Mirador de las Dunas
Experience a unique desert landscape at Mirador de las Dunas, offering breathtaking views of the Maspalomas sand dunes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler sand, fewer crowds
Mirador de las Dunas
Best Time
Cooler sand, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a unique desert landscape at Mirador de las Dunas, offering breathtaking views of the Maspalomas sand dunes.
"An incredible siting, a desert 20 minutes walk from our resort."
🎯 Access via Hotel Riu
Follow the path to the left of Hotel Riu Maspalomas for direct access to the mirador.
👟 Beware of Hot Sand
Sand can be scorching hot, especially in the afternoon. Wear shoes or go early/late.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mirador de las Dunas Panorama
Near Hotel Riu Maspalomas
Capture breathtaking views of the vast sand dunes stretching towards the ocean. The perfect photo spot!
Sunset Over the Dunes
Dunes of Maspalomas
Witness a spectacular sunset painting the sand dunes in warm, golden hues. An unforgettable experience.
Mini Sahara Experience
Designated paths within the dunes
Feel like you're in a desert landscape with these impressive sand formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Dunes
Respect the Reserve
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Access via Hotel Riu
Follow the path to the left of Hotel Riu Maspalomas for direct access to the mirador.
👟 Beware of Hot Sand
Sand can be scorching hot, especially in the afternoon. Wear shoes or go early/late.
🚶 Stick to the Paths
Protect the fragile ecosystem by staying on designated trails. Fines are possible. +1
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The mirador offers incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Access via Hotel Riu
Follow the path to the left of Hotel Riu Maspalomas for direct access to the mirador.
👟 Beware of Hot Sand
Sand can be scorching hot, especially in the afternoon. Wear shoes or go early/late.
🚶 Stick to the Paths
Protect the fragile ecosystem by staying on designated trails. Fines are possible. +1
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The mirador offers incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking is often available near the Riu hotel, especially outside peak sunset hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Mirador de las Dunas for its stunning desert-like scenery, often described as a 'mini Sahara' just a short walk from resorts. The sunset views are particularly highlighted as magical. However, some caution that the sand can be extremely hot during midday, making early morning or late afternoon visits more comfortable.
"What an incredible siting, a desert 20 minutes walk from our resort.
We walked to the stretch of sand behind Beach 8 on Google maps at 1.30 pm, definitely the wrong time to go as the sand was scolding and the temperature 33 degrees, definitely not my preference.
On a different day, we caught a taxi to Mirador de las Dunas at 7pm as advised by our resorts representative end and had a far more pleasant experience.
Experienced a mini Sahara Desert.
Fabulous photo shoot scenario.
A must see ⭐ but beware of heat of the sand on you feet if you go barefoot even at that time."
Sunil Chopra
"A beautiful spot with views of the dunes and access to a trail leading through the dunes to Maspalomas Beach. Parking was no problem near the hotel around 10 a.m."
Michal Lauterbach
"We went there for sunset and we easily found parking on the street on the left of Riu hotel although this is a very popular time to visit the dunes. Although its not permitted to walk on the dunes (only on the designated paths), there's only a rope posted that everyone goes over and nobody enforces it. There's many people chilling on the dunes, eating snacks and watching the sunset. Right next to the mirador, there's a couple of friendly cats in the bushes (they have bowls of food there, they seem nicely looked after)."
Spela Kaluza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to head towards the Hotel Riu Maspalomas in Maspalomas. From there, a path to the left of the hotel entrance leads directly to the Mirador de las Dunas. 
Yes, local buses serve the Maspalomas area. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the vicinity of the Hotel Riu Maspalomas, from where you can access the mirador. Check local bus schedules for routes and times.
Yes, you can walk along the coast from Playa del Inglés. Some visitors mention taking a coastal route which can lead you to the dunes.
Street parking is often available on the street in front of or to the left of the Hotel Riu Maspalomas. Arriving earlier in the day or outside of peak sunset times can increase your chances.
Yes, it's quite straightforward. Following directions to the Hotel Riu Maspalomas will lead you to the general area, and signs or the visible path will guide you to the mirador.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Mirador de las Dunas and the surrounding dune area is generally free. It's a natural reserve open to the public.
