Hotels in Vilcabamba

Vilcabamba: Nature's Oasis of Serenity and Adventure

Nestled in the enchanting Loja Province of Ecuador, Vilcabamba is a hidden gem renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. Often dubbed the Valley of Longevity, this charming village is surrounded by lush mountains and pristine nature reserves, making it a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the vibrant central plaza, admire the local church, and indulge in wellness retreats at top-notch hotels. With its laid-back vibe and stunning scenery, Vilcabamba offers an unforgettable escape for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and a taste of authentic Ecuadorian culture. For the best hotel rates in Vilcabamba and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Vilcabamba

Some of the best places to stay in Vilcabamba are Loja and Malacatos. Vilcabamba, Loja Province, Ecuador, is a captivating destination known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and serene atmosphere. Nearby, Loja offers vibrant markets and a lively arts scene, while Malacatos is perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility. Accommodations in both areas range from cozy hostels to comfortable hotels, catering to various budgets. For first-time visitors, Loja is recommended for its cultural experiences and accessibility, while Malacatos provides a peaceful retreat amidst lush surroundings. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Vilcabamba:

1. LojaOpens in a new window: Loja is a vibrant city known for its educational institutions and cultural heritage. It offers a mix of urban parks and historical sites, perfect for family outings and cultural exploration. Key attractions include Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, a modern university, and Jipiro Park, a family-friendly urban park. For accommodations, consider Grand Victoria Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel ideal for business travelers, featuring a Business Center and Meeting Rooms. Another option is Zamorano Real HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel that caters to both business and family needs, offering amenities like Meeting Rooms and child-friendly services such as cribs. If you prefer a cozier stay, Casben HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel with accessible business amenities, perfect for those looking to blend work with leisure.
2. MalacatosOpens in a new window: Malacatos is celebrated for its cultural richness and stunning natural landscapes, making it a great spot for adventure seekers. Visitors can explore Mandango Mountain for scenic hikes, or visit local religious sites like Vilcabamba Church. For lodging, Hostería ParaísoOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that focuses on family-friendly activities, offering options for horse riding and hiking. It also features amenities for children, including a playground and pool. Alternatively, Villa Beatriz LodgeOpens in a new window and Hosteria el Descanso de RamsesOpens in a new window, both 3.0-star hotels, are pet-friendly options, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, with specific pet policies in place.

Things to do in Vilcabamba for first time

Vilcabamba offers a serene escape with its lush forests, majestic mountains, and tranquil countryside. Visitors can enjoy rejuvenating yoga sessions, relaxing spa treatments, and exhilarating hikes through stunning natural parks. This peaceful haven is perfect for adventure seekers and those looking to unwind amid breathtaking landscapes. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Vilcabamba:

• Day 1: Kick off your adventure in Vilcabamba by visiting the Senor de la Caridad Diocesan Sanctuary, a beautiful place of worship that showcases stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, make your way to the Monument to Independence of Loja, where you can learn about the region's rich history and significance. Conclude your day at the Reinaldo Espinosa Botanical Garden, a lovely spot to unwind amidst diverse flora and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
• Day 2: Start your exploration at the Loja Cathedral, an architectural marvel that dominates the city’s skyline. Following your visit, delve into the fascinating exhibits at the Central Bank Museum, which will give you insights into the cultural and historical heritage of the region. Take a leisurely stroll around the Central Plaza, a vibrant hub where you can relax, people-watch, and perhaps enjoy a local snack from nearby vendors.
• Day 3: Begin your day at Jipiro Park, a vast green space perfect for a morning walk or a picnic. Afterward, visit the Loja City Gates, a historical landmark that marks the entrance to the city and offers great photo opportunities. End your day at San Francisco Plaza, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy street performances, and dine at one of the nearby restaurants to savor traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.

5 tips to find a great Vilcabamba hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable times to visit Vilcabamba are January, October, and December, when hotel prices drop significantly. For a budget-friendly trip, it's best to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully appreciate the area's highlights. Vilcabamba offers great value for money with its stunning forests, majestic mountains, and beautiful natural parks, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're on the lookout for last-minute deals to Vilcabamba, you're in luck! Visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find attractive discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions. This way, you're more likely to uncover great hotel deals and enjoy good availability while saving on your trip to this beautiful destination.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could help you potentially save on hotel expenses in Vilcabamba.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com during your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience but usually tends to come with a higher price tag. To find more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Vilcabamba and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

Best time to go to Vilcabamba

Vilcabamba experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 61.3°F (16.3°C), while October is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.4°F (18.0°C). March tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Vilcabamba are February, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to frequent rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.