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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

The Southern Highlands, Ecuador

Air Travel

Major Airports

Flying to Loja offers the quickest way to reach the city, especially for international travelers.

Airports Serving Loja

  • Camilo Ponce Enríquez Airport (LOH), Loja (Catamayo): Main domestic airport, 30-40 min from city.
  • Mariscal La Mar International Airport (CUE), Cuenca: 4-5 hours by bus, more flight options.
  • José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), Guayaquil: Major international airport, 8-10 hours by bus.

Flights & Transfers

Flights to Camilo Ponce Enríquez Airport (LOH) are typically domestic. Airlines like LATAM Ecuador and Avianca Ecuador operate these routes, mainly from Quito (UIO) and Guayaquil (GYE).

Options and Advice

  • No direct international flights to LOH. Connect via Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE).
  • Domestic flight prices increase during Ecuadorian holidays. Book in advance.
  • From LOH, taxis ($10-$15) or shared vans ($2-$3) to Loja city.

Flight Search

Find competitive flight deals with Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Car Rental

Explore car rental options via DiscoverCars.com for flexibility.

Visa Assistance

Consumer visa application services are at IVisa and VisaHQ.

Airport Facilities & Considerations

Camilo Ponce Enríquez Airport LOH

  • Smaller airport with basic facilities.
  • Waiting area, a few small shops or cafes.
  • Car rental desks available.
  • Do not expect extensive dining or shopping options.

Booking & Arrival

  • Book domestic flights in advance for better rates, especially during holidays.
  • From LOH: taxis are available (approx. $10-15) or shared vans ($2-3).
  • Public buses from Catamayo town center require a short walk or taxi from the airport.
  • Allow 1.5 hours before departure for domestic flights from LOH.

Border Crossing Ecuador-Peru

Main Crossing Point

The main land border crossing is at Macará (Ecuador) / La Tina (Peru), about 3-4 hours by bus from Loja.

Immigration Procedures

Present your passport to both Ecuadorian and Peruvian immigration officials.

Important Step

Ensure you receive both an exit stamp from Ecuador and an entry stamp for Peru. Failure to do so creates problems upon departure.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

Loja's main bus terminal, Terminal Terrestre, connects well to major cities across Ecuador.

Common Routes & Companies

  • Loja to Cuenca: 4-5 hours; Guayaquil: 8-10 hours; Quito: 12-14 hours.
  • To Vilcabamba: 1.5-2 hours; Saraguro: 1 hour; Macará (Peru border): 3-4 hours.
  • Companies: Cooperativa Loja, Union Cariamanga, Transportes Interprovinciales Loja, Vilcabambaturis.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car delivers flexibility but comes with specific requirements.

Requirements & Advice

  • Valid national driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP) are needed.
  • Booking in advance, especially during peak travel, is advisable.
  • Roads in mountainous areas can be winding and narrow. Drive cautiously.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions in and around Loja are generally good for major routes.

Considerations

  • Driving habits in Ecuador show aggression; expect sudden stops.
  • Mountain roads: winding, narrow, prone to landslides in wet season.
  • Night driving is discouraged due to poor visibility and unmarked hazards.

Train & River Travel

No active long-distance train services connect to or from Loja. The Ecuadorian railway system mainly operates tourist routes in other parts of the country, not serving Loja for intercity travel. River transportation is not used for inter-city travel to or from Loja. Rivers in the region mainly serve local use or recreational activities.

Summary

  • No long-distance train service to Loja.
  • No sea or river arrivals to Loja (inland city).
  • River transportation is local/recreational only.

Departure Information

  • No specific exit fees or taxes upon departure for tourists.
  • For domestic flights from LOH: arrive at least 1.5 hours before departure.
  • For international flights (UIO/GYE): arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
  • For bus departures from Terminal Terrestre: 30 mins before domestic, 1 hour before international.
  • LOH Airport: Basic facilities (waiting area, small shops/cafes).
  • Loja Bus Terminal: Comfortable waiting areas, restrooms, shops, ticket counters.

Getting Around

Public Transportation

Loja's public transport network relies mainly on its extensive city bus system. The city does not have metro or tram systems.

Bus System Overview

  • City buses deliver comprehensive coverage, are affordable.
  • No formal English route maps; ask locals/drivers.
  • Fare: approx. $0.35 USD, pay driver, exact change recommended.

Accessibility & Tips

Buses generally have steps and are not easily accessible for mobility challenges. Wheelchair ramps are not standard features.

Operating Hours & Advice

  • Buses operate from 06:00 to 22:00-23:00.
  • Ask locals/drivers for directions. Confirm destination before boarding.
  • No automated announcements; use GPS for your stop.

Taxis

Yellow, metered taxis. Minimum fare $1.50-$2. Confirm meter use or agree on fare.

Ride-Sharing

InDriver is an option. Uber/Cabify are less common or not officially operating in Loja.

Walking

Loja's Historic Center is pedestrian-friendly. Enjoy riverside promenades.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Renting a car delivers flexibility but comes with specific requirements and considerations.

Requirements & Advice

  • Valid national driver's license, IDP, passport, major credit card (deposit).
  • Booking in advance is advisable, especially peak times.
  • Major international companies (Budget, Avis) might have offices.

Motorcycle & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for formal rental in Loja compared to coastal areas. You might find local shops offering them, but carefully verify the insurance coverage and the vehicle's condition before renting. Loja does not have a formal city-wide bicycle sharing program.

Availability & Usage

  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are less common.
  • Some hotels or tour operators might offer bicycle rentals.
  • Biking is more suitable for recreational rides outside the city center.

Driving Laws & Road Safety

Driving Side

Ecuador drives on the right side of the road.

Seatbelt Law

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.

Speed Limits

50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads.

Local Travel Advisory

Roads within Loja city and major inter-city routes are generally well-maintained. Exercise caution on busy roads with heavy traffic. Secure parking lots are available around the city center.
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