Flying the Atlas Foothills
Essential information for pilots flying Aguergour and staying at Maison Faisal.
Paragliding in Aguergor
A well-known Atlas site combining ridge soaring, thermals, long glides and top landings.
NW facing ridge and thermal flying over plains.
Soaring, thermal flights, potential for small triangles (20km)
October to May. Can extend a month earlier and later based on weather.
Thermals start around noon, highest thermals around 3-5pm, while evenings often smoother and soarable until sunset.
Around 1,250 m ASL.
Around 800 m.
TakeOff – Access and Conditions
From Maison Faisal, it takes about 20 minutes car drive to reach take off parking. Then, either you hike for 20 min to reach take off point or continue by car if you have a 4x4. Check parking fees at that point if applicable.
Takeoff is on a rocky ridge overlooking the plains and the Lalla Takerkoust Lake, with 2 key launch areas which are cleared for take off. The ground is uneven and stony, so good shoes and careful wing preparation are essential. On good days you will find smooth cycles and clear airflow; on stronger days, expect more active piloting, especially in spring and midday hours.
Landing:
Highly recommend visiting the landing area and getting familiar with its location and surrounding before the first flight. Landing areas on the plains have two spots at the foot of the ridge below Aguergour. Pilots mostly use these open fields, which are marked, but with some small rocks, slight slopes, and farm areas. Advanced pilots can choose to top land at the take off when conditions allow. Avoid landing where there are crops.
Weather and Seaesonality
How The site evolve throughout the year :
Start of the season for solo pilots, autumn conditions, usually strong wind take off and decent thermals.
Milder conditions at take off, good thermals in afternoon and soaring before sunset
Stronger thermals and more dynamic air; great for experienced pilots, more demanding for beginners.
Often too windy and turbulent in the heat of the day; most pilots avoid midsummer except for very early or late flights with local guidance.
Flights, Ridges, and Quiet Evenings
A glimpse of Aguergour in the air and life at Maison Faisal between flights.
A quiet base close to the flying site.