Izhcayluma Eco Resort: One of the Top Rated Stays in Vilcabamba, Ecuador
- Mar 7
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 25
After the mundane routine of housesitting in Loja, Ecuador I needed a change of scenery for a renewed perspective to reinforce that I have courageously taken the step to leave the United States indefinitely to travel the world. Known as The Valley of Longevity due to its sacred mineral-rich water from Podocarpus National Forest, Villcabamba is a very unique, international hipster-living city where locals are known to live to over 100 years old.
Nestled away in the lush sierras, Izhcayluma Eco Resort, one of the top rated stays in Vilcabamba, Ecuador is the perfect place to relax, be one with nature, and do absolutely nothing guilt-free. Imagine serene sounds and biodiverse nature, unlimited herbal tea, relaxing holistic spa treatments, and yoga classes overlooking the Mandango mountain. Surrounded by panoramic views, indigenous decor, and native plants and fruit trees, this eco resort is just what you need to reset your nervous system or indulge without breaking the bank.
Getting To Vilcabamba
Closest City: Loja, Ecuador
Distance: 45 min drive/taxi ride or 1 hour 30 minute bus ride
Key Airport: Catamayo Airport (note: highly recommended to fly early morning around 6 a.m.)
Cost from Loja to Vilcabamba: ~$3 bus ride or $15 taxi ride
Recommended Arrival Time: Before 6 p.m.
From Vilcabamba town: 20-25 min walk uphill or 5-7 min $2 taxi ride
The Stay
The 24-acre property has many choices for accommodation which include rooms with shared bathrooms, private rooms, and cabins with balconies and hammocks ranging from $12 to $95. I stayed in a private room with private bathroom and shared balcony with hammocks which was $32 a night. The space was just enough for 1-2 people with a large shower. The room walls are quite thin so being mindful of door neighbors is always the kind thing to do. I enjoyed exploring different areas of the property including Yoga Lotus Shala, the bar and lounge area, as well as the pool and private walking trails. There's something for everyone who chooses to visit.
The arrival and check-in was easy and smooth with welcoming, friendly and accommodating staff. Owned and operated by Germans along with local staff, they speak a variety of languages to assist you including English, Spanish, and German. I appreciated the added touch of hospitality as the staff remembered guests by name and continued to check in during my stay, ensuring all is well.
The Amenities
Izhcayluma Eco Resort offers a variety of amenities and activities for guests to relax and reset during their stay. With it's own panoramic restaurant, breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings are delicious and diverse featuring traditional dishes and international cuisine, including vegetarian options. They also offers complimentary hot herbal tea and mineral water for guests 24 hours a day. One of my favorite parts of the stay was breakfast. Rather than the standard $4.50 daily breakfast offering, you have the option to order à la carte from the kitchen. I went with the veggie omelet and bacon and it was riquisimo (delicious)!
There is a full bar open in the evenings with game tables and lounging. I found this a good place to meet other guests and travelers. I ordered my fav, a Pisco sour and... no lie, it was one of the best! I was also able to practice my Spanish and meet other English speakers who were passing through Vilcabamba on their travels.
You can enjoy a morning stroll to the Yoga Lotus Shala at 7:45 where free daily yoga classes are offered. During yoga, you are surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature as well as expansive views of the Mandango Mountain. They offer aerial yoga and host other wellness events which can be reserved at the front desk. The front desk can also help you schedule tours which include horseback riding, hikes to the waterfall and coffee or panela tours.
The spa is the reason I chose to visit Vilcabamba and it did not disappoint! After multiple recommendations from friends and recent travelers, I can confidently say this is one of the best massages I've ever received! With holistic spa treatments and the use of natural ingredients, they truly prioritize your relaxation, well-being and comfort. I had a pretty intense crick in my neck and after two 75-minute massages sessions, the pain had dissolved before the end of my trip. I also received reiki, facial and a pedicure. In total my spa services cost less than $100 including a tip. Tipping is always optional but very well-deserved, especially Blanca who has manos benditas (blessed hands)!
Want to stare into space, meditate, listen to nature, or take a nap? (Maybe all of the above?) The birdwatch overlook is a great space to relax and take in the views of the lush mountain range. A great addition to the property with seating and swinging hammocks, you can enjoy the sights of colorful birds with familiar sounds and peculiar calls. This space is the perfect sanctuary to focus in the present and take in nature before continuing on your journey.
Paris' Passport Score
Location: 8/10 - Secluded but close to town, walking uphill can feel like a workout
Budget: 9/10 - Amazing value for a retreat experience
Comfort: 9/10 - Comfortable rooms with beautiful surroundings
Food + Drinks : 8/10 - Good variety of tasty options throughout the day
Service 12/10 - Genuine and accommodating staff
Walkability: 7/10 - Large property with uphill cobblestone routes
Wellness Factor: 10/10 - A true stress-free environment with wellness offerings
Work-Friendly: 2/10 - Wifi works just fine but I was rarely connected.. on purpose
Who This Stay Is For
Great for:
Eco-conscious solo travelers who enjoy nature retreats and quiet environments
People interested in slowing down, yoga, and spa services
Travelers looking to unplug for a few days
Maybe not ideal for:
People looking for nightlife or social party scene
Travelers with limited mobility
Those who prefer luxury resort amenities
Passport Note for Black Women
As a Black woman staying at Izhcayluma Eco Resort, I felt comfortable and welcomed during my stay. The environment was relaxing with many international guests visiting Vilcabamba for the nature and unique village vibe. There were no other Black Americans on the resort during my stay here but I spotted a few in town. I crossed paths with Andre from California who has lived in the city with his family for about 5 years. We chatted about finding community with other like-hearted Black Americans and he gave me recommendations for things to do while visiting Vilcabamba. Overall, Vilcabamba was a unique experience for me because I felt like I was in an old American hippie town where the ratio of dreadlocked Europeans outnumbered the locals. I felt safe walking around the city center at night, but keep in mind most things close around 9 p.m. on the weekends. I sat in the park after dark, like many people, and was approached by a young guy who sparked a conversation with me. After some time, I started to feel my intuition say it was time to go. I left.
Paris' Final Take
My time at Izhcayluma gently reinforced the perspective that not every trip needs to be full of activity and rigid itineraries. It's a privilege to give yourself time to slow down and appreciate peaceful and wellness-focused environments. With so many foreigners that have migrated to Vilcabamba since the early 2000s, I feel it takes away from the authentic culture and history of the town. While filled with expats from all over the world, Vilcabamba still has its indigenous roots and a rich heritage to experience. If you're visiting The Valley of Longevity, Izhcayluma Eco Resort is an ideal place to rest, relax, and recharge for a few days..or weeks.
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