Iquique, una vivace città costiera nel nord del Cile,is home to a unique attraction that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Conosciuto come Dragon Hill o Dragon Hill, questa colossale duna di sabbia si estende per circa 4 chilometri all'interno della città, creando uno spettacolo naturale che lascia un'impressione duratura.
Con una superficie di 337.53 ettari, Cerro Dragon si erge alto come un emblema dell'identità e del fascino di Iquique.
Si trova lungo la zona litoranea del Deserto di Tarapacá, rendendola la più grande duna di sabbia urbana del mondo, superato solo dalle possenti dune del Sahara.
Sorge da una stretta cengia rocciosa che precede una rupe alta 500 metri, questa maestosa formazione naturale occupa un posto di distinzione nel paesaggio di Iquique.
Con attività come sandboarding e giri in moto, Cerro Dragón offre anche un'esperienza unica ed emozionante per i viaggiatori che desiderano aggiungere un po' di pepe al loro itinerario.
Origin and Characteristics
The Dragon dune originated approximately 20,000 years ago due to the action of coastal winds. It spans approximately 4 kilometers in length and covers an area of 337.53 ettari.
The dune is situated on a narrow, roccioso, low marine terrace that precedes a 500-meter high cliff facing the city of Iquique on the coast of the Tarapacá desert.
The Cerro Dragón dune is believed to have formed during the last glaciation period, when the sea level was 100 meters further inland, exposing the coastal edge to erosion and sedimentation by wind.
In data odierna, the dune is no longer fed by coastal winds and is therefore considered a relic.
Impact of Urbanization
The growth of Iquique has impacted the dune. Before it was declared a nature sanctuary, construction permits were granted on its western slope, leading to the removal of large volumes of sand to create space for construction.
In data odierna, Cerro Dragón is managed by the Municipality of Iquique and serves as a venue for various recreational and sports activities.
Its unique location between the urban settlement of Iquique on the low marine terrace and the growing urbanization of Alto Hospicio on the pampa, along with its open, imposing, and original landscape, gives Iquique a unique identity.
In recognition of its unique characteristics, Cerro Dragón has become a symbol for the Iquique community, forming an integral part of their territorial identity. Its geomorphological features and stunning natural beauty have also made it an important tourist attraction and a focus of scientific studies.
On April 18, 2005, Cerro Dragón was declared a National Monument in the category of Nature Sanctuary, reflecting its heritage value and its scientific, cultural, natural, and tourist importance.
The Legend of the Dragon Dune
Nel regno del folklore, Dragon Hill custodisce una leggenda intrigante. Secondo la credenza popolare, un colossale drago espulso dalla Cina molto tempo fa ha trovato il suo luogo di riposo sulle rive di Iquique. Ha cercato di impadronirsi della terra e incutere timore nella vicina tribù Changos.
I racconti raccontano dell'estremo dominio del drago, che ha portato anche al rapimento della figlia del capo tribù.
Si dice che la tana del drago risieda alla periferia di Cerro Dragón, avvolto nel mistero e accattivante l'immaginazione della gente del posto e dei visitatori.
Sandboarding al Cerro Dragon
Cerro Dragón is not just a geographical marvel, but also a hotspot for adventure sports, particularly sandboarding.
The dune’s vast expanse and varying slopes make it an ideal location for both beginners and experienced sandboarders.
There are several sandboarding schools in Iquique, such as Munay Sandboard and Sandboard Iquique, offering lessons and expeditions to Cerro Dragón.
These schools provide all necessary equipment, including boards and helmets, and professional instruction to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
A Unique Sandboarding Experience in Iquique
The sandboarding experience at Cerro Dragón is unlike anywhere else. The adventure begins with a brief instruction session to familiarize participants with the correct use of the boards on the sand.
Following this, participants can slide down stretches ranging from 20 a 30 meters under the supervision of an instructor.
As they gain confidence, they can try longer stretches and experience the adrenaline rush that this sport offers.
Sandboarding at Cerro Dragón has significantly contributed to Iquique’s tourism.
The thrilling rides, coupled with the stunning views of Iquique city, attract adventure enthusiasts from around the world.
The dune’s status as the largest urban sand dune in the world further adds to its appeal.
Tour consigliati
Assicurazione contro il sandboarding in CileRiceviamo una commissione quando ricevi un preventivo da Nomadi del mondo utilizzando questo collegamento. Non rappresentiamo Nomadi del mondo. Questa non è una raccomandazione per l'acquisto di un'assicurazione di viaggio. Le attività coperte possono cambiare in base alla destinazione e al paese di residenza.
Mappa di sandboarding del Sud America
Pete Leoni is the founder of Sand-boarding.com and a lifelong adrenaline junkie who traded the slopes for the dunes. When he’s not busy running the site, you can find him strapping on a board, scouting new spots, or perfecting his technique on the world’s most epic sandboards.