Santa Cruz: Lomas de Arena Sandboard – A Natural Playground
Imagine standing amidst vast sand dunes stretching over 6,000 hectares, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of wildlife—all just a short drive from Santa Cruz city center. For $45 per person, you can spend about four hours exploring this stunning Lomas de Arena area, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. Whether you’re after the thrill of sandboarding, want to enjoy unspoiled scenery, or simply seek a quiet escape from urban hustle, this tour offers an intriguing blend of adventure and nature.
What we love about this experience is how it combines active fun—like sliding down dunes on a board—with the chance to observe Bolivia’s distinctive ecosystem. Plus, the fact that transportation, entrance fees, and drinks are included means you get a lot of value for your money.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts four hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and outdoor exposure. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy authentic natural environments and are curious about Bolivia’s lesser-known landscapes. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a unique, hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Unique landscape: Explore over 6,000 hectares of sand dunes with lush surroundings.
- Wildlife spotting: Observe native plants and animals in their natural habitat.
- Sandboarding: Enjoy adrenaline-filled slides down the dunes.
- All-inclusive value: Transportation, entrance, guide, drinks, and activities covered.
- Accessible and flexible: Wheelchair accessible, with options to reserve and pay later.
- Great for outdoor lovers: Perfect for those wanting an active, nature-based excursion.
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What Is the Santa Cruz: Lomas de Arena Sandboard Tour?
This tour takes you from central Santa Cruz to the Lomas de Arena, a remarkable desert landscape that feels worlds away from the city’s bustling streets. Priced at $45 per person, the experience lasts approximately four hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure. The package includes transportation, entrance fees, a guided tour, wildlife observation opportunities, sandboarding, and refreshments—a nice bundle for travelers wanting a seamless experience.
The experience begins with pickup from one of two central locations in Santa Cruz, including the main square or a major mall. The exact pickup point can be arranged when you reserve, adding flexibility to your day. Once at the dunes, you’ll be guided through this fascinating ecosystem, learning about the plants and animals that thrive here amid the shifting sands.
Why We Love It
Two standout features are the knowledgeable guides—who make sure you see as much as possible—and the stunning vistas of mind-boggling dunes and lush surroundings. As one reviewer noted, “The guide was very nice and made sure I saw as much as possible,” reinforcing how important these guides are for a memorable trip. The chance to sandboard adds an adrenaline rush, especially for first-timers or anyone craving a bit of fun on the dunes.
A Potential Drawback
One consideration is the duration—a four-hour window that might feel short if you’re eager to linger in natural spots. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so those with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This?
This tour is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone curious about Bolivia’s distinctive landscapes. It suits travelers who want a fun outdoor activity combined with authentic scenery and the chance to learn about local flora and fauna.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Once your pickup is arranged, the journey to Lomas de Arena is straightforward. The ride, which is included in the price, helps you relax and settle in before arriving at the dunes. The environment here is a blending of desert and lush vegetation, creating a captivating contrast you’ll notice immediately.
Exploring the Dunes
Upon arrival, your guide will lead you through the dunes, pointing out the different plants and animals that inhabit this ecosystem. The dunes themselves are immense, with peaks that invite you to climb and slopes perfect for sliding down on a sandboard. As one guest raved, “The park itself is beautiful, and I was lucky to visit when it wasn’t crowded,” highlighting the importance of timing for a tranquil experience.
Wildlife Observation
The surrounding vegetation and varied terrain mean you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife—from birds to small mammals—adding an educational element to your visit. Guides are well-versed in local ecology, making the wildlife encounters more meaningful.
Sandboarding Fun
Sandboarding is the highlight for many, and you’ll find the dunes are ideal for both beginners and seasoned boarders. “You might find the dunes challenging at first, but it’s a lot of fun,” explains a visitor. The guides will help you learn how to balance and control your slide, and safety is emphasized.
Refreshments and Relaxation
The tour includes water or soft drinks to keep you hydrated after your activities. Expect to spend some time simply soaking in the quiet, scenic environment, disconnecting from city life and enjoying Bolivia’s natural beauty.
Experience Providers and Customer Feedback
Dennis Justiniano, the operator behind this tour, receives high marks for the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics. From the reviews, it’s clear that friendly guides make a huge difference—they ensure visitors see the best sights and get the most out of their time.
Kinga, a recent traveler, shared, “The guide was very nice and made sure I saw as much as possible,” emphasizing the value of good guiding. She also praised the beautiful scenery and the chance to visit when it was less crowded, describing the overall experience as “highly recommended.”
Practical Details and Tips
- Duration: Four hours, including transportation and activities.
- Price: $45 per person—considered good value given the inclusions.
- Pickups: Main square or large mall, flexible arrangement.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, water, biodegradable insect repellent.
- Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
- Languages: Guides speak English and Spanish.
- Cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
- Availability: Check current times and availability before booking.
Final Thoughts
The Santa Cruz: Lomas de Arena Sandboard tour offers a truly distinctive Bolivian experience—a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural curiosity. For those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and want to see a lesser-known side of Bolivia, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially compelling for travelers looking for authentic landscapes and the chance to try sandboarding, a fun activity that appeals to all ages.
The inclusion of transportation, guides, wildlife opportunities, and refreshments makes it a well-rounded package that’s both convenient and engaging. The high ratings and heartfelt reviews speak to the quality and authenticity of the experience.
In essence, this tour is an excellent choice for adventure-minded travelers eager to explore Bolivia’s unique ecosystems with knowledgeable guides in a setting that’s both beautiful and exhilarating.
FAQ
How do I get picked up for the tour?
You can be picked up from the main square in Santa Cruz or a large mall—details are arranged when you reserve.
What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, change of clothes, a camera, sunscreen, water, and biodegradable insect repellent to stay comfortable and protected.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the active nature and age restrictions suggest it’s best for older children and adults. Check with the provider about specific age requirements.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately four hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks.
Are guides available in both English and Spanish?
Yes, guides speak both languages, making the tour accessible to a wider range of travelers.
What makes this tour special compared to other natural excursions?
The combination of vast dunes, wildlife observation, and the fun of sandboarding in a less crowded setting makes this a memorable, authentic adventure.