Last Updated on February 17, 2024

Bolivia is one of the greenest countries and tropical heavens of South America, but it still makes for a great sandboarding destination. Even though it does not have any real desert, the Lomas de Arena (“sand hills”) near Santa Cruz are a very popular tourist destination where this activity can be practiced.

Lomas de Arena - Bolivia
Parque National Lomas de Arena. Santa Cruz, Bolivia.

Lomas de Arena – Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Lomas de Area National Park (Parque Lomas de Arena del Palmar) is a hidden gem less than a hour drive away from Santa Cruz. It consists of a naturally formed desert wit vast 12 meter tall sand dunes surrounded by tropical forests. The area is ideal for sandboarding, hiking, horseback riding and taking a swim in the nearby lagoons.

Getting there

If you are in La Paz the best way to reach Santa Cruz de la Serra is by airplane. There are several flights a day which last about 1 hour. From Santa Cruz de la Sierra city centre you can reach Lomas de Arena National Park in about half a hour by car, and it is also possible to arrange for a private sandboarding tour to pick you up from your accomodation. South America Backpacker and Ruta Verde Bolivia offer such tours.


South America Sandboarding Map

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