Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ously false, Vilcabambans have still been proven to live overall healthier lifestyles thanks
to their hard work, energy-rich local foods and clean air. By the time foreigners realize
this they can't bring themselves to leave and the town is replete with expat-owned hotels,
spas and restaurants. The city's other claim to fame is that it hosted Incan royalty while on
vacation, and if Atahualpa could unwind in Vilcabamba, so can you.
Despite the town's many admirers, its status as a remote and relaxing retreat for health-
conscious travelers or anyone looking to get 'off the beaten track' remains intact. The val-
ley village has a population of just 5,000 and it isn't rare to see a horse (or two) gallop
down its dirt roads. Vilcabamba enjoys a unique balance of enriched colloidal minerals in
their drinking water and is home to three water plants, while local health food is plentiful
and even exported to countries lacking in superfoods. The village revels in a perpetual
spring climate with average temperatures in the late 60s and the rainy season taking place
from October to May.
There are few (and I mean few) nightlife options in Vilcabamba and is mostly visited for
its proximity to sprawling nature reserves making it a one-stop-shop for nature-lovers,
bird-watchers and hikers. The village serves as the main jumping-off point for Podocarpus
National Park, which hosts a dramatically diverse terrain over 900 miles (1,460 km) in ex-
panse that takes up vast sections of Loja and Zamora Chinchipe provinces. It is home to
virgin rainforest, over 600 species of birds and remarkably hems in four ecosystems:
Northern Andean, Southern Andean, Amazonian and Pacific. A popular hike closer to
town takes trekkers up Mandago Hill, a 45-minute hike that concludes with incredible
views 1,640 ft (500 m) over Vilcabamba and Podocarpus.
Food
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La Terraza
Diego Vaca de Vega and Bolívar
$
La Terraza is a popular expat hangout that's also frequented by nationals visiting town.
They mainly serve Mexican food but also have other international as well as national
dishes. As the name would suggest, the outdoor seating area is a main draw: a prime
people-watching spot to watch sleepy valley life unfold.
