Desert of Palmira: A Unique Stop on the Road Trip from Quito to Cuenca
Introduction: The Quito to Cuenca Road Trip
Driving from Quito to Cuenca is more than a simple journey for me—it’s an experience I’ve had over 40 times in my life as part of my family is from Cuenca and I still have some uncles, cousins, and other relatives there. This particular trip, however, held special meaning, as we were celebrating Fiestas de Cuenca. On the highway, I mentioned one last stop I’d always wanted to make: the Desert of Palmira. In a twist of fate, we happened to be near the right exit, making it a perfect detour to this incredible destination on the road trip from Quito to Cuenca.
How to Get to the Desert of Palmira on the Quito to Cuenca Road Trip
The Desert of Palmira, an exciting stop along the road trip from Quito to Cuenca, is located 16 km from Guamote and about 66 km from Riobamba, at an altitude of 3,250 to 3,430 meters. To access Palmira, take the Panamericana E35 towards Guamote. Google Maps – https://maps.app.goo.gl/GVvPhRndy5SdwQQf8
The most common entry point is through Galte Laime, just before the Palmira community. For those seeking a bit more adventure, consider hiking in from Tipin Alto or along the Guamote River. Entry costs around $1, as local communities actively support and manage this desert oasis to protect its ecosystem and enhance tourism.
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Cuenca and Its Festivities
Cuenca’s Fiestas de Cuenca is a vibrant celebration held every November, where the streets come alive with parades, music, and artisan markets. One of the sweetest treats you’ll encounter during this time is dulces de Corpus, a variety of delicious Ecuadorian sweets. Celebrating these traditions in Cuenca is a highlight of any trip and makes every journey there worthwhile.
The Formation of the Desert of Palmira
The Desert of Palmira, located in Guamote within the Chimborazo province, is a unique 10-hectare landscape formed by natural erosion. This area lies on a high plateau without rivers or consistent rainfall, contributing to its desert-like conditions. Over the years, indigenous communities have taken measures to preserve this unusual landscape by planting pine trees around its perimeter to prevent further erosion.
The striking contrast between sand dunes and surrounding pine forests creates a surreal backdrop against the Andean mountains and is a true hidden gem on the road trip from Quito to Cuenca.
The Desert of Palmira
Once you arrive at the parking lot, just a few minutes away from the highway, you will find a place to register and pay $1 per person entrance fee, and then you will see the signs of the different activities available.
The Landscape and Its Charm
The Desert of Palmira sits within the Palmira Dávalos Parish and is framed by the Andes, making it one of the most unique landscapes in Ecuador. With its 10 hectares of rolling sand dunes and unusual mix of arid land and pine trees, it offers visitors a stunning sight often described as a desert within the Andes. The contrast of the sandy terrain with lush, surrounding landscapes gives this place an otherworldly feel, making it a must-see stop on any road trip from Quito to Cuenca.
Activities in the Desert of Palmira
Palmira offers a variety of activities that make the most of its unique terrain:
- Hiking: Explore two main sections, the Low and High Dunes. The High Dunes, accessible by a short trek, offer the best views.
- Camping: Camping is available for a small fee; coordinating with locals is recommended.
- Horseback Riding: Enjoy a scenic ride through the desert’s rolling sand with local guides.
- Sandboarding: A unique activity here, as you glide down the dunes on a board.
We could choose between a short ride and a longer one, so we each decided to try one. The longer ride is below. It was definitely a lot of fun.
You rent the board to a local, for $50 and you can use it for one ride down.
Recommendation
Just remember to bring sunblock, a hat as you can expect this is a desert, and therefore the sun is bright and warm, and make sure to bring some water for when you hike back up.
Conclusion
The Desert of Palmira is more than a roadside stop—it’s a rare experience on the Quito to Cuenca route that combines Ecuador’s natural diversity and community spirit. From hiking sandy dunes to gazing over Andean views, every moment in Palmira feels both surreal and memorable. Adding this stop to your road trip from Quito to Cuenca not only enriches your journey but supports local communities working to preserve this unique ecosystem. For those traveling in Ecuador, the Desert of Palmira is an unforgettable destination that showcases the country’s incredible range of landscapes in just one stop.
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If you want more in-depth information and also a guide that you can bring along during your trip, I recommend the travel guide Lonely Planet Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands
It is a great source of information and tips, maps, and all you need if you plan on visiting Ecuador. I like the option of having a hard copy version where I can take notes and have them at hand.
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