Skydive São Paulo: Tandem Freefall Over Brazil’s Big Sky
From a 12,000-foot leap to a soft touchdown in Boituva, here’s how to make your first jump unforgettable.
The prop wash tugs at your jumpsuit as the aircraft banks over a patchwork of green—sugarcane fields, cattle pasture, the glinting thread of a river angling toward the horizon. Boituva, the skydiving heartland of Brazil, fans out beneath the wing like a map you’re about to step into. Your instructor leans close, voice calm over the engine’s hum, reminding you of the simple choreography you practiced ten minutes ago: hips forward, head back, legs tucked, smile. The door slides open and the wind shows its teeth, playful and insistent. This is the moment you traveled for.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive early for the best weather window
Morning air is typically smoother in Boituva and thunderstorms tend to build later in summer. Early check-ins increase your odds of flying.
Dress for the slipstream
Wear close-fitting athletic layers and lace-up sneakers; avoid loose items and jewelry. Tie back long hair for comfort under the harness and goggles.
Know the limits
Maximum weight is 114 kg; an extra fee applies over 98 kg. Participants under 18 or over 65 should contact the operator in advance.
Eat light, hydrate smarter
Have a light meal 1–2 hours before your jump and sip water steadily; heavy meals or going hungry can increase nausea at altitude.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The spectator lawn at the Centro Nacional de Paraquedismo—great for watching landings up close
- •Sunset views from nearby country roads west of the airfield when the last loads come in
Wildlife
Southern lapwing (quero-quero) patrolling the grass, Crested caracara riding thermals over the fields
Conservation Note
Respect the airfield environment: stay in designated areas, pack out trash, and keep noise and drone use away from flight operations to protect wildlife and safety.
Boituva’s Centro Nacional de Paraquedismo helped establish the city as Brazil’s skydiving capital in the 1980s, hosting national competitions and training for generations of jumpers.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Balanced winds
Challenges: Occasional showers, Variable cloud ceilings
Spring brings comfortable air and improving visibility with some instability. Early-day slots are often the smoothest.
summer
Best for: Warm temps, Vivid green landscapes
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Higher humidity and heat
Hot, humid days dominate; storms frequently build after midday. Aim for morning jumps and hydrate well.
fall
Best for: Stable air, Clearer vistas
Challenges: Intermittent fronts, Breezy afternoons
Autumn often delivers reliable conditions and crisp views, with passing fronts that can pause operations.
winter
Best for: Crisp visibility, Generally stable conditions
Challenges: Cool temps at altitude, Occasional cold fronts
Cool, dry air yields excellent visibility and fewer storms. Dress in layers for the chill above 10,000 feet.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Close-fitting athletic layersEssential
Snug clothing reduces flapping fabric and keeps you comfortable during freefall and under canopy.
Lace-up sneakersEssential
Secure, flat-soled shoes are required for safety and a smooth landing.
Hair tie or buff
Keeps long hair contained and prevents tangles under the helmet and goggles.
Motion-sickness tablets
Helpful for those prone to nausea during small-plane flights or spinning under canopy.
Common Questions
How high do you jump and how long is freefall?
Jumps typically exit around 12,000 feet with approximately 50 seconds of freefall before the parachute opens.
Can I wear glasses or contacts?
Yes. Goggles that fit over prescription glasses are provided, and contacts generally work well under goggles.
What are the weight and age policies?
The maximum weight is 114 kg, with an extra fee for participants over 98 kg. Participants under 18 or over 65 should contact the operator in advance for specific requirements.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Skydiving is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe due to wind, cloud ceiling, or storms, your jump may be delayed or rescheduled.
Can I bring my own action camera on the jump?
For safety reasons, first-time tandem students are generally not permitted to carry cameras. Ask about professional photo/video packages available on-site.
Is transportation from São Paulo included?
Transfers are typically not included; most guests self-drive or arrange a private transfer to the Boituva dropzone. Confirm details when booking.
What to Pack
Lace-up sneakers for safe landings; snug athletic layers for comfort in freefall; hair tie or buff to secure long hair; government ID for check-in and age verification.
Did You Know
Boituva is widely regarded as Brazil’s skydiving capital and hosts the Centro Nacional de Paraquedismo, one of the largest and busiest dropzones in Latin America.
Quick Travel Tips
Drive from São Paulo via SP-280 (Castelo Branco); bring cash or a card for tolls. Aim for morning slots for calmer winds. Build buffer time for weather holds. Confirm weight/age policies and any video package options before arrival.
Local Flavor
Celebrate your jump Brazilian-style: grab fresh pastéis and caldo de cana (sugarcane juice) in Boituva’s town center, or linger over a rodízio at a roadside churrascaria along SP-280. Back in São Paulo, raise a post-flight toast with craft beer in Vila Madalena or unwind over pizza in Moema—both neighborhoods are local favorites.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: GRU (Guarulhos) and CGH (Congonhas). Dropzone: Centro Nacional de Paraquedismo in Boituva. Drive time: ~1.5–2 hours from central São Paulo via SP-280. Cell service: Generally good on the airfield and in town. Permits: None required for tandem; bring ID. Arrive early, expect a 10-minute briefing, and allow extra time for weather delays.
Sustainability Note
Skydiving operations are tightly regulated—do your part by minimizing single-use plastics, disposing of waste properly, and considering a carbon offset for your travel. Stay within designated spectator and landing zones to protect local grassland habitat.
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