Sandboarding at the Mogote Dunes

Sandboarding at the Mogote Dunes: A Thrilling Day in La Paz

Imagine standing atop a towering sand dune, your feet strapped into a sandboard, ready to carve down a golden slope. For those visiting La Paz, Mexico, this sandboarding tour at Mogote Dunes offers a fantastic way to combine adventure, natural beauty, and a bit of adrenaline — all in about four hours. The tour costs around $83.57 per person and is perfect for those looking for an active outdoor experience with plenty of guidance and safety measures.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the personalized attention from guides like Ger and Rodrigo, who are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and encouraging. Second, the variety of dunes and options for riding — whether you prefer standing, sitting, or even belly-flopping — makes it accessible to beginners and seasoned sandboarders alike.

A potential consideration is that the dunes are not enormous — as one reviewer noted, “sometimes the dunes are not very large.” For folks expecting towering, snow-capped peaks, this might be a slight letdown. But for most, the scenic drive, fun instruction, and the chance to try something new outweigh that small limitation.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and guided adventures. If you’re looking for a half-day of fun that combines natural beauty with a bit of thrill, this tour will fit the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Guided experience: Friendly, knowledgeable guides make the activity safe and fun.
• All skill levels welcome: Dunes for beginners and more experienced boarders are available.
• Transport included: Hotel pickup and a scenic drive to the dunes.
• Equipment provided: Sandboards, goggles, and bottled water or beers.
• Flexible riding options: Stand up, sit down, or lie on your belly — your choice.
• Duration: About four hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.

An In-Depth Look at Sandboarding at Mogote Dunes

Location and Logistics

The tour departs from Mariano Abasolo 2480, Zona Central, La Paz, a central location easy to access. The pickup service is a significant perk, saving you the hassle of arranging transport. From there, you’ll enjoy a roughly 20-minute drive through scenic cactus fields and desert landscapes towards the dunes. The drive itself is part of the adventure, giving you a preview of the rugged beauty that awaits.

Once at La Paz El Mogote, you’ll be introduced to your equipment — sandboards and goggles are provided to keep sand out of your eyes. You’ll also sign some waivers and receive a safety briefing, ensuring you’re comfortable before hitting the dunes.

The Sandboarding Experience

The core of this tour is a three to four-hour session on the dunes. The instruction is tailored to accommodate beginners and those with some experience. Guides like Rodrigo and Ger have earned praise for their kindness, patience, and expertise — crucial qualities when you’re trying to balance on a slippery, sandy slope for the first time.

You can choose your preferred method of descent — standing loose on the board, strapped in like snowboarding, or even taking a quick slide on your bottom or belly. This flexibility makes the experience accessible and stress-free, even if you’re worried about falling.

The Dunes and Scenery

While some reviewers mention that the dunes are not very large, the scenic drive through cactus fields and the views of La Paz’s coastline more than make up for this. The dunes are of varying sizes, so there’s plenty of terrain to try different tricks and routes. The photo opportunities are excellent, with sweeping vistas of the desert and ocean.

Refreshments and Relaxation

Hydration is vital in this dry environment, and bottled water is provided throughout. Some reviews mention beers being available, adding a celebratory touch after a few runs down the dunes. This relaxed vibe, combined with the friendly staff, makes the activity feel more like a fun outing rather than a grueling workout.

Authenticity and Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. Alexis mentions, “Our guide was extremely kind and helpful,” and Lucy notes that the knowledgeable guides made the experience enjoyable. Many found the price to be good value, considering the equipment, the scenic transport, and the personalized instruction.

One review highlights the scenic ATV ride to the dunes as a bonus, describing it as a “thrill,” which adds an extra layer of adventure. Others appreciated the informal, fun atmosphere — one reviewer said, “Very happy with the whole experience,” emphasizing how smoothly everything went.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended (average booking is 29 days ahead), especially during peak seasons.
• The activity operates every day from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, giving flexibility for different schedules.
• The experience is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and balancing are involved.
• Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.
• Cancellation is free if done more than 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a first-timer looking to try a new boardsport with minimal fuss, you’ll love the supportive instruction. For adventurers seeking scenic drives combined with outdoor fun, the tour delivers. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a memorable half-day activity that’s both active and scenic.

Those who appreciate authentic local guides and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere will find this experience particularly rewarding. Even if you’re worried about size or difficulty, the variety of dunes and the guidance ensure you can enjoy sandboarding at your own pace.

Final Thoughts

Sandboarding at Mogote Dunes near La Paz offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and guided expertise. It’s a fantastic way to spend a half-day, whether you’re after a thrill, a scenic drive, or just trying something new. For those who appreciate good value and friendly guides, this tour hits the mark.

While the dunes might not be enormous, the scenic backdrop, fun instruction, and flexible riding options make it a memorable experience. It’s best suited for active travelers, outdoor lovers, and those curious about sandboarding but looking for a beginner-friendly environment.

If you’re craving a unique, hands-on adventure in La Paz, this tour should definitely be on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the sandboarding tour?
The activity lasts approximately four hours, including transportation, safety briefing, and time on the dunes.

Is prior experience necessary?
Not at all. The tour welcomes beginners and experienced sandboarders alike, with guides offering tailored instructions.

What should I wear?
Bring sneakers, long pants, and a long shirt to protect against the sand. The guides provide goggles, but sunglasses and sunscreen are also a good idea.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in La Paz and a scenic drive to the dunes.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

What’s the price, and does it offer good value?
At around $83.57 per person, with equipment and guiding included, the price is quite reasonable for a full afternoon of outdoor fun.

Are drinks included?
Bottled water is always provided, and some reviews mention beers being available for a relaxed post-sand session.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While most reviews focus on adult participants, the activity is flexible and could be suitable for teenagers and active seniors, provided they have moderate physical fitness.

What makes this tour stand out?
The friendly guides, the scenic drive, and the variety of riding options make it a memorable and accessible adventure for many travelers.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.