The Maspalomas Dunes are the picture most people carry home from Gran Canaria. A protected nature reserve at the southern tip of the island, the dunes roll in pale golden waves between the resort of Playa del Inglés and the lighthouse district of Maspalomas, with a freshwater lagoon and a palm grove at one edge and a long, open beach at the other. Walking in is free, and the reserve has marked routes, but many visitors want to see the dunes from a camel. The safari we link to is a short camel trek through the dunes led by Saharawi guides, and it lasts about half an hour. It is a simple, slightly touristy and very photogenic activity, which is why it works so well for families and first-time visitors. Plan the walk and the camels together: the ride shows you the dunes from above the sand, and the walk afterwards lets you find a quiet spot of your own.
How it works
The dunes themselves are open to everyone, and you do not need a ticket to walk, photograph or swim at the beach on their edge. The camel safari is the paid part. You choose a date online, show your voucher at the camel station, and the guides lead your group in a caravan across the sand for about thirty minutes. Check the meeting details on your voucher before you set out.
What to expect
The sand is soft and the sun is strong, even in November, and there is almost no shade once you are inside the reserve. The best light is early morning and late afternoon, when the dunes turn orange and the heat eases. Wear a hat, bring water and keep your shoes on if the sand is hot.
Parts of the beach beside the dunes are clothing-optional, which is normal in this area and clearly separated from the family sections. Birds on the lagoon and the palm grove are a pleasant surprise for walkers.
Making the most of it
Pair the camel ride with a stroll to the lighthouse and the seafront promenade of Meloneras, or with a walk through the palm oasis. If you are staying in Playa del Inglés, you can walk to the dunes in about twenty minutes. Travel light, because there is little in the way of facilities inside the reserve itself.
What to expect
The experience
A free walk through a protected dune reserve, with an optional half-hour camel trek led by local guides.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the sand is cooler under foot.
How long
Allow one to three hours, depending on whether you add the walk to the lighthouse or the beach.
Tips
Bring a hat, sunscreen and water, since there is no shade, and take photos from the high crests of sand.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want the classic Gran Canaria photograph without a long drive from the south coast hotels.
- Families
- Children usually love the camels, but check the age and weight rules on the voucher before you go.
- Couples
- Walk the dunes at sunrise, then breakfast in Maspalomas or Meloneras.
- Pair with
- The lighthouse and promenade at Meloneras, or a dolphin and whale cruise from Puerto Rico.
- Time needed
- A morning or late afternoon, with the camel ride itself taking about thirty minutes.
Good questions
Do I need a ticket to visit the Maspalomas Dunes?+
No, the dunes are a free nature reserve and you can walk in without a ticket. You only pay if you add the camel safari or another activity.
How long is the camel ride in the dunes?+
The trek lasts about thirty minutes, led by local guides in a caravan. Allow a little extra time for meeting your group and for photos.
When is the best time to visit the dunes?+
Early morning and late afternoon are best, when the light is golden and the heat is lower. In November the weather is warm, but the sun is strong at midday and there is no shade.
Can I swim near the dunes?+
Yes, the beach beside the dunes is wide and popular, but currents and waves can be strong, so check the flags and swim where lifeguards are on duty. Parts of the beach are clothing-optional.
How do I get to the dunes from Playa del Inglés?+
You can walk from the centre of Playa del Inglés in about twenty minutes, or take a short taxi or bus ride. From Meloneras it is a pleasant walk along the seafront to the lighthouse.
