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A traditional red hammock under a thatched roof on a sandy beach

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Taroa Sand Dunes (Dunas de Taroa)

Massive golden sand dunes roll directly into the Caribbean Sea. These dunes are a focal point of any desert tour to Punta Gallinas.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

The Taroa Sand Dunes form a massive wall of sand at the northern edge of the South American continent. The high winds of the La Guajira Desert shape these constantly shifting hills.

Most 4x4 guided tours include a stop here. You can climb to the summit, sandboard down the steep slope, and swim in the ocean right at the base.

Aerial view of a rugged coastline meeting the ocean in Punta Gallinas
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Taroa Summit Viewpoint

45 minutesDesert and ocean views

The peak of the dunes offers clear views of the vast desert on one side and the ocean on the other. The walk up the soft sand is surprisingly tiring. Wear a hat with a chin strap, as winds at the top are very strong.

A woman sitting on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean and coastline
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Sandboarding

1 hourKeep electronics sealed

Slide down the steep face of the dune right toward the water. Many organized tours provide boards for this activity. You will get sand everywhere. Keep your electronics well sealed in bags or leave them in the truck.

A traditional red hammock under a thatched roof on a sandy beach
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Taroa Beach

1-2 hoursWatch for strong currents

This is the wild stretch of beach right at the bottom of the sand dunes. You can cool off with a swim after climbing down the sand. Be careful in the water. Pay close attention to strong ocean currents and rough waves.

Book a 4-Day Desert Tour

A person throwing sand into the air on a vast desert dune
Magic Guajira-Cape of the Sail & Punta Gallinas 4 Days and 3 Nights96 h 5.0 (53)from $385
guajira expeditionfrom $385 on Viator
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