Lomas de Arena Dunes

About this place

A curious regional park south of Santa Cruz, where broad white and golden sand dunes rise out of a green tropical plain, as if a piece of desert had dropped into the forest, with small clear lagoons filled by rain between the dunes. Visitors climb the soft dunes for views over the surrounding forests and plains, and some sandboard down the slopes. Many birds, including migrants, live in the lagoons and surrounding woods, along with reptiles and small animals, so it is protected for its biodiversity. The best time is early morning or just before sunset, when the heat eases and the sand changes colour. The last stretch of road is sandy, so a 4x4 or organised tour is best, as ordinary cars can get stuck. There is no shade on the dunes, so bring plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen. The lowlands are hot, humid and full of mosquitoes, so bring repellent and light long clothes, and ask your doctor about yellow fever vaccination. Bolivia is under a state of emergency with protests and road blockades, so check road conditions and your government's travel advice before the trip.