Vilcabamba Ecuador is one of the many beautiful landscapes to explore in South America. This town is located in the southern part of the country, in the Loja province. Set in a picturesque valley, surrounding by lush, jagged mountains and rolling fields this town has earned a reputation among tourists for more than just its beauty. Many tourists consider a Vilcabamba Ecuador rental to discover the details behind the nickname “the valley of longevity.” It is said that residents here commonly live to be 100 years of age, and often older, so in recent years travelers have arrived hoping to discover the local secret.

Located less than 30 miles from Loja, which is the oldest city in Ecuador, Vilcabamba Ecuador also has its share of historical significance. The town and the valley it sits in are so beautiful that this destination was once the retreat of Incan royalty. This fact puts Vilcabamba on the Ecuador Inca trail. Visitors who are interested in the history of these people can explore many different historical sites throughout the country that will illuminate who they were, what their religion was, how they worshipped, and more. As a part of the Ecuador Inca trail, Vilcabamba welcomes historically curious travelers.

This scenic valley almost means that a Vilcabamba Ecuador rental will be popular with visitors. If you’re interested in exploring the southern reaches of the country, Vilcabamba will be a peaceful and beautiful place to be based. With a vacation rental in this part of the country, you can enjoy all the amenities of home from cooking your own meals in a private kitchen to getting to know the local culture through shops and markets. If you do choose a Vilcabamba Ecuador rental, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the oldest city in Ecuador, Loja. This is also a great starting point for exploring the local national parks.

Ecuador Map

Beyond the scenery and nearby historic sites, Vilcabamba Ecuador is an attraction in itself. Beautiful local architecture, including a church in the main square, will send you back in time to the colonial days. During your visit, be sure to observe how the local people eat and spend their time. Studies have suggested that the local lifestyle is a major contributing factor to why the local people are said to live so long. A diet rich in fruits, herbs, and root might contribute to this longevity, but you can make your own conclusions when you visit.

Another feature of the Ecuador Inca trail here is a mountain called Mandango, or the sleeping Inca, that overlooks the valley. Folklore says that the sleeping Inca is supposed to protect the area from natural disasters such as earthquakes. You will see many different views of Mandango if you take advantage of the excellent hiking in the valley. Horseback riding is another popular activity, and there are many local guides who can bring you on a scenic tour of the area. Mountain biking is another great outdoor activity available here. Because adventurous activities are so popular here, there are also many spas where you can have a relaxing massage or mud bath. Go ahead and hit the trails, but make sure to make an appointment for a massage later on in the day.