Pre-Trip Checklist: Loja

Essential Preparations

Follow this chronological timeline for all major preparations.

Planning Timeline

A step-by-step approach to organizing your trip.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm passport validity for at least six months beyond your departure from Ecuador.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for your nationality. Apply in advance if necessary.

International Flights

Book international flights to Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil).

Month Before

Domestic Flights

Book domestic flights to Loja (LOH) if flying.

Accommodation & Tours

Book your main accommodations in Loja and any pre-planned tours.

Health Preparations

Visit your doctor for any recommended vaccinations.

Week Before

Reconfirm Bookings

Reconfirm all your flights, accommodations, and tours.

Packing Essentials

Pack your essential items, following your packing guide.

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

Required Bookings

Secure your travel components in advance.

Booking Recommendations

International and domestic flights require advance booking.
Accommodations need early booking, especially during high season or festivals.
Specific guided tours, like a birdwatching guide in Podocarpus, benefit from early booking.
This secures your spot and travel plans.

Pre-Trip Research

Cultural and logistical insights for your journey.

Research Topics

Read about Ecuadorian culture and history to enrich your understanding.
Learn basic Spanish phrases for daily interactions.
Understand Loja's climate patterns to pack appropriately.
Review local customs and etiquette before you travel.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home for your absence.

Security Measures

Secure your home: lock all windows and doors.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
Consider setting timers for lights.
Turn off unnecessary water supply.

Household Care

Arrange for pet care during your trip.
Organize plant watering.
Empty perishable items from the refrigerator.
Unplug non-essential electronics.

Financial & Administrative

Pay any bills that will come due while you are away.
Leave a trusted contact number with a neighbor.
Ask a neighbor to collect mail or newspapers.
Ensure emergency contact details are accessible.

Important Pre-Trip Notes

Diligent preparation for your journey ensures peace of mind and readiness for your Loja adventure.

Arrival Logistics

Your first steps upon arriving in Ecuador and Loja.

Initial Steps

1
Clear Immigration
At the international airport (Quito or Guayaquil), ensure you receive your entry stamp.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your bags from the baggage claim area.
3
Local SIM Card
Consider purchasing a local SIM card (optional, but convenient for communication).

Orientation Strategies

Airport Transfer
Take a licensed taxi or pre-arranged transfer from the airport to your accommodation.
Neighborhood Familiarity
Become familiar with your immediate area: shops, restaurants, public transport.
Currency & Purchases
Ensure you have small United States Dollar bills ($1, $5, $10, $20) for immediate needs.

Transportation from Entry Point

Arriving by Air

Whether arriving by air at LOH, use official taxis or pre-booked shuttles.

This route guides you safely and efficiently to your accommodation.

Arriving by Bus

From Loja's Terminal Terrestre, official taxis are readily available.

Confirm your destination with the driver before starting the journey.

Initial Cash

Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed.

Consider airport ATMs or reputable bank ATMs in the city for secure transactions.

Arrival Guidance

Smooth arrival transitions contribute to a pleasant journey. Secure your transport and initial cash for immediate needs.

Departure Planning

Prepare for a smooth exit from Loja and Ecuador.

Souvenir & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure.
Check weight limits for your luggage if flying.
If shipping items, inquire about costs and customs regulations.
Consider packing organizers from Eagle Creek.

VAT Refunds

VAT (Value Added Tax) refunds for tourists are generally not applicable in Ecuador.
Do not expect to claim VAT back on purchases.
This aspect of the purchase process is not available for visitors.
Purchases typically include the final tax.

Departure Timing

Plan your departure to avoid last-minute rush.

Airport/Terminal Transit

Allow ample time for transfers to the airport.
Factor in potential traffic delays.
Reconfirm your flight or bus departure times.
Travel insurance is always a consideration.World Nomads

Return Trip Details

Reconfirm your return flights or bus tickets.
Ensure all your documents are in order.
Keep boarding passes easily accessible.
All packed items adhere to luggage limits.

Smooth Departure

Careful planning for your departure will conclude your trip positively.

Checking all details minimizes stress.

Pre-Trip Checklist