We arrived in Loja, Ecuador just as darkness was falling. It was cloudy and a light rain fell, forming puddles on the street. We were worried that our first day in Loja would be more of the same, but we were pleasantly surprised when the sun woke us up the next morning.

The city was vibrant and full of color, with murals painted on nearly every wall and colonial architecture around every corner.

The beautiful clock tower that stood tall above the city was only two blocks from our AirBnB. It was a true masterpiece, with intricate details and a golden finish that was a stark contrast against the deep blue sky and white billowy clouds.

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Loja City Gate, a historic castle-like structure that marks the entrance to the old town. It’s an iconic landmark with the Loja sign and offered a perfect photo op.

Every day, we spent hours exploring the city on foot. We walked through charming neighborhoods and visited local markets, tasting all sorts of delicious foods. We even spent an afternoon hiking up the mountain in Parque Pucará, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Despite the miles we walked, we never tired of discovering all that Loja had to offer. From the beautiful murals to the charming colonial architecture, there was always something new and exciting to see. It was a week we will never forget, and we left Loja feeling grateful and inspired by all the beauty and culture we experienced.

Watch Our Video About Our First Impressions of Loja Ecuador

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