Ecuador's Volcanic Desert at 3,500m | Pan-American Overland

Driving through a surreal high-altitude desert in the Ecuadorian Andes, we explore the incredible Desierto de Palmira and Laguna Ozogoche — remote landscapes that feel more like the Sahara Desert than South America. From volcanic sand dunes at 3,500 meters above sea level to hidden mountain lakes surrounded by mist and endless roads, this overland journey reveals a side of Ecuador most travelers never see.

With our Land Rover Defender camper, we travel deep into the Ecuador highlands, discovering volcanic deserts, remote backroads, Andean scenery and wild camping locations far away from the tourist route. This cinematic travel documentary captures the raw beauty of Ecuador’s mountains, deserts and hidden landscapes.

Locations featured:

Desierto de Palmira
Laguna Ozogoche
Ecuadorian Andes

This episode is part of our Pan-American overland expedition through Central and South America.