The dunes are a natural area and are accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times, but it's best to visit during safe daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Maspalomas Dunes or the Mirador de las Dunas. It's a public natural space.
It is prohibited to walk on the sand dunes themselves as they are a protected natural reserve. You must stay on the designated paths to protect the ecosystem. +1
The main restriction is to stay on marked paths to protect the fragile dune environment. Littering is also prohibited. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Sunset is particularly popular.
You can capture stunning landscapes of the sand dunes, the coastline, and the ocean. It's a fantastic spot for portraits with a unique desert backdrop.
The Mirador de las Dunas itself provides excellent panoramic views. Exploring the designated paths also offers various perspectives of the dunes.
Drone usage in protected natural areas can be restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations regarding drone operation in the Maspalomas Dunes nature reserve before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare. Protect your gear from sand.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the panoramic views, take photos, and walk along the designated paths that lead through the dunes towards Maspalomas Beach.
A short visit to the mirador can take about 30 minutes. If you plan to walk along the paths, allow 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how far you go.
There are facilities, including restrooms and cafes, located near the Hotel Riu Maspalomas and along the promenade leading to Maspalomas Beach.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as the sand can be very hot. Bring a hat and sunscreen.
While the primary attraction is the landscape, you might spot some local flora and fauna adapted to the desert environment. Some reviews mention friendly cats near the mirador.
🎫 💧 Weather & What to Bring
The weather is typically warm and sunny, characteristic of the Canary Islands. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures reaching over 30°C.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. A camera is a must for the stunning views.
It can be windy at times, especially in open areas. A light jacket or scarf might be useful, particularly in the early morning or late evening.
Yes, the dunes lead to Maspalomas Beach, where you can swim and relax. The beach is easily accessible from the dune area.
The weather is pleasant year-round, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer milder temperatures, making it ideal for exploring.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families:
* Visit early or late: Avoid the midday heat to keep little ones comfortable.
* Bring plenty of water and snacks: Staying hydrated is crucial.
* Wear sturdy shoes: The sand can get very hot, so closed-toe shoes are recommended for children.
* Explain the rules: Teach kids about the importance of staying on the paths to protect the environment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Recommendations for photographers:
* Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape.
* Consider a tripod for stable shots during low light conditions.
* Protect your gear from sand and sun.
* Explore different angles to find unique compositions.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Tips for active explorers:
* Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing.
* Carry water and sun protection, as there's little shade.
* Allow ample time to explore the paths and enjoy the views.
* Consider walking from Playa del Inglés for a longer excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Maspalomas Dunes Ecosystem
Visitors are encouraged to stick to the designated paths that wind through the area. These paths allow you to experience the grandeur of the dunes without causing damage. The Mirador de las Dunas serves as an excellent starting point, offering a vantage point to appreciate the scale of this natural wonder.
The reserve plays a vital role in the island's biodiversity and is a testament to the natural beauty of Gran Canaria. Respecting the rules ensures that future generations can also marvel at this extraordinary landscape. The fines for damaging the dunes can be significant, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
When composing your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive desert-like scenery. The contrast between the golden sand, the blue sky, and the distant ocean creates stunning visual opportunities. Don't forget to experiment with different angles and perspectives to highlight the textures and shapes of the dunes.
Remember that the sand can be very hot, especially in the afternoon, so wear appropriate footwear. Protecting your camera gear from sand and sun is also important. Many visitors find the area perfect for both landscape and portrait photography, creating memorable images that evoke a sense of adventure and tranquility.
Navigating to the Mirador
This makes it easily accessible for those staying in or near Playa del Inglés. For those relying on navigation apps, searching for 'Mirador de las Dunas Maspalomas' or 'Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas' on Google Maps will guide you to the vicinity.
Parking is often available on the street near the hotel, though it can become busy, especially during sunset. Arriving earlier in the day or being prepared for a short walk from your parking spot can be helpful. Public transport is also an option, with local buses serving the Maspalomas area. From the bus stop, a short walk will bring you to the area around the hotel, from where you can easily find the mirador.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit