Skydiving is an exhilarating experience that gives individuals a thrilling sense of freedom and adventure as they leap from an aircraft high above the Earth. For many, it’s a bucket list item, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or even a gateway to exploring the sport more seriously. Los Angeles, with its picturesque landscapes and ideal weather conditions, is one of the most popular places for skydiving in the United States.
If you’re considering taking the plunge in Los Angeles, you may be wondering: How Much Is Skydiving in Los Angeles？The price of a skydiving jump varies depending on several factors such as the type of jump, altitude, location, season, and any added services or experiences you choose. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down all the costs involved, so you can plan your skydiving experience in Los Angeles with confidence.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Skydiving in Los Angeles
Before diving into the specifics of pricing, it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to the overall cost of a skydiving experience.
These include the type of skydive, the location, and additional services such as video packages or training. Understanding these factors will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of cost.
Type of Skydive – Tandem vs. Solo Jumps
The first significant factor that affects the price of skydiving is the type of jump you plan to take. In Los Angeles, the most common options are tandem skydiving and solo skydiving.
Tandem Skydiving: This is the most popular option for first-time jumpers. In a tandem skydive, you’re harnessed to an experienced instructor who will control the jump while you enjoy the thrill of freefall.
The instructor handles the parachute deployment, guiding you safely to the ground. This is a great choice for those new to the sport, as it doesn’t require any prior training.
Cost: Tandem jumps in Los Angeles typically range from $200 to $350 per jump. The price depends on the altitude and the location of the skydiving center.
Solo Skydiving: If you’re interested in learning to skydive on your own, solo skydiving might be an option. This requires completion of the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) course, which includes ground training and multiple jumps. Solo skydiving is significantly more expensive because of the required training and licensing process.
Cost: The AFF course typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on the number of jumps included and the skydiving school. Additional training, equipment rental, and certification fees may also contribute to the overall cost.
Jump Altitude and Location
Another factor that impacts pricing is the altitude from which you’ll be jumping. In most cases, skydiving operators in Los Angeles offer jumps from either 10,000 feet, 12,000 feet, or 15,000 feet. The higher the altitude, the longer the freefall time, and the more expensive the jump is likely to be.
10,000 Feet: Jumps from this height are often the most affordable, with prices generally falling in the $200 to $250 range.
12,000 Feet: For a higher altitude, expect to pay around $250 to $300. The additional altitude provides a longer freefall and a more breathtaking experience.
15,000 Feet: This is the highest standard jump and provides the longest freefall experience. Jumps from this altitude can cost between $300 to $350 or more, depending on the facility.
Some locations may offer an option for high-altitude jumps from 18,000 feet or above, but these are less common and usually come with a premium price.
Seasonality and Demand
Skydiving prices in Los Angeles can fluctuate depending on the season. Los Angeles enjoys nearly year-round favorable weather, but peak demand often occurs during the warmer months when tourists flock to the area. As with many other adventure sports, prices may be slightly higher during weekends, holidays, and peak tourist seasons. If you want to save money, consider booking a jump during the off-season or on weekdays.
Peak Season (May to October): Expect prices to be slightly higher due to increased demand, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Off-Season (November to April): There may be discounts or special promotions available during the off-season, and prices may drop slightly due to lower demand.
Additional Costs – Video and Photo Packages
Many skydiving centers in Los Angeles offer video and photo packages to capture your jump. These packages typically involve an experienced camera person who jumps alongside you to film your freefall experience. This service can significantly enhance your skydiving adventure, providing a lasting memory to share with family and friends.
Video and Photo Packages: These packages generally cost between $100 and $200 in addition to the price of your jump.
Some companies may offer a discount if you choose to combine both video and photo services.
If you’re looking for an even more personalized experience, some operators may offer GoPro rentals, where you can attach a camera to your harness and record your own footage.
Training Courses and Certifications
If you’re interested in pursuing skydiving as a hobby or sport, you’ll need to take a skydiving course to obtain certification.
The Accelerated Freefall (AFF) course is the most common training path for new solo skydivers. This involves classroom instruction, several jumps, and more advanced training to become a licensed skydiver.
AFF Course: The cost of the AFF course in Los Angeles can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the number of jumps included and the school. This course is often a requirement for those who wish to jump solo in the future.
Additionally, there are other training programs like static line training or tandem progression programs, each with different price points based on the intensity of the training and the required equipment.
Popular Skydiving Locations in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is home to a number of skydiving centers offering breathtaking views of the city, beaches, and surrounding mountains. Prices may vary depending on the location, but here are a few of the most popular places to skydive in and around LA:
Skydive Perris
Located about 90 miles east of Los Angeles, Skydive Perris is one of the most renowned skydiving centers in Southern California. The facility offers a wide range of jump options, including tandem skydiving, AFF courses, and advanced training. With jumps from altitudes up to 18,000 feet, it’s a popular choice for both beginners and experienced skydivers.
Pricing: Tandem jumps start around $210 for 10,000 feet, and higher altitudes can cost more. AFF courses start at approximately $1,500.
Skydive Santa Barbara
Skydive Santa Barbara offers stunning coastal views of the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the most scenic skydiving locations in the area. Tandem skydiving jumps start from around $220, and the facility offers a variety of add-ons such as video and photo packages.
Pricing: Tandem jumps from $220 for 10,000 feet, and video/photo packages can add an extra $100 to $150.
Skydive Los Angeles
Skydive Los Angeles is another highly popular choice, offering spectacular views of the city skyline, mountains, and even Catalina Island on clear days. Located in Blythe, this facility offers both tandem and solo skydiving options.
Pricing: Tandem jumps begin at $250, and solo courses like the AFF program start around $1,500.
Is Skydiving in Los Angeles Worth the Cost?
Skydiving is undeniably an expensive activity, but it’s also an unforgettable experience that many describe as life-changing.
When you factor in the adrenaline rush, the stunning views, and the sense of accomplishment, the cost of skydiving in Los Angeles becomes more than just a price tag. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that’s well worth the investment.
While it’s possible to find discounts or promotions (especially during off-peak seasons), it’s important to prioritize safety and quality when choosing a skydiving provider. Always check the credentials of the instructors, the condition of the equipment, and customer reviews to ensure you’re getting the best experience possible.
Conclusion
Skydiving in Los Angeles is an incredible adventure that comes with varying costs depending on factors like the type of jump, altitude, location, and any add-ons you choose. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $350 for a tandem jump, with solo skydiving courses costing significantly more due to the required training. Video and photo packages, as well as additional training, can add to the overall cost, but they enhance the experience significantly.