Imagine soaring down the largest urban sand dune on the planet, where every turn sends a rush of adrenaline through your veins and the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean take your breath away.
This hidden gem, located just outside a vibrant coastal city in Chile, offers an unforgettable adventure that combines thrilling sandboarding with breathtaking landscapes.
On one side, you have views of the city combined with the crashing ocean waves; on the other, a different type of ‘wave’ – made entirely of sand.
Sandboard au Cerro Dragon
colline du dragon, or Dragon Hill, is the largest urban sand dune on the planet, located just outside Iquique, Chili.
This massive dune stretches approximately 4 kilomètres and rises between 150 à 500 mètres de haut, depending on where you measure.
Its unique shape has earned it many other nicknames like “Brain Dune” (cerveau des dunes) but its more common name reflects its dragon-like silhouette when viewed from certain angles.
Formed around 20,000 il y a des années by coastal winds from the Pacific Ocean, this natural wonder has become a playground for sandboarders and adventure enthusiasts.
Its unique shape resembles a dragon lying in wait, which is how it got its name.
As a prominent landmark in Iquique, Cerro Dragón attracts visitors looking for both excitement and une vue imprenable.
Il va sans dire, sandboarding at Cerro Dragón is an experience like no other and one that you can only experience at this specific location.
The dune’s slopes vary in height and steepness, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Beginners can start on gentler inclines while more experienced riders can tackle the steeper sections.
Guided tours are readily available, providing participants with sandboards, casques, and protective gear.
Instructors offer essential tips on techniques and safety, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the thrill of gliding down the sandy slopes.
The activity typically lasts about two and a half hours, including instruction and time spent on the dunes.
Sandboarding Like Nowhere Else
The views from Cerro Dragón are breathtaking and what makes this experience so unique.
As you ascend the dune, you can see Iquique and the vast Pacific Ocean stretching out before you.
The sunsets here are particularly striking; as the sun sets over the ocean, it casts vibrant colors across the sky and illuminates the sands in a golden hue.
This picturesque setting not only enhances the sandboarding experience but also provides excellent opportunities for la photographie.
Many visitors take advantage of these moments to capture their adventures against one of nature’s most beautiful backdrops.
Cerro Dragón was designated as a Nature Sanctuary dans 2005 to protect its unique geological features from urban development and pollution.
This designation has helped raise awareness about the ecological importance of the dune and has led to efforts to clean up litter and preserve its natural beauty.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain as visitors sometimes leave trash behind.
Local organizations have been working hard to promote environmental stewardship through events and educational programs aimed at highlighting the dune’s significance.
For those interested in experiencing this incredible dune firsthand, guided tours are widely available.
Prices typically start around CLP $35,000 (environ $47 USD) per person, which includes transportation from local hotels, all necessary equipment, and instruction from experienced guides.
The tours are designed to accommodate both individuals and groups, making it easy for anyone to join in on the fun.
Participants should come prepared with comfortable clothing, crème solaire, des lunettes de soleil, et beaucoup d'eau to stay hydrated while enjoying their time on the dunes.
En plus du sandboard, Cerro Dragón is also popular among paragliders who launch from its heights to soar over the coastline.
This combination of activities makes it a hub for outdoor sports enthusiasts looking for adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Visites recommandées
Chili Sandboarding AssuranceNous recevons des frais lorsque vous obtenez un devis de Nomades du monde en utilisant ce lien. Nous ne représentons pas Nomades du monde. Ceci n'est pas une recommandation d'acheter une assurance voyage. Les activités couvertes peuvent changer en fonction de votre destination et de votre pays de résidence.
Carte de sandboard en Amérique du Sud
Pete Leoni est le fondateur de Sand-boarding.com et un accro à l'adrénaline depuis toujours qui a troqué les pistes contre les dunes.. Quand il n'est pas occupé à gérer le site, tu peux le trouver en train de s'attacher sur une planche, à la recherche de nouveaux spots, ou perfectionner sa technique sur les sandboards les plus épiques du monde.