What to Expect and Bring on a Dragon Dune Sandboarding Trip

Updated

A Dragon Dune sandboarding trip runs about 3 hours, is booked at least one day in advance, and includes all gear. You should bring closed shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and drinks; short pants are fine on warm days. Sessions are usually in the morning, though afternoon trips can be arranged. This applies to anyone booking the standard all-inclusive package at the Dragon Dune site outside Mossel Bay — beginners, pros, and spectators alike.

What the Trip Involves

Dragon Dune is described as the biggest and longest sandboard ride in South Africa, on private land outside Mossel Bay. The site says it caters to all ages and skill levels, from first-timers to pros, and that you don't have to stand up — you can sit or ride a belly board instead.

The dunes are graded by size, so you can work up to the main ride:

Dune Distance What it's for
Baby Dune 100 m Instructors teach beginners the basics on a gentle slope, with a steeper section for improvement
Big-Boy Dune 180 m A smaller version of the Dragon for building confidence, with ocean views and regular dolphin and whale sightings
Dragon Dune 350 m The main event — 170 m high, with rides up to 350 m. Top speeds of 90 km/h have been reached on a belly board

Because the land is privately owned, the general public doesn't have access, and the slopes are kept smooth and litter-free so riders can reach maximum speeds.

What's Provided and What to Bring

All gear is provided as part of the package, so you don't need your own board. The site lists these items to bring:

  • Closed shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Drinks
  • Short pants on warm days

Booking and Timing

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Advance notice: bookings must be made a day in advance
  • Session times: morning sessions are usual; afternoon trips can be arranged
  • Booking: described as essential

Getting There

All tours meet at the Mossel Bay ENGEN 1 STOP petrol station, about 10 minutes past Mossel Bay on the N2 toward Cape Town. The meeting point GPS coordinates are -34.182, 22.038. Pickups are available for backpackers without transport, with drop-off around 12:30.

Cost

The site lists the following rates:

  • International visitors: R450 per person
  • Locals: R400 per person
  • Backpacker pickup and drop-off: R200 per person

Spectator pricing is mentioned on the site but the excerpt cuts off before the amount, so check directly when booking.