Understand

Once upon a time, in the remarkable village of Vilcabamba, a captivating spotlight was cast upon its inhabitants. Whispers circulated among certain circles, speculating that the people in this village possessed an astonishing secret to their longevity, with rumors swirling that some lived up to a jaw-dropping 130 years old! Can you imagine? Since then, an influx of expats from various corners of the globe has flocked to Vilcabamba, transforming it into a vibrant tapestry of cultures. This fascinating blend has given the village a distinct character, setting it apart from the rest of the country. Come and uncover the mysteries of Vilcabamba, a place where time seems to stand still.

Get in

To get to Vilcabamba, you have a few options for transportation. If you're coming from the City of Loja, it's just a one hour bus ride away. You can also take international buses from Piura in Peru, which run three times daily and take about 10 hours. Another alternative is to take a bus from Iquitos or Chachapoyas in Peru and cross the frontier at Balsas & Zumba. If you prefer a quicker and more convenient option, you can take a taxi from Loja. The taxi costs only 2 USD per person and takes about 40 minutes to reach Vilcabamba, as long as you have four people in the taxi. For those traveling from Peru, you can cross the border in La Balsa and enjoy beautiful views on the way to Vilcabamba. More information about routes, bus and shuttle schedules can be found on AndesTransit. Get ready for an exciting journey to this wonderful destination!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Ceviche is a traditional Ecuadorian dish that consists of fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, typically lime or lemon, and mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. It is often served chilled and enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer.

Heart of Palm Soup, known as "Sopa de Palo," is a comforting and filling soup native to Ecuador. It features heart of palm, a vegetable harvested from the core of certain palm trees, along with potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables in a savory chicken broth.

Empanadas are a beloved snack or meal in Ecuador, consisting of a savory or sweet filling enclosed in a thin, doughy shell, typically made from wheat flour. Empanadas can be found throughout the country and feature varied fillings, such as cheese, chicken, seafood, or vegetables.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing