The Maspalomas Dunes are the image of Gran Canaria: more than 400 hectares of wind-shifted sand between Playa del Inglés and the Maspalomas lighthouse. They're a Special Nature Reserve and, although they look like an open desert, they have clear rules. This guide explains how to enjoy them without fines or heatstroke.
Book the essentials
| Activity | Rating | From |
|---|---|---|
| Camel ride through the Maspalomas Dunes | 4.5★ (5,263) | €18 |
| Day tour from Las Palmas: Guayadeque, Maspalomas and Mogán | 4.6★ (716) | €48 |
| Off-road buggy tour through the southern ravines | 4.8★ (3,728) | €65 |
What they are and why they're special
The dunes formed from sea sand carried and piled up by the wind, and they move every year. Alongside are a palm grove and La Charca de Maspalomas, a brackish lagoon where migrating birds stop. To the west stands the Maspalomas lighthouse (late 19th century), one of the island's symbols, surrounded by the Meloneras promenade.
How to get there and where to go in
- Dunes viewpoint (Playa del Inglés): the best panorama and the interpretation centre. Ideal for a first photo.
- Playa del Inglés: direct access to the sand from the promenade.
- Maspalomas beach and the lighthouse: access from the west side, by La Charca.
Buses from Las Palmas and the rest of the south stop in Playa del Inglés and at the Faro. By car, park at the shopping centres or near the lighthouse.
Routes and rules
You may only walk on the marked paths and along the shore. It's forbidden to leave them, build sand shelters or walls, disturb wildlife or leave litter. Part of the beach is naturist: don't be surprised.
⚠️ Warning: there's no shade or water in the dunes. Carry at least a litre per person, a cap, sunscreen and shoes you can take off at the shore. The sand gets extremely hot in summer.
The camel ride
On the Oasis side there's a centre with camels that do roughly 30-minute rides through the dunes area, with Sahrawi guides and two-seat saddles. It's short but very easy with children and the simplest way into the landscape without walking on sand.
When to go
At sunrise you'll have the dunes almost to yourself with wind-drawn patterns in the sand; at sunset, the prettiest light and birds on La Charca. Avoid midday in summer. If it's very windy, the sand stings: try another day.
Combine it with
- Meloneras and the lighthouse: a promenade with restaurants for dinner after sunset.
- Puerto de Mogán: 30 minutes by car.
- The summits: the Fataga ravine starts right behind Maspalomas. More ideas in what to see in Gran Canaria.
In one sentence
Go early or late, stay on the paths, bring water and enjoy one of Europe's most unusual landscapes.
