Sand Dunes of Bani
Is this Dubai or the Dominican Republic? From certain angles, it may be hard to tell.
The sand dunes in Las Calderas, Bani may not be on the top of your places to visit in the Caribbean, but we are here to tell you… they should be!
Where are the Dunes?
The tallest dunes in the Caribbean are located in the Las Calderas Peninsula, 30 minutes from the center of Bani and 1.5 hours from Santo Domingo. On one side of the dunes is Las Calderas Bay and on the other side is the Caribbean Sea. So although at times, it may feel like you are in an immense desert, you are really surrounded by water.
What to expect?
Driving to the dunes, follow the map to “Dunas de Las Calderas Bani” to arrive at the entrance. You can park in front of the entrance for free. The dunes are protected and managed by the government, so a small entrance fee of $100 DOP (less than $2 USD) is required. Go to the small hut on the right, and pay the entrance fee. You will be given a wristband to wear to show proof of payment.
If you want to sandboard (surf on sand), you can rent a wooden tablet for $200 DOP ($3.50 USD). There are tablets to stand on and also to sit on. If you are traveling with a group, it might be a nice idea to get one or two for the group for a fun activity. You can’t beat this, $5 for a complete sandboarding experience!
A sign at the entrance that shows the wildlife in the area.
As you walk in, there is a house on a hill on the right. There is a great view up there, but I suggest leaving that for last. Walk straight to the vast open desert area. If you want a challenge, feel free to climb the dunes right in front of you, but they are steep. If you veer to the left, the incline is not as steep, and you arrive at the same destination without all the pain.
Take your time and enjoy the views every step of the way. Be on the lookout for wildlife. You may see a herd of goats playing, rhinoceros iguanas and a variety of birds. See if you can pick up on the footprints left in the sand and see which animal left them.
The View of a Lifetime
At the top of the dunes, you can find a shady spot under some shrubs to enjoy the magnificent 360-degree view: on one side, the bay that houses a navy yard with boats, a wind farm sits in the distance, and uniquely shaped mountains line the horizon; on the other side, the waves of the Caribbean sea crashing into the sand.
If you go in the morning, the sun will be making its way over the sea through the sky, and the moon could be setting on the other side. In between are the incredible sand dunes that took millions of years to form. I don’t know that I’ve been anywhere more spectacular.
There is no rush. Stop and take in the views and the beauty of this earth.
Once you’ve had your fill of peacefulness, sand surfing, playing in the sand, and taking your pics, make your way to the house on the hill. This one last ascent will be worth it with amazing views of Las Salinas before you leave.
TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO THE DUNES
Arrive first thing in the morning. Aim to be the first visitors to the Dunes when they open at 8 am. If you arrive later in the day, the sun will be scorching and the sand will also be hot to the touch. Also, if you arrive when it opens, you can be the first one to make your footsteps in the sand!
Visit during the week. If you have the flexibility, try to visit the dunes Monday-Friday. Saturdays and Sundays (and 2024 holidays), tend to see many more tourists, often by the bus full.
Wear proper clothing. You may have seen pictures of people posing in dresses and sandals at the dunes, but if you really want to explore and be comfortable, that’s not the dress of choice. Wear sneakers with rubber soles and socks. Wear comfy clothes and a hat. If you are sensitive to the sun, long sleeves are a good idea. Sunglasses are also a must. It’s bright.
Pack a few essentials. You won’t need to bring a lot. One backpack for a small group of people will probably be enough. Make sure to bring water or an energy drink. Bring a small towel or blanket to sit/lay on and a few snacks to really enjoy the view from the top. On the drive to Las Salinas, you will pass plenty of colmados (small mini markets) to stop and buy food and drinks. Don’t forget your phone or camera to capture the experience.
Make a day of it. There are several things to do right around the dunes, like the saltworks, Salinas beach, lots of good places to eat seafood, and restaurants with pools that you can use. Plan to have a day in the Las Salinas area to see all the area has to offer and not be rushed. Subscribe for an upcoming post about the best way to spend a day in Bani.
