Experience Thrilling Adventures At These Sand Dunes Around The World

Sand dunes, with their rolling hills of golden grains and ever-shifting landscapes, offer some of the most exciting adventures in the world. From the heart-pounding intensity of dune bashing to the peaceful solitude of sunrise and sunset hikes, sand dunes can provide unique and unforgettable experiences that cater to adventurers of all levels.

The allure of sand dunes lies not just in their dramatic sweeping curves, but also in the diverse activities they host. Depending on where you are in the world, you can sandboard, paraglide, or stargaze. Each location, due to its distinct geological features and environmental context, offers unparalleled and unmatched experiences. 

While most sand dunes around the world are legally climbable, there are some subject to restrictions due to environmental, safety, or cultural considerations. Beyond that, some areas of specific sand dunes may be blocked off due to weather considerations at certain times of the year. Having said that, here are five incredible sand dune locations where adventure awaits you year-round.

Erg Chebbi is a magnificent stretch of the Sahara Desert, known for its sea of towering orange dunes that extend as far as the eye can see. Rising up to 500 feet (150 meters) high, these dunes offer a variety of thrilling adventures. For adrenaline junkies, sandboarding down the steep slopes or taking a 4x4 off-road adventure across the dunes is a must. Camel trekking is another popular activity here, allowing you to experience the tranquility of the Sahara. Picture yourself riding along as the sun begins to set, casting long shadows across the desert. Later, as the sun dips below the horizon, the sands take on a deep red hue, creating a mesmerizing backdrop. It's a magical experience that highlights the stunning colors of the Sahara. As the night falls, you can settle down for an evening under the stars in a traditional Berber camp, where you can fully absorb the desert's serene beauty.  

Erg Chebbi is located near Merzouga, a small town in southeastern Morocco. Getting to Erg Chebbi is an adventure in itself. Most visitors travel from Marrakech or Fes, with the journey taking about eight to ten hours by car. For a more scenic experience, consider taking the overnight bus or hiring a private driver. If you're planning a visit down, the best time to go is between October and May, when temperatures are more comfortable for exploring the arid desert. 

Nestled in the Peruvian desert, Huacachina is a small oasis surrounded by some of the tallest sand dunes in South America. This unique destination is a playground for adventure enthusiasts, and is a popular stop for visitors to Peru making their way to or from Machu Picchu. Sandboarding and dune buggy rides are the main attractions, with most nearby hostels and hotels offering easy access to these activities. 

Huacachina's steep dunes provide an exhilarating experience for both beginners and experts. Dune buggy rides are convenient and particularly thrilling, with drivers navigating at high speeds, making sharp turns, and tackling steep inclines and stops. If you're up for an added adventure, try sandboarding down the dunes for an extra rush of adrenaline.

These sand dunes are also renowned for their incredibly clear views of the sunset, making Huacachina a perfect spot for photography. The best time to visit is between April and September when the weather is cooler and drier. After a day of adventure, the peaceful atmosphere of the oasis offers a perfect balance. You can relax by the lagoon and take in the stunning desert scenery as the sun winds down. 

While an African lion safari might be one of the continent's most famous attractions, Africa offers much more to explore. In Namibia, the Naukluft Mountains are home to some of the continent's most impressive sand dunes. Located within Namib-Naukluft National Park, you can reach these remote dunes by flying into Windhoek, Namibia's capital. Then, embark on a five-hour drive through vast deserts and rugged mountains, which set the stage for the adventure ahead. 

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by towering dunes, some reaching up to 1,000 feet (300 meters) high. Climbing to the top of these dunes, particularly the famous Dune 45, rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. The climb is relatively easy, though a bit of slipping in the sand is to be expected. As you make your way up, the contrast between the red sand, white clay pans, and the deep blue sky becomes increasingly striking.  

To avoid a shirt-soaking experience, visit during Namibia's dry season from May to October when the temperatures are cooler and the skies are clear. 

The Dune of Pyla, also known as the Dune du Pilat, is located in southwestern France, about 37 miles (60 kilometers) from Bordeaux. It's the tallest sand dune in Europe, standing over 330 feet (100 meters) high and stretching nearly 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) along the coastline. The dune is easily accessible by car or public transport from Bordeaux, with regular train and bus services available. The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. 

Paragliding is a popular activity here, offering an exhilarating way to take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the dense Landes forest on the other. However, if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, hiking up the dune is a rewarding challenge, with magnificent views awaiting you at the top. 

Once you've explored, you can enjoy a picnic on the dune's sandy slopes  or explore the nearby Arcachon Bay, known for its oyster farms and charming coastal villages.  

Home to the world's largest gypsum dune field, White Sands National Park  in the U.S. boasts a surreal, otherworldly landscape. It offers some of many exciting adventures that thrill seekers can find in U.S. National Parks.  A gypsum dune field is a unique geological formation where the dunes are composed primarily of gypsum crystals, creating strikingly white sands. The park's white dunes stretch over 275 square miles, offering a mesmerizing view that seems almost alien. 

Sand sledding is a popular pastime here, with visitors sliding down the soft, powdery slopes on plastic sleds, easily purchased or rented at the park's visitor center. The park also offers several hiking trails, such as the Alkali Flat Trail, which takes you deeper into the heart of the dune field. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the unique flora and fauna that have adapted to this harsh environment, including the elusive white lizards and yucca plants. 

The park is located 15 miles southwest of Alamogordo, and is accessible by car from the nearest airport in El Paso, Texas.