Pre-Jump Briefing

Upon arrival, you’ll receive:

A safety briefing and basic overview of the jump procedure.
Gear fitting, including jumpsuit, harness, and goggles.
Time to ask questions and calm your nerves.

3: The Scenic Flight Up

The journey starts with a 20-minute scenic plane ride. As you ascend, your instructor may point out key landmarks, like the Aletsch Glacier or Schilthorn summit.

4: The Freefall

Once you reach altitude, the hatch opens. Your heart races. In an instant, you’re out the door.

Duration of freefall: ~45 seconds
Speed: Up to 200 km/h (125 mph)
Parachute opens at: ~5,000 feet

5: The Descent and Landing

After the adrenaline rush of freefall, the parachute ride down is almost meditative. You get a 360-degree aerial view of the Alps and surrounding lakes. Expect gentle steering and a soft landing in a field just outside Interlaken.

A First-Timer’s Anecdote: From Panic to Euphoria

“I almost backed out at the last minute. The idea of leaping from a plane terrified me. But my instructor, Marco, was calm and reassuring. The moment we jumped, fear vanished. It felt like flying, not falling. By the time we landed, I was crying — not from fear, but from pure joy.”— Priya, 28, first-time skydiver from London

Tips to Prepare for Your Interlaken Skydiving Experience

Clothing and Gear

Wear comfortable clothes and trainers.
Layers are ideal, especially in spring and autumn.
All skydiving gear will be provided.

Physical Requirements

Must be over 18 (some operators allow 16+ with parental consent).
Weight limits typically range from 95 to 100 kg.
No serious heart or respiratory conditions.

Mental Preparation

It’s normal to be nervous. Keep these in mind:

Trust your instructor — they’re highly trained.
Focus on deep breathing before the jump.
Remind yourself: thousands of people do this safely every year.

Best Time of Year to Skydive in Interlaken

A person relaxes in a chair, watching paragliders soar above a vast landscape with mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Spring (April–June): Crisp views and mild weather
Summer (July–August): Peak season, but breathtaking clarity
Autumn (September–October): Fewer crowds, golden foliage

Winter jumps are rare due to unpredictable weather, but may be available on clear days.

Safety: What You Need to Know

Skydiving in Interlaken is regulated under strict Swiss aviation laws. Operators must adhere to international safety standards.

Safety Features Include:

Dual parachutes (main and reserve)
Automatic activation devices (AADs)
Emergency response protocols

To dive deeper into safety measures, read How to Stay Safe During Extreme Sports Activities.

Capturing the Moment: Photo and Video Options

Most companies offer video and photography packages.

These include:

Handcam footage (GoPro on the instructor)
Outside camera flyer (professional flying alongside you)

Packages cost around CHF 100–200 extra, but are worth it for the memories.

What to Do in Interlaken After Your Jump

Skydiving might be the highlight, but Interlaken offers much more:

Lake Brienz boat rides
Hikes to Harder Kulm viewpoint
Day trip to Jungfraujoch – the Top of Europe
Local cuisine: don’t miss a fondue dinner or Alpine rösti

Skydiving vs. Paragliding in Interlaken: Which Should You Choose?

While both offer aerial thrills, they cater to different personalities:

Feature	Skydiving	Paragliding
Adrenaline Level	Extreme (fast freefall)	Moderate (glide-like descent)
Duration	5–6 minutes total	15–20 minutes
Equipment	Plane, parachute, harness	Wing, harness, no engine

Want to explore both? Check out Paragliding Over the Alps: A Bucket-List Adventure for a gentler alternative.

Environmental Considerations

Skydiving inevitably has a carbon footprint, but some operators now offer carbon-offset options. If you’re eco-conscious, ask your provider about their sustainability practices.

Conclusion: Your Skyward Adventure Awaits

A woman jumps joyfully on a hilltop, surrounded by colorful paragliders soaring against a clear blue sky.

Skydiving in Interlaken is not just about the rush. It’s about pushing personal boundaries, drinking in nature’s grandeur, and walking away with a memory that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s your first jump or your fiftieth, this Swiss paradise offers one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the world for a freefall.

So, what are you waiting for? Book that jump. Fly high. Land soft. Live boldly.

Ready to Leap?

Leave a comment below if you’ve skydived before or have questions about your first jump. Share this guide with your fellow thrill-seekers, or bookmark it for your next European adventure!