How to get to Loja

If you are planning a journey to Loja, prepare to be charmed by the "Music Capital," comfortably nestled in the southern highlands of Ecuador. This vibrant city attracts travellers with its distinctive culture, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to unique national parks.

Reaching this destination is straightforward, as transport links in the region are well-developed. You can take a domestic flight to the local airport, board a comfortable intercity bus, or set off in a rental car, enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery along the way.

The quickest and most comfortable way to reach Loja is by air. The city is served by Ciudad de Catamayo Airport, located in a neighbouring valley approximately 30 kilometres from the centre. Domestic flights arrive here regularly, allowing travellers to save time and admire the majestic Andean landscapes during the descent.

From the airport, the city is easily accessible by taxi or shuttle bus, offering scenic views along the route. If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers sometimes choose to fly to neighbouring Cuenca or Santa Rosa, which are a few hours' drive away, but the airport in Catamayo remains the main aerial gateway for exploring southern Ecuador.

Direct travel by train to Loja is not possible, as there is no railway station in the city or its surroundings. The railway network in Ecuador has limited coverage and has historically been focused mainly on tourist excursion routes in other regions, so one should not rely on trains as a mode of transport in this southern part of the country.

The nearest major cities, such as Santa Rosa or colourful Cuenca, also lack rail connections to this destination. For travel within the region, visitors usually choose comfortable buses or car rentals, allowing for flexible itinerary planning and enjoyment of the picturesque mountain landscapes.

Bus services in Ecuador are excellently organised, so a trip to Loja will be not just a transfer, but a scenic excursion. One of the most popular routes runs from the colonial city of Cuenca: covering 215 kilometres along winding mountain roads takes about 4–5 hours. For travellers heading from the coast, it is convenient to start from Santa Rosa, where the 150-kilometre journey takes on average 3–4 hours, allowing you to observe the shift in climate zones.

For those planning a visit from neighbouring Peru, convenient international services exist. The trip from the city of Tumbes lasts about 6–7 hours, covering a distance of 270 kilometres, though travel time may vary depending on border control speed. All intercity buses arrive at the main city terminal, located in the northern part, from where it is easy to reach the centre by taxi or public transport.

Travelling by car to Loja turns into a true adventure with views of the majestic Andes. The picturesque route from the city of Cuenca, approximately 211 kilometres long, takes on average 4 hours, delighting the eye with green hills and authentic villages. The road from the coast, from the city of Santa Rosa, is about 150 kilometres, but due to the winding ascent into the mountains, the journey will last about 3–4 hours.

A cross-border trip from the Peruvian city of Tumbes covers 275 kilometres and takes approximately 5.5 hours, including time for customs formalities. The road network in this part of Ecuador is in decent condition, however, frequent mountain fogs require drivers to exercise increased caution. If you prefer a taxi, be prepared for costs around 80–120 US dollars for an intercity transfer, and it is recommended to agree on the final cost of the trip with the driver in advance.

Preparing for your journey to Loja will make your holiday as comfortable and carefree as possible. We have compiled useful recommendations to help you adapt quickly to the rhythm of life in this cosy corner of Ecuador and avoid common mistakes.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The climate here is mild and spring-like year-round, but mountain weather is changeable. Days are usually warm, while evenings can be cool. The best strategy is to dress in layers: take T-shirts, a light sweater or fleece jacket, and a waterproof windbreaker in case of rain. For walking on cobblestones and hills, comfortable flat-soled shoes are essential.
2. Transport. The historic city centre is compact and ideal for walking. For longer distances, it is most convenient to use official yellow taxis—they are safe and affordable (be sure to ask for the taximeter to be switched on or agree on the price in advance). City buses also run regularly and are very inexpensive.
3. Money and Payment. The official currency is the US Dollar. Credit cards are accepted in supermarkets, hotels, and major restaurants, but for markets, small cafes, and taxis, you will need cash. It is extremely important to carry small notes (1, 5, 10, 20 dollars), as finding change for 50 and 100-dollar notes is practically impossible.
4. Health and Safety. The city is considered one of the safest and cleanest in the country, but standard vigilance is advised. Drink only bottled water to avoid digestion issues. Being at high altitude and close to the equator, be sure to use sunscreen and wear a hat, even if it is cloudy outside.
5. Language and Communication. The official language is Spanish. Locals are known for their clear and understandable pronunciation, which is convenient for language learners. English is understood mainly in tourist offices and high-end hotels, so knowing basic phrases in Spanish or having an offline translator on your phone will be a significant advantage.
6. Etiquette and Traditions. Local residents are very polite and hospitable. When entering a shop, restaurant, or taxi, it is customary to greet people ("Buenos días" in the morning, "Buenas tardes" in the afternoon). Showing courtesy and a smile will open many doors and help establish a connection.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph local residents, especially members of indigenous communities, without their direct permission. Also, try not to display expensive jewellery and gadgets in crowded places to avoid attracting unnecessary attention from pickpockets.
8. Gastronomic Tip. Do not miss the opportunity to try the famous Loja coffee (café de Loja). This region produces some of the best beans in the world, and a cup of this aromatic beverage in a local coffee shop will be a true cultural experience.

By following these simple tips, you can focus on the main thing—enjoying the unique atmosphere of the "Music Capital" and the beauty of the mountain landscapes. May your journey be easy and leave only pleasant impressions.