In November and December, Valle de Bravo enjoys mild temperatures ranging from 50F to 75F. During these months the conditions are ideal.
In November and December, Valle de Bravo enjoys mild temperatures ranging from 50F to 75F. During these months the conditions are ideal for paragliding - the rainy season has ended, skies are clear, and the famous "Hair Dryer" thermal cycle at El Penon operates at peak consistency. But Valle de Bravo is flyable well beyond those two months. Here is a complete breakdown of every month of the flying season, so you can plan your trip around the conditions that match your goals and skill level.
The Short Answer
November and December are the best months overall. November offers the cleanest air and most pleasant temperatures. December delivers the strongest thermals and best XC conditions. January through March are also excellent with gradually decreasing consistency. April through October is rainy season - mornings can be flyable, but afternoon thunderstorms are common and conditions are variable.
For a detailed breakdown of the site itself, read our complete Valle de Bravo guide.
November: The Season Opener
November marks the beginning of peak season. The rainy season has ended, typically by late October, and November skies settle into the clear, dry pattern that defines Valle de Bravo flying.
- Thermal strength: 2-4 m/s average. Moderate, well-organized, and readable.
- Cloudbase: 10,000-12,000 feet ASL
- Temperature at launch: 50-75F (10-24C)
- Flyable days: 6 out of 7 in a typical week
- Crowds: Moderate. Season is starting but not yet at peak.
November is the best month for beginners and pilots building thermal skills. The conditions are strong enough to be productive but not so aggressive that less experienced pilots feel overwhelmed. The air is clean from the recent rains, visibility is excellent, and the thermal pattern is settling into its most predictable rhythm.
Read our detailed November conditions guide.
December: The Strongest Month
December is when Valle de Bravo is at its absolute best. The weather pattern is fully established, the air mass has dried out completely, and El Penon's thermal cycle operates at maximum power.
- Thermal strength: 3-5 m/s average. Noticeably stronger than November.
- Cloudbase: 11,000-13,000 feet ASL
- Temperature at launch: 45-72F (7-22C). Cooler mornings than November.
- Flyable days: 6-7 out of 7. The most reliable month of the year.
- Crowds: High. Peak season plus holiday travelers.
- XC potential: Best of the year. Thermal streets develop well, cloudbase is high.
December is the best month for XC pilots. The stronger thermals and higher cloudbase create the conditions for longer transitions and more ambitious routes. Flights of 40-60km+ are achievable for experienced pilots. It is also the most popular month, so launches can be busy and trip spots fill up months in advance.
Read our detailed December conditions guide.
January: Still Excellent
January continues the peak season pattern with conditions very similar to December. The practical differences are minimal.
- Thermal strength: 3-5 m/s average
- Cloudbase: 10,000-12,000 feet ASL
- Temperature: 45-70F (7-21C). The coolest month of the season.
- Flyable days: 6 out of 7
- Crowds: Moderate to high. Holiday crowds have thinned but season is in full swing.
January is a sweet spot for pilots who want December-quality conditions without the holiday premium. Fewer crowds mean more personal attention from instructors and a more relaxed atmosphere at launch. If your schedule is flexible, January is an underrated choice.
February: Good and Getting Quieter
February conditions are still very good, though thermals may be slightly less powerful than the November-January peak on average.
- Thermal strength: 2-4 m/s average
- Cloudbase: 10,000-11,000 feet ASL
- Temperature: 48-73F (9-23C). Warming slightly.
- Flyable days: 5-6 out of 7
- Crowds: Lower. Many international pilots have headed to Roldanillo, Colombia for the stronger XC conditions there.
February is a good value month. Conditions are still reliable, groups are smaller, and you get more personal attention. For pilots who are flexible with their timing and want a more intimate trip experience, February works well.
March: The Season Winds Down
March is the transition month. The dry season pattern is starting to break down, and conditions become more variable.
- Thermal strength: 2-4 m/s average, but with more day-to-day variation
- Cloudbase: 9,000-11,000 feet ASL
- Temperature: 52-78F (11-26C). Warming.
- Flyable days: 4-6 out of 7. Some days are outstanding, others are lighter.
- Crowds: Low.
March is best for pilots who are flexible and comfortable with variability. When March delivers, the flying is excellent. When it does not, you get a ground school day or a rest day to explore town. The lower crowds and warming temperatures have their own appeal.
April through October: Rainy Season
The rainy season runs roughly from late April through October. This does not mean no flying - mornings can be excellent, with thermals developing early and conditions being good until early afternoon. But afternoon thunderstorms are common and can develop quickly.
- Thermal strength: Variable. Can be strong in the morning, shut down by afternoon storms.
- Temperature: 55-80F (13-27C). Warmer and more humid.
- Flyable days: 3-5 out of 7. Mornings often flyable, afternoons unpredictable.
- Who should come: Experienced pilots who are comfortable with variable conditions and flexible scheduling. Not recommended for first-time visitors or pilots who need consistent conditions to practice.
Air Damien runs trips primarily during the November through March peak season. If you are interested in rainy season flying, contact Damien to discuss conditions for your specific dates.
Best Month for Beginners vs XC Pilots
Best for beginners and skill building: November
Moderate thermals, clean air, comfortable temperatures, manageable crowds. Pair this with a thermalling clinic for the ideal learning environment.
Best for XC pilots: December
Strongest thermals, highest cloudbase, longest thermal window, best thermal street development. Pair with the XC clinic for maximum distance.
Best value: January or February
Excellent conditions with fewer crowds and potentially better pricing. January offers December-like conditions. February is slightly lighter but still very good.
Book Your Trip
Peak season (November through March) fills up, especially December and November. We recommend booking 2-4 months in advance for your preferred dates. Check out the 10 Day Package or our clinic schedule to plan your trip.
For a complete breakdown of the site, launches, gear, and logistics, read our complete Valle de Bravo guide.