12 Tips for Living in Vilcabamba, Ecuador

By jkm4jc

A retiree provides an in-depth look at living in Vilcabamba, Ecuador - the cost of living, local expat clubs, crime, volunteer opportunities such as One World Vilcabamba, medical care and more.

What is Vilcabamba like?

Vilcabamba is a small town in South Ecuador. It is also called a Valley of Longevity. People come to live here for its natural beauty, fresh air, water and perfect climate all year round.

What is the cost of living in Vilcabamba?

A couple can live here on $1200-$1300 a month which includes for example 3 bedroom 2 bath modern apartment. A single person can live under $1000 a month.

Are there local expat groups and volunteer organizations?

There are several groups with different objectives here. Vilcabamba Connections website will give more info on local news and businesses. Also groups on Facebook: Vilca People and Vilcabamba Community provide lots of info for people moving here. An organization helping with educational projects here is called One World Vilcabamba.

Are there international schools in Vilcabamba?

There is a private elementary/middle school in Loja, about 40 min from Vilcabamba. I don't know of any international schools in our area.

Where do people buy groceries?

We have organic market on Saturday and general market on Sunday. You can get fresh produce, meat and dairy. During the week many local shops offer fresh fruit, veggies, meat and other products, very plentiful. In Loja there is a supermarket called Supermaxi for more commercial and international products.

What type of public transportation is available in Vilcabamba?

There are two private bus companies. Buses to Loja run every 15 minutes. Also, a taxi service called Taxi Ruta takes 4 people for $2.50 per person for 40 min ride to Loja. Also plenty of taxis that are inexpensive. They all are safe and reliable.

What is the weather like?

The best climate in the world. We have dry and rainy season only. The temperatures are 24-26 C (80s F) during the day and 14-15 C (57-60 F) at night all year round. Not too much humidity because we are in the mountains on 1600m (5250 feet) elevation.

Are there lots of restaurants in Vilcabamba?

There are about 30 restaurant in a town of 5.500 people. Many choices and types of food, from local Ecuadorian to Turkish and American/European foods.

Is there a hospital in Vilcabamba? Do expats use the local hospital or travel to another city?

There is a Basic Hospital with an Emergency Room in our town. More series cases are taken to Loja, 40 min away. The local hospital is public and offers free healthcare. There are several public and private hospitals in Loja, well equipped with quality of medical care.

What type of recreational activites are there?

We have a hiking group on Facebook called Vilca Hikers. Every week we explore a trail in our area and other villages around. People also enjoy horseback riding, bicycle riding, tennis, yoga, games like bridge and Texas 42 and dining outside in local restaurant gardens.

Residency and Visa Requirements

There are several types of permanent visa: Pensioner's -based on $900 income for a couple or $800 for a single, Investment - CD in a bank or property for min. $40,000 value, Professional - need a college or university degree. With proper documents the process for residency is not that difficult.

Is Vilcabamba safe?

The main crime will be theft. Some houses can be invaded and pickpocketing on the streets can happen.