You can fly all year around in Tapalpa, but most pilots consider November to March to be the best season to fly. With June and July being the worst due to the rain season. However, others have suggested that the Spring is best, and that despite the rain the summer months are also really good to fly. We recommend the spring for Cross-Country fanatics, and find the summer quite unpredictable and fast changing weather while you fly.

Winter (December to February) is the dry season, and conditions are generally stable with clear skies and light winds, which is ideal for paragliding. It's one of the best times to fly because the winds tend to be calm and predictable, with cooler air contributing to nice lift.

Spring months (March to May) are excellent for paragliding due to the increasing thermal activity. The conditions are typically calm in the mornings and early afternoons, with moderate to strong thermals starting in the late morning and peaking in the early afternoon.

Summer (June to August) is the rainy season in Tapalpa, but rainfall tends to be in the form of brief, intense afternoon showers. The morning and early afternoon hours are often flyable, with good thermals, but you need to be prepared for quick changes in weather, especially around the afternoon. The winds can also become stronger in the late afternoon, making it a bit trickier to fly.

Fall (September to November) is another great season for paragliding in Tapalpa. The weather tends to stabilize after the summer rains, with calmer conditions in the mornings and thermals becoming reliable in the early afternoon. Temperatures start to drop, and the risk of rain decreases as the dry season approaches.

Although generally not too turbulent, the flying conditions can sometimes be quite strong here, and the thermals occasionally a little tricky to work, especially on the hot days. This requires active piloting and if you are just new out of school than you can better take some guidance from the local school in Tapalpa first.

Thermals and Lift:
Due to Tapalpa’s elevation, thermals are generally strong and provide good lift for cross-country flights, especially in spring and summer. The cool mornings and warm afternoons create ideal conditions for soaring, which is why this area is popular with experienced paragliders.
The altitude also means that pilots can access higher flight paths more quickly, giving them more opportunities for extended flights.

Wind Conditions:
Winds are generally light and manageable, but they can pick up in the late afternoon, particularly during the summer months. Early mornings typically offer the most stable conditions, with light winds that allow for smooth launches and landings. Stronger winds during the late afternoons and especially in the rainy season can lead to turbulence, so pilots need to be cautious, especially if venturing out for longer flights.
Note: The wind will often be East in the morning and switch West late morning to early afternoon. You can't launch with west wind, so timing is important.

Rainfall:
The rainy season can limit flying opportunities, particularly during the afternoon when thunderstorms can develop. These storms often bring gusty winds and turbulence, so paragliders usually avoid flying when these weather patterns are imminent. However, mornings are typically rain-free and provide excellent conditions for flying.

Flying in Winter in Tapalpa:
The dry and cool winter conditions are often the best time to paraglide, with consistent weather patterns, little to no rain, and optimal thermals. The cooler air helps pilots gain altitude more easily and stay in the air for longer periods. The relatively calm winds also make for smooth flying conditions.

Note: The wind will often be East in the morning and switch West late morning to early afternoon. You can't launch with west wind so timing is important.

Tapalpa is located in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, and is known for its temperate climate, which makes it a great destination for paragliding. The town sits at an elevation of about 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) above sea level, which contributes to its cooler and more stable weather conditions compared to lower altitudes in Mexico. Prepare for chilly nights, especially during the winter months.

Daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during most of the year. Summer temperatures can be higher, particularly in the afternoons, but it rarely gets unbearably hot.