| Loja Day Trips Parque Nacional
Podocarpus - is known as the "Garden of Ecuador"
because of the biological diversity of its plant species. The
high-altitude cloudforest of the Cajanuma entrance lies about
15 kilometers outside of Loja. Take a day hike or trek into
the forest to reach the "Lagunas del Compadre", a
series of crystal blue lagoons. The Bombuscaro entrance is through
Zamora, and is a tropical rainforest. Its lower altitude makes
for a warm and humid climate, and tropical flora and fauna.
Check with BioTours or the ArcoIris Foundation in
Loja for more information. Catch a bus headed in the direction
of Vilcabamba or Zamora, depending upon which part of the park
you choose to explore. |
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Valley
outside of Vilcabamba.
Photo by Molly Boeder. |
Vilcabamba - the
ride itself makes the adventure worth it! This downhill trip, which
many attempt on bike, offers some of the most breathtaking views
in Ecuador. Once in Vilcabamba, you can actively explore the mountains,
or revel in the mellow, slow paced atmosphere for which this pueblo
is famous. Check with Caballos Gavilan in Parque Central
for mountain top horse excursions, climb to the peak of Mt. Mandango
looming in the distance, or head to the nearby Hostal Madre
Tierra for a decadent afternoon of massage, mudbaths, and facials!
Buses leave every hour from the Terminal Terrestre to Vilcabamba
or taxi's leaving from the "taxi ruta station" will cruise
you (and four other people) south much faster.
Suspended
bridge in
Podocarpus National Park.
Photo by Molly Boeder.
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Saraguro - the main
attraction of this Indigenous town is the excellent handcrafts found
at its Sunday market. Saraguro, located just 2 hours north of Loja,
is a small town where the local Saraguros have successfully preserved
their Indigenous traditions. Saraguro is accessible by bus from
Loja's Terminal Terrestre.
Loja Overview
Loja Transportation & Orientation
Loja Sightseeing and Day Trips
Loja Nightlife, Entertainment & Restaurants
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