One of the colourful streets in Loja, Ecuador.
Why visit Loja
Whilst once upon a time, Loja was the thriving base from which Spanish conquistadors set off to invade the jungle just over the mountains, now Loja's main lure is its proximity to one of Ecuador's most diverse protected areas, the vast Parque Nacional Podocarpus, south of town.
Take your Ecuador trip with Lonely Planet Journeys
Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.
bookable trip
Amazon Adventures, Cotopaxi Cowboys, and Quito Culture: Ecuador in 10 Days
highlights
- 1 Straddling the Middle of the World at the world’s equatorial border of zero degrees
- 2 Riding a horse in the style of a traditional Cotopaxi Chagra
- 3 Hiking at the base of volcanoes in Cotopaxi National Park
from $3,400
per person
Top places to visit in Loja
Discover the best attractions in Loja from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.
in partnership with getyourguide

