Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Loja has a fewdecent hotels, and even the best are relatively inexpen-
sive. All are within walking distance of Parque Central. Modern ser-
vices, including post, communications, and medical, are also in this
downtown area (see
Visitor Information
, page 203). It takes about 13
hours from Quito by car, and up to 18 hours by bus (or 10 hours from
Guayaquil). FromCuenca, it is only a three- or four-hour drive, longer
by bus. TAME offers daily flights from Quito to La Tola, the Loja air-
port, which is actually about 25 minutes from town in Catamayo.
From Catamayo, public transportation is available to Loja by taxi or
bus.
Vilcabamba
Vilcabamba and itsmystic reputation as the “Valley of Longevity” is a
quiet southern retreat set within a scenic, rolling countryside. Locals
here are reputed to live unusually long, healthy lives, to the extent
that scientists from the US, Europe and Japan, have actually come to
the “enchanted valley” to investigate the phenomenon. Personally, I
think their longevity probably is due to the lack of stress in such a
pleasant climate and environment, as well as the quality of the air
and water in the area.
So, what is there to do here? Most visitors just relax and soak up the
healthy atmosphere, with options for luxurious spa treatments at a
couple of the local resorts. Vilcabamba is also a popular point of de-
parture for trips to Podocarpus National Park, and its surrounding
countryside is great for hiking and horseback riding.
Cultural Sensitivity
Some travelers come to Vilcabamba to find and purchase
the mind-altering San Pedro plant. Natives once used this
plant during a very lengthy and spiritual ceremony. Note
that anyone selling the plant to foreigners as a finished
product has no respect for his or her own culture and is se-
verely frowned upon by natives. Please be respectful.
The town is very small and laid-back, with a population of about 2,000
and a very heavy foreigner influence. The climate is very pleasant,
and socializing consists of relaxing with newfound friends and chat-
ting the nights away. The area has attracted alternative folks who of-
fer pleasant accommodations, organic gardens, massage therapy,
Search WWH ::
Custom Search