Last Updated on February 26, 2024

The Palmira Desert (Desierto de Palmira) is a unique sandy landscape in the middle of the Ecuadorian Andes, and the one place where you can practice sandboarding on its vast albeit rather small dunes.

This very small desert is a hidden gem still relatively undiscovered even by the locals.

Recently the indigenous communities of the province of Chimborazo have started makign arrangements with community tourism associations to allow and promote the visit of tourists, charging an entrance of around 1 USD per person.

In addition to sandboarding, there are a number of other activities that visitors can enjoy at the Palmira Desert, such as camping, horseback riding, and mule riding.

This typical activity in particular is often accompanied by local muleteers who can provide guidance and assistance.

Dunas de Arena - Palmira Desert, Ecuador
Palmira Desert Sand Dunes, Ecuador.

Sandboarding at Palmira Desert

The slopes in the Palmira Desert are not particularly steep, with the highest dunes reaching about 100 meters in height.

Despite this, they are still suitable for sandboarding and offer a unique and exciting experience.

Sandboarding in the Palmira Desert of Ecuador

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