Son Güncelleme Ocak'ta 30, 2024
Iquique, a vibrant coastal city in northern Chile,is home to a unique attraction that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Known as Cerro Dragón or Dragon Hill, this colossal sand dune stretches for approximately 4 kilometers within the city, creating a natural spectacle that leaves a lasting impression.
With a surface area of 337.53 hectares, Cerro Dragón stands tall as an emblem of Iquique’s identity and charm.
It is situated along the litoral zone of the Tarapacá Desert, making it the largest urban sand dune in the world, surpassed only by the mighty dunes of the Sahara.
Rising from a narrow rocky ledge that precedes a 500-meter-high cliff, this awe-inspiring natural formation holds a place of distinction in Iquique’s landscape.
With activities like sandboarding and motorcycle rides, Cerro Dragón also offers a unique and thrilling experience for travelers looking to add a little spice to their itinerary.
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 hectares.
The dune is situated on a narrow, kayalık, 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.
Bugün, 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.
Bugün, 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
In the realm of folklore, Cerro Dragón holds an intriguing legend. According to popular belief, a colossal dragon expelled from China long ago found its resting place on the shores of Iquique. It sought to seize the land and strike fear into the nearby Changos tribe.
Tales tell of the dragon’s extreme dominance, which even led to the kidnapping of the tribal chief’s daughter.
The dragon’s lair is said to reside on the outskirts of Cerro Dragón, shrouded in mystery and captivating the imaginations of locals and visitors alike.
Cerro Dragon'da kum sörfü
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.
Bir kaç tane var 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 ile 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.
Önerilen Turlar
Şili Sandboard SigortasıTeklif aldığınızda ücret alıyoruz Dünya Göçebeleri bu bağlantıyı kullanarak. Biz temsil etmiyoruz Dünya Göçebeleri. Bu seyahat sigortası satın almanız için bir öneri değildir. Kapsanan faaliyetler varış noktanıza ve ikamet ettiğiniz ülkeye göre değişebilir.
Güney Amerika Sandboard Haritası
Kum sporları dünyası ve çöl macerası seyahati hakkında 1 numaralı bilgi kaynağınız. Makalelerimiz kapsamlı bir araştırmanın sonucudur, kişisel deneyim, ve küresel sandboarding topluluğu içinde bilgi paylaşımı.
