Maspalomas Dunes – a desert wonder in Gran Canaria

The Maspalomas Dunes(Spanish: Dunas de Maspalomas) is one of the most recognizable places in Gran Canaria and a true natural phenomenon. If you are planning a vacation in Gran Canaria, this is one of the places you definitely need to see.

How the dunes of Maspalomas came to be

This unique landscape, reminiscent of the Sahara desert, was created more than thousands of years ago as a result of natural geological processes and the action of the ocean.

According to studies by geologists, the sand that makes up the dunes comes mainly from crushed shells and corals that the ocean has thrown ashore. Over the centuries, wind and sea currents have shaped them into vast sand fields, creating spectacular dunes covering more than 400 hectares. Today, the area is protected as a nature reserve – Reserva Natural Especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas.

Here you will find a huge area of dunes that look like a desert, endemic plant species, as well as the Charca, or pond, which is an ideal place for ornithological observation. As many as 24 endemic bird species can be found here, including: royal herons.

Where are the dunes located?

The Maspalomas Dunes are located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, in the area of San Bartolomé de Tirajana – right next to the tourist towns of Maspalomas and Playa de Ingles. If you stay overnight in these towns, you can easily get there on your feet. Others can take public transportation or a cab.

Interesting facts and stories about the Maspalomas Dunes

🌞 “Desert on the ocean ” is the most common term for this place. It has been used more than once as a film set, including for desert-themed productions, as the landscape is confusingly reminiscent of North Africa.

🐫 Camel rides – this is one of the region’s biggest tourist attractions. The tradition dates back to the 1960s, when local residents began offering dune rides to tourists to introduce them to the “desert” experience without leaving the island.

🌊 Legend of Maspalomas – according to local stories, the name “Maspalomas” comes from the name of the Spanish sailor Rodrigo Mas de Palomar, who came to the island in the 16th century and settled in its southern part.

How to visit the Maspalomas dunes?

Our recommended route: the entrance to the dunes area is near the famous Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse, near the beachfront promenade. From there you can walk along the trail, about 30 minutes towards the viewpoint.

When: You’ll see the most beautiful views at sunrise or sunset, when the sun gives the sand a golden, warm color and the wind sculpts new shapes in the dunes. At sunset you can see colorful landscapes in the sky as if painted by the Impressionists.

Tips:

• Bring sunglasses and headgear, as the sun can be very intense, as well as water
  
• Avoid entering protected areas marked with placards – remember that the dunes are part of the Reserva Natural Especial reserve
  
• If you plan to walk in the dunes, it’s best to do it in the morning or late afternoon, when the temperature is cooler.
  
• Also worth a visit is the nearby La Charca lagoon, where you can observe migratory birds and unique vegetation.
  

Want to experience an amazing adventure in the dunes? You can tandem skydive and land right on the dunas of Maspalomas 👉 check out the tour description here.

Why see the Maspalomas dunes?

The Maspalomas Dunes are one of the most photogenic places in the Canary Islands (known as the Gran Canaria photospot). The combination of ocean, desert sand and blue sky creates a magical landscape that you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. It’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll, a photo shoot or simply a moment of respite in nature.

📸 Don’t forget your camera – sunsets over the dunes are breathtaking!