Hotels in Loja

Loja: Where Ancient Echoes Meet Nature's Embrace

Nestled in the heart of Ecuador, Loja is a charming blend of culture and nature, perfect for off-the-beaten-path explorers. This picturesque city boasts stunning landscapes, from lush forests to the dramatic Andes mountains. Discover archaeological treasures and serene temples that reflect its rich history. Stroll through the vibrant central plaza, where local life thrives, and indulge in authentic Ecuadorian cuisine. Venture into nearby natural parks for hiking and wildlife encounters, making Loja an ideal destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Experience the warmth of its people and the beauty of its surroundings in this hidden gem. For the best hotel rates in Loja 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 Loja

Some of the best places to stay in Loja are Vilcabamba, Saraguro and Malacatos. Loja Province, Ecuador, offers three enchanting destinations: Vilcabamba, Saraguro, and Malacatos. Vilcabamba is ideal for first-time visitors, known for its stunning landscapes and wellness retreats. Saraguro boasts rich indigenous culture, while Malacatos features beautiful hiking trails. Accommodations in these areas typically include modern rooms, free parking, and on-site dining options. In Loja city, hotels like Hotel Libertador and Oro Verde Loja provide comfortable stays, blending convenience with local charm, making them great for travelers exploring the region. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Loja:

1. VilcabambaOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, Vilcabamba is a perfect destination for nature lovers. The area features Mandango Mountain for hiking and breathtaking views, along with the culturally significant Vilcabamba Church and the Senor de la Caridad Diocesan Sanctuary. For accommodations, consider Hosteria el Descanso de RamsesOpens in a new window, a pet-friendly 3.5-star hotel ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway. Hostería ParaísoOpens in a new window is another great option, offering adventure sports and family-friendly amenities like a children’s pool and playground. If you're traveling with pets, Villa Beatriz LodgeOpens in a new window also welcomes furry companions while providing a cozy bed and breakfast experience.
2. SaraguroOpens in a new window: This vibrant city offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty, highlighted by the Saraguro Market and the picturesque Waterfall of Sininkapak. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities at Saraguro Park, which promotes eco-friendly tourism. For a comfortable stay, Centro Turístico Cultural Inti WasiOpens in a new window features various dining options, while Hotel Achik WasiOpens in a new window caters to adventure-seekers with amenities for business travelers and romantic getaways. Inti Kamari Wellness Lodge Retreat Center & FarmOpens in a new window, located about 25 miles away, provides a family-friendly lodge experience complete with activities like mountain biking and hiking.
3. MalacatosOpens in a new window: Rich in cultural experiences, Malacatos is perfect for those who want to explore historical sites like Vilcabamba Church and enjoy outdoor adventures at Mandango Mountain. Here, Zamorano Real HotelOpens in a new window offers business amenities and family-friendly services, while Grand Hotel LojaOpens in a new window provides a comfortable stay with conference facilities. For a similar experience, Grand Victoria Boutique HotelOpens in a new window also caters to business travelers, ensuring your stay is both productive and enjoyable.

Things to do in Loja for first time

Loja offers a captivating blend of lush forests, serene mountains, and scenic countryside, perfect for nature lovers. Travelers can immerse themselves in outdoor activities like hiking and yoga, while exploring archaeological sites and tranquil parks. It's an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst stunning natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Loja:

• Visit Yacucatina: This beautiful natural reserve showcases the stunning biodiversity of the region. Enjoy hiking trails surrounded by lush vegetation and the chance to see unique wildlife while immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature.
• Explore Senor de la Caridad Diocesan Sanctuary: This majestic sanctuary is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for reflection and to appreciate the local religious culture, making it a significant pilgrimage site.
• Discover Vilcabamba Church: Known for its charming architecture and vibrant community, Vilcabamba Church offers visitors a glimpse into the spiritual life of the locals. The surrounding village is also a great place to experience traditional Ecuadorian culture.
• Hike Mandango Mountain: For those seeking adventure, a hike up Mandango Mountain provides breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. It’s an excellent spot for both experienced hikers and casual walkers, with trails that vary in difficulty and stunning landscapes at every turn.

5 tips to find a great Loja hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Loja is during January, October, and December, when hotel prices drop significantly. For an enriching experience that covers the main attractions, it's best to stay for at least 2-3 days. During your visit, you can enjoy a variety of sites, including archaeological wonders, natural parks, and the beautiful countryside, all of which offer great value for money and make for a budget-friendly getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discovering last-minute deals to Loja can be an exciting opportunity for travelers looking to save. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, simply navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you may find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, increasing your chances of snagging a great deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Loja.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas usually tends to be more convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Loja. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Loja

Loja 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 is usually the wettest month. April, July, and August are the peak travel months in Loja, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with dry to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, January, May, and October tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.