Maspalomas Dunes facts for kids
The Maspalomas Dunes are amazing sand dunes located on the sunny south coast of Gran Canaria. This island is part of the Canary Islands in Spain. Imagine a huge sandy desert right next to the ocean! This special area covers about 404 hectares. That's like 800 football fields! It's a protected nature reserve, which means it's kept safe for everyone to enjoy. In 2007, the Maspalomas Dunes were even chosen as one of the top 100 natural wonders in Spain!
Contents
Where are the Maspalomas Dunes?
The Maspalomas Dunes are found on the southern tip of Gran Canaria. This island is one of the seven main islands that make up the Canary Islands. The Canary Islands are a group of islands belonging to Spain. They are located off the northwest coast of Africa. The dunes are part of the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. This area is very popular with visitors.
Why are the Dunes Special?
The Maspalomas Dunes are very unique. They are a mix of different natural areas. You can find a beautiful palm oasis there. There's also a small lagoon, which is a shallow body of water. And, of course, there are the huge sand dunes themselves. This mix of habitats makes the area very special. It's like a mini-desert right by the sea!
How were the Dunes Formed?
The Maspalomas Dunes were formed over thousands of years. Strong winds blew sand from the ocean onto the land. This sand slowly piled up to create the large dunes we see today. The dunes are always changing shape. The wind keeps moving the sand around. This means the dunes look a little different every day!
Animals and Plants of the Dunes
Even though it looks like a desert, many plants and animals live in the dunes. They have learned to survive in this dry, sandy place. You might see special lizards or birds. Some plants have long roots to find water deep underground. Others can store water in their leaves. This makes the dunes a living ecosystem.
The Maspalomas Oasis
Inside the dune system, there is a green oasis. This area has many palm trees. It's a great place for birds to rest. The oasis gets its water from underground. It provides a cool, shady spot in the middle of the sand.
The La Charca Lagoon
Near the beach, there is a small lagoon called La Charca. This is a saltwater lagoon. It's a very important stop for migrating birds. Many different types of birds visit La Charca. They use it as a resting place on their long journeys. It's a great spot for birdwatching.
Protecting the Maspalomas Dunes
Because the Maspalomas Dunes are so special, they are a protected nature reserve. This means rules are in place to keep them safe. It helps protect the plants and animals that live there. It also makes sure future generations can enjoy them. Visitors are asked to stay on marked paths. This helps prevent damage to the delicate environment.
What You Can Do to Help
When you visit the dunes, remember to be respectful. Stay on the marked trails. Do not leave any trash behind. Do not disturb the plants or animals. By following these simple rules, you can help protect this amazing natural wonder. It ensures the dunes stay beautiful for everyone.
