Vilcabamba: Ecuador’s New Magical Corner

The village of Vilcabamba, belonging to the Loja Province in Southern Ecuador, has long enchanted visitors due to its historical buildings and stunning biological wonders, including a natural reserve. Now, its status is official. It has become the most recent inductee of the Pueblos y Rincones Mágicos del Ecuador (Magical Villages and Corners of Ecuador) program, which recognizes local destinations with a strong cultural identity.

Here are some attractions that are sure to delight travelers visiting Vilcabamba:

–         Rumi Wilco Natural Reserve – A nature lover’s paradise, this small area is home to its namesake tree, the Wilco (Anadenanthera colubrina), and more than 140 documented species of birds. Visitors can either visit for a few hours or complement their trip by staying in the Ecolodge, with its delightful wooden cabins.

–         El Palto – Reaching this waterfall is only the icing on the cake, as the journey is just as memorable. El Palto, some 100 feet in height, is reachable either by foot or by horse, and, when arriving, visitors can bathe in its crystalline waters.

–         Mandango – Popular among hikers, Mandango mountain (the name is quechua for “sleeping god”) is also well-known for its pyramid shape, the result of erosion; and for being associated with several tales and legends. Local lore claims that Mandango is the site of a hidden treasure linked to Inca Emperor Atahualpa.

–         Alivinatu – This hacienda was founded more than 35 years ago and maintains an emphasis on wellness, allowing visitors to harvest their own fruit and feast on delicious, healthy food. Massages, detox programs, and horseback riding activities are also available.