Palmira Desert & Atillo Lagoons Excursion

Calling all nature lovers! Don't miss this excursion to the Palmira Desert and the Altillo Lagoons. You'll discover two totally opposite Ecuadorian landscapes on the same day - beautiful springs and vast sand dunes await!

Palmira Desert & Atillo Lagoons Excursion

At 7 am we'll pick you up at your hotel in Baños de Agua Santa and drive by minibus to the desert of Palmira, about two and a half hours away.

We'll spend an hour walking through the dunes of the Palmira Desert, located 9,842 feet (3,000 meters) above sea level. You'll be able to take photos and admire the pine trees in this area. We'll explain the impact of the Spanish colonists on desertification and, with luck, we'll see blackbirds, turtledoves, and carunculated caracaras.

Next, we'll return to the vehicle and head to Sangay National Park to find the lagoons of Altillo. Here, we'll hike along the banks of these springs while sharing legends of the Puruhá Indigenous Peoples, the ancient inhabitants of this land. The name of this area means 'lagoon of punishment'.

Afterward, you'll have an hour of free time to explore and enjoy a picnic that includes a sandwich, a piece of fruit, and juice.

We'll finish the tour at 6 pm, returning you to your hotel.