Lomas de Arena

The Lomas de Arena are a field of pale sand dunes rising out of scrub and seasonal wetland on the southern edge of Santa Cruz, wind-formed from river sand and reaching up to twelve metres, with shallow lagoons in the hollows between them that fill and dry with the season. The combination of white dunes, water and tropical vegetation is unlike anything else near the city, and it is close enough for an afternoon. Climbing a dune gives a view over the plain and the city skyline. Waterbirds use the lagoons, and capybara, caiman and monkeys live in the surrounding scrub. The access track is sand and gets vehicles stuck, so a four-wheel drive or an organised trip is the practical way in.

What you actually see

• White sand dunes - wind-formed hills up to twelve metres high.
• Seasonal lagoons - shallow water in the hollows between dunes.
• Waterbirds and caiman - the wildlife of the wetland margins.
• The city skyline - Santa Cruz visible from the dune tops.

When to go

April to October for firm tracks; the lagoons are fullest after the rains from around March to June and dry out later. Sunset from the dunes is the popular time. Midday sun on white sand is punishing.

Honest expectations

The access track is deep sand and ordinary cars get stuck routinely. There is no shade and no water. Litter is a problem at the popular dunes. The park is close to the city and busy at weekends.

Nearby

Santa Cruz lies north; the Chiquitania begins east